Australians will head to polls on Saturday to choose their new Prime Minister. Will Scott Morrison retain power? What is the China factor in Aussie politics? Watch this report to find out!

Australia Elections 2022: The China factor in Aussie politics

After 10 hours of hustle and bustle, polling stations have closed in Australia. 17 million people have casted voted to elect their new Prime Minister, the battle boiled down to two candidates- incumbent Scott Morrison and Australian Labor party leader Anthony Albanese. For more details, we're joined by Adam Hancock, Freelance Journalist.

Australian Election 2022: 17 million Australians cast their vote

Scott Morrison said, "I congratulated Albanese on his victory." Meanwhile, this is an end of a nearly a decade of conservative rule in Australia. Indian PM Narendra Modi has also congratulated Australia's PM-elect Albanese.

Australia Election: Change of Guard in Canberra: Australia ousts PM Scott Morrison

As per recent reports, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison conceded defeat in elections. Labour leader Anthony Albanese who is heading a coalition is set to form the next government in Australia

Australia Election 2022: Australian PM concedes defeat; labor party to form the next govt

Australians will head to polls on Saturday to choose their new Prime Minister. Meanwhile, opposition is hoping to end 9 years of conservative rule. Opinion polls have predicted the change in government.

Australian Elections 2022: Opinion polls predict change in government

As the billionaire entrepreneur aims to expand Twitter Inc's reach from 'niche' to most Americans, Elon Musk said on Tuesday that casual users will always be free, but commercial and government users may be charged a small fee.

"Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users," Musk said in a tweet.

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Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users
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Since last month, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has proposed a slew of modifications to Twitter.

Musk said he intended to improve the platform with new features, such as making the algorithms open source to build confidence, combating spam bots, and authenticating all humans, after adding the company to his basket recently.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-plans-to-appoint-a-new-twitter-ceo-to-succeed-parag-agrawal-sources-475963">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk plans to appoint a new Twitter CEO to succeed Parag Agrawal: Sources</a>

Even before striking an agreement with Twitter, Musk proposed a few improvements to the Twitter Blue premium subscription service, including a price cut.

Musk said at the Met Gala in New York on Monday that he would make Twitter transparent about how tweets are promoted or demoted, and that the company's software will be open to criticism.

As the billionaire entrepreneur aims to expand Twitter Inc's reach from 'niche' to most Americans, Elon Musk said on Tuesday that casual users will always be free, but commercial and government users may be charged a small fee.

As the billionaire entrepreneur aims to expand Twitter Inc's reach from 'niche' to most Americans, Elon Musk said on Tuesday that casual users will always be free, but commercial and government users may be charged a small fee. "Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users," Musk said in a tweet. Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 3, 2022 × Since last month, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has proposed a slew of modifications to Twitter. Musk said he intended to improve the platform with new features, such as making the algorithms open source to build confidence, combating spam bots, and authenticating all humans, after adding the company to his basket recently. Also read | Elon Musk plans to appoint a new Twitter CEO to succeed Parag Agrawal: Sources Even before striking an agreement with Twitter, Musk proposed a few improvements to the Twitter Blue premium subscription service, including a price cut. Musk said at the Met Gala in New York on Monday that he would make Twitter transparent about how tweets are promoted or demoted, and that the company's software will be open to criticism.

Is free Twitter coming to an end? Musk indicates that commercial and government users may be charged

The&nbsp;British&nbsp;Virgin&nbsp;Islands' premier and chief port official were arrested Thursday at a Miami-area airport on charges of conspiring to traffic cocaine, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) said.

DEA agents at the Miami-Opa-locka Executive Airport took Premier Andrew Fahie and BVI Port Authority managing director Oleanvine Maynard into custody after they allegedly agreed to accept money from undercover agents posing as Mexican drug traffickers, the local Miami Herald newspaper reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russians-exert-intense-fire-us-delivers-more-than-half-howitzers-to-ukraine-train-its-officers-474641">As Russians 'exert intense fire', US delivers 'more than half' howitzers to Ukraine, train its officers</a>

Fahie and Maynard were to inspect a plane carrying $700,000 that they would receive in exchange for facilitating cocaine shipments through their Caribbean territory, reported the Herald, citing US authorities.

The officials' arrests "should send a clear message," said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;Report: US left $7 billion of military gear in Afghanistan

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John Rankin, the&nbsp;British&nbsp;Virgin&nbsp;Islands' governor, said that the arrest was a "US operation led by the DEA."

"As this concerns the arrest of a&nbsp;British&nbsp;citizen, the US government has informed the UK government of this arrest, as part of the usual process followed when a&nbsp;British&nbsp;citizen is arrested abroad," he added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Rankin additionally stipulated that the arrest had nothing to do with the current&nbsp;British&nbsp;investigation into corruption in the Fahie government.

The&nbsp;British&nbsp;Virgin&nbsp;Islands is home to some 35,000 people and is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, a status that gives it partial autonomy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-to-indian-pm-modi-other-quad-leaders-in-tokyo-in-may-474491">US President Joe Biden to meet Indian PM Modi, other Quad leaders in Tokyo in May</a>

"I realize this will be shocking news for people in the territory. And I would call for calm at this time," said Rankin, who as governor was appointed by Queen Elizabeth II on recommendation of the&nbsp;British&nbsp;government.&nbsp;

He noted that the deputy premier will become acting premier in the meantime.

The British Virgin Islands' premier and chief port official were arrested Thursday at a Miami-area airport on charges of conspiring to traffic cocaine, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) said.

The British Virgin Islands' premier and chief port official were arrested Thursday at a Miami-area airport on charges of conspiring to traffic cocaine, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) said. DEA agents at the Miami-Opa-locka Executive Airport took Premier Andrew Fahie and BVI Port Authority managing director Oleanvine Maynard into custody after they allegedly agreed to accept money from undercover agents posing as Mexican drug traffickers, the local Miami Herald newspaper reported. Also read | As Russians 'exert intense fire', US delivers 'more than half' howitzers to Ukraine, train its officers Fahie and Maynard were to inspect a plane carrying $700,000 that they would receive in exchange for facilitating cocaine shipments through their Caribbean territory, reported the Herald, citing US authorities. The officials' arrests "should send a clear message," said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, in a statement. Watch | Report: US left $7 billion of military gear in Afghanistan John Rankin, the British Virgin Islands' governor, said that the arrest was a "US operation led by the DEA." "As this concerns the arrest of a British citizen, the US government has informed the UK government of this arrest, as part of the usual process followed when a British citizen is arrested abroad," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE Rankin additionally stipulated that the arrest had nothing to do with the current British investigation into corruption in the Fahie government. The British Virgin Islands is home to some 35,000 people and is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, a status that gives it partial autonomy. Also read | US President Joe Biden to meet Indian PM Modi, other Quad leaders in Tokyo in May "I realize this will be shocking news for people in the territory. And I would call for calm at this time," said Rankin, who as governor was appointed by Queen Elizabeth II on recommendation of the British government. He noted that the deputy premier will become acting premier in the meantime.

British Virgin Islands premier arrested in US drug sting

Tougher times are ahead for Indian football team. In what comes as a shocker, the central government has slashed the funding of football by more than 50 per cent (i.e. by 85%).&nbsp;The decision came&nbsp;after the government&nbsp;dubbed the national team’s display as "poor performance" over the last few years.

As a result, a senior AIFF official has lashed out at the new development and rued&nbsp;at the ‘differential treatment’ meted out to the sport, as&nbsp;reported by the Indian Express. “Despite the differential treatment by the government, the AIFF has not compromised on any activity for the senior and junior teams, both men and women. However, it is surprising that a mass sport like football gets less funding compared to other sports that are nowhere close in terms of participation numbers and competitiveness.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aiff-general-secretary-kushal-das-molested-employees-at-workplace-ranjit-bajaj-makes-big-accusation-473947">AIFF general secretary Kushal Das molested employees at workplace: Ranjit Bajaj makes big accusation</a>

For the unversed, the AIFF officials had reportedly asked for funding at least three times within the sanctioned budget. Much to their dismay,&nbsp;the sports ministry and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) were not satisfied. AIFF’s demands were termed insignificant as the federation’s developmental work has not been deemed to be satisfactory by any means,&nbsp;exposing the inability of age-group teams to make their presence felt at the continental level and a women’s football programme that ‘lacked structure’.&nbsp;

It is to be noted&nbsp;that the funds allocated to football are way less than what has been set aside for other major sports.&nbsp;Athletics (INR 300 million), badminton, boxing, hockey, shooting (INR 240 million each), archery (INR 158.5 crore) and weightlifting (INR 110 million) are way ahead of football in terms of total funding received. To the surprise of many, even sports like tennis and yachting are all set to receive greater funding than football for the current financial year.

