The government of the United States announced sanctions against Chinese hackers on Monday (Mar 25) after alleging that they were targeting the critical infrastructure of the nation while working for the government spy agency of China.&nbsp;

The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control said that they have issued sanctions against Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Company Ltd. It stated that the company has been working as a front for the Chinese Ministry of State Security that has “served as cover for multiple malicious cyber operations”.

In the unsealed indictment, the United States accused China of heading a state-backed hacking programme spanning years.

US Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the hacking operation is proof of “the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics”.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-hackers-break-into-south-korean-chip-equipment-firms-seoul-696774">North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms: Seoul</a>

<h2>US attributes threats to cyber hacking group APT 31&nbsp;</h2>

Two Chinese nationals - Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin - were named by the treasury office for using cyber operations to target critical infrastructure sectors of the United States, including&nbsp;defence, aerospace and energy.&nbsp;

The US officials said that these threats were part of the cyber hacking group APT 31, which presents an “advanced persistent threat”.&nbsp;

US prosecutors stated that APT 31 was part of a group&nbsp;managed by the Chinese Ministry of State Security, the intelligence agency of the country, based in the city of Wuhan.

The list includes state-sponsored intelligence officers and contract hackers. “APT 31 has targeted a wide range of high-ranking US government officials and their advisors integral to US national security,” said the department, in a press release.

Chinese citizens Zhao, Ni, and five other hackers were charged with conspiring to carry out computer intrusions and wire fraud by the US Department of Justice.&nbsp;

The agency claimed that these Chinese citizens have been involved in a 14-year-long cyber operation “targeting US and foreign critics, businesses and political officials”.

“Today’s announcements underscore the need to remain vigilant to cybersecurity threats and the potential for cyber-enabled foreign malign influence efforts, especially as we approach the 2024 election cycle,” FBI Director Christopher Wray said.

<h2>How did millions of Americans fall prey to the Chinese hacking plot?</h2>

Online accounts of millions of Americans were caught up in a "sinister" Chinese hacking plot aimed at US officials, said the FBI and the Justice Department.&nbsp;

More than 10,000 malicious emails were sent to US officials&nbsp;as part of the Chinese hacking plan, which allowed APT 31 to get information regarding their targets. The information included locations and IP addresses. &nbsp;

The emails were sent to government officials across the world who at some point criticised the policies of China.&nbsp;

<h2>UK also issues sanctions, New Zealand condemns activity</h2>

The UK government also issued sanctions as it claimed that the same Chinese state-backed hackers also targeted its elections&nbsp;agency and democratic institutions.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China to improve anti-hacking protections by 2026

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-to-improve-anti-hacking-protections-by-2026-694236/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Officials claimed that those sanctioned had hacked their systems and may have got access to the Electoral Commission's information regarding tens of millions of UK voters.

The New Zealand government also raised concerns regarding the involvement of the Chinese government in a cyber hack on New Zealand's parliament in 2021.&nbsp;

Both Australia and New Zealand criticised the cyber hacking activity.

“Foreign interference of this nature is unacceptable, and we have urged China to refrain from such activity in future,” said New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters, in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of the United States announced sanctions against Chinese hackers on Monday (Mar 25) after alleging that they were targeting the critical infrastructure of the nation while working for the government spy agency of China.

The government of the United States announced sanctions against Chinese hackers on Monday (Mar 25) after alleging that they were targeting the critical infrastructure of the nation while working for the government spy agency of China. The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control said that they have issued sanctions against Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Company Ltd. It stated that the company has been working as a front for the Chinese Ministry of State Security that has “served as cover for multiple malicious cyber operations”. In the unsealed indictment, the United States accused China of heading a state-backed hacking programme spanning years. US Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the hacking operation is proof of “the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics”. Also Read: North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms: Seoul US attributes threats to cyber hacking group APT 31 Two Chinese nationals - Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin - were named by the treasury office for using cyber operations to target critical infrastructure sectors of the United States, including defence, aerospace and energy. The US officials said that these threats were part of the cyber hacking group APT 31, which presents an “advanced persistent threat”. US prosecutors stated that APT 31 was part of a group managed by the Chinese Ministry of State Security, the intelligence agency of the country, based in the city of Wuhan. The list includes state-sponsored intelligence officers and contract hackers. “APT 31 has targeted a wide range of high-ranking US government officials and their advisors integral to US national security,” said the department, in a press release. Chinese citizens Zhao, Ni, and five other hackers were charged with conspiring to carry out computer intrusions and wire fraud by the US Department of Justice. The agency claimed that these Chinese citizens have been involved in a 14-year-long cyber operation “targeting US and foreign critics, businesses and political officials”. “Today’s announcements underscore the need to remain vigilant to cybersecurity threats and the potential for cyber-enabled foreign malign influence efforts, especially as we approach the 2024 election cycle,” FBI Director Christopher Wray said. How did millions of Americans fall prey to the Chinese hacking plot? Online accounts of millions of Americans were caught up in a "sinister" Chinese hacking plot aimed at US officials, said the FBI and the Justice Department. More than 10,000 malicious emails were sent to US officials as part of the Chinese hacking plan, which allowed APT 31 to get information regarding their targets. The information included locations and IP addresses. The emails were sent to government officials across the world who at some point criticised the policies of China. UK also issues sanctions, New Zealand condemns activity The UK government also issued sanctions as it claimed that the same Chinese state-backed hackers also targeted its elections agency and democratic institutions. Watch: China to improve anti-hacking protections by 2026 Officials claimed that those sanctioned had hacked their systems and may have got access to the Electoral Commission's information regarding tens of millions of UK voters. The New Zealand government also raised concerns regarding the involvement of the Chinese government in a cyber hack on New Zealand's parliament in 2021. Both Australia and New Zealand criticised the cyber hacking activity. “Foreign interference of this nature is unacceptable, and we have urged China to refrain from such activity in future,” said New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters, in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces sanctions against Chinese hackers for years-long cyber attack campaign

US government on March 19 issued a warning to state governors regarding a series of disruptive cyberattacks targeting water and sewage systems across the nation.

US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan "sent a letter to all US Governors inviting state environmental, health and homeland security Secretaries to a convening by their deputies to discuss the urgent need to safeguard water sector critical infrastructure against cyber threats."

This gathering, which will be held on March 21, will aim to shed light on ongoing federal and state initiatives aimed at bolstering cybersecurity measures within the water sector.

The meeting will also delve into key areas where there are gaps in these efforts, emphasising the urgency for states and water systems to promptly take necessary steps.

EPA Administrator Michael S Regan said, “Drinking water and wastewater systems are a lifeline for communities, but many systems have not adopted important cybersecurity practices to thwart potential cyberattacks."

“EPA and NSC take these threats very seriously and will continue to partner with state environmental, health, and homeland security leaders to address the pervasive and challenging risk of cyberattacks on water systems.”

They specifically identified alleged Iranian and Chinese cyber attackers as culprits behind these attacks. The letter referenced a case where hackers, purportedly linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, successfully disabled a controller at a water facility in Pennsylvania.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-court-orders-partial-freeze-on-zumas-accounts-702402">South Africa court orders partial freeze on Zuma's accounts</a>

Additionally, they mentioned a Chinese hacking group known as "Volt Typhoon" for compromising the IT infrastructure of numerous critical systems, including drinking water facilities in the US.

Meanwhile, Sullivan said,&nbsp;“The Biden Administration has built our national security approach on the foundational integration of foreign and domestic policy, which means elevating our focus on cross-cutting challenges like cybersecurity."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prabowo-subianto-elected-as-new-president-of-indonesia-702387">Prabowo Subianto elected as new president of Indonesia</a>

“We’ve worked across government to implement significant cybersecurity standards in our nation’s critical infrastructure, including in the water sector, as we remain vigilant to the risks and costs of cyber threats. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA to bolster the cybersecurity of America’s water and wastewater systems.”

