US President Joe Biden on Friday issued a proclamation commemorating Indigenous Peoples' Day, becoming the first US president to do so.

Biden in his proclamation highlighted that American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have built vibrant and diverse cultures. "On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, our Nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples, recognizes their inherent sovereignty, and commits to honoring the Federal Government’s trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations," he wrote.&nbsp;

The President acknowledged the painful history of wrongs and atrocities that many European explorers inflicted on Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities.

"It is a measure of our greatness as a Nation that we do not seek to bury these shameful episodes of our past — that we face them honestly, we bring them to the light, and we do all we can to address them," wrote Biden.

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More than 100 cities, including Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, San Francisco, and several states, including Minnesota, Alaska, Vermont and Oregon, have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day.

This comes as they choose to recognise the native populations that were displaced and decimated after Columbus and other European explorers reached the continent.&nbsp;

Berkeley, California, was the first city to adopt Indigenous Peoples' Day, in 1992.

The proclamation read, "NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 11, 2021, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation."

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters that Friday's announcement did not entail ending Columbus Day as a federal holiday.

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Psaki was quoted by CNN as saying, "Well, today is both Columbus Day, as of now ... as well as Indigenous Peoples' Day."&nbsp; 
"I'm not aware of any discussion of ending that either, ending the prior federal holiday at this point, but I know that recognizing today as Indigenous Peoples' Day is something that the President felt strongly about personally, he's happy to be the first president to celebrate and to make it, the history of moving forward."

US President Joe Biden on Friday issued a proclamation commemorating Indigenous Peoples' Day, becoming the first US president to do so. Biden in his proclamation highlighted that American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have built vibrant and diverse cultures.

US President Joe Biden on Friday issued a proclamation commemorating Indigenous Peoples' Day, becoming the first US president to do so. Biden in his proclamation highlighted that American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have built vibrant and diverse cultures. "On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, our Nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples, recognizes their inherent sovereignty, and commits to honoring the Federal Government’s trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations," he wrote. The President acknowledged the painful history of wrongs and atrocities that many European explorers inflicted on Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities. "It is a measure of our greatness as a Nation that we do not seek to bury these shameful episodes of our past — that we face them honestly, we bring them to the light, and we do all we can to address them," wrote Biden. Also read | International day of the world’s indigenous peoples 2021: Here is all you need to know More than 100 cities, including Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, San Francisco, and several states, including Minnesota, Alaska, Vermont and Oregon, have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day. This comes as they choose to recognise the native populations that were displaced and decimated after Columbus and other European explorers reached the continent. Berkeley, California, was the first city to adopt Indigenous Peoples' Day, in 1992. The proclamation read, "NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 11, 2021, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation." White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters that Friday's announcement did not entail ending Columbus Day as a federal holiday. Also read | Ready to abide by Taiwan agreement, says Biden after speaking to Chinese President Xi Psaki was quoted by CNN as saying, "Well, today is both Columbus Day, as of now ... as well as Indigenous Peoples' Day." "I'm not aware of any discussion of ending that either, ending the prior federal holiday at this point, but I know that recognizing today as Indigenous Peoples' Day is something that the President felt strongly about personally, he's happy to be the first president to celebrate and to make it, the history of moving forward."

Indigenous peoples’ day: Joe Biden becomes first president to issue proclamation

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) observes World Maritime Day every year.&nbsp; 
Individual governments determine the precise day, normally observed during the final week of September, usually on the last Thursday of the month. This year, the day will be observed on September 30. 
The day is aimed to draw public attention to maritime safety and the marine environment, as well as IMO initiatives in a particular area.

History&nbsp; 
In 1948, an international conference in Geneva passed a convention establishing the IMO. This was aimed to be a specialised agency of the United Nations that develops and maintains a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping.&nbsp;

In 1982, the international maritime organization (IMO) took the name Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-translation-day-2021-theme-and-significance-417192">Also read |&nbsp;International translation day 2021: Theme and significance</a>

The main objective of the IMO is to focus on areas such as safety, including environmental issues, legal issues, technical cooperation, maritime safety and maritime efficiency.&nbsp;

World Maritime Day was celebrated for the first time on March 17, 1978.

Theme 
This year's theme is “Seafarers: at the core of shipping’s future".&nbsp;

The theme aims to extend the visibility of seafarers by highlighting the important roles they play now and will continue to play in the future.

As per the UN, "The World Maritime theme for 2021 will provide the opportunity to focus on seafarers as the people at the heart of shipping, while also allowing for activities to delve into specific topics relevant to the role of the seafarer in safety, maritime security, environmental protection and seafarersʹ well-being; and the future of seafaring against a backdrop of increased digitalsation and automation." 
&nbsp;

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) observes World Maritime Day every year. Individual governments determine the precise day, normally observed during the final week of September, usually on the last Thursday of the month.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) observes World Maritime Day every year. Individual governments determine the precise day, normally observed during the final week of September, usually on the last Thursday of the month. This year, the day will be observed on September 30. The day is aimed to draw public attention to maritime safety and the marine environment, as well as IMO initiatives in a particular area. History In 1948, an international conference in Geneva passed a convention establishing the IMO. This was aimed to be a specialised agency of the United Nations that develops and maintains a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping. In 1982, the international maritime organization (IMO) took the name Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO). Also read | International translation day 2021: Theme and significance The main objective of the IMO is to focus on areas such as safety, including environmental issues, legal issues, technical cooperation, maritime safety and maritime efficiency. World Maritime Day was celebrated for the first time on March 17, 1978. Theme This year's theme is “Seafarers: at the core of shipping’s future". The theme aims to extend the visibility of seafarers by highlighting the important roles they play now and will continue to play in the future. As per the UN, "The World Maritime theme for 2021 will provide the opportunity to focus on seafarers as the people at the heart of shipping, while also allowing for activities to delve into specific topics relevant to the role of the seafarer in safety, maritime security, environmental protection and seafarersʹ well-being; and the future of seafaring against a backdrop of increased digitalsation and automation."

World maritime day 2021: History and theme

In honour of translation professionals, September 30 is globally marked as International Translation Day by the International Federation of Translators (FIT). This date was chosen because it coincides with the day of the feast of St. Jerome, who translated the Bible and is also considered the patron saint of translators.&nbsp;

The day is aimed at increasing awareness about the translation industry and languages that play an essential part in our society’s growth.&nbsp;

As per the United Nations, this day is a chance to honour the work of language specialists, who contributes significantly to fostering international understanding, improving communication and fostering cooperation among nations, as well as contributing to worldwide peace and security.