The&nbsp;central government’s call has come as a massive blow to the beautiful game amid its rising popularity in India. Over the years, efforts have been made to popularise the game, however, such a dent will act as a severe hit for Indian football across the country. It will be interesting to see if and how&nbsp;some big football names, in India, react to the big development.

Tougher times are ahead for Indian football team. In what comes as a shocker, the central government has slashed the funding of football by more than 50 per cent (i.

Tougher times are ahead for Indian football team. In what comes as a shocker, the central government has slashed the funding of football by more than 50 per cent (i.e. by 85%). The decision came after the government dubbed the national team’s display as "poor performance" over the last few years. As a result, a senior AIFF official has lashed out at the new development and rued at the ‘differential treatment’ meted out to the sport, as reported by the Indian Express. “Despite the differential treatment by the government, the AIFF has not compromised on any activity for the senior and junior teams, both men and women. However, it is surprising that a mass sport like football gets less funding compared to other sports that are nowhere close in terms of participation numbers and competitiveness.” ALSO READ | AIFF general secretary Kushal Das molested employees at workplace: Ranjit Bajaj makes big accusation For the unversed, the AIFF officials had reportedly asked for funding at least three times within the sanctioned budget. Much to their dismay, the sports ministry and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) were not satisfied. AIFF’s demands were termed insignificant as the federation’s developmental work has not been deemed to be satisfactory by any means, exposing the inability of age-group teams to make their presence felt at the continental level and a women’s football programme that ‘lacked structure’. It is to be noted that the funds allocated to football are way less than what has been set aside for other major sports. Athletics (INR 300 million), badminton, boxing, hockey, shooting (INR 240 million each), archery (INR 158.5 crore) and weightlifting (INR 110 million) are way ahead of football in terms of total funding received. To the surprise of many, even sports like tennis and yachting are all set to receive greater funding than football for the current financial year. The central government’s call has come as a massive blow to the beautiful game amid its rising popularity in India. Over the years, efforts have been made to popularise the game, however, such a dent will act as a severe hit for Indian football across the country. It will be interesting to see if and how some big football names, in India, react to the big development.

Indian football in huge crisis! Government slashes funding by almost 85% for AIFF - Report

Day after Pakistan national assembly voted Imran Khan out of power, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers staged protests citing foreign conspiracy in ousting PM Imran Khan.

Thousands march in Imran Khan's support, stage protest across Pakistan

Venezuela's tourism minister on Thursday said the country will&nbsp;increase&nbsp;state airline&nbsp;flights&nbsp;to its ally&nbsp;Moscow, as many countries around the world, led by the United States and Europe, block Russian planes from their airspace.

President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine last week provoked a battery of sanctions from the United States and its allies, including airspace being closed to Russian-flagged&nbsp;flights.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-us-navy-recovers-crashed-f-35c-lightning-ii-aircraft-from-south-china-sea-458883">&nbsp;Finally, US Navy recovers crashed F-35C Lightning II aircraft from South China Sea</a>

"Venezuela&nbsp;is ready to continue receiving Russian tourists," Minister Ali Padron tweeted on Thursday, after a phone call with the head of the Russian Federal Tourism Agency.

They agreed "to guarantee the continuity of regular&nbsp;flights&nbsp;through the Venezuelan airline Conviasa and&nbsp;increase&nbsp;connectivity," he wrote.&nbsp;

Russian tourism to&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;soared in May 2021 when the two countries opened a direct route between&nbsp;Moscow&nbsp;and Caracas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melinda-gates-calls-meeting-epstein-abhorrent-slams-ex-husband-bills-friendship-with-him-458921">Melinda Gates calls meeting Epstein 'abhorrent', slams ex-husband Bill's friendship with him</a>

Moscow&nbsp;has been a key ally of&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;since the government of the late president Hugo Chavez.&nbsp;

Chavez's successor Nicolas Maduro has expressed support for Putin in the past week, calling actions taken against&nbsp;Moscow&nbsp;"crimes" and "madness", although he advocated for peace negotiations with Ukraine to continue.

Venezuela's tourism minister on Thursday said the country will increase state airline flights to its ally Moscow, as many countries around the world, led by the United States and Europe, block Russian planes from their airspace.

Venezuela's tourism minister on Thursday said the country will increase state airline flights to its ally Moscow, as many countries around the world, led by the United States and Europe, block Russian planes from their airspace. President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine last week provoked a battery of sanctions from the United States and its allies, including airspace being closed to Russian-flagged flights. Also read | Finally, US Navy recovers crashed F-35C Lightning II aircraft from South China Sea "Venezuela is ready to continue receiving Russian tourists," Minister Ali Padron tweeted on Thursday, after a phone call with the head of the Russian Federal Tourism Agency. They agreed "to guarantee the continuity of regular flights through the Venezuelan airline Conviasa and increase connectivity," he wrote. Russian tourism to Venezuela soared in May 2021 when the two countries opened a direct route between Moscow and Caracas. Also read | Melinda Gates calls meeting Epstein 'abhorrent', slams ex-husband Bill's friendship with him Moscow has been a key ally of Venezuela since the government of the late president Hugo Chavez. Chavez's successor Nicolas Maduro has expressed support for Putin in the past week, calling actions taken against Moscow "crimes" and "madness", although he advocated for peace negotiations with Ukraine to continue.

Venezuela announces increase in flights to Moscow

Amid the volatile situation caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has written to the External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, seeking special evacuation flights for Tamil people stuck in the country.

Amid the volatile situation caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has written to the External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, seeking special evacuation flights for Tamil people stuck in the country. Stating that nearly 5,000 students and other emigrants from Tamil Nadu were stuck in the war-torn nation, MK Stalin said that the state government had been receiving distress calls from parents and family members, requesting evacuation. Also read | ‘Won’t bow down’: Ukraine president vows to fight back against ‘aggressor’ Russia Amid worrying situation in Ukraine @CMOTamilnadu request to @DrSJaishankar : Nearly 5000 students from #TamilNadu , pursuing prof courses in #Ukraine Arrange special evacuation flights similar to vande Bharat Appoint a nodal officer for coordinating with TN govt#India pic.twitter.com/IwhTP6Pc7S — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 24, 2022 × In the letter, he added that the state government had opened an around-the-clock help desk and a State Nodal officer to coordinate with the government of India, the families of the students and the respective district administration in Tamil Nadu. It was also requested that a nodal officer be nominated to coordinate with the Tamil Nadu government, given the high number of students from the state.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister requests govt of India to operate evacuation flights from Ukraine

Various organisations around the world, especially in India and the United States, have chastised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for invoking federal emergency powers to repress truckers protesting Canada's COVID-19 limitations.

After being linked to a $100 donation supporting the convoy blocking Ottawa roadways, the head of communications for the Ontario ministry in charge of executing the legislation was fired. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mr-justin-trudeau-you-are-wrong-about-the-swastika-here-are-the-facts-454304">Also read | Mr. Justin Trudeau, you are wrong about the Swastika: Here are the facts</a>

Marion Isabeau-Ringuette is one of numerous government employees and acquaintances under investigation after their names or identifying information was discovered in a pair of leaks involving 100,000 donations to the GiveSendGo website in the United States.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | PM Justin Trudeau invokes emergency powers to quell truckers' protest in Canada

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As recently as Sunday, Isabeau-Ringuette worked as a political staffer for Ontario's Solicitor-General, a post that regulates police and other law enforcement in the province.

Even minor donors to the blockade in Canada risk having their bank accounts seized if they continue to donate.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau openly supported the Indian farmers' protest and expressed sympathy, but he is cracking down on the Ottawa truckers' sit-in in his own nation.

Trudeau's double standards are exposed by this conduct.

"Canada stands ready to protect the right to peaceful protest at any time. "In response to the farmers' protest in India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had said.&nbsp;

Trudeau engaged in India's domestic affairs without flinching for a second, and members of his government, such as Jagmeet Singh, did the same without regard for the facts on the ground, further denting already strained relations with India. 
&nbsp; 
Watch | Gravitas: Freedom Convoy Protests: Trudeau "upsets" Hindus

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(With inputs from agencies)

Various organisations around the world, especially in India and the United States, have chastised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for invoking federal emergency powers to repress truckers protesting Canada's COVID-19 limitations.