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-secretary-general-jens-stoltenberg-visits-armenia-calls-for-peace-with-azerbaijan-702400">NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg visits Armenia, calls for peace with Azerbaijan</a>

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"These attacks have the potential to disrupt the critical lifeline of clean and safe drinking water, as well as impose significant costs on affected communities," the letter pointed out.
</section>

(With inputs from agencies)

US government on March 19 issued a warning to state governors regarding a series of disruptive cyberattacks targeting water and sewage systems across the nation.

US government on March 19 issued a warning to state governors regarding a series of disruptive cyberattacks targeting water and sewage systems across the nation. US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan "sent a letter to all US Governors inviting state environmental, health and homeland security Secretaries to a convening by their deputies to discuss the urgent need to safeguard water sector critical infrastructure against cyber threats." This gathering, which will be held on March 21, will aim to shed light on ongoing federal and state initiatives aimed at bolstering cybersecurity measures within the water sector. The meeting will also delve into key areas where there are gaps in these efforts, emphasising the urgency for states and water systems to promptly take necessary steps. EPA Administrator Michael S Regan said, “Drinking water and wastewater systems are a lifeline for communities, but many systems have not adopted important cybersecurity practices to thwart potential cyberattacks." “EPA and NSC take these threats very seriously and will continue to partner with state environmental, health, and homeland security leaders to address the pervasive and challenging risk of cyberattacks on water systems.” They specifically identified alleged Iranian and Chinese cyber attackers as culprits behind these attacks. The letter referenced a case where hackers, purportedly linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, successfully disabled a controller at a water facility in Pennsylvania. Also Read | South Africa court orders partial freeze on Zuma's accounts Additionally, they mentioned a Chinese hacking group known as "Volt Typhoon" for compromising the IT infrastructure of numerous critical systems, including drinking water facilities in the US. Meanwhile, Sullivan said, “The Biden Administration has built our national security approach on the foundational integration of foreign and domestic policy, which means elevating our focus on cross-cutting challenges like cybersecurity." Also Read | Prabowo Subianto elected as new president of Indonesia “We’ve worked across government to implement significant cybersecurity standards in our nation’s critical infrastructure, including in the water sector, as we remain vigilant to the risks and costs of cyber threats. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA to bolster the cybersecurity of America’s water and wastewater systems.” Watch | NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg visits Armenia, calls for peace with Azerbaijan × "These attacks have the potential to disrupt the critical lifeline of clean and safe drinking water, as well as impose significant costs on affected communities," the letter pointed out. (With inputs from agencies)

US govt urges state action against cyber threats to water systems

Rishi Sunak is to introduce a bill in the parliament to fulfill his promise to phase out smoking amongst young people by banning tobacco sales for people below a certain age.

UK to introduce bill to phase out smoking

The Indian government has emphasised its focus on building the manufacturing industry over the last decade. To boost investment and the broader 'Make in India" initiative the government introduced tax concessions to new manufacturing firms. We break the idea and the plan behind this push.

India Elections 2024: Manufacturing sector is the thrust of India's government

Days after the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was notified by the Indian government, the country's Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the law will never be taken back and no compromise with it will be made by the BJP-led government.&nbsp;

“This is our sovereign right to ensure Indian citizenship in our country, we will never compromise on it and CAA will never be taken back,” said Shah in an interview with the news agency ANI.

After the controversial CAA was notified days back, the government faced a lot of criticism from the opposition parties.&nbsp;

Reacting to the statements made by the INDIA bloc's leaders, the home minister stated that even the opposition knows that they have very little chance of coming to power.

"Even INDI&nbsp;alliance knows that it will not come into power. CAA has been brought by the BJP, and the Narendra Modi-led government has brought it. It is impossible to repeal it. We will spread awareness about it in the whole nation so that those who want to repeal it do not get a place," the home minister said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fact-checks-international-media-report-on-caa-labels-it-misleading-699716">India fact-checks international media report on CAA, labels it ‘misleading’</a>

He refuted the allegations of the opposition that a new vote bank is being created by the Bharatiya Janata Party through the controversial law.

"The opposition has no other work. They have a history of saying one thing and doing another. However, the history of Prime Minister Modi and the BJP is different. What the BJP or PM Modi say&nbsp;is like carved in stone. Every guarantee made by Modi is fulfilled," said Shah.

"The CAA aims to confer Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants--including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians--who migrated from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and arrived in India before December 31, 2014, and through this law, their sufferings can be ended," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>BJP not using CAA for political gains: Amit Shah&nbsp;</h2>

Shah refuted the opposition's charges that the BJP is using CAA for political gains. "They even said that there was a political benefit in surgical strikes and air strikes. So, should we not take action against terrorism?" Shah quizzed.

Speaking about the concerns raised regarding the timing of the CAA notification, Shah said, “All opposition parties, including Rahul Gandhi, Mamata, or Kejriwal, are indulging in politics of lies, so the question of timing does not arise.”

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: All you need to know about CAA; Indian govt clarifies on Citizenship law

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He said that the BJP, in its 2019 manifesto, had clearly stated that they would bring the CAA and provide Indian citizenship to refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

"BJP made it clear in its 2019 manifesto that it will bring CAA and provide Indian citizenship to refugees (from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan). BJP has a clear agenda and under that promise, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in both houses of Parliament in 2019. It got delayed due to Covid. BJP had cleared its agenda well before the party got its mandate in the polls," he said.

"Rules are now a formality. There is no question of timing, political gain or loss. Now, the Opposition wants to consolidate their vote bank by doing appeasement politics. I want to request them that they have been exposed. CAA is the law for the entire country and I have reiterated nearly 41 times in four years that it will become a reality," Shah added.

<h2>Shah hits out at Kejriwal and Mamata</h2>

Speaking with ANI, Shah said, "The Delhi Chief Minister (Arvind Kejriwal) has lost his temper after his party's alleged corruption got exposed."

"He (Kejriwal) is unaware that all these people have already taken refuge in our country. They are living in India. Those who arrived in our country by 2014 will get citizenship," Shah added.

"And if he is concerned, why does he not talk about Bangladeshi infiltrators? Why does he not protest against Rohingyas? It is because they are doing vote-bank politics. He will face a very tough time during elections in Delhi which is why he is doing vote-bank politics. Are Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators not taking our jobs? He is just raising his voice against minorities of Jains, Buddhists, and Parsis," said the home minister.

This week, Kejriwal said that the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will lead to more migration than what took place after independence. He added that law and order will collapse and it will subsequently lead to an increase in thefts, robberies, and rapes.

Speaking about Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, who claimed that CAA will take away the citizenship of minorities, Shah said, "I am requesting Mamata ji, there are several platforms to do politics, but please don't harm Bengali Hindus coming from Bangladesh. I challenge her publicly to show one such clause that has the provision of taking away the citizenship of any Indian. Her intention is to create differences between Hindus and Muslims to consolidate vote bank."&nbsp;

In December 2019, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was passed and it got the president's approval.&nbsp;

However, the law had not come into effect as rules needed to be notified for its implementation.&nbsp;

CAA, which was enacted on December 11, 2019, amended the Citizenship Act 1955 and paved a path for Indian Citizenship for the religious minorities - Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, or Christians - who lived in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan and came to India before the end of December 2014.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was notified by the Indian government, the country's Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the law will never be taken back and no compromise with it will be made by the BJP-led government.