<a href="Also read | Social media star Khaby Lame makes India debut, partners with this brand">Also read |&nbsp;Social media star Khaby Lame makes India debut, partners with this brand</a>

The theme this year is “United in translation."

Though FIT has been observing this day since 1953, the first formal celebrations of the global translation day took place in 1991. However, it was on May 24, 2017, when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), through resolution 71/288, officially recognised September 30 as the date to celebrate International Translation Day.&nbsp;

There were 11 countries that were signatories to the draft resolution, including, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Paraguay, Qatar, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Vietnam.

UN's official site states, “St. Jerome was an Italian priest from the north-eastern region of the country who is most renowned for his efforts translating the New Testament from its Greek manuscripts into Latin. On September 30, 420, Jerome died near Bethlehem."

In honour of translation professionals, September 30 is globally marked as International Translation Day by the International Federation of Translators (FIT). This date was chosen because it coincides with the day of the feast of St.

In honour of translation professionals, September 30 is globally marked as International Translation Day by the International Federation of Translators (FIT). This date was chosen because it coincides with the day of the feast of St. Jerome, who translated the Bible and is also considered the patron saint of translators. The day is aimed at increasing awareness about the translation industry and languages that play an essential part in our society’s growth. As per the United Nations, this day is a chance to honour the work of language specialists, who contributes significantly to fostering international understanding, improving communication and fostering cooperation among nations, as well as contributing to worldwide peace and security. Also read | Social media star Khaby Lame makes India debut, partners with this brand The theme this year is “United in translation." Though FIT has been observing this day since 1953, the first formal celebrations of the global translation day took place in 1991. However, it was on May 24, 2017, when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), through resolution 71/288, officially recognised September 30 as the date to celebrate International Translation Day. There were 11 countries that were signatories to the draft resolution, including, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Paraguay, Qatar, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Vietnam. UN's official site states, “St. Jerome was an Italian priest from the north-eastern region of the country who is most renowned for his efforts translating the New Testament from its Greek manuscripts into Latin. On September 30, 420, Jerome died near Bethlehem."

International translation day 2021: Theme and significance

In the year 1787, delegates from 12 of the 13 United States gathered in Philadelphia to try to create something they desperately need, a government that actually works.

The entire process began in York, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

In 1777 the Continental Congress, meeting in the York County Courthouse after fleeing the British occupation of Philadelphia approves the Articles of Confederation. The article achieves two lasting results - it names the new country “The United States of America,” and it gives York bragging rights as the first capital of the country.

In order to maintain the sovereignty of the individual states, the creators of the Articles of Confederation made the central government too weak to hold things together.&nbsp;

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Therefore, in 1787 the delegates at what will become known as the Constitutional Convention start the task of revising the Articles of Confederation.&nbsp;

From May to September the delegates worked on the same.&nbsp;

On September 17, the delegates gathered one last time, and voted to present their finished product to the Confederation Congress, and signed the Constitution.

On June 21, 1788, New Hampshire becomes the ninth state to ratify the new Constitution.&nbsp;

After a period of 230 years and 27 amendments, the basic framework remains unchanged.

Constitution Day dates back to 1940 when Congress and the President passed a resolution creating “I Am an American Day".&nbsp; 
This was done to recognize new American citizens, to be observed on the third Sunday in May.&nbsp;

Then In 1952, the holiday is renamed “Constitution Day” and the date moved to September 17.&nbsp;

In 2004 Congress changed the name of the holiday to Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.&nbsp;

So the day now honours both the Constitution and those who choose to live under that Constitution.

On the occasion, US President Joe Biden highlighted how American democracy requires our constant care, vigilance, and full participation to determine the course and conscience of our Union.&nbsp;

"As President, I swore an oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, and I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that we uphold and strengthen this remarkable system of self-government for future generations ready to put their own shoulders to the wheel", he wrote in a press release.

In the year 1787, delegates from 12 of the 13 United States gathered in Philadelphia to try to create something they desperately need, a government that actually works.

In the year 1787, delegates from 12 of the 13 United States gathered in Philadelphia to try to create something they desperately need, a government that actually works. The entire process began in York, Pennsylvania. In 1777 the Continental Congress, meeting in the York County Courthouse after fleeing the British occupation of Philadelphia approves the Articles of Confederation. The article achieves two lasting results - it names the new country “The United States of America,” and it gives York bragging rights as the first capital of the country. In order to maintain the sovereignty of the individual states, the creators of the Articles of Confederation made the central government too weak to hold things together. Also read | September 17 in history: First space shuttle, Tamil's recognition and more Therefore, in 1787 the delegates at what will become known as the Constitutional Convention start the task of revising the Articles of Confederation. From May to September the delegates worked on the same. On September 17, the delegates gathered one last time, and voted to present their finished product to the Confederation Congress, and signed the Constitution. On June 21, 1788, New Hampshire becomes the ninth state to ratify the new Constitution. After a period of 230 years and 27 amendments, the basic framework remains unchanged. Constitution Day dates back to 1940 when Congress and the President passed a resolution creating “I Am an American Day". This was done to recognize new American citizens, to be observed on the third Sunday in May. Then In 1952, the holiday is renamed “Constitution Day” and the date moved to September 17. In 2004 Congress changed the name of the holiday to Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. So the day now honours both the Constitution and those who choose to live under that Constitution. On the occasion, US President Joe Biden highlighted how American democracy requires our constant care, vigilance, and full participation to determine the course and conscience of our Union. "As President, I swore an oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, and I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that we uphold and strengthen this remarkable system of self-government for future generations ready to put their own shoulders to the wheel", he wrote in a press release.

September 17 celebrated as US Constitution Day: History and Significance

A fragile shield of gas, known as the ozone layer, protects the Earth from the harmful rays of the sun. However, this protective layer is threatened by industrial and other forms of pollution.

The thinning of the ozone layer, if left unchecked, will eventually expose humans to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, particularly the harmful UVB-type radiation, known to cause skin cancer and induce cataract formation.

To raise awareness about the need to protect this layer, the world observes International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone layer on September 16 every year.&nbsp;

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Marking the global event, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, wrote on Twitter, “through joint climate action, we can win the race against the existential threat of climate change”. He also used the hashtag ‘OzoneDay'.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The cooperation we have seen to successfully protect and heal the ozone layer is what we desperately need now to address the climate crisis. 
 