Various organisations around the world, especially in India and the United States, have chastised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for invoking federal emergency powers to repress truckers protesting Canada's COVID-19 limitations. After being linked to a $100 donation supporting the convoy blocking Ottawa roadways, the head of communications for the Ontario ministry in charge of executing the legislation was fired. Also read | Mr. Justin Trudeau, you are wrong about the Swastika: Here are the facts Marion Isabeau-Ringuette is one of numerous government employees and acquaintances under investigation after their names or identifying information was discovered in a pair of leaks involving 100,000 donations to the GiveSendGo website in the United States. Watch | PM Justin Trudeau invokes emergency powers to quell truckers' protest in Canada As recently as Sunday, Isabeau-Ringuette worked as a political staffer for Ontario's Solicitor-General, a post that regulates police and other law enforcement in the province. Even minor donors to the blockade in Canada risk having their bank accounts seized if they continue to donate. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau openly supported the Indian farmers' protest and expressed sympathy, but he is cracking down on the Ottawa truckers' sit-in in his own nation. Trudeau's double standards are exposed by this conduct. "Canada stands ready to protect the right to peaceful protest at any time. "In response to the farmers' protest in India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had said. Trudeau engaged in India's domestic affairs without flinching for a second, and members of his government, such as Jagmeet Singh, did the same without regard for the facts on the ground, further denting already strained relations with India. Watch | Gravitas: Freedom Convoy Protests: Trudeau "upsets" Hindus (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Justin Trudeau's government fires a woman for donating $100 to protesters

Beijing&nbsp;will include more than a dozen&nbsp;fertility&nbsp;services&nbsp;in a government-backed medical&nbsp;insurance&nbsp;scheme for the&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;capital, state media reported on Monday,&nbsp;supporting those seeking to have babies with China's birth rate at a record low.

A total of 16 medical&nbsp;services&nbsp;using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) will be covered by the city's state&nbsp;insurance&nbsp;effective from March 26, in a move to "take proactive&nbsp;fertility&nbsp;support&nbsp;measures", according to the&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;Daily.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-chinese-students-to-be-taught-xi-jinpings-thoughts-454530">Now, Chinese students to be taught Xi Jinping's 'thoughts'</a>

The new reproductive&nbsp;coverage&nbsp;could help lower out-of-pocket costs and benefit couples in lower-income brackets seeking to have babies and those with little or no access to private medical&nbsp;insurance.

Official data showed China's birth rate dropped to a record low in 2021, extending a downward trend that led the national government last year to begin allowing couples to have up to three children.

China will work towards achieving an "appropriate" birth rate, Premier Li Keqiang said at the start of the annual parliamentary meeting in March last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-human-rights-chief-can-visit-xinjiang-but-beijing-doesnt-welcome-any-probe-says-chinas-foreign-minister-454717">UN human rights chief can visit Xinjiang but Beijing doesn't welcome any probe, says China's foreign minister</a>

China faces what experts call a "demographic time-bomb" as its elderly population increases while its workforce gets smaller due to decreasing&nbsp;births, partly due to a one-child policy in place for about four decades before being scrapped in 2016.

China will raise the statutory retirement age "in a phased manner", Li said last year.

The eastern province of Jiangsu said last month that starting from March, employees eligible for state pensions will be able to apply for delayed retirement for no less than one year from the statutory retirement age.

Beijing will include more than a dozen fertility services in a government-backed medical insurance scheme for the Chinese capital, state media reported on Monday, supporting those seeking to have babies with China's birth rate at a record low.

Beijing will include more than a dozen fertility services in a government-backed medical insurance scheme for the Chinese capital, state media reported on Monday, supporting those seeking to have babies with China's birth rate at a record low. A total of 16 medical services using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) will be covered by the city's state insurance effective from March 26, in a move to "take proactive fertility support measures", according to the Beijing Daily. Also read | Now, Chinese students to be taught Xi Jinping's 'thoughts' The new reproductive coverage could help lower out-of-pocket costs and benefit couples in lower-income brackets seeking to have babies and those with little or no access to private medical insurance. Official data showed China's birth rate dropped to a record low in 2021, extending a downward trend that led the national government last year to begin allowing couples to have up to three children. China will work towards achieving an "appropriate" birth rate, Premier Li Keqiang said at the start of the annual parliamentary meeting in March last year. Also read | UN human rights chief can visit Xinjiang but Beijing doesn't welcome any probe, says China's foreign minister China faces what experts call a "demographic time-bomb" as its elderly population increases while its workforce gets smaller due to decreasing births, partly due to a one-child policy in place for about four decades before being scrapped in 2016. China will raise the statutory retirement age "in a phased manner", Li said last year. The eastern province of Jiangsu said last month that starting from March, employees eligible for state pensions will be able to apply for delayed retirement for no less than one year from the statutory retirement age.

To support births, Chinese capital Beijing adds fertility services to insurance coverage

As per the top Canadian ministers, the protesters must leave and should not be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments."&nbsp;

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said that these illegal blockades and occupations cannot be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments."&nbsp;

"They cannot be allowed to threaten peace, order and good government, and they will not be allowed to do so. These illegal blockades and occupations will end, and they will end for good," she said.&nbsp;

This comes in as the police in Ottawa have made several arrests regarding the “freedom convoy" protests. While some protestors surrendered and were taken into custody, others were seen being taken away in handcuffs.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pics-canadian-police-starts-arresting-protesters-few-surrendered-others-were-taken-into-custody-454409#arrests-begin-454399">Also read |&nbsp;Pics: Canadian police starts arresting protesters; few surrendered, others were taken into custody</a>

The arrests were made after the Ottawa police made it clear on Thursday they were preparing to end the protests and remove more than 300 trucks.

The city’s interim police chief warned that “action is imminent."

The demonstrators, who were blocking Ottawa streets for the past 20 days have been given an ultimatum by the police: leave or be arrested.&nbsp;

"You must leave the area now," read a notice issued by Ottawa police. Police also warned that anyone who was charged or convicted for taking part in the illegal demonstration could also face travel bans to the United States.

Ottawa interim police chief Steve Bell said that a methodical and well-resourced plan would be implemented over the coming days "to take back the entirety of the downtown core and every occupied space."

"Some of the techniques we are lawfully able and prepared to use are not what we are used to seeing in Ottawa," he said.

"But we are prepared to use them... to restore order."

(With inputs from agencies)

As per the top Canadian ministers, the protesters must leave and should not be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments." Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said that these illegal blockades and occupations cannot be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments.

As per the top Canadian ministers, the protesters must leave and should not be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments." Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said that these illegal blockades and occupations cannot be allowed to "usurp the authority of democratically elected governments." "They cannot be allowed to threaten peace, order and good government, and they will not be allowed to do so. These illegal blockades and occupations will end, and they will end for good," she said. This comes in as the police in Ottawa have made several arrests regarding the “freedom convoy" protests. While some protestors surrendered and were taken into custody, others were seen being taken away in handcuffs. Also read | Pics: Canadian police starts arresting protesters; few surrendered, others were taken into custody The arrests were made after the Ottawa police made it clear on Thursday they were preparing to end the protests and remove more than 300 trucks. The city’s interim police chief warned that “action is imminent." The demonstrators, who were blocking Ottawa streets for the past 20 days have been given an ultimatum by the police: leave or be arrested. "You must leave the area now," read a notice issued by Ottawa police. Police also warned that anyone who was charged or convicted for taking part in the illegal demonstration could also face travel bans to the United States. Ottawa interim police chief Steve Bell said that a methodical and well-resourced plan would be implemented over the coming days "to take back the entirety of the downtown core and every occupied space." "Some of the techniques we are lawfully able and prepared to use are not what we are used to seeing in Ottawa," he said. "But we are prepared to use them... to restore order." (With inputs from agencies)

Protests must not 'usurp the authority of democratically elected governments': Canadian ministers

Highlighting that the Chinese government has detained about 1.8 million Uyghurs since 2017, an anthropologist said that the mass detentions are part of China's settler colonialism and resource extraction in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR).

Nuriman Abdurashid, writing in Radio Free Asia (RFA) said that an anthropologist Darren Byler, assistant professor of international studies at Canada`s Simon Fraser University, in his book terror capitalism: Uyghur dispossession and masculinity in a Chinese city examined how China's&nbsp;settler colonisation of muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang`s capital Urumqi.