Days after the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was notified by the Indian government, the country's Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the law will never be taken back and no compromise with it will be made by the BJP-led government. “This is our sovereign right to ensure Indian citizenship in our country, we will never compromise on it and CAA will never be taken back,” said Shah in an interview with the news agency ANI. After the controversial CAA was notified days back, the government faced a lot of criticism from the opposition parties. Reacting to the statements made by the INDIA bloc's leaders, the home minister stated that even the opposition knows that they have very little chance of coming to power. "Even INDI alliance knows that it will not come into power. CAA has been brought by the BJP, and the Narendra Modi-led government has brought it. It is impossible to repeal it. We will spread awareness about it in the whole nation so that those who want to repeal it do not get a place," the home minister said. Also Read: India fact-checks international media report on CAA, labels it ‘misleading’ He refuted the allegations of the opposition that a new vote bank is being created by the Bharatiya Janata Party through the controversial law. "The opposition has no other work. They have a history of saying one thing and doing another. However, the history of Prime Minister Modi and the BJP is different. What the BJP or PM Modi say is like carved in stone. Every guarantee made by Modi is fulfilled," said Shah. "The CAA aims to confer Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants--including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians--who migrated from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and arrived in India before December 31, 2014, and through this law, their sufferings can be ended," he added. BJP not using CAA for political gains: Amit Shah Shah refuted the opposition's charges that the BJP is using CAA for political gains. "They even said that there was a political benefit in surgical strikes and air strikes. So, should we not take action against terrorism?" Shah quizzed. Speaking about the concerns raised regarding the timing of the CAA notification, Shah said, “All opposition parties, including Rahul Gandhi, Mamata, or Kejriwal, are indulging in politics of lies, so the question of timing does not arise.” Watch: Gravitas: All you need to know about CAA; Indian govt clarifies on Citizenship law He said that the BJP, in its 2019 manifesto, had clearly stated that they would bring the CAA and provide Indian citizenship to refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. "BJP made it clear in its 2019 manifesto that it will bring CAA and provide Indian citizenship to refugees (from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan). BJP has a clear agenda and under that promise, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in both houses of Parliament in 2019. It got delayed due to Covid. BJP had cleared its agenda well before the party got its mandate in the polls," he said. "Rules are now a formality. There is no question of timing, political gain or loss. Now, the Opposition wants to consolidate their vote bank by doing appeasement politics. I want to request them that they have been exposed. CAA is the law for the entire country and I have reiterated nearly 41 times in four years that it will become a reality," Shah added. Shah hits out at Kejriwal and Mamata Speaking with ANI, Shah said, "The Delhi Chief Minister (Arvind Kejriwal) has lost his temper after his party's alleged corruption got exposed." "He (Kejriwal) is unaware that all these people have already taken refuge in our country. They are living in India. Those who arrived in our country by 2014 will get citizenship," Shah added. "And if he is concerned, why does he not talk about Bangladeshi infiltrators? Why does he not protest against Rohingyas? It is because they are doing vote-bank politics. He will face a very tough time during elections in Delhi which is why he is doing vote-bank politics. Are Rohingyas and Bangladeshi infiltrators not taking our jobs? He is just raising his voice against minorities of Jains, Buddhists, and Parsis," said the home minister. This week, Kejriwal said that the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will lead to more migration than what took place after independence. He added that law and order will collapse and it will subsequently lead to an increase in thefts, robberies, and rapes. Speaking about Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, who claimed that CAA will take away the citizenship of minorities, Shah said, "I am requesting Mamata ji, there are several platforms to do politics, but please don't harm Bengali Hindus coming from Bangladesh. I challenge her publicly to show one such clause that has the provision of taking away the citizenship of any Indian. Her intention is to create differences between Hindus and Muslims to consolidate vote bank." In December 2019, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) was passed and it got the president's approval. However, the law had not come into effect as rules needed to be notified for its implementation. CAA, which was enacted on December 11, 2019, amended the Citizenship Act 1955 and paved a path for Indian Citizenship for the religious minorities - Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, or Christians - who lived in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan and came to India before the end of December 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

CAA law will never be taken back by India's government, says Home Minister Amit Shah

The Indian government on Tuesday (Mar 12) said that the newly implemented Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) does not curtail the opportunity and freedom of Indian Muslims and that Muslims&nbsp;from anywhere in the world are free to seek Indian citizenship.&nbsp;

"Muslims from anywhere in the world can seek Indian citizenship under Section 6 of the Citizenship Act, which deals with citizenship by naturalisation," said the Home Ministry.

Meanwhile, the opposition has termed the CAA&nbsp;discriminatory and said that it has been introduced by the government since the Lok Sabha elections are coming up.&nbsp;

On Monday, the government notified the rules for the Citizenship (Amendment) Act which reduced the qualification period for citizenship application for undocumented non-Muslim migrants from 11 to 5 years.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;application is for those&nbsp;who were staying in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan and came to India before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasised that the Act "does not prevent any Muslim, who is persecuted in those Islamic countries (Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan) for practising their version of Islam, from applying for Indian citizenship under the existing laws".

"CAA does not cancel the naturalisation laws. Therefore, any person, including Muslim migrants from any foreign country, seeking to be an Indian citizen, can apply for the same under the existing laws," the ministry added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-oppositions-first-reaction-after-centre-notifies-caa-rules-699053">India: Opposition slams decision after Centre notifies CAA rules ahead of polls</a>

"Indian Muslims need not worry as CAA has not made any provision to impact their citizenship and has nothing to do with the present 18 crore Indian Muslims, who have equal rights like their Hindu counterparts," stated the ministry.&nbsp;

Quashing the fear that the law can be used for declaring some as illegal immigrants and snatching away their Indian citizenship, the ministry said that the law is required to help minorities facing&nbsp;persecution in Muslim-majority nations according to the "evergreen generous culture of India to get Indian citizenship for their happy and prosperous future".

"No Indian citizen would be asked to produce any document to prove citizenship", said the ministry. It further said that the Citizenship Act is not related to the deportation of illegal immigrants.&nbsp;

"Therefore, the concern of a section of the people including Muslims and students that CAA is against Muslim minorities is unjustifiable," it said.

<h2>Actor Thalapathy Vijay appeals against implementation of CAA in Tamil Nadu&nbsp;</h2>

Tamil actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Thalapathy Vijay slammed the Centre for the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019.

“It is not acceptable to implement any law like the Indian Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 (CAA) in an environment where all citizens of the country live with social harmony,” said the actor in his statement which was translated from Tamil.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India Elections 2024: Will the CAA implementation polarise Indian voters?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-will-the-caa-implementation-polarise-indian-voters-699436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He further appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that the law is not implemented in the southern state.

"The leaders should ensure that this law does not get implemented in Tamil Nadu," the statement added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government on Tuesday (Mar 12) said that the newly implemented Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) does not curtail the opportunity and freedom of Indian Muslims and that Muslims from anywhere in the world are free to seek Indian citizenship.

The Indian government on Tuesday (Mar 12) said that the newly implemented Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) does not curtail the opportunity and freedom of Indian Muslims and that Muslims from anywhere in the world are free to seek Indian citizenship. "Muslims from anywhere in the world can seek Indian citizenship under Section 6 of the Citizenship Act, which deals with citizenship by naturalisation," said the Home Ministry. Meanwhile, the opposition has termed the CAA discriminatory and said that it has been introduced by the government since the Lok Sabha elections are coming up. On Monday, the government notified the rules for the Citizenship (Amendment) Act which reduced the qualification period for citizenship application for undocumented non-Muslim migrants from 11 to 5 years. The application is for those who were staying in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan and came to India before December 31, 2014. The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasised that the Act "does not prevent any Muslim, who is persecuted in those Islamic countries (Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan) for practising their version of Islam, from applying for Indian citizenship under the existing laws". "CAA does not cancel the naturalisation laws. Therefore, any person, including Muslim migrants from any foreign country, seeking to be an Indian citizen, can apply for the same under the existing laws," the ministry added. Also Read: India: Opposition slams decision after Centre notifies CAA rules ahead of polls "Indian Muslims need not worry as CAA has not made any provision to impact their citizenship and has nothing to do with the present 18 crore Indian Muslims, who have equal rights like their Hindu counterparts," stated the ministry. Quashing the fear that the law can be used for declaring some as illegal immigrants and snatching away their Indian citizenship, the ministry said that the law is required to help minorities facing persecution in Muslim-majority nations according to the "evergreen generous culture of India to get Indian citizenship for their happy and prosperous future". "No Indian citizen would be asked to produce any document to prove citizenship", said the ministry. It further said that the Citizenship Act is not related to the deportation of illegal immigrants. "Therefore, the concern of a section of the people including Muslims and students that CAA is against Muslim minorities is unjustifiable," it said. Actor Thalapathy Vijay appeals against implementation of CAA in Tamil Nadu Tamil actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Thalapathy Vijay slammed the Centre for the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. “It is not acceptable to implement any law like the Indian Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 (CAA) in an environment where all citizens of the country live with social harmony,” said the actor in his statement which was translated from Tamil. Watch: India Elections 2024: Will the CAA implementation polarise Indian voters? He further appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that the law is not implemented in the southern state. "The leaders should ensure that this law does not get implemented in Tamil Nadu," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Muslims from anywhere in the world can seek Indian citizenship: Govt

The Centre on Monday announced the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, a move that comes four years after the contentious law was passed and paves the way for citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

Indian Government announces implementation of CAA

Amid escalating chaos and gang violence in Haiti, the nation's Prime Minister Ariel Henry said on Monday night he will resign as soon as a transition council and a temporary leader are chosen.&nbsp;

Henry had assumed the role, unelected, in 2021 after the assassination of the country's last president, Jovenel Moïse. He was also the acting president since Moïse's death.