Through joint <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateAction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateAction</a>, we can win the race against the existential threat of climate change. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OzoneDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OzoneDay</a>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1438344390078914569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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United Nations, on its official Twitter handle, wrote that the healing of the ozone layer was an example of how the world can come together to address global challenges, such as the climate crisis.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
16 September is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldOzoneDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldOzoneDay</a> - a chance to celebrate that invisible layer that keeps us all safe from the sun. ☀️ 
 
We must keep protecting it. 
 
Find out more via <a href="https://twitter.com/UNEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNEP</a>: <a href="https://t.co/7HWrOi0xZu">https://t.co/7HWrOi0xZu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeepingCool?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeepingCool</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForNature?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForNature</a> <a href="https://t.co/ys29I92rdh">pic.twitter.com/ys29I92rdh</a>
— UN Biodiversity (@UNBiodiversity) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNBiodiversity/status/1438501425214984192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The day dates back to Montreal protocol.

This one protocol regulates the production and consumption of nearly 100 man-made chemicals referred to as ozone-depleting substances (ODS).&nbsp;

It was adopted in 1987 and is the only UN treaty that has been ratified by all 198 member-states.&nbsp;

In the year 1994, the UN General Assembly declared September 16 as the International Day for the Prevention of the Ozone layer.&nbsp;

A united global effort meant that the hole in the ozone layer is healing. The Montreal Protocol's main objective is to protect the ozone layer by curbing global production and consumption of substances that deplete it.

"A united global effort to phase out ozone-depleting substances means that today, the hole in the ozone layer is healing, in turn protecting human health, economies and ecosystems. But, as this year’s World Ozone Day seeks to highlight, the Montreal Protocol does so much more – such as slowing climate change and helping to boost energy efficiency in the cooling sector, which contributes to food security", read the official website of the United Nations.&nbsp;

A fragile shield of gas, known as the ozone layer, protects the Earth from the harmful rays of the sun. However, this protective layer is threatened by industrial and other forms of pollution.

A fragile shield of gas, known as the ozone layer, protects the Earth from the harmful rays of the sun. However, this protective layer is threatened by industrial and other forms of pollution. The thinning of the ozone layer, if left unchecked, will eventually expose humans to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, particularly the harmful UVB-type radiation, known to cause skin cancer and induce cataract formation. To raise awareness about the need to protect this layer, the world observes International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone layer on September 16 every year. Also read | The beautiful Aurora may be depleting the Ozone layer: Study Marking the global event, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, wrote on Twitter, “through joint climate action, we can win the race against the existential threat of climate change”. He also used the hashtag ‘OzoneDay'. The cooperation we have seen to successfully protect and heal the ozone layer is what we desperately need now to address the climate crisis. Through joint #ClimateAction, we can win the race against the existential threat of climate change. #OzoneDay — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) September 16, 2021 × United Nations, on its official Twitter handle, wrote that the healing of the ozone layer was an example of how the world can come together to address global challenges, such as the climate crisis. 16 September is #WorldOzoneDay - a chance to celebrate that invisible layer that keeps us all safe from the sun. ☀️ We must keep protecting it. Find out more via @UNEP: https://t.co/7HWrOi0xZu #KeepingCool #ForNature pic.twitter.com/ys29I92rdh — UN Biodiversity (@UNBiodiversity) September 16, 2021 × The day dates back to Montreal protocol. This one protocol regulates the production and consumption of nearly 100 man-made chemicals referred to as ozone-depleting substances (ODS). It was adopted in 1987 and is the only UN treaty that has been ratified by all 198 member-states. In the year 1994, the UN General Assembly declared September 16 as the International Day for the Prevention of the Ozone layer. A united global effort meant that the hole in the ozone layer is healing. The Montreal Protocol's main objective is to protect the ozone layer by curbing global production and consumption of substances that deplete it. "A united global effort to phase out ozone-depleting substances means that today, the hole in the ozone layer is healing, in turn protecting human health, economies and ecosystems. But, as this year’s World Ozone Day seeks to highlight, the Montreal Protocol does so much more – such as slowing climate change and helping to boost energy efficiency in the cooling sector, which contributes to food security", read the official website of the United Nations.

International day for preservation of ozone layer: Significance and history

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World Elephant Day 2021: Save the species before its too late

Every year on July 11, World Population Day is observed to draw attention towards the issues which are the resultant of a rising population across the globe.

India has the world’s second-largest populace after China.

The World Population Day was established by the United Nations in 1989, A resolution to the effect was passed, and the day was first marked on July 11, 1990.&nbsp;

In December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided to continue observing World Population Day in order to enhance awareness about population issues.&nbsp;

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Also, the United Nations has set up a population fund (UNFPA) and a population division. This is done to plan programmes and coordinate with other agencies to highlight and spread awareness about population control measures.

"In this second year of COVID-19, we are suspended in an in-between state, where parts of the world are emerging from the deep recesses of the pandemic while others are locked in battle with the coronavirus as access to vaccines remains a distant, deadly reality", read a statement by UNFPA.

On its official website, the agency advised against reactionary policy responses, which can be extremely harmful if they violate rights, health and choices. Instead, the agency called for prioritizing reproductive health and rights for all through access to information and services in the face of fertility and demographic shifts.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Every year on July 11, World Population Day is observed to draw attention towards the issues which are the resultant of a rising population across the globe. India has the world’s second-largest populace after China.

Every year on July 11, World Population Day is observed to draw attention towards the issues which are the resultant of a rising population across the globe. India has the world’s second-largest populace after China. The World Population Day was established by the United Nations in 1989, A resolution to the effect was passed, and the day was first marked on July 11, 1990. In December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided to continue observing World Population Day in order to enhance awareness about population issues. Also read | Senior Google executive who opposed work-from-home to move to New Zealand to work remotely: Report Also, the United Nations has set up a population fund (UNFPA) and a population division. This is done to plan programmes and coordinate with other agencies to highlight and spread awareness about population control measures. "In this second year of COVID-19, we are suspended in an in-between state, where parts of the world are emerging from the deep recesses of the pandemic while others are locked in battle with the coronavirus as access to vaccines remains a distant, deadly reality", read a statement by UNFPA. On its official website, the agency advised against reactionary policy responses, which can be extremely harmful if they violate rights, health and choices. Instead, the agency called for prioritizing reproductive health and rights for all through access to information and services in the face of fertility and demographic shifts.

On World Population Day, UNFPA calls for prioritising reproductive health

India reported 92,596 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 2,90,89,069, while the number of active cases dropped to 12,31,415, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday.