Terror capitalism is a system that justifies oppression by branding Uyghurs a security threat to generate state investment in policing and surveillance technologies to monitor and control them, said Byler in an interview with RFA.

Byler's ethnographic fieldwork in Urumqi shows how the Chinese government's imposition of ethnic majority Han Chinese values along with efforts to increase the number of Han settlers in the area have perpetuated Uyghur dispossession and expulsion from the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regular-training-amid-ukraine-tensions-putin-to-oversee-russias-nuclear-drills-454476">Also read |&nbsp;'Regular training': Amid Ukraine tensions, Putin to oversee Russia's nuclear drills</a>

He focused on young Uyghur men, the main target of state brutality, and their development of tight social bonds as a protective measure, said Abdurashid. Byler`s other book on Xinjiang, In the Camps: China`s High-Tech Penal Colony, also published in 2021, examines China`s pervasive surveillance network in Xinjiang.

Terror Capitalism is focused on the rise of an economic form of a kind of security-industrial complex where the state has hired over 1,000 contractors - private companies - to build forms of surveillance that will begin to sort through Uyghur and Kazakh behaviour and diagnose who is potentially a criminal, said Byler. The Chinese counterterrorism laws define things as terrorism that are not terrorism.

It is things like having WhatsApp on your phone, using a VPN, and having relatives who live abroad and sending them money.

The first three chapters of Terror Capitalism focus on processes of enclosure devaluation and dispossession, which are all of the ways in which Uyghurs have been systematically targeted by this system, Byler wrote in RFA.

Two of the last three chapters focus on ways that Uyghurs survive and how they find where to live even as these things are being done to them, he added.

Talking about the expectation of the readers, Byler said that he wants readers to know about what`s happening to the Uyghurs is similar to and related to older forms of settler colonialism that occurred in other places like in North America where native Americans were colonised.

The global war on terror is being utilised as a tool to put those colonial systems in place. The same thing is happening in northwest China. That's what I want readers to take away from this.. The decimation of Uyghur society is the most egregious form of settler colonialism that`s in the world right now, said Byler.&nbsp;

Highlighting that the Chinese government has detained about 1.8 million Uyghurs since 2017, an anthropologist said that the mass detentions are part of China's settler colonialism and resource extraction in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR).

Highlighting that the Chinese government has detained about 1.8 million Uyghurs since 2017, an anthropologist said that the mass detentions are part of China's settler colonialism and resource extraction in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR). Nuriman Abdurashid, writing in Radio Free Asia (RFA) said that an anthropologist Darren Byler, assistant professor of international studies at Canada`s Simon Fraser University, in his book terror capitalism: Uyghur dispossession and masculinity in a Chinese city examined how China's settler colonisation of muslim Uyghurs in Xinjiang`s capital Urumqi. Terror capitalism is a system that justifies oppression by branding Uyghurs a security threat to generate state investment in policing and surveillance technologies to monitor and control them, said Byler in an interview with RFA. Byler's ethnographic fieldwork in Urumqi shows how the Chinese government's imposition of ethnic majority Han Chinese values along with efforts to increase the number of Han settlers in the area have perpetuated Uyghur dispossession and expulsion from the city. Also read | 'Regular training': Amid Ukraine tensions, Putin to oversee Russia's nuclear drills He focused on young Uyghur men, the main target of state brutality, and their development of tight social bonds as a protective measure, said Abdurashid. Byler`s other book on Xinjiang, In the Camps: China`s High-Tech Penal Colony, also published in 2021, examines China`s pervasive surveillance network in Xinjiang. Terror Capitalism is focused on the rise of an economic form of a kind of security-industrial complex where the state has hired over 1,000 contractors - private companies - to build forms of surveillance that will begin to sort through Uyghur and Kazakh behaviour and diagnose who is potentially a criminal, said Byler. The Chinese counterterrorism laws define things as terrorism that are not terrorism. It is things like having WhatsApp on your phone, using a VPN, and having relatives who live abroad and sending them money. The first three chapters of Terror Capitalism focus on processes of enclosure devaluation and dispossession, which are all of the ways in which Uyghurs have been systematically targeted by this system, Byler wrote in RFA. Two of the last three chapters focus on ways that Uyghurs survive and how they find where to live even as these things are being done to them, he added. Talking about the expectation of the readers, Byler said that he wants readers to know about what`s happening to the Uyghurs is similar to and related to older forms of settler colonialism that occurred in other places like in North America where native Americans were colonised. The global war on terror is being utilised as a tool to put those colonial systems in place. The same thing is happening in northwest China. That's what I want readers to take away from this.. The decimation of Uyghur society is the most egregious form of settler colonialism that`s in the world right now, said Byler.

Mass detention of Uyghurs by Chinese govt 'egregious form of settler colonialism': Expert

Pakistani leader and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has lashed out at Imran Khan government for destroying every institution over the last three-and-a-half years, and said that the surrender of the country's economic control to the IMF and the world money lenders is a disastrous tsunami for the country.

The PTI government is the worst in the country's history, which devalued the national currency by over 58 per cent without the country fighting any war or undergoing any emergency," reported the News International quoting Sirajul Haq. "Imran promised to build 5 million homes, but instead made millions of people homeless. He promised to liberate the country of IMF, but instead given the State Bank under its control," he said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-khans-visit-russia-assures-moscow-islamabad-cooperation-not-against-india-454386">&nbsp;Ahead of PM Khan's visit, Russia assures Moscow-Islamabad cooperation not against India</a>

The JI leader made these remarks while addressing the third sit-in at Gujranwala of Pakistan's Punjab province, in connection with the proposed 101 sit-ins planned against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of Imran Khan, according to the publication.

Notably, on February 15, the Pakistan government had hiked the prices of fuel by Rs 12.03. Meanwhile, an Opposition leader and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) President Shehbaz Sharif held a secret meeting with PTI's influential leader Jehangir Khan Tareen to discuss the strategy to oust PM Imran Khan from power, as per The News international.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-protests-against-increasing-harassment-of-women-in-sindh-universities-454216">Pakistan: Protests against increasing harassment of women in Sindh universities</a>

PMLN chief Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee to move a no-confidence motion against Pakistan."Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee," The News International reported citing sources. It added that the Leader of the opposition in Punjab Assembly Hamza Shehbaz Sharif has been made the head of the committee and will mobilise people to bring a no-confidence motion in Punjab.

Earlier, opposition parties like Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the allies of Imran Khan - Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and Pakistan Muslim League (PML-Q) are setting aside their differences to ouster 'Kaptaan'&nbsp;(Imran Khan), reported Dawn.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: IMF rejects Pakistan's borrowing request | Imran Khan admits 'no money' to run the country

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-imf-rejects-pakistans-borrowing-request-imran-khan-admits-no-money-to-run-the-country-431970/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While PPP and PML-N have announced separate long marches on Islamabad with the former`s starting on February 27 and the latter's March 23.&nbsp;Both parties have not yet confirmed whether they will stage a sit-in after reaching the capital, as noted by Dawn.

Pakistani leader and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has lashed out at Imran Khan government for destroying every institution over the last three-and-a-half years, and said that the surrender of the country's economic control to the IMF and the world money lenders is a disastrous tsunami for the country.

Pakistani leader and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq has lashed out at Imran Khan government for destroying every institution over the last three-and-a-half years, and said that the surrender of the country's economic control to the IMF and the world money lenders is a disastrous tsunami for the country. The PTI government is the worst in the country's history, which devalued the national currency by over 58 per cent without the country fighting any war or undergoing any emergency," reported the News International quoting Sirajul Haq. "Imran promised to build 5 million homes, but instead made millions of people homeless. He promised to liberate the country of IMF, but instead given the State Bank under its control," he said. Also read | Ahead of PM Khan's visit, Russia assures Moscow-Islamabad cooperation not against India The JI leader made these remarks while addressing the third sit-in at Gujranwala of Pakistan's Punjab province, in connection with the proposed 101 sit-ins planned against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of Imran Khan, according to the publication. Notably, on February 15, the Pakistan government had hiked the prices of fuel by Rs 12.03. Meanwhile, an Opposition leader and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) President Shehbaz Sharif held a secret meeting with PTI's influential leader Jehangir Khan Tareen to discuss the strategy to oust PM Imran Khan from power, as per The News international. Also read | Pakistan: Protests against increasing harassment of women in Sindh universities PMLN chief Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee to move a no-confidence motion against Pakistan."Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee," The News International reported citing sources. It added that the Leader of the opposition in Punjab Assembly Hamza Shehbaz Sharif has been made the head of the committee and will mobilise people to bring a no-confidence motion in Punjab. Earlier, opposition parties like Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the allies of Imran Khan - Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and Pakistan Muslim League (PML-Q) are setting aside their differences to ouster 'Kaptaan' (Imran Khan), reported Dawn. Watch | Gravitas: IMF rejects Pakistan's borrowing request | Imran Khan admits 'no money' to run the country While PPP and PML-N have announced separate long marches on Islamabad with the former`s starting on February 27 and the latter's March 23. Both parties have not yet confirmed whether they will stage a sit-in after reaching the capital, as noted by Dawn.