However, the latest announcement doesn't make&nbsp;it clear when it will happen.&nbsp;

"The government that I am leading will resign immediately after the installation of (a transition) council,"&nbsp;Henry&nbsp;said in a late night video address.

"I'm asking all Haitians to remain calm and do everything they can for peace and stability to come back as fast as possible," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>An interim prime minister to be named</h2>

Previously, Guyana's leader and current CARICOM President, Irfaan Ali confirmed the resignation, stating, "We acknowledge the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry upon the establishment of a transitional presidential council and the naming of an interim prime minister."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woe-betide-anyone-haiti-gang-leader-barbecue-threatens-hotels-hiding-politicians-in-his-bloody-revolution-699152">'Woe betide anyone': Haiti gang leader Barbecue threatens hotels 'hiding politicians' in his bloody revolution</a>

This announcement came after the CARICOM meeting in the Jamaican capital of Kingston. The regional bloc of 25 countries, which works on economic integration, security and social development, held talks focused on establishing a transitional council to facilitate Haiti's first elections since 2016, Reuters news agency reported.

As per the report citing&nbsp;a US State Department official, Henry was involved in&nbsp;virtual discussions with CARICOM.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-embassy-personally-airlifted-from-violence-hit-haiti-698643">US military airlifts personnel from American embassy in violence-hit Haiti</a>

<h2>Haiti turmoil: What is happening?</h2>

The Caribbean nation has been facing severe challenges, including attacks by gangs on government structures. The situation&nbsp;in Haiti has been increasingly unstable with widespread violence and insecurity.&nbsp;

On March 3, Haiti declared a state of emergency after clashes disrupted communications and resulted in two massive prison breaks. All of this occurred after Haiti gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as "Barbecue," declared a plan to unify and remove unelected Prime Minister Ariel Henry from power.

Also watch | Haiti PM stranded in Puerto Rico as he tried to return home amidst gang violence

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No elections have been held in the country since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters&nbsp;have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022.&nbsp;

However, last month, Henry delayed the scheduled elections, saying they could not be held until it was safe to do so. His decision served only to further enrage protesters who had for months demanded he stand down as Haiti slid further into poverty and rampant gang violence.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid escalating chaos and gang violence in Haiti, the nation's Prime Minister Ariel Henry said on Monday night he will resign as soon as a transition council and a temporary leader are chosen.

Amid escalating chaos and gang violence in Haiti, the nation's Prime Minister Ariel Henry said on Monday night he will resign as soon as a transition council and a temporary leader are chosen. Henry had assumed the role, unelected, in 2021 after the assassination of the country's last president, Jovenel Moïse. He was also the acting president since Moïse's death. However, the latest announcement doesn't make it clear when it will happen. "The government that I am leading will resign immediately after the installation of (a transition) council," Henry said in a late night video address. "I'm asking all Haitians to remain calm and do everything they can for peace and stability to come back as fast as possible," he added. An interim prime minister to be named Previously, Guyana's leader and current CARICOM President, Irfaan Ali confirmed the resignation, stating, "We acknowledge the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry upon the establishment of a transitional presidential council and the naming of an interim prime minister." Also read | 'Woe betide anyone': Haiti gang leader Barbecue threatens hotels 'hiding politicians' in his bloody revolution This announcement came after the CARICOM meeting in the Jamaican capital of Kingston. The regional bloc of 25 countries, which works on economic integration, security and social development, held talks focused on establishing a transitional council to facilitate Haiti's first elections since 2016, Reuters news agency reported. As per the report citing a US State Department official, Henry was involved in virtual discussions with CARICOM. Also read | US military airlifts personnel from American embassy in violence-hit Haiti Haiti turmoil: What is happening? The Caribbean nation has been facing severe challenges, including attacks by gangs on government structures. The situation in Haiti has been increasingly unstable with widespread violence and insecurity. On March 3, Haiti declared a state of emergency after clashes disrupted communications and resulted in two massive prison breaks. All of this occurred after Haiti gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as "Barbecue," declared a plan to unify and remove unelected Prime Minister Ariel Henry from power. Also watch | Haiti PM stranded in Puerto Rico as he tried to return home amidst gang violence No elections have been held in the country since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022. However, last month, Henry delayed the scheduled elections, saying they could not be held until it was safe to do so. His decision served only to further enrage protesters who had for months demanded he stand down as Haiti slid further into poverty and rampant gang violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Embattled Haiti PM Ariel Henry quits amid rise in gang violence

It was a dream come true for a young entrepreneur Nazim Nazeer, 20, from South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, when he got a chance not only to interact with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also to click a selfie with him.

His picture is already viral all over social media sites and his happiness knows no bounds

Nazim started his bee-keeping hobby during his school days. He started the whole bee-keeping business with just two boxes. Taking advantage of the schemes provided by the government, he was able to expand his business manyfold.

From just two boxes, Nazim has now expanded his business to two thousand boxes producing over 5000 kgs of honey annually.

“I consider myself extremely lucky that I got an opportunity to meet the Honourable PM Modi. A few years ago, I had taken a selfie with a statue of honourable PM Modi, and it was a dream come true to take a selfie with him in real. He called me a friend and I am so happy and thankful for his kind gesture," said beekeeper Nazim Nazeer.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengalurus-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-trail-of-suspect-revealed-as-nia-takes-four-into-custody-report-697910">Bengaluru's Rameshwaram cafe blast: Trail of suspect REVEALED as NIA takes four into custody: Report</a>

"I started beekeeping in the year 2018, and not only beekeeping but we have been selling honey in major quantities. We have our own brand now. We have been selling honey via social media sites. We have been part of around seven exhibitions around India. We sell honey for around one lakh rupees in every exhibition," he added.&nbsp;

While the picture of Nazim with Prime Minister Modi has gone viral, it’s likely to push his business too. People have been enquiring about him and his business since yesterday after his interaction and photo with the prime minister.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-cabinet-approves-4-hike-in-dearness-allowance-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-697907">Indian Cabinet approves 4% hike in Dearness Allowance ahead of Lok Sabha polls</a>

Prime Minister Modi took to his X social media handle and wrote, "A memorable selfie with my friend Nazim. I was impressed by the good work he’s doing. At the public meeting, he requested a selfie and was happy to meet him. My best wishes for his future endeavours."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-cuts-cooking-gas-cylinder-price-by-100-rupees-weeks-before-polls-697919">PM Modi cuts cooking gas cylinder price by 100 rupees, weeks before polls</a>

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Nazim was given a membership of the Farmers Producers Organisation. He says the government schemes have helped him a lot to take his business to new heights. He also said that the younger generation needs to take up this business and help from the government.&nbsp;

“The Holistic Agriculture Development Program&nbsp;also benefited us. We have been given a collection and storage centre by the government. I have gone through a huge struggle. I remember I used to sell two&nbsp;kgs of honey. And then it went to 50 kgs and after that to 100 kgs. I have a buyer in Hyderabad now and I just dispatched 600 kgs of honey a few days ago. It’s touching the sky now,"&nbsp;said Nazeer.&nbsp;

The central government has initiated hundreds of new schemes for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir in the last five years.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It was a dream come true for a young entrepreneur Nazim Nazeer, 20, from South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, when he got a chance not only to interact with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also to click a selfie with him.