The daily infections remained below 1,00,000 for the second straight day.&nbsp;The death toll due to COVID-19 reached 3,53,528 with 2,219 more fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of active cases has reduced to 12,31,415, comprising 4.23 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 94.55 per cent.

A net decline of 72,287 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.&nbsp;Also, 19,85,967 tests were conducted on Tuesday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,01,93,563, while the daily positivity rate was recorded at 4.66 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for 16 consecutive days, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 5.66 per cent.&nbsp;Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 27 consecutive days.&nbsp;The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,75,04,126, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.22 per cent, the data stated.

Cumulatively, 23,90,58,360 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.&nbsp;

The 2,219 new fatalities include 702 from Maharashtra, 409 from Tamil Nadu, 179 from Karnataka and 124 from Kerala.&nbsp;A total of 3,53,528 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,01,172 from Maharashtra, 32,099 from Karnataka, 27,765 from Tamil Nadu, 24,668 from Delhi, 21,425 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,460 from West Bengal, 15,219 from Punjab and 13,257 from Chhattisgarh.

The Health Ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. 
"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India reported 92,596 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 2,90,89,069, while the number of active cases dropped to 12,31,415, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday.

India reported 92,596 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 2,90,89,069, while the number of active cases dropped to 12,31,415, according to the Union Health Ministry's data updated on Wednesday. The daily infections remained below 1,00,000 for the second straight day. The death toll due to COVID-19 reached 3,53,528 with 2,219 more fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. The number of active cases has reduced to 12,31,415, comprising 4.23 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 94.55 per cent. A net decline of 72,287 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also, 19,85,967 tests were conducted on Tuesday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,01,93,563, while the daily positivity rate was recorded at 4.66 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for 16 consecutive days, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 5.66 per cent. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 27 consecutive days. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,75,04,126, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.22 per cent, the data stated. Cumulatively, 23,90,58,360 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. The 2,219 new fatalities include 702 from Maharashtra, 409 from Tamil Nadu, 179 from Karnataka and 124 from Kerala. A total of 3,53,528 deaths have been reported so far in the country, including 1,01,172 from Maharashtra, 32,099 from Karnataka, 27,765 from Tamil Nadu, 24,668 from Delhi, 21,425 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,460 from West Bengal, 15,219 from Punjab and 13,257 from Chhattisgarh. The Health Ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India reports 92,596 fresh Covid infections; active case tally drops to 12,31,415

Sri Lanka on Monday lifted the three-day lockdown imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus but authorities asked people to stay indoors as over 2,000 daily new cases are being reported in the country.&nbsp;

The three-day lockdown without imposing a curfew was meant to force people to remain indoors during the long weekend, which coincided with the festivities at the end of Ramzan fast.&nbsp;

A police spokesperson said the ending of the lockdown was only limited to the movements for essential work. "People can move out of their homes for essential work based on the last digit of their national identity card," the spokesman said.&nbsp;

The odd number last digit identity card holders are allowed to step out on odd numbered days, while the even numbered are allowed on the even number days, he added.&nbsp;

State and private offices have been asked to operate with minimum staff under health regulations. Each day over 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 are being reported in the country, health officials said.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka currently has over 21,000 people receiving treatment for COVID-19 at hospitals, Shavendra Silva, the Army chief, who heads the COVID-19 prevention operations, said.&nbsp;

The public transport and taxis would be in operation only until 11 pm on Monday when a night travel ban comes into force until 4 am on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Travelling by taxis and three-wheelers are limited to two people. The night travel ban will remain enforced till the end of the month.&nbsp;

Dhammika Wijesinghe, Director General of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), last week announced that foreign tourists visiting the island will be able to travel under the Biosafety Bubble System according to health guidelines.&nbsp;

However, institutions and individuals who have taken steps to bring in tourists are strongly advised to follow the health guidelines when transporting tourists through the Tourism Bubble System and strict action will be taken against those who violate those guidelines.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's tourism industry, which was badly hit by the pandemic, has been identified as an export industry and is included in the National Plan for Export Development. &nbsp;

Tourist arrivals to the country have been steadily increasing since the country reopened to tourists. It was then that the third wave of Covid began in the country, which has reported 962 fatalities due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka on Monday lifted the three-day lockdown imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus but authorities asked people to stay indoors as over 2,000 daily new cases are being reported in the country.

Sri Lanka on Monday lifted the three-day lockdown imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus but authorities asked people to stay indoors as over 2,000 daily new cases are being reported in the country. The three-day lockdown without imposing a curfew was meant to force people to remain indoors during the long weekend, which coincided with the festivities at the end of Ramzan fast. A police spokesperson said the ending of the lockdown was only limited to the movements for essential work. "People can move out of their homes for essential work based on the last digit of their national identity card," the spokesman said. The odd number last digit identity card holders are allowed to step out on odd numbered days, while the even numbered are allowed on the even number days, he added. State and private offices have been asked to operate with minimum staff under health regulations. Each day over 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 are being reported in the country, health officials said. Sri Lanka currently has over 21,000 people receiving treatment for COVID-19 at hospitals, Shavendra Silva, the Army chief, who heads the COVID-19 prevention operations, said. The public transport and taxis would be in operation only until 11 pm on Monday when a night travel ban comes into force until 4 am on Tuesday. Travelling by taxis and three-wheelers are limited to two people. The night travel ban will remain enforced till the end of the month. Dhammika Wijesinghe, Director General of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), last week announced that foreign tourists visiting the island will be able to travel under the Biosafety Bubble System according to health guidelines. However, institutions and individuals who have taken steps to bring in tourists are strongly advised to follow the health guidelines when transporting tourists through the Tourism Bubble System and strict action will be taken against those who violate those guidelines. Sri Lanka's tourism industry, which was badly hit by the pandemic, has been identified as an export industry and is included in the National Plan for Export Development. Tourist arrivals to the country have been steadily increasing since the country reopened to tourists. It was then that the third wave of Covid began in the country, which has reported 962 fatalities due to COVID-19.