Imran Khan govt surrendered country's economic control to IMF: Pak Opposition

The government and several NGOs are struggling to ensure healthcare for the Rohingyas who have been relocated to Bhasanchar from the Cox’s Bazar Rohingya camp in Bangladesh.

The government and several NGOs are struggling to ensure healthcare for the Rohingyas who have been relocated to Bhasanchar from the Cox’s Bazar Rohingya camp in Bangladesh. It is a challenge to bring critically ill patients from the island to any hospital on the mainland. The number of births and deaths in the last year is almost the same. The government, however, has been very successful in preventing the Covid-19 infection and vaccinating the Rohingya population. Team WION visited several vaccination centres. Rohingyas were seen coming to the vaccination centres to get inoculated. Two-thirds of the Rohingyas living in Bhasanchar have already been vaccinated. The government is now conducting various campaigns to vaccinate the entire Rohingya population. There is only one specialised hospital with just 20 beds on Bhahsanchar island for Rohingyas. A baby was hospitalised for several days with diarrhoea. The mother claimed that her child has become much better after receiving treatment and medicine from the hospital. "My baby got better after being given oxygen and injections. The doctors have treated him well," the mother said. Also read | Price surge in Pak galvanises opposition's plan to bring no-confidence vote against Imran Khan In another scenario, a woman who was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of kidney disease is not getting the required treatment. While speaking to WION, the woman said, "I have a kidney problem. It hurts a lot here. I'm in pain." Gonoshasthaya Kendra is working to ensure the well-being of Rohingyas with funding from UNHCR. Last week, for the first time in almost a year, a young paediatrician joined the Kendra. It has been noted that the doctors have been struggling to provide first aid, especially to patients who urgently need better treatment and are at high. According to the clinic manager, critically ill patients are often at risk of death due to the distance from the mainland to Bhasanchar island. There is also a lack of adequate transportation. As per Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commission, 255 children have been born in Bhasanchar in the last year. In one year, 207 Rohingyas died in the camp. Most of those who died were children and the elderly. However, in the last few months, the death toll has dropped significantly. Despite all these challenges, the success achieved in the health sector in the last year is quite impressive. Bhasanchar is the only place where not a single Rohingya has been infected with Covid yet.

As govt aims to vaccinate the entire population, two-third Rohingya living in Bhasanchar already vaccinated

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam renewed an appeal for support from the global financial hub's 7.5 million people, many of whom are fatigued by some of the world's most stringent restrictions even as most other major cities adjust to living with the virus.

Daily infections have surged by more than 40 times since the start of February and authorities have shut schools, gyms cinemas and most public venues. Many office employees have reverted to working from home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-overwhelmed-by-covid-waves-onslaught-says-leader-carrie-lam-453169">Hong Kong overwhelmed by Covid wave’s 'onslaught', says leader Carrie Lam</a>

Lam's comments, in a statement released late on Wednesday, came after Chinese President Xi Jinping told Hong Kong's leaders their "overriding mission" was to stabilise and control the coronavirus in the global financial hub.

"With the utmost concern and staunch support of President Xi Jinping...all in society must now join hands in riding out the fifth wave of the epidemic, displaying the Hong Kong spirit in full," she said.

"I am optimistic that, through the joint efforts by the Government and hotel sector, at least 10,000 hotel rooms could be made available."

In a move to free up beds for isolation, Lam said she had spoken with local hotel owners and security chief Chris Tang would oversee the operation of participating hotels.

Hong Kong was expected to report around 5,000 new cases on Thursday, Now TV reported, up from the previous day's record high of 4,285 confirmed infections and an additional 7,000 preliminary positive cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-censors-website-of-hong-kong-rights-group-amid-crackdown-on-freedom-of-speech-453529">China censors website of Hong Kong rights group amid crackdown on freedom of speech</a>

Some media reports, citing sources, said the government planned to test up to one million people each day from March and those who failed to comply would be fined HK$10,000 ($1,282).

The government did not respond to a request for comment.

Hong Kong has adopted the same 'dynamic zero' coronavirus strategy, employed by mainland China to suppress all outbreaks.

But the scale and speed of the highly contagious Omicron variant of the virus has left authorities scrambling. Hospitals are operating at maximum or over capacity with some patients treated in makeshift open air spaces outside medical centres in chilly and rainy weather.

Authorities said they could no longer keep up their testing and isolation mandates, resulting in a backlog that could not keep pace with the daily infection numbers.

Watch |&nbsp;Hospitals overwhelmed as covid-19 cases rise in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hospitals-overwhelmed-as-covid-19-cases-rise-in-hong-kong-453901/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China has said it would help Hong Kong bolster its testing, treatment and quarantine capacity, and secure resources from rapid antigen kits and protective gear to fresh vegetables.

Hong Kong has recorded around 30,000 infections since the start of the pandemic, and around 230 deaths, far fewer than other similar sized major cities.

However, medical experts have warned daily cases could surge to 28,000 by the end of March amid worries about high levels of vaccine hesitancy among the elderly.

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March.

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March. Chief Executive Carrie Lam renewed an appeal for support from the global financial hub's 7.5 million people, many of whom are fatigued by some of the world's most stringent restrictions even as most other major cities adjust to living with the virus. Daily infections have surged by more than 40 times since the start of February and authorities have shut schools, gyms cinemas and most public venues. Many office employees have reverted to working from home. Also read | Hong Kong overwhelmed by Covid wave’s 'onslaught', says leader Carrie Lam Lam's comments, in a statement released late on Wednesday, came after Chinese President Xi Jinping told Hong Kong's leaders their "overriding mission" was to stabilise and control the coronavirus in the global financial hub. "With the utmost concern and staunch support of President Xi Jinping...all in society must now join hands in riding out the fifth wave of the epidemic, displaying the Hong Kong spirit in full," she said. "I am optimistic that, through the joint efforts by the Government and hotel sector, at least 10,000 hotel rooms could be made available." In a move to free up beds for isolation, Lam said she had spoken with local hotel owners and security chief Chris Tang would oversee the operation of participating hotels. Hong Kong was expected to report around 5,000 new cases on Thursday, Now TV reported, up from the previous day's record high of 4,285 confirmed infections and an additional 7,000 preliminary positive cases. Also read | China censors website of Hong Kong rights group amid crackdown on freedom of speech Some media reports, citing sources, said the government planned to test up to one million people each day from March and those who failed to comply would be fined HK$10,000 ($1,282). The government did not respond to a request for comment. Hong Kong has adopted the same 'dynamic zero' coronavirus strategy, employed by mainland China to suppress all outbreaks. But the scale and speed of the highly contagious Omicron variant of the virus has left authorities scrambling. Hospitals are operating at maximum or over capacity with some patients treated in makeshift open air spaces outside medical centres in chilly and rainy weather. Authorities said they could no longer keep up their testing and isolation mandates, resulting in a backlog that could not keep pace with the daily infection numbers. Watch | Hospitals overwhelmed as covid-19 cases rise in Hong Kong China has said it would help Hong Kong bolster its testing, treatment and quarantine capacity, and secure resources from rapid antigen kits and protective gear to fresh vegetables. Hong Kong has recorded around 30,000 infections since the start of the pandemic, and around 230 deaths, far fewer than other similar sized major cities. However, medical experts have warned daily cases could surge to 28,000 by the end of March amid worries about high levels of vaccine hesitancy among the elderly.

Amid surge in cases Hong Kong aims to make available 10,000 hotel rooms for COVID-19 patients

Chilean truck drivers lifted road blockades they had imposed to&nbsp;protest&nbsp;the killing of a colleague,&nbsp;after&nbsp;the government pledged&nbsp;new&nbsp;safety&nbsp;measures&nbsp;on Saturday.

Truck drivers had been blocking roads and setting up barricades since a clash Thursday in which a colleague died near the northern city of Antofagasta.