It was a dream come true for a young entrepreneur Nazim Nazeer, 20, from South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, when he got a chance not only to interact with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also to click a selfie with him. His picture is already viral all over social media sites and his happiness knows no bounds Nazim started his bee-keeping hobby during his school days. He started the whole bee-keeping business with just two boxes. Taking advantage of the schemes provided by the government, he was able to expand his business manyfold. From just two boxes, Nazim has now expanded his business to two thousand boxes producing over 5000 kgs of honey annually. “I consider myself extremely lucky that I got an opportunity to meet the Honourable PM Modi. A few years ago, I had taken a selfie with a statue of honourable PM Modi, and it was a dream come true to take a selfie with him in real. He called me a friend and I am so happy and thankful for his kind gesture," said beekeeper Nazim Nazeer. Also Read | Bengaluru's Rameshwaram cafe blast: Trail of suspect REVEALED as NIA takes four into custody: Report "I started beekeeping in the year 2018, and not only beekeeping but we have been selling honey in major quantities. We have our own brand now. We have been selling honey via social media sites. We have been part of around seven exhibitions around India. We sell honey for around one lakh rupees in every exhibition," he added. While the picture of Nazim with Prime Minister Modi has gone viral, it’s likely to push his business too. People have been enquiring about him and his business since yesterday after his interaction and photo with the prime minister. Also Read | Indian Cabinet approves 4% hike in Dearness Allowance ahead of Lok Sabha polls Prime Minister Modi took to his X social media handle and wrote, "A memorable selfie with my friend Nazim. I was impressed by the good work he’s doing. At the public meeting, he requested a selfie and was happy to meet him. My best wishes for his future endeavours." Watch | PM Modi cuts cooking gas cylinder price by 100 rupees, weeks before polls × Nazim was given a membership of the Farmers Producers Organisation. He says the government schemes have helped him a lot to take his business to new heights. He also said that the younger generation needs to take up this business and help from the government. “The Holistic Agriculture Development Program also benefited us. We have been given a collection and storage centre by the government. I have gone through a huge struggle. I remember I used to sell two kgs of honey. And then it went to 50 kgs and after that to 100 kgs. I have a buyer in Hyderabad now and I just dispatched 600 kgs of honey a few days ago. It’s touching the sky now," said Nazeer. The central government has initiated hundreds of new schemes for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir in the last five years.

Nazim Nazeer's dream selfie with PM Modi goes viral, beekeeper credits govt schemes for business success

China is expected to promote its plan to achieve “new productive forces” for 2024 in the coming “Two Sessions” meetings. Watch the video to know more.

China's 'Two Session' Meetings 2024: China to announce 2024 growth target

The Chinese government has proposed a defense budget of 1.67 trillion yuan ($231 billion) for the 2024 fiscal year, a 7.2 percent year-on-year increase, according to a draft budget report submitted to the national legislature on Tuesday morning.

China raises defence spending by 7.1 percent, to improve childbirth policies

China's 'Two Session' Meetings 2024: What could be in the government work report?

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure. As per&nbsp;Maarten Boute, chairperson of&nbsp;Digicel, one of the main telecoms providers in Haiti, the company's field teams have fully restored the connection on Sunday afternoon.

This comes as several thousand inmates escaped from Haiti's main prison in the capital, Port-au-Prince, after an overnight violent attack. As per reports, the attack on Saturday (March 2) led to the death of at least a dozen people. Hundreds of inmates may have escaped from another facility known as Croix des Bouquets after a similar attack. However, the numbers are not clear yet.

<h2>Ongoing violence in Haiti</h2>

Pierre Esperance of the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights, an NGO, reports that following the overnight attack, only about 100 of the National Penitentiary's roughly 3,800 inmates remained inside.&nbsp;

In conversation with AFP, he mentioned seeing numerous prisoners' bodies and wounded individuals in the aftermath of the attack.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-issues-us-sharpest-rebuke-yet-calls-out-israel-for-the-catastrophe-says-it-must-do-more-696260">Kamala Harris issues US' sharpest rebuke yet, calls out Israel for the 'catastrophe', says it 'must do more'</a>

An AFP journalist who visited the prison observed around a dozen bodies outside the facility, some displaying wounds from gunfire or other projectiles. Inside, the prison was nearly deserted, with only a few remaining inmates.

The Haitian government, in a statement, reported that there was another assault on another facility known as Croix des Bouquets. There, the police attempted to repel the gang and the attempt resulted in several injuries among both the prison staff and inmates.

As per Esperance, it remains unclear how many inmates escaped from the second prison, which housed 1,450 inmates.

The assault, as per AFP, occurred amid a recent surge in violence in Port-au-Prince, where since Thursday heavily armed gangs controlling much of the city have been unleashing chaos. These gangs are reportedly seeking the removal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been at the helm of the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021.

Watch |&nbsp;Haiti violence claims lives of at least 4 police officers

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<h2>Who has escaped?</h2>

Local media reports suggest that prominent gang leaders and individuals implicated in Moise's assassination were among those detained in the main prison, situated just a few hundred meters from the National Palace.&nbsp;

According to the Haitian daily Le Nouvelliste, the prison had been under surveillance by the assailants via drones since Thursday before the attack occurred on Saturday evening.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gun-battles-rage-in-haiti-as-gang-leader-pushes-for-pms-ouster-695610">Gun battles rage in Haiti as gang leader pushes for PM's ouster</a>

In a video, gang leader Jimmy Cherisier, known as Barbecue, stated that armed groups in Haiti were collaborating to pressure Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign.&nbsp;

As the situation in Haiti escalates, Prime Minister Henry's whereabouts remain uncertain, with reports indicating he was in Kenya on Friday, seeking support for an international police assistance mission led by Nairobi.&nbsp;

Haiti, already grappling with longstanding turmoil exacerbated by the 2021 presidential assassination, continues to face political instability. No elections have been held since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters&nbsp;have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure.

International connectivity to Haiti has been restored. It was disrupted on Sunday because of violent clashes in the capital that damaged communications infrastructure. As per Maarten Boute, chairperson of Digicel, one of the main telecoms providers in Haiti, the company's field teams have fully restored the connection on Sunday afternoon. This comes as several thousand inmates escaped from Haiti's main prison in the capital, Port-au-Prince, after an overnight violent attack. As per reports, the attack on Saturday (March 2) led to the death of at least a dozen people. Hundreds of inmates may have escaped from another facility known as Croix des Bouquets after a similar attack. However, the numbers are not clear yet. Ongoing violence in Haiti Pierre Esperance of the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights, an NGO, reports that following the overnight attack, only about 100 of the National Penitentiary's roughly 3,800 inmates remained inside. In conversation with AFP, he mentioned seeing numerous prisoners' bodies and wounded individuals in the aftermath of the attack. Also read | Kamala Harris issues US' sharpest rebuke yet, calls out Israel for the 'catastrophe', says it 'must do more' An AFP journalist who visited the prison observed around a dozen bodies outside the facility, some displaying wounds from gunfire or other projectiles. Inside, the prison was nearly deserted, with only a few remaining inmates. The Haitian government, in a statement, reported that there was another assault on another facility known as Croix des Bouquets. There, the police attempted to repel the gang and the attempt resulted in several injuries among both the prison staff and inmates. As per Esperance, it remains unclear how many inmates escaped from the second prison, which housed 1,450 inmates. The assault, as per AFP, occurred amid a recent surge in violence in Port-au-Prince, where since Thursday heavily armed gangs controlling much of the city have been unleashing chaos. These gangs are reportedly seeking the removal of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been at the helm of the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. Watch | Haiti violence claims lives of at least 4 police officers Who has escaped? Local media reports suggest that prominent gang leaders and individuals implicated in Moise's assassination were among those detained in the main prison, situated just a few hundred meters from the National Palace. According to the Haitian daily Le Nouvelliste, the prison had been under surveillance by the assailants via drones since Thursday before the attack occurred on Saturday evening. Also Read | Gun battles rage in Haiti as gang leader pushes for PM's ouster In a video, gang leader Jimmy Cherisier, known as Barbecue, stated that armed groups in Haiti were collaborating to pressure Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. As the situation in Haiti escalates, Prime Minister Henry's whereabouts remain uncertain, with reports indicating he was in Kenya on Friday, seeking support for an international police assistance mission led by Nairobi. Haiti, already grappling with longstanding turmoil exacerbated by the 2021 presidential assassination, continues to face political instability. No elections have been held since 2016 and with the presidency vacant, protesters have demanded Henry's resignation per a political agreement requiring polls and his transfer of power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti jailbreak: International connectivity back after almost 4,000 inmates escape prison

The rise of Indian Defence manufacturers has helped India increase its Defence exports by a whopping 24% from 2021 to 2023. But have these companies done enough to make the Indian government's grand 'Make in India' plan a success?