Sri Lanka ends three-day COVID-19 lockdown 

Some people report feeling no stress at all, but there may be downsides to this feeling of feeling always super-charged, say researchers.&nbsp;

The study showed that people, who reported experiencing no stress, were more likely to experience better daily well-being and fewer chronic health conditions. However, they were also more likely to have lower cognitive function, as well.&nbsp;

According to researcher David M Almeida from Penn State, the study suggests that small, daily stressors could potentially benefit the brain, despite being an inconvenience.&nbsp;

"It's possible that experiencing stressors creates opportunities for you to solve a problem, for example, maybe fixing your computer that has suddenly broken down before an important Zoom meeting," Almeida said.&nbsp;

"So, experiencing these stressors may not be pleasant but they may force you to solve a problem, and this might actually be good for cognitive functioning, especially as we grow older," Almeida added.&nbsp;

According to the researchers, a large number of previous studies have linked stress with a greater risk for many negative outcomes, like chronic illness or worse emotional wellbeing.&nbsp;

But Almeida said that while it may make sense to believe that the less stress someone experiences the more healthy they will be, he said, little research has explored that assumption.&nbsp;

For the study, published in the journal Emotion, the researchers used data from 2,711 participants for the study.&nbsp;

Prior to the start of the study, the participants completed a short cognition test.&nbsp;

Then, the participants were interviewed each night for eight consecutive nights, and answered questions about their mood, chronic conditions they may have, their physical symptoms, such as headaches, coughs or sore throats and what they did during that day.&nbsp;

After analysing the data, the researchers found that there did appear to be benefits for those who reported no stressors throughout the study, about 10 per cent of the participants.&nbsp;

These participants were less likely to have chronic health conditions and experience better moods throughout the day.&nbsp;

However, those who reported no stressors also performed lower on the cognition test, with the difference equalling more than eight years of aging.&nbsp;

Additionally, they were also less likely to report giving or receiving emotional support, as well as less likely to experience positive things happening throughout the day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Some people report feeling no stress at all, but there may be downsides to this feeling of feeling always super-charged, say researchers. The study showed that people, who reported experiencing no stress, were more likely to experience better daily well-being and fewer chronic health conditions.

Some people report feeling no stress at all, but there may be downsides to this feeling of feeling always super-charged, say researchers. The study showed that people, who reported experiencing no stress, were more likely to experience better daily well-being and fewer chronic health conditions. However, they were also more likely to have lower cognitive function, as well. According to researcher David M Almeida from Penn State, the study suggests that small, daily stressors could potentially benefit the brain, despite being an inconvenience. "It's possible that experiencing stressors creates opportunities for you to solve a problem, for example, maybe fixing your computer that has suddenly broken down before an important Zoom meeting," Almeida said. "So, experiencing these stressors may not be pleasant but they may force you to solve a problem, and this might actually be good for cognitive functioning, especially as we grow older," Almeida added. According to the researchers, a large number of previous studies have linked stress with a greater risk for many negative outcomes, like chronic illness or worse emotional wellbeing. But Almeida said that while it may make sense to believe that the less stress someone experiences the more healthy they will be, he said, little research has explored that assumption. For the study, published in the journal Emotion, the researchers used data from 2,711 participants for the study. Prior to the start of the study, the participants completed a short cognition test. Then, the participants were interviewed each night for eight consecutive nights, and answered questions about their mood, chronic conditions they may have, their physical symptoms, such as headaches, coughs or sore throats and what they did during that day. After analysing the data, the researchers found that there did appear to be benefits for those who reported no stressors throughout the study, about 10 per cent of the participants. These participants were less likely to have chronic health conditions and experience better moods throughout the day. However, those who reported no stressors also performed lower on the cognition test, with the difference equalling more than eight years of aging. Additionally, they were also less likely to report giving or receiving emotional support, as well as less likely to experience positive things happening throughout the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Little stress a day good for brain, says study 

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The holiday, immensely popular across the kingdom, is also typically considered an auspicious day for couples to tie the knot resulting in large queues at marriage registration offices across the city. &nbsp;

The most popular district is Bang Rak, which translates as 'district of love' in Thai. &nbsp;

But the hopes of eager-to-wed couples have been dashed. &nbsp;

"Bangkok's 50 district offices will refrain from providing marriage license registration service on this Valentine's Day," Thailand's Public Relations Department said on Twitter. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The cancellation aims to prevent the spread of #Covid19." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The announcement also said Chinese New Year festival, which usually involves a raucous parade in Bangkok's Chinatown, will not go on. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last year, Bang Rak district had scores of couples dressed in matching outfits or formal wear lining up before dawn to register for licenses, helped by pink-shirted civil servants wearing 'love' headbands. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Little fanfare has been made among the city's malls and businesses compared to previous years, though that hasn't stopped some restaurants for punting out Valentine's Day-themed meal offerings. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Burger King Thailand has debuted 'Black and Pink burgers' for Valentine's Day, featuring a pink salmon patty with rose-colour buns. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last year, Thailand was faring well in handling the pandemic but infections have climbed to more than 23,000 cases after a new wave hit in December. &nbsp;

This has led to a partial lockdown in Bangkok, with authorities banning bars and alcohol sales in restaurants.

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses.

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses. The holiday, immensely popular across the kingdom, is also typically considered an auspicious day for couples to tie the knot resulting in large queues at marriage registration offices across the city. The most popular district is Bang Rak, which translates as 'district of love' in Thai. But the hopes of eager-to-wed couples have been dashed. "Bangkok's 50 district offices will refrain from providing marriage license registration service on this Valentine's Day," Thailand's Public Relations Department said on Twitter. "The cancellation aims to prevent the spread of #Covid19." The announcement also said Chinese New Year festival, which usually involves a raucous parade in Bangkok's Chinatown, will not go on. Last year, Bang Rak district had scores of couples dressed in matching outfits or formal wear lining up before dawn to register for licenses, helped by pink-shirted civil servants wearing 'love' headbands. Little fanfare has been made among the city's malls and businesses compared to previous years, though that hasn't stopped some restaurants for punting out Valentine's Day-themed meal offerings. Burger King Thailand has debuted 'Black and Pink burgers' for Valentine's Day, featuring a pink salmon patty with rose-colour buns. Last year, Thailand was faring well in handling the pandemic but infections have climbed to more than 23,000 cases after a new wave hit in December. This has led to a partial lockdown in Bangkok, with authorities banning bars and alcohol sales in restaurants.

Covid Cupid shoots down Valentine's Day marriages in Bangkok

Los Angeles' downtown flower market saw a brisk trade on Thursday morning (May 7) after California Governor Gavin Newsom gave the green light to retail florist stores to begin opening on Friday (May 8), ahead of Mother's Day in the U.S.

Los Angeles wholesale flower market busy ahead of florists re-opening for Mother's Day

Actress Doris Day, who became one of the greatest box-office attractions of her time as the cheery, freckle-faced personification of wholesomeness, was remembered by fans on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles on Monday (May 13).