During the&nbsp;protest, big rigs clogged roads in northern and central&nbsp;Chile, as well as on the outskirts of the capital Santiago.&nbsp;

In the port city of Iquique, trucks sealed off the road to the airport, forcing the cancellation of all incoming and outgoing flights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mining-of-lithium-key-to-the-climate-fight-faces-new-scrutiny-in-chile-442743">Mining of lithium, key to the climate fight, faces new scrutiny in Chile</a>

Police said the&nbsp;trucker&nbsp;died when three Venezuelans threw rocks at his rig because he refused to give them a ride. The three alleged assailants have been arrested.

To appease the protesting drivers, the government Saturday announced&nbsp;new&nbsp;crime-fighting&nbsp;measures&nbsp;in the north of the country allowing soldiers to assist police and stepped-up monitoring of roads from the ground and with aircraft.

Interior Minister Rodrigo Delgado announced the&nbsp;measures&nbsp;after&nbsp;a five-hour meeting with a truck drivers' union. He said they will go into force Monday.

Immigration has become a sensitive subject in&nbsp;Chile&nbsp;because of the deep economic woes of Venezuela, from where millions have fled seeking better lives, spreading out across Latin America.

In towns and along roads in northern&nbsp;Chile&nbsp;it is common to see migrant Venezuelan families camping out in public places and asking for money as they try to find work and start a&nbsp;new&nbsp;life.

Watch |&nbsp;Chile's youngest ever President Gabriel Boric unveils his women majority cabinet

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chiles-youngest-ever-president-gabriel-boric-unveils-his-women-majority-cabinet-446828/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The death of the truck driver prompted calls for more anti-migrant protests of the kind that have unfolded in Iquique and elsewhere in&nbsp;Chile's north over the past three weeks.

A&nbsp;new&nbsp;immigration law went into effect Saturday that the Chilean government says gives authorities greater powers to expel foreigners who have false papers or have dodged immigration controls.

Chilean truck drivers lifted road blockades they had imposed to protest the killing of a colleague, after the government pledged new safety measures on Saturday.

Chilean truck drivers lifted road blockades they had imposed to protest the killing of a colleague, after the government pledged new safety measures on Saturday. Truck drivers had been blocking roads and setting up barricades since a clash Thursday in which a colleague died near the northern city of Antofagasta. During the protest, big rigs clogged roads in northern and central Chile, as well as on the outskirts of the capital Santiago. In the port city of Iquique, trucks sealed off the road to the airport, forcing the cancellation of all incoming and outgoing flights. Also read | Mining of lithium, key to the climate fight, faces new scrutiny in Chile Police said the trucker died when three Venezuelans threw rocks at his rig because he refused to give them a ride. The three alleged assailants have been arrested. To appease the protesting drivers, the government Saturday announced new crime-fighting measures in the north of the country allowing soldiers to assist police and stepped-up monitoring of roads from the ground and with aircraft. Interior Minister Rodrigo Delgado announced the measures after a five-hour meeting with a truck drivers' union. He said they will go into force Monday. Immigration has become a sensitive subject in Chile because of the deep economic woes of Venezuela, from where millions have fled seeking better lives, spreading out across Latin America. In towns and along roads in northern Chile it is common to see migrant Venezuelan families camping out in public places and asking for money as they try to find work and start a new life. Watch | Chile's youngest ever President Gabriel Boric unveils his women majority cabinet The death of the truck driver prompted calls for more anti-migrant protests of the kind that have unfolded in Iquique and elsewhere in Chile's north over the past three weeks. A new immigration law went into effect Saturday that the Chilean government says gives authorities greater powers to expel foreigners who have false papers or have dodged immigration controls.

Chile government pledges new safety measures after trucker protest

In a proposal, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has written to the Ministry of Finance of Indian government to hike the annual limit for contribution to Public Provident Fund (PPF) to Rs 3,00,000. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Presently, the limit for the savings component is Rs 1,50,000 under section 80C of the income tax rules. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes as the government is going to present the Budget 2022-23 on Tuesday. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/live-budget-2022-updates-nirmala-sitharaman-to-begin-presentation-shortly-449407" hreflang="en">LIVE Budget 2022 Updates: Nirmala Sitharaman to begin presentation shortly</a>

It has also asked the government to increase the maximum limit for deduction under section 80CCF to Rs 3,00,000 from Rs 1,50,000. &nbsp;

The suggestions are a part of a pre-Budget memorandum made by the ICAI. Along with these, the organisation has made various other recommendations. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ahead-of-india-union-budget-2022-sensex-and-nifty-surge-in-early-trade-449412" hreflang="en">Ahead of India Union Budget 2022, Sensex and Nifty surge in early trade</a>

"PPF is used as a means of savings by entrepreneurs and professionals. While the assesses in employment have the compulsion of saving 12% of their salary (with matching contribution from employers), the only safe and tax efficient saving option available for self-employed assesses is PPF. Hence, the suggestion to increase the ceiling of PPF contribution to Rs 3,00,000," said ICAI. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The raise in ceiling of 15-year investment scheme PPF will boost the domestic savings and will have an anti-inflationary impact, ICAI said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a proposal, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has written to the Ministry of Finance of Indian government to hike the annual limit for contribution to Public Provident Fund (PPF) to Rs 3,00,000.

In a proposal, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has written to the Ministry of Finance of Indian government to hike the annual limit for contribution to Public Provident Fund (PPF) to Rs 3,00,000. Presently, the limit for the savings component is Rs 1,50,000 under section 80C of the income tax rules. This comes as the government is going to present the Budget 2022-23 on Tuesday. Also Read | LIVE Budget 2022 Updates: Nirmala Sitharaman to begin presentation shortly It has also asked the government to increase the maximum limit for deduction under section 80CCF to Rs 3,00,000 from Rs 1,50,000. The suggestions are a part of a pre-Budget memorandum made by the ICAI. Along with these, the organisation has made various other recommendations. Also Read: Ahead of India Union Budget 2022, Sensex and Nifty surge in early trade "PPF is used as a means of savings by entrepreneurs and professionals. While the assesses in employment have the compulsion of saving 12% of their salary (with matching contribution from employers), the only safe and tax efficient saving option available for self-employed assesses is PPF. Hence, the suggestion to increase the ceiling of PPF contribution to Rs 3,00,000," said ICAI. The raise in ceiling of 15-year investment scheme PPF will boost the domestic savings and will have an anti-inflationary impact, ICAI said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Union Budget 2022: ICAI asks government to hike annual limit for contribution to PPF to Rs 3,00,000

In a striking revelation, UK government has said that around five billion items related to personal protective equipment (PPE), which are worth £2.7 billion, will get wasted. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It has said that they are no longer needed or cannot safeguard staff of National Health Service (NHS), a minister&nbsp;of the government has revealed. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-not-the-king-uk-pms-former-chief-adviser-says-its-his-job-to-get-rid-of-boris-johnson-449091" hreflang="en">'He's not the king': UK PM's former chief adviser says it's his job to 'get rid of' Boris Johnson</a>

The big chunk of money involved has led to criticism of the government. The disclosure, which was made in a written parliamentary answer by Health Minister Edward Argar, has led the Liberal Democrats to slam the government of “extreme negligence on an industrial scale” in using public funds during the Covid pandemic. &nbsp;

The minister was responding to a question tabled by Wendy Chamberlain, who is the Liberal Democrats’ chief whip and MP for North East Fife, over how much PPE had been procured and not used. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnsons-wife-organised-birthday-party-during-lockdown-report-448682" hreflang="en">UK PM Johnson’s wife organised birthday party during lockdown: Report</a>

“The government’s PPE programme had ordered more than 36.4 billion items since the pandemic struck in March 2020. Of this, approximately 3.4 billion units are currently identified as potential excess stock. The estimated price for those items is £2.2 billion,” Argar said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Argar added, “Of these, 1.2 billion items are deemed to be not fit for use. The purchase price for these items was £458 million.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

The disclosures showed that “the government is burning a hole in the pocket of the taxpayer through its wastage of personal protective equipment,” Chamberlain said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a striking revelation, UK government has said that around five billion items related to personal protective equipment (PPE), which are worth £2.7 billion, will get wasted.