Profits of Indian Defence sector soar to new heights

With a power-sharing deal already inked, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party are moving ahead with plans to form a coalition government by March 2 and hold the presidential election before March 9, according to a media report on Friday.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led by three-time Prime minister Nawaz Sharif will be backed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has agreed to form a new government after the February 8 elections resulted in a hung Parliament.

Former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, 72, is set to return to the top post after his elder brother Nawaz, decided to nominate the PML-N president for premiership. The party has clarified that the three-time former prime minister did not want to lead a government in which the PMN-L does not have a majority in Parliament.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-supreme-court-defends-ruling-on-minorities-after-backlash-693153">Pakistan Supreme Court defends ruling on minorities after backlash</a>

Both parties won fewer seats than candidates backed by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Quoting sources, The News International reported that serious consideration is being given to the proposal to hold the presidential election before March 9 as the newly elected assemblies across the country will take oath by February 29 and a new government be in place by March 2.

Incumbent President Dr Arif Alvi's five-year tenure officially ended in September of last year. However, the dentist-turned-politician, who was a senior member of Khan's PTI before being appointed to the post in 2018, continued to stay in the office even after the expiration of his stipulated constitutional term.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-eyes-6bn-imf-loan-programme-to-tackle-debt-burden-report-693033">Pakistan eyes $6bn IMF loan programme to tackle debt burden: Report</a>

The PML-N, PPP, and their allied parties want the presidential election to be held by March 8 before the completion of the current tenure of the Senate and for the Senate elections to be held after the president is elected.

When contacted, PPP senior leader Senator Farooq H Naek said that according to Article 41, read with the second schedule of the Constitution, the presidential election has to be held within 30 days of the general elections.

"This means that the presidential election is to be held before March 9", he was quoted as saying by the report.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-military-says-iran-continues-to-supply-arms-to-houthis-red-sea-attacks-can-escalate-693317">US military says Iran continues to supply arms to Houthis | Red Sea attacks can escalate</a>

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President Alvi, 74, had agreed to perform his duties until the appointment of his successor as the assemblies were dissolved in August and the elections were not held as per the constitutional time limit.

PPP Co-Chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, 68, will likely return to the presidency as earlier this week the Bilawal-led party and PML-N agreed to nominate him for the constitutional office as a joint candidate in return for helping Shehbaz Sharif form the government at the Centre under a power-sharing agreement.

To form a government, a party must win 133 out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly.

The power-sharing deal was finalised after no political party secured a simple majority in the February 8 elections, forcing parties to join hands in their bid to form a government and deny a chance to Imran Khan's PTI to return to power.

Shehbaz Sharif and Bilawal have said that they have the required support to form a coalition government.

In the polls, Mr Khan's PTI-backed independent candidates secured victory on the most National Assembly seats (92) followed by the PML-N (79) and the PPP (54).

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League (N) president and prime minister-designate Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met delegations from MQM, the Muslim League (Q), and the Balochistan Awami Party and discussed issues related to the country's situation and political cooperation.

"It is everyone's responsibility to save the country from economic threats," Shahbaz Sharif said and vowed to move forward unitedly to serve the people.

 
&nbsp;

With a power-sharing deal already inked, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party are moving ahead with plans to form a coalition government by March 2 and hold the presidential election before March 9, according to a media report on Friday.

With a power-sharing deal already inked, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party are moving ahead with plans to form a coalition government by March 2 and hold the presidential election before March 9, according to a media report on Friday. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led by three-time Prime minister Nawaz Sharif will be backed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has agreed to form a new government after the February 8 elections resulted in a hung Parliament. Former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, 72, is set to return to the top post after his elder brother Nawaz, decided to nominate the PML-N president for premiership. The party has clarified that the three-time former prime minister did not want to lead a government in which the PMN-L does not have a majority in Parliament. Also Read | Pakistan Supreme Court defends ruling on minorities after backlash Both parties won fewer seats than candidates backed by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Quoting sources, The News International reported that serious consideration is being given to the proposal to hold the presidential election before March 9 as the newly elected assemblies across the country will take oath by February 29 and a new government be in place by March 2. Incumbent President Dr Arif Alvi's five-year tenure officially ended in September of last year. However, the dentist-turned-politician, who was a senior member of Khan's PTI before being appointed to the post in 2018, continued to stay in the office even after the expiration of his stipulated constitutional term. Also Read | Pakistan eyes $6bn IMF loan programme to tackle debt burden: Report The PML-N, PPP, and their allied parties want the presidential election to be held by March 8 before the completion of the current tenure of the Senate and for the Senate elections to be held after the president is elected. When contacted, PPP senior leader Senator Farooq H Naek said that according to Article 41, read with the second schedule of the Constitution, the presidential election has to be held within 30 days of the general elections. "This means that the presidential election is to be held before March 9", he was quoted as saying by the report. Watch | US military says Iran continues to supply arms to Houthis | Red Sea attacks can escalate × President Alvi, 74, had agreed to perform his duties until the appointment of his successor as the assemblies were dissolved in August and the elections were not held as per the constitutional time limit. PPP Co-Chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, 68, will likely return to the presidency as earlier this week the Bilawal-led party and PML-N agreed to nominate him for the constitutional office as a joint candidate in return for helping Shehbaz Sharif form the government at the Centre under a power-sharing agreement. To form a government, a party must win 133 out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly. The power-sharing deal was finalised after no political party secured a simple majority in the February 8 elections, forcing parties to join hands in their bid to form a government and deny a chance to Imran Khan's PTI to return to power. Shehbaz Sharif and Bilawal have said that they have the required support to form a coalition government. In the polls, Mr Khan's PTI-backed independent candidates secured victory on the most National Assembly seats (92) followed by the PML-N (79) and the PPP (54). Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League (N) president and prime minister-designate Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met delegations from MQM, the Muslim League (Q), and the Balochistan Awami Party and discussed issues related to the country's situation and political cooperation. "It is everyone's responsibility to save the country from economic threats," Shahbaz Sharif said and vowed to move forward unitedly to serve the people.

New Pak government likely by March 2; presidential poll before March 9: Report

BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey has pointed to connectivity being one of the key focus areas of the regional grouping.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Pandey said, "Master plan for connectivity has been approved by the member states, and we are in the process of establishing mechanisms for its implementation."&nbsp;

He pointed out that Thailand's government has committed to hosting the summit this year. He is the first Indian national to hold the position of the BIMSTEC secretary general. He is currently in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference.&nbsp;

Here is the full transcript of the interview.

WION: You are the first Indian who is heading this important grouping. My first point is, how do you see this grouping growing, what's your vision as a Secy Gen of this grouping to take forward this grouping as an important regional body?