Actress Doris Day remembered by fans on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Lewis Hamilton extended his lead in the Formula One drivers championship to 19 points after winning the German Grand Prix with ease today, with Mercedes teammate and title rival Nico Rosberg only fourth. 
 
Rosberg surrendered his lead from pole to the Briton, who stormed away to claim his sixth win in seven races and strengthen his grip in the title chase. 
 
Second was Daniel Ricciardo, with Max Verstappen, his Red Bull teammate, third. 
 
Reigning world champion Hamilton took full advantage of a poor start by Rosberg, who also received a five second pit-stop penalty for an over-aggressive passing move, to deliver a flawless drive. 
 
&ldquo;Get in there, Lewis,&rdquo; said his team engineer over the radio. &ldquo;Great work, mate, a beautiful start and fantastically managed.&rdquo; 
 
The Briton responded: &ldquo;As always, thanks to you all, brilliant pit stops and now have a well-deserved summer break.&rdquo; 
 
For Rosberg, who was seeking to repeat his 2014 triumph, it ended up as a day of disappointment on home soil. 
 
The home fans at Hockenheim had another German to cheer as four-time champion Sebastian Vettel finished fifth ahead of his Ferrari teammate Kimi Raikkonen and compatriot Nico Hulkenberg, who was seventh on home turf for Force India. 
 
Briton Jenson Button, the 2009 world champion, finished eighth ahead of Finn Valtteri Bottas of Williams and Mexican Sergio Perez of Force India. 
 
&quot;What a race,&quot; Hamilton, who started second on the grid, told the crowd from the podium. &quot;Big thank you to the team, who did an amazing job. &quot;I didn&#39;t make any mistakes. Yesterday was not perfect, but you learn from those things.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

It ended up as a day of disappointment for Nico Rosberg, who was seeking to repeat his 2014 triumph on home soil

Lewis Hamilton extended his lead in the Formula One drivers championship to 19 points after winning the German Grand Prix with ease today, with Mercedes teammate and title rival Nico Rosberg only fourth. Rosberg surrendered his lead from pole to the Briton, who stormed away to claim his sixth win in seven races and strengthen his grip in the title chase. Second was Daniel Ricciardo, with Max Verstappen, his Red Bull teammate, third. Reigning world champion Hamilton took full advantage of a poor start by Rosberg, who also received a five second pit-stop penalty for an over-aggressive passing move, to deliver a flawless drive. “Get in there, Lewis,” said his team engineer over the radio. “Great work, mate, a beautiful start and fantastically managed.” The Briton responded: “As always, thanks to you all, brilliant pit stops and now have a well-deserved summer break.” For Rosberg, who was seeking to repeat his 2014 triumph, it ended up as a day of disappointment on home soil. The home fans at Hockenheim had another German to cheer as four-time champion Sebastian Vettel finished fifth ahead of his Ferrari teammate Kimi Raikkonen and compatriot Nico Hulkenberg, who was seventh on home turf for Force India. Briton Jenson Button, the 2009 world champion, finished eighth ahead of Finn Valtteri Bottas of Williams and Mexican Sergio Perez of Force India. "What a race," Hamilton, who started second on the grid, told the crowd from the podium. "Big thank you to the team, who did an amazing job. "I didn't make any mistakes. Yesterday was not perfect, but you learn from those things." (AFP)

Lewis Hamilton wins German Grand Prix

Britain&#39;s European Commissioner Jonathan Hill announced Saturday that he will stand down following his country&#39;s decision to leave the EU, saying he was &quot;very disappointed&#39; but &quot;what is done cannot be undone.&quot;

&quot;As we move to a new phase, I don&#39;t believe it is right that I should carry on as the British Commissioner as though nothing had happened,&quot; said a statement by Hill, who is commissioner for financial services.

&quot;At the same time, there needs to be an orderly handover, so I have said that I will work with him to make sure that happens in the weeks ahead.&quot;

Hill, 55, a professional lobbyist and former Conservative party leader in Britain&#39;s upper house of parliament, follows his close ally Prime Minister David Cameron in stepping down in the wake of the referendum on Thursday.

He had already faced calls in the European Parliament to give up the sensitive financial services portfolio, which will be a focus of interest in exit negotiations between Brussels and London. He has had a key role in setting regulations that give Britain&#39;s huge banking sector access to euro zone markets.

As long as Britain remains an EU member it will continue to have a seat on the 28-strong Commission, giving Cameron, or more likely his successor, a right to nominate another commissioner, whose appointment would be subject to EU parliamentary approval.

The distribution of portfolios in the Commission is in the gift of its president, former Luxembourg premier Juncker, in negotiation with the leader of the member state nominating their commissioner.

Hill&#39;s appointment to the finance job in 2014 was seen as a peace offering from Juncker to Cameron, who had tried to block the Commission president&#39;s own appointment that year. It was viewed with some suspicion by euro zone bankers keen to challenge London&#39;s dominance as Europe&#39;s financial capital.

 
(With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Move comes the day after UK votes to leave Europe

Britain's European Commissioner Jonathan Hill announced Saturday that he will stand down following his country's decision to leave the EU, saying he was "very disappointed' but "what is done cannot be undone." "As we move to a new phase, I don't believe it is right that I should carry on as the British Commissioner as though nothing had happened," said a statement by Hill, who is commissioner for financial services. "At the same time, there needs to be an orderly handover, so I have said that I will work with him to make sure that happens in the weeks ahead." Hill, 55, a professional lobbyist and former Conservative party leader in Britain's upper house of parliament, follows his close ally Prime Minister David Cameron in stepping down in the wake of the referendum on Thursday. He had already faced calls in the European Parliament to give up the sensitive financial services portfolio, which will be a focus of interest in exit negotiations between Brussels and London. He has had a key role in setting regulations that give Britain's huge banking sector access to euro zone markets. As long as Britain remains an EU member it will continue to have a seat on the 28-strong Commission, giving Cameron, or more likely his successor, a right to nominate another commissioner, whose appointment would be subject to EU parliamentary approval. The distribution of portfolios in the Commission is in the gift of its president, former Luxembourg premier Juncker, in negotiation with the leader of the member state nominating their commissioner. Hill's appointment to the finance job in 2014 was seen as a peace offering from Juncker to Cameron, who had tried to block the Commission president's own appointment that year. It was viewed with some suspicion by euro zone bankers keen to challenge London's dominance as Europe's financial capital. (With inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Britain's European Commissioner to step down

For an hour each day, Kim Chung-seong, a defector from North Korea and a Christian missionary, takes to the microphone in a small Seoul studio.