In a striking revelation, UK government has said that around five billion items related to personal protective equipment (PPE), which are worth £2.7 billion, will get wasted. It has said that they are no longer needed or cannot safeguard staff of National Health Service (NHS), a minister of the government has revealed. Also Read | 'He's not the king': UK PM's former chief adviser says it's his job to 'get rid of' Boris Johnson The big chunk of money involved has led to criticism of the government. The disclosure, which was made in a written parliamentary answer by Health Minister Edward Argar, has led the Liberal Democrats to slam the government of “extreme negligence on an industrial scale” in using public funds during the Covid pandemic. The minister was responding to a question tabled by Wendy Chamberlain, who is the Liberal Democrats’ chief whip and MP for North East Fife, over how much PPE had been procured and not used. Also Read | UK PM Johnson’s wife organised birthday party during lockdown: Report “The government’s PPE programme had ordered more than 36.4 billion items since the pandemic struck in March 2020. Of this, approximately 3.4 billion units are currently identified as potential excess stock. The estimated price for those items is £2.2 billion,” Argar said. Argar added, “Of these, 1.2 billion items are deemed to be not fit for use. The purchase price for these items was £458 million.” The disclosures showed that “the government is burning a hole in the pocket of the taxpayer through its wastage of personal protective equipment,” Chamberlain said. (With inputs from agencies)

5 billion PPE items worth £2.7 billion will go waste, reveals UK government

The African continent has witnessed yet another coup, the military swept to power yesterday in Burkina Faso but the people are not unhappy with the military takeover. They are celebrating the coup on the streets, why are the people siding with the military our next report has the answers.

Burkina Faso coup: Why are people unhappy with the government?

Greek authorities have been accused of prompting a hunger crisis in refugee camps, leaving people with no access to food. Martha Roussou of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), in a report by The Guardian said, "It is unthinkable that people are going hungry in Greece. Through no fault of their own they have fallen through the cracks and all because of a problem created by gaps in legislation and policy.”

As per IRC estimates 40 per cent of camp residents have been denied things of basic need. This is because of the administration’s decision to halt food provisions.&nbsp;

“Teachers in local primary schools have reported children turning up to school without having eaten, without even a snack to see them through the day,” IRC said.&nbsp;

In an open letter written to Greek and EU officials, a total of 33 humanitarian groups have demanded that food should be provided to all camp residents irrespective of their legal status.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-unrest-blood-stained-bullet-riddled-vehicles-of-president-seen-near-his-residence-447194">Also read |&nbsp;Burkina Faso unrest:&nbsp;Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence</a>

Earlier in October, the Greek authorities were accused of the same. "Though practices differ from region to region, it is roughly estimated that 60 per cent of people living in camps do not receive food in the mainland," the 26 organisations, including the Greek Council of Refugees and the International Rescue Committee, said in a statement.

"Among those left hungry, 25 per cent are women (including pregnant women), single-headed families, 40 per cent are children, chronic patients, and patients with special medical and nutritional conditions. In some places, food is not even provided to those put in quarantine due to COVID 19," they added.

Athens’ migration ministry has rejected claims of a hunger crisis. Manos Logothetis, who oversees refugee reception, described the allegation as “nonsense."

“If a hunger crisis really existed there’d be riots and protests. We are in discussion with the EU commissioner every week and have reassured her that there is no issue with food, that everyone who is supposed to receive it, including the vulnerable and incapacitated, is getting support," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Greek authorities have been accused of prompting a hunger crisis in refugee camps, leaving people with no access to food. Martha Roussou of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), in a report by The Guardian said, "It is unthinkable that people are going hungry in Greece.

Greek authorities have been accused of prompting a hunger crisis in refugee camps, leaving people with no access to food. Martha Roussou of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), in a report by The Guardian said, "It is unthinkable that people are going hungry in Greece. Through no fault of their own they have fallen through the cracks and all because of a problem created by gaps in legislation and policy.” As per IRC estimates 40 per cent of camp residents have been denied things of basic need. This is because of the administration’s decision to halt food provisions. “Teachers in local primary schools have reported children turning up to school without having eaten, without even a snack to see them through the day,” IRC said. In an open letter written to Greek and EU officials, a total of 33 humanitarian groups have demanded that food should be provided to all camp residents irrespective of their legal status. Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence Earlier in October, the Greek authorities were accused of the same. "Though practices differ from region to region, it is roughly estimated that 60 per cent of people living in camps do not receive food in the mainland," the 26 organisations, including the Greek Council of Refugees and the International Rescue Committee, said in a statement. "Among those left hungry, 25 per cent are women (including pregnant women), single-headed families, 40 per cent are children, chronic patients, and patients with special medical and nutritional conditions. In some places, food is not even provided to those put in quarantine due to COVID 19," they added. Athens’ migration ministry has rejected claims of a hunger crisis. Manos Logothetis, who oversees refugee reception, described the allegation as “nonsense." “If a hunger crisis really existed there’d be riots and protests. We are in discussion with the EU commissioner every week and have reassured her that there is no issue with food, that everyone who is supposed to receive it, including the vulnerable and incapacitated, is getting support," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Greek government accused of causing hunger crisis in refugee camps

Have you ever wondered how governments fight proxy wars? They hire mercenaries who are paid to kill. Not bound by morality or accountability, they carry out jobs that regular armies can't. On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma gets you the story of private armies.

Gravitas Plus | Killing for Money: The business of Private Armies

Your home has just one life, despite the fact that cats are wonderful creatures with nine lives.&nbsp;

Cat owners all over the world are being reminded that their rambunctious felines may also be extremely good firestarters, according to a new safety analysis, which found that cats were responsible for over 100 house fires in South Korea over the last three years.

According to the American Humane Association, pets are responsible for approximately 1,000 house fires in the United States each year.

According to a CNN article, the Seoul Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Department announced on Thursday that they have identified 107 occurrences of household cat arson between January 2019 and November 2021.&nbsp;

According to experts, cats are thought to have started the fires by tripping over touch-sensitive buttons on the surface of hotplates.

According to the fire service, the appliances can overheat and catch fire if left on for too long.

According to the survey, slightly more than half of the fires in South Korea started when the homeowners were away, although four people were harmed in incidents of cat arson.&nbsp;

"Cat-related fires are continuing to occur recently," said department official Chung Gyo-chul in a statement. "We advise households with pets to pay extra attention as fire could spread widely when no one is at home."

Meanwhile, the AHA advised kitchen cat owners to "put covers on or remove stove knobs and discourage climbing in the kitchen," despite the fact that some of the 1,000 fires in the United States were caused by kitties chewing through wires or curiously batting candles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Your home has just one life, despite the fact that cats are wonderful creatures with nine lives. Cat owners all over the world are being reminded that their rambunctious felines may also be extremely good firestarters, according to a new safety analysis, which found that cats were responsible for over 100 house fires in South Korea over the last three years.

Your home has just one life, despite the fact that cats are wonderful creatures with nine lives. Cat owners all over the world are being reminded that their rambunctious felines may also be extremely good firestarters, according to a new safety analysis, which found that cats were responsible for over 100 house fires in South Korea over the last three years. According to the American Humane Association, pets are responsible for approximately 1,000 house fires in the United States each year. According to a CNN article, the Seoul Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Department announced on Thursday that they have identified 107 occurrences of household cat arson between January 2019 and November 2021. According to experts, cats are thought to have started the fires by tripping over touch-sensitive buttons on the surface of hotplates. According to the fire service, the appliances can overheat and catch fire if left on for too long. According to the survey, slightly more than half of the fires in South Korea started when the homeowners were away, although four people were harmed in incidents of cat arson. "Cat-related fires are continuing to occur recently," said department official Chung Gyo-chul in a statement. "We advise households with pets to pay extra attention as fire could spread widely when no one is at home." Meanwhile, the AHA advised kitchen cat owners to "put covers on or remove stove knobs and discourage climbing in the kitchen," despite the fact that some of the 1,000 fires in the United States were caused by kitties chewing through wires or curiously batting candles. (With inputs from agencies)

Cats burnt 100 houses in this country in 3 years, government issues warning

In Pics | Pre-Covid and post-Covid Xmas as government across Europe aims to tighten curbs

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. &nbsp;

This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-incident-declares-london-mayor-sadiq-khan-amid-omicron-threat-438028" hreflang="en">'Major incident', declares London mayor Sadiq Khan amid Omicron threat</a>&nbsp;

In a letter to Johnson, Brexit Minister David Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month. &nbsp;

In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.'' &nbsp;

The leader also said that the process of leaving the EU seems to be a long-term job. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-says-uk-scientists-438070" hreflang="en">Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists</a>

A report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister gave resignation due to the growing resentment against the government. The recent coronavirus restrictions imposed by the government seems to have led to his decision, said the newspaper.&nbsp;

Frost, in his resignation, said that the UK needed to "learn to live with Covid. ... You took a brave decision in July, against considerable opposition, to open up the country again. Sadly, it did not prove to be irreversible, as I wished, and believe you did too. I hope we can get back on track soon and not be tempted by the kind of coercive measures we have seen elsewhere." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies.