Indra Mani Pandey: This is a very important regional organisation in the Indian Ocean region. It has been there for 26 years now. It has its own charter. It has a set of mechanisms already established. And I see member states are committed to taking the co-operation forward. For me, it's an exceptional opportunity to make sure that in the coming years, this regional organisation is able to fulfil the vision of the member states.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-sri-lankan-president-thanks-india-for-economic-support-plans-for-iit-campus-in-kandy-688869">Exclusive: Sri Lankan president thanks India for economic support; plans for IIT campus in Kandy</a>

WION: Sir the focus on connectivity what has been the focus of connectivity when it comes to this grouping?

Indra Mani Pandey: We have a master plan for connectivity, which covers both the connectivity through the Bay of Bengal and collectivity which is land-based. The master plan has been approved by the member states, and we are in the process of establishing mechanisms for its implementation. Member states have given it a high priority, and Thailand is the leading country for forging cooperation in connectivity.

WION: Sir, any plans for the summit this year? I believe the summit was to happen last year, this Thai government was to host what's the plan forward for this year?

Indra Mani Pandey: The Thai Government is committed to hosting a summit this year. We have not yet received any dates when the summit will be held. But I've been informed that it will be held within this year.

Watch:&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar: World values India's contribution in Indian Ocean

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WION: Sir, my last question to you is counterterrorism. This is an important issue. How has the group been working to come to a common viewpoint when it comes to dealing with this scourge?

Indra Mani Pandey: This is a joint working group which deals with counter-terrorism and transnational crime. We have been engaged in also negotiating the instruments which can help in that, for example, extradition treaties, and treaties on criminal cooperation in criminal matters. So we are trying to put in institutional mechanisms which can help the countries in the region to deal with this, India is the lead actually country for the security sector. And it's very focused on making sure that there is progress in co-operation in the area.

BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey has pointed to connectivity being one of the key focus areas of the regional grouping. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Pandey said, "Master plan for connectivity has been approved by the member states, and we are in the process of establishing mechanisms for its implementation.

BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey has pointed to connectivity being one of the key focus areas of the regional grouping. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Pandey said, "Master plan for connectivity has been approved by the member states, and we are in the process of establishing mechanisms for its implementation." He pointed out that Thailand's government has committed to hosting the summit this year. He is the first Indian national to hold the position of the BIMSTEC secretary general. He is currently in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. Here is the full transcript of the interview. WION: You are the first Indian who is heading this important grouping. My first point is, how do you see this grouping growing, what's your vision as a Secy Gen of this grouping to take forward this grouping as an important regional body? Indra Mani Pandey: This is a very important regional organisation in the Indian Ocean region. It has been there for 26 years now. It has its own charter. It has a set of mechanisms already established. And I see member states are committed to taking the co-operation forward. For me, it's an exceptional opportunity to make sure that in the coming years, this regional organisation is able to fulfil the vision of the member states. Also Read: Exclusive: Sri Lankan president thanks India for economic support; plans for IIT campus in Kandy WION: Sir the focus on connectivity what has been the focus of connectivity when it comes to this grouping? Indra Mani Pandey: We have a master plan for connectivity, which covers both the connectivity through the Bay of Bengal and collectivity which is land-based. The master plan has been approved by the member states, and we are in the process of establishing mechanisms for its implementation. Member states have given it a high priority, and Thailand is the leading country for forging cooperation in connectivity. WION: Sir, any plans for the summit this year? I believe the summit was to happen last year, this Thai government was to host what's the plan forward for this year? Indra Mani Pandey: The Thai Government is committed to hosting a summit this year. We have not yet received any dates when the summit will be held. But I've been informed that it will be held within this year. Watch: EAM Jaishankar: World values India's contribution in Indian Ocean WION: Sir, my last question to you is counterterrorism. This is an important issue. How has the group been working to come to a common viewpoint when it comes to dealing with this scourge? Indra Mani Pandey: This is a joint working group which deals with counter-terrorism and transnational crime. We have been engaged in also negotiating the instruments which can help in that, for example, extradition treaties, and treaties on criminal cooperation in criminal matters. So we are trying to put in institutional mechanisms which can help the countries in the region to deal with this, India is the lead actually country for the security sector. And it's very focused on making sure that there is progress in co-operation in the area.

BIMSTEC's focus is on connectivity, Thai govt to host summit this year, says BIMSTEC secretary general

Following a national election on Thursday, Pakistan experienced notable delays in the vote count. Independent candidates backed by jailed Imran Khan's PTI party are leading the show. PTI candidates are running as independents after they were not allowed to use the party symbol.

Indian government announces Bharat Ratna awards

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”. 
 
The claims were made by Kirkpatrick in a podcast after he stepped down from the position of the first director of the defence department’s all-domain anomaly resolution office (Aaro) last month. 
 
The department was established in 2022 to collect military reports of UAP sightings and to provide more transparency regarding what information the government has. 
 
The first comprehensive historical record report of Aaro was submitted to Congress and will be published later this year, said Kirkpatrick, adding that it contains no evidence of the existence of alien life and not only any government cover-up.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/its-official-us-is-not-able-to-defend-itself-against-an-alien-invasion-684284">It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion: Report</a>

He added that various lawmakers happily embrace unsubstantiated stories which are circulated by “a core group of people” regarding the secret government UFO research programmes. 
 
“They’re some of the same people that have been working behind the scenes with Congress to write legislation,” said Kirkpatrick, in the podcast. 
 
“They’re the same people that worked with a US company and the US army to explore a piece of material that they claim was a UAP and really is a piece of missile casing from the 1950s. They’re the same people that have been influencing some of these whistleblowers who have come forward to say: ‘Hey, I don’t have any first-hand evidence, but all these people are telling me this',” he added. 
 
Kirkpatrick did not identify the people by name, but agreed with the observation of Bergen that “the actual conspiracy is being carried out by a group of true believers themselves to get the government involved in the business of investigating aliens”. 
 
“That is a self-licking ice cream cone, exactly. The best thing that could have happened in this job is I found the aliens, and I could have rolled them out, but there’s none. There is no evidence of extraterrestrials. There is no evidence of aliens, and there’s no evidence of the government conspiracy,” said Kirkpatrick.

<h2 lang="en-US">Lawmakers succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making”: Kirkpatrick</h2>

In his resignation essay, which was published last week by Scientific American, Kirkpatrick said that the lawmakers have succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making” and sensationalism in their efforts to “uncover the cover-up”.

Watch:&nbsp;NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World

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“Worrisome is the willingness of some to make judgments and take actions on these stories without having seen or even requested supporting evidence, an omission that is all the more problematic when the claims are so extraordinary,” Kirkpatrick wrote. 
 
“Some members of Congress prefer to opine about aliens to the press rather than get an evidence-based briefing on the matter. Members have a responsibility to exhibit critical-thinking skills instead of seeking the spotlight,” he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”.

Pentagon’s former chief investigator of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) Sean Kirkpatrick claimed that the conspiracy theorists who have been working for and within the US government have been perpetuating myths regarding UFOs that millions of taxpayer dollars are being spent into studying a “self-licking ice cream cone”. The claims were made by Kirkpatrick in a podcast after he stepped down from the position of the first director of the defence department’s all-domain anomaly resolution office (Aaro) last month. The department was established in 2022 to collect military reports of UAP sightings and to provide more transparency regarding what information the government has. The first comprehensive historical record report of Aaro was submitted to Congress and will be published later this year, said Kirkpatrick, adding that it contains no evidence of the existence of alien life and not only any government cover-up. Also read: It’s official, US is not able to defend itself against an alien invasion: Report He added that various lawmakers happily embrace unsubstantiated stories which are circulated by “a core group of people” regarding the secret government UFO research programmes. “They’re some of the same people that have been working behind the scenes with Congress to write legislation,” said Kirkpatrick, in the podcast. “They’re the same people that worked with a US company and the US army to explore a piece of material that they claim was a UAP and really is a piece of missile casing from the 1950s. They’re the same people that have been influencing some of these whistleblowers who have come forward to say: ‘Hey, I don’t have any first-hand evidence, but all these people are telling me this',” he added. Kirkpatrick did not identify the people by name, but agreed with the observation of Bergen that “the actual conspiracy is being carried out by a group of true believers themselves to get the government involved in the business of investigating aliens”. “That is a self-licking ice cream cone, exactly. The best thing that could have happened in this job is I found the aliens, and I could have rolled them out, but there’s none. There is no evidence of extraterrestrials. There is no evidence of aliens, and there’s no evidence of the government conspiracy,” said Kirkpatrick. Lawmakers succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making”: Kirkpatrick In his resignation essay, which was published last week by Scientific American, Kirkpatrick said that the lawmakers have succumbed to “conspiracy-driven decision-making” and sensationalism in their efforts to “uncover the cover-up”. Watch: NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World “Worrisome is the willingness of some to make judgments and take actions on these stories without having seen or even requested supporting evidence, an omission that is all the more problematic when the claims are so extraordinary,” Kirkpatrick wrote. “Some members of Congress prefer to opine about aliens to the press rather than get an evidence-based briefing on the matter. Members have a responsibility to exhibit critical-thinking skills instead of seeking the spotlight,” he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