At 1 a.m., his show, &quot;Hello from Seoul, the Republic of Korea,&quot; sends a mix of gospel music and news into North Korea, defying the isolated state&#39;s efforts to keep its people in the dark about the world, religion and the truth about its leaders.

&quot;Brothers and sisters in the North, I hope this time can be a moment of prayer for a miracle that every party member of North Korea at the party congress can meet God, not take a further step into the cult of personality,&quot; Kim said.

He was referring to the meeting of the North&#39;s ruling Workers&#39; Party this month, where young leader Kim Jong Un was unanimously elevated to party chairman.

&quot;I am desperately praying that North Korea&#39;s Kim Jong Un and all administrators under him kneel down in front of God and repent for their sins, leave the path of tormenting their people,&quot; Kim, who came to the South in 2004, said in his studio at the Far East Broadcasting Company.

North Korea strictly bans access to outside information, but a growing number of North Koreans consume illicit media, including South Korean TV dramas that show the prosperity of life across the heavily fortified border, via contraband USB sticks and DVDs smuggled from China.

The impoverished North is still technically at war with rich, democratic South Korea because their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. It has also been slapped with UN and other sanctions for its nuclear and missile programmes.

Robert King, U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights issues, told a Senate panel in October that up to 29 percent of North Koreans had listened to foreign radio and said the medium, including the U.S. government&#39;s Voice of America, remained the most important way to get information into the country.

&nbsp;

&quot;LISTENING UNDER THE BLANKET&quot;

Kim Myung-jun,&nbsp;professor at Sogang University&#39;s school of mass communications in Seoul, said smuggled USB sticks and DVDs were more about&nbsp;entertainment, whereas radio carried news.

&quot;Once you listen in, you tend to keep listening under the blanket. It gets you addicted,&quot; he said. &quot;AM radio stations like Far East Broadcasting Company have pretty good signals and can be listened to clearly in much of North Korea.&quot;

Kim, the broadcaster, said he tried to delegitimise the three-generation Kim family dictatorship and preach Christian gospel on his show, often with fellow defectors as guests.

&quot;I am not saying everything is bad in North Korea,&quot; said Kim, 39, who has hosted the show for six years.

&quot;But, for example, if the party congress is meant to worship one particular person and make 20 million people that person&#39;s slaves, that is meaningless. That&#39;s what I am talking about on my show.&quot;

North Korea&#39;s constitution guarantees freedom of religion provided it does not undermine the state, but outside of a small handful of state-controlled places of worship, no open religious activity is allowed.

It is also illegal to own a radio that can be tuned, and the only radio or TV sets permitted are those pre-set to state channels. However, many tune in to foreign shows with smuggled Chinese radios and illegally altered North Korean sets.

One weekly guest, defector Ko Ji-eun, said she was a fan of Kim&#39;s show while hiding in China for several years.

After she arrived in Seoul last year, Ko met a fellow defector who had listened to the show while inside the North last year and has since fled to the South.

&quot;North Koreans are now using Chinese earphones not to expose themselves to authorities,&quot; Ko said. &quot;Many people inside North Korea are listening to this radio a lot.&quot;

For an hour each day, Kim Chung-seong, a defector from North Korea and a Christian missionary, takes to the microphone in a small Seoul studio. At 1 a.m., his show, "Hello from Seoul, the Republic of Korea," sends a mix of gospel music and news into North Korea.

For an hour each day, Kim Chung-seong, a defector from North Korea and a Christian missionary, takes to the microphone in a small Seoul studio. At 1 a.m., his show, "Hello from Seoul, the Republic of Korea," sends a mix of gospel music and news into North Korea, defying the isolated state's efforts to keep its people in the dark about the world, religion and the truth about its leaders. "Brothers and sisters in the North, I hope this time can be a moment of prayer for a miracle that every party member of North Korea at the party congress can meet God, not take a further step into the cult of personality," Kim said. He was referring to the meeting of the North's ruling Workers' Party this month, where young leader Kim Jong Un was unanimously elevated to party chairman. "I am desperately praying that North Korea's Kim Jong Un and all administrators under him kneel down in front of God and repent for their sins, leave the path of tormenting their people," Kim, who came to the South in 2004, said in his studio at the Far East Broadcasting Company. North Korea strictly bans access to outside information, but a growing number of North Koreans consume illicit media, including South Korean TV dramas that show the prosperity of life across the heavily fortified border, via contraband USB sticks and DVDs smuggled from China. The impoverished North is still technically at war with rich, democratic South Korea because their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. It has also been slapped with UN and other sanctions for its nuclear and missile programmes. Robert King, U.S. special envoy for North Korean human rights issues, told a Senate panel in October that up to 29 percent of North Koreans had listened to foreign radio and said the medium, including the U.S. government's Voice of America, remained the most important way to get information into the country. "LISTENING UNDER THE BLANKET" Kim Myung-jun, professor at Sogang University's school of mass communications in Seoul, said smuggled USB sticks and DVDs were more about entertainment, whereas radio carried news. "Once you listen in, you tend to keep listening under the blanket. It gets you addicted," he said. "AM radio stations like Far East Broadcasting Company have pretty good signals and can be listened to clearly in much of North Korea." Kim, the broadcaster, said he tried to delegitimise the three-generation Kim family dictatorship and preach Christian gospel on his show, often with fellow defectors as guests. "I am not saying everything is bad in North Korea," said Kim, 39, who has hosted the show for six years. "But, for example, if the party congress is meant to worship one particular person and make 20 million people that person's slaves, that is meaningless. That's what I am talking about on my show." North Korea's constitution guarantees freedom of religion provided it does not undermine the state, but outside of a small handful of state-controlled places of worship, no open religious activity is allowed. It is also illegal to own a radio that can be tuned, and the only radio or TV sets permitted are those pre-set to state channels. However, many tune in to foreign shows with smuggled Chinese radios and illegally altered North Korean sets. One weekly guest, defector Ko Ji-eun, said she was a fan of Kim's show while hiding in China for several years. After she arrived in Seoul last year, Ko met a fellow defector who had listened to the show while inside the North last year and has since fled to the South. "North Koreans are now using Chinese earphones not to expose themselves to authorities," Ko said. "Many people inside North Korea are listening to this radio a lot."

Good morning, North Korea! Defector preaches dangers of cult worship

Gory pictures on cigarette packets depicting the dangers of smoking have helped people kick the butt. But despite all the images of the diseased lungs and heart, the number of girls taking to the habit of smoking is on the rise. One of the prime responsibilities and a large opportunity in public health in the 21st century is to prevent the increase in smoking among women. 
 