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies. Also Read: 'Major incident', declares London mayor Sadiq Khan amid Omicron threat In a letter to Johnson, Brexit Minister David Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month. In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.'' The leader also said that the process of leaving the EU seems to be a long-term job. Also Read: Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists A report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister gave resignation due to the growing resentment against the government. The recent coronavirus restrictions imposed by the government seems to have led to his decision, said the newspaper. Frost, in his resignation, said that the UK needed to "learn to live with Covid. ... You took a brave decision in July, against considerable opposition, to open up the country again. Sadly, it did not prove to be irreversible, as I wished, and believe you did too. I hope we can get back on track soon and not be tempted by the kind of coercive measures we have seen elsewhere." (With inputs from agencies)

In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-covid-variant-emerges-indian-pm-modi-chairs-vital-meeting-to-assess-situation-432294" hreflang="en">As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation</a>

The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. &nbsp;

"Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reserve-bank-of-india-rejects-proposal-on-corporate-ownership-of-banks-432276" hreflang="en">Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks</a>

"It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country.

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". Also Read: As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. "Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. Also Read: Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks "It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The director general of ICCR Dinesh K Patnaik held meetings with spiritual organisations in the country last week to evolve a strategy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, he said, "Spirituality as soft power has not been used by the government. A lot of spiritual organisations in India have centers abroad. The idea is to work with organisations, which are already in the field and government organisations like ministry of Ayush, ICCR, MEA, Ministry of health, etc to work together to share the great treasure we have with rest of the world." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-situation-very-serious-in-new-delhi-says-indias-cji-nv-ramana-428954" hreflang="en">Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana</a>

Founded in 1950, ICCR is an autonomous body under the ministry of external affairs. Its main function is to work towards the spread of Indian culture. Last week, ICCR organised a programme for foreign diplomats based in India on spirituality traditions. The programme was a full house. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ICCR DG explained, "ICCR's job is to take Indian culture abroad. Spirituality, yoga, Indic traditions and other traditions of India is a large part of our culture. ICCR is trying to make spirituality and yogic tradition a part of our soft power." &nbsp;

One of the major initiatives to spread Indian tradition was Indian PM Modi's proposal at the United Nations to celebrate June 21 as Yoga Day. He gave the proposal during his first address at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-bimal-patel-elected-to-uns-international-law-commission-for-5-yr-term-428919" hreflang="en">India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term</a>

Since then, the celebrations on Yoga Day have grown in size. Indian missions have been engaged in spread of yoga, including yoga certification programmes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dinesh Patnaik highlighted, "Spirituality is where mind and matter get&nbsp;together. There are many spiritual organisations, which spread spirituality across the world. Especially at a time like this, our spirituality, our age-old traditions give us a wonderful opportunity to give solace to the world." &nbsp;

Rishikesh is one of the key locations in India, which have seen a lot of foreign visitors. In fact, spirituality is one of the biggest searches on Google.&nbsp;

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts.

Indian government is all set to focus on spreading the word of Indian spirituality abroad. For this, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has started making concerted efforts. The director general of ICCR Dinesh K Patnaik held meetings with spiritual organisations in the country last week to evolve a strategy. Speaking to WION, he said, "Spirituality as soft power has not been used by the government. A lot of spiritual organisations in India have centers abroad. The idea is to work with organisations, which are already in the field and government organisations like ministry of Ayush, ICCR, MEA, Ministry of health, etc to work together to share the great treasure we have with rest of the world." Also Read: Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana Founded in 1950, ICCR is an autonomous body under the ministry of external affairs. Its main function is to work towards the spread of Indian culture. Last week, ICCR organised a programme for foreign diplomats based in India on spirituality traditions. The programme was a full house. ICCR DG explained, "ICCR's job is to take Indian culture abroad. Spirituality, yoga, Indic traditions and other traditions of India is a large part of our culture. ICCR is trying to make spirituality and yogic tradition a part of our soft power." One of the major initiatives to spread Indian tradition was Indian PM Modi's proposal at the United Nations to celebrate June 21 as Yoga Day. He gave the proposal during his first address at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. Also Read: India's Bimal Patel elected to UN's International Law Commission for 5-yr term Since then, the celebrations on Yoga Day have grown in size. Indian missions have been engaged in spread of yoga, including yoga certification programmes. Dinesh Patnaik highlighted, "Spirituality is where mind and matter get together. There are many spiritual organisations, which spread spirituality across the world. Especially at a time like this, our spirituality, our age-old traditions give us a wonderful opportunity to give solace to the world." Rishikesh is one of the key locations in India, which have seen a lot of foreign visitors. In fact, spirituality is one of the biggest searches on Google.

Indian government's ICCR working to spread 'spirituality as soft power'

World leaders are making Net-Zero pledges but for the island nations of the world, it is a do or die situation, they are the most threatened by climate change. The Maldives is one of these nations which is calling for more climate funding from rich nations.

Maldives may sink by 2100, stark warning by its president

In order to end the nearly two-week-long impasse, the members of the negotiating team of the government claimed on Sunday that they reached an ‘agreement’ with the banned Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The team, however, refused to divulge details. &nbsp;

At a press conference, Mufti Munibur Rehman announced, “The government of Pakistan and the TLP held detailed negotiations in an environment of mutual trust and an agreement has been reached between the two sides.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-send-envoy-to-pakistan-as-diplomats-start-work-in-capital-city-islamabad-425114" hreflang="en">Taliban send envoy to Pakistan as 'diplomats' start work in capital city Islamabad</a>&nbsp;

Rehman was accompanied by government’s negotiating team members Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Mohammad Khan and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser. &nbsp;

Mufti Munib, who had facilitated the talks along with some other religious leaders in individual capacity, said the agreement had the backing of jailed TLP chief Saad Rizvi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the negotiations,&nbsp;Mufti Umair Al-Azhari, Allama Ghulam Abbas Faizi and Hafiz Hafeez participated from the TLP side, Munib added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/national-bank-of-pakistan-gets-hit-by-cyberattack-reports-no-financial-loss-or-data-breach-425446" hreflang="en">National Bank of Pakistan gets hit by cyberattack, reports no financial loss</a>&nbsp;

A steering committee headed by Minister Ali Mohammad Khan, which also comprised Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat, the federal interior secretary and Punjab home secretary and TLP representatives, Mufti Ghulam Ghous Baghdadi and Engineer Hafeezullah Alvi, would oversee the agreement’s implementation, he said. &nbsp;

At the presser, the TLP representatives were also present but they stayed silent. &nbsp;

Mufti Munib said the details of the agreement would be made public at an ‘appropriate time’. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In order to end the nearly two-week-long impasse, the members of the negotiating team of the government claimed on Sunday that they reached an ‘agreement’ with the banned Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

In order to end the nearly two-week-long impasse, the members of the negotiating team of the government claimed on Sunday that they reached an ‘agreement’ with the banned Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The team, however, refused to divulge details. At a press conference, Mufti Munibur Rehman announced, “The government of Pakistan and the TLP held detailed negotiations in an environment of mutual trust and an agreement has been reached between the two sides.” Also Read: Taliban send envoy to Pakistan as 'diplomats' start work in capital city Islamabad Rehman was accompanied by government’s negotiating team members Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Ali Mohammad Khan and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser. Mufti Munib, who had facilitated the talks along with some other religious leaders in individual capacity, said the agreement had the backing of jailed TLP chief Saad Rizvi. In the negotiations, Mufti Umair Al-Azhari, Allama Ghulam Abbas Faizi and Hafiz Hafeez participated from the TLP side, Munib added. Also Read: National Bank of Pakistan gets hit by cyberattack, reports no financial loss A steering committee headed by Minister Ali Mohammad Khan, which also comprised Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat, the federal interior secretary and Punjab home secretary and TLP representatives, Mufti Ghulam Ghous Baghdadi and Engineer Hafeezullah Alvi, would oversee the agreement’s implementation, he said. At the presser, the TLP representatives were also present but they stayed silent. Mufti Munib said the details of the agreement would be made public at an ‘appropriate time’. (With inputs from agencies)

To end impasse, Pakistan government, banned outfit TLP reach agreement

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