No aliens, US govt's money spent over 'self-licking ice cream cone': Pentagon ex-UFO chief

In a move to bolster the country's defence capabilities, the Indian Ministry of Defence signed two major contracts worth Rs 800 crores ($96.9 million) for the procurement of crucial military equipment, a government press release stated.&nbsp;

The contracts, signed on Thursday (Jan 4) include a deal with Jupiter Wagons Limited for the production of Qty-697 Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons for Rs 473 crores ($56.8 million).

Additionally, a contract with BEML Ltd for the procurement of Qty-56 Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II was inked for Rs 329 crores ($39.5 million).

These agreements fall under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category and reflect&nbsp;the government's commitment to indigenous production and self-reliance in defence, aligning with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-announces-withdrawal-of-fuel-charges-on-domestic-and-international-routes-676681">India's largest airline IndiGo announces withdrawal of fuel charges on domestic, international routes</a>

The Bogie Open Military (BOM) wagons, designed by the Research Design and Standard Organization (RDSO), serve as specialised transport vehicles for the Indian Army.&nbsp;

Designed for the mobilisation of Army units, BOM wagons play a crucial role in transporting various military assets, including light vehicles, Artillery Guns, BMPs, and Engineering Equipment, from peacetime locations to operational areas.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-indians-in-canada-receiving-extortion-calls-to-qatar-case-here-are-key-takeaways-from-mea-briefing-676629">Indians in Canada receiving extortion calls to Qatar case, here are key takeaways from MEA briefing</a>

This acquisition of Critical Rolling Stock is expected to expedite the deployment of units and equipment during conflict situations. It will also facilitate peacetime movement for military exercises and unit relocation.

<section>
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Simultaneously, the procurement of Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II from BEML Ltd will address a mandatory requirement for marking minefields, as per the amended Protocol-II on the Convention in certain Conventional Weapons, to which India is a signatory.
</section>

The MMME is designed to operate cross country with a complete load of stores, minimising time and manpower required for minefield marking.

The advanced mechanical and electrical systems of the equipment, based on an in-service High Mobility Vehicle, are anticipated to reduce operational timelines during minefield marking operations, thereby enhancing the overall operational capability of the Indian Army.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a move to bolster the country's defence capabilities, the Indian Ministry of Defence signed two major contracts worth Rs 800 crores ($96.9 million) for the procurement of crucial military equipment, a government press release stated.

In a move to bolster the country's defence capabilities, the Indian Ministry of Defence signed two major contracts worth Rs 800 crores ($96.9 million) for the procurement of crucial military equipment, a government press release stated. The contracts, signed on Thursday (Jan 4) include a deal with Jupiter Wagons Limited for the production of Qty-697 Bogie Open Military (BOM) Wagons for Rs 473 crores ($56.8 million). Additionally, a contract with BEML Ltd for the procurement of Qty-56 Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II was inked for Rs 329 crores ($39.5 million). These agreements fall under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category and reflect the government's commitment to indigenous production and self-reliance in defence, aligning with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance). Also Read | India's largest airline IndiGo announces withdrawal of fuel charges on domestic, international routes The Bogie Open Military (BOM) wagons, designed by the Research Design and Standard Organization (RDSO), serve as specialised transport vehicles for the Indian Army. Designed for the mobilisation of Army units, BOM wagons play a crucial role in transporting various military assets, including light vehicles, Artillery Guns, BMPs, and Engineering Equipment, from peacetime locations to operational areas. Also Read | Indians in Canada receiving extortion calls to Qatar case, here are key takeaways from MEA briefing This acquisition of Critical Rolling Stock is expected to expedite the deployment of units and equipment during conflict situations. It will also facilitate peacetime movement for military exercises and unit relocation. Watch | Ayodhya Ram Temple: AI-powered surveillance system to detect suspicious patterns at inauguration × Simultaneously, the procurement of Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II from BEML Ltd will address a mandatory requirement for marking minefields, as per the amended Protocol-II on the Convention in certain Conventional Weapons, to which India is a signatory. The MMME is designed to operate cross country with a complete load of stores, minimising time and manpower required for minefield marking. The advanced mechanical and electrical systems of the equipment, based on an in-service High Mobility Vehicle, are anticipated to reduce operational timelines during minefield marking operations, thereby enhancing the overall operational capability of the Indian Army. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian government signs $96.9 million defence deal to strengthen army capabilities

India's supreme court has asked the Bihar govt to release data from its caste survey. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas | Indian top court asks Bihar govt to release cast survey data

202 Tigers have died in India between January 1 and December 24, 2023. 121 Tigers had died the previous year. What explains the exponential growth in tiger mortality. Who is killing India's tigers?

Gravitas | 202 Tigers died in India in 2023, it's a 10-year high

According to the latest report on Tigers, India witnessed 202 big cat deaths this year this is the highest number of tiger deaths reported in India in the last entire decade. The Wildlife Protection Society of India's fatality figures shows that Maharashtra reported the maximum deaths.

Indian government's data shows an upward trend in Tiger deaths

A new report published by a top American media house has unearthed a mountain of Hamas' finances that Israeli Intelligence Mossad had acknowledged going back to 2018 yet chose to ignore. These very funds were lightly used by Hamas in preparation for the deadly attacks on October 7th. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Did Israel ignore intel on Hamas attack?

Report: Israel knew of Hamas' terror financing as Mossad uncovered Hamas ledgers in 2018

Nepal government has announced elections to fill 19 vacant seats in the Upper House. The meeting of the council of ministers made the decision today to hold the election for the national assemblies during the last week of January.

Nepal government announces election date, polls to fill 19 seats in Upper House | WION

Shifting focus now cracking down on deep fake video content the Indian government as given social media platforms seven days to bring their terms of use in line with IT rules. The Ministry of electronics and Information Technology plans to appoint an officer to act against such content.

Indian government: 1 lakh fine, 3 years jail for creating deepfakes

Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation&nbsp;banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill".

"I was shocked as the decision came suddenly," said Manandhar, who earns about $1,500 a month by making content for restaurants, hotels and brands, and posting them on the&nbsp;app.

"Business has halved since the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;and the income from other social platforms like Instagram and YouTube is not enough to support this loss," she said. The 26-year-old splits her income with a videographer and a manager, who oversees communication with clients.

Nepal's&nbsp;centre-left coalition&nbsp;government&nbsp;is the latest to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;the&nbsp;app. TikTok is owned by China-based ByteDance, and several countries have raised concerns over its proximity to the Chinese&nbsp;government&nbsp;and hold over user data across the world.

Neighbour India&nbsp;banned TikTok along with dozens of other&nbsp;apps by Chinese developers in June 2020, saying that they could compromise national security and integrity.

Many Nepalis, however, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;has cut off a source of income and shut down a forum for free speech.

Dozens of people held&nbsp;protests&nbsp;in Kathmandu demanding the&nbsp;government&nbsp;revoke the&nbsp;ban, while others filed petitions against it at the Supreme&nbsp;Court. The&nbsp;court&nbsp;has asked the&nbsp;