 
In what could sound alarming, according to the WHO reports, tobacco smoking currently kills five million people a year worldwide and, according to estimates, will probably kill eight million people a year between now and 2030 and one billion over the course of the 21st century. 
 
The World No Tobacco Day was a theme initiated in 2010 with an intention to draw a relation between gender and tobacco, with an emphasis on marketing cigarettes to women. This theme was chosen &quot;to draw particular attention to the harmful effects of tobacco marketing towards women and girls&quot;. And this continues to be observed year-on-year. 
 
In the garb of being modern, fashionable, independent and self confident, women/girls consider smoking as an expression of independence. While it is imperative that women`s empowerment continues, attention must be paid to its potential link to increased smoking among women and to the ways in which the tobacco industry is capitalising on societal changes to target them. 
 
The most common time when women initiate smoking is in their teens, and the number of adolescents who initiate smoking increases every year from grades nine through 12. Moreover, there is growing evidence that the reasons girls initiate smoking is different from the reasons why boys begin. Many of the factors that contribute to smoking initiation have been elucidated; the strongest appear to be peer smoking and parent smoking. 
 
Parent connectedness also plays a vital role. Adolescents desire greater connectedness to parents, school, and community. Unfortunately, today`s busy adults frequently relinquish responsibility and supervision of teens allowing them greater opportunities to participate in unhealthy behaviours. When the adolescent is unable to meet her need for affirmation within the family, in this case, the daughter with the mother, the affiliation with the peer group may be greater. 
 
Half a century ago, the risk of death from lung cancer among men who smoked was five times higher than that of women smokers. But by the first decade of this century that risk has equalised: for both men and women who smoked, the risk of death from lung cancer is 25 times greater than for non-smokers. 
 
A study has indicated that women who continue to smoke die on an average more than 10 years sooner than those who never smoked. While lung cancer is the most infamous hazard linked to smoking, the habit also raises the risk of death from heart disease, stroke, pulmonary disease and other cancers, including breast cancer. 
 
Interestingly, what several are unaware are the changes in manufacture of cigarettes that has led to increased dangers. The use of perforated filters, tobacco blends that are less irritating, and paper that is more porous has made it easier to inhale smoke and has encouraged deeper inhalation to achieve satisfying blood levels of nicotine. The result of deeper inhalation is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 
 
Women who smoke are also more likely to have fertility problems. A single butt can result in more than 7,000 chemicals spreading through the entire body and the organs. This could lead to ovulation problems, damage to reproductive organs, damage to eggs, premature menopause and increased risk of miscarriage.&nbsp; 
 
It`s never too late to reap the benefits of quitting. The younger you are when you stop smoking, the greater your chances of living a long and healthy life. And we can do a lot better to reduce the prevalence of smoking with the tools currently in hand if government agencies, medical insurers and the public work in tandem. 
 
(Dr. Rajat Arora is an Interventional Cardiologist and Medical Director at Yashoda Hospitals in Delhi. The views expressed are personal. He can be contacted at drrajat@yashodahospital.org) 
&nbsp;

Gory pictures on cigarette packets depicting the dangers of smoking have helped people kick the butt. But despite all the images of the diseased lungs and heart, the number of girls taking to the habit of smoking is on the rise. One of the prime responsibilities and a large opportunity in public health in the 21st century is to prevent the increase in smoking among women.

Gory pictures on cigarette packets depicting the dangers of smoking have helped people kick the butt. But despite all the images of the diseased lungs and heart, the number of girls taking to the habit of smoking is on the rise. One of the prime responsibilities and a large opportunity in public health in the 21st century is to prevent the increase in smoking among women. In what could sound alarming, according to the WHO reports, tobacco smoking currently kills five million people a year worldwide and, according to estimates, will probably kill eight million people a year between now and 2030 and one billion over the course of the 21st century. The World No Tobacco Day was a theme initiated in 2010 with an intention to draw a relation between gender and tobacco, with an emphasis on marketing cigarettes to women. This theme was chosen "to draw particular attention to the harmful effects of tobacco marketing towards women and girls". And this continues to be observed year-on-year. In the garb of being modern, fashionable, independent and self confident, women/girls consider smoking as an expression of independence. While it is imperative that women`s empowerment continues, attention must be paid to its potential link to increased smoking among women and to the ways in which the tobacco industry is capitalising on societal changes to target them. The most common time when women initiate smoking is in their teens, and the number of adolescents who initiate smoking increases every year from grades nine through 12. Moreover, there is growing evidence that the reasons girls initiate smoking is different from the reasons why boys begin. Many of the factors that contribute to smoking initiation have been elucidated; the strongest appear to be peer smoking and parent smoking. Parent connectedness also plays a vital role. Adolescents desire greater connectedness to parents, school, and community. Unfortunately, today`s busy adults frequently relinquish responsibility and supervision of teens allowing them greater opportunities to participate in unhealthy behaviours. When the adolescent is unable to meet her need for affirmation within the family, in this case, the daughter with the mother, the affiliation with the peer group may be greater. Half a century ago, the risk of death from lung cancer among men who smoked was five times higher than that of women smokers. But by the first decade of this century that risk has equalised: for both men and women who smoked, the risk of death from lung cancer is 25 times greater than for non-smokers. A study has indicated that women who continue to smoke die on an average more than 10 years sooner than those who never smoked. While lung cancer is the most infamous hazard linked to smoking, the habit also raises the risk of death from heart disease, stroke, pulmonary disease and other cancers, including breast cancer. Interestingly, what several are unaware are the changes in manufacture of cigarettes that has led to increased dangers. The use of perforated filters, tobacco blends that are less irritating, and paper that is more porous has made it easier to inhale smoke and has encouraged deeper inhalation to achieve satisfying blood levels of nicotine. The result of deeper inhalation is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Women who smoke are also more likely to have fertility problems. A single butt can result in more than 7,000 chemicals spreading through the entire body and the organs. This could lead to ovulation problems, damage to reproductive organs, damage to eggs, premature menopause and increased risk of miscarriage. It`s never too late to reap the benefits of quitting. The younger you are when you stop smoking, the greater your chances of living a long and healthy life. And we can do a lot better to reduce the prevalence of smoking with the tools currently in hand if government agencies, medical insurers and the public work in tandem. (Dr. Rajat Arora is an Interventional Cardiologist and Medical Director at Yashoda Hospitals in Delhi. The views expressed are personal. He can be contacted at drrajat@yashodahospital.org)

Every cigarette rots you, inside out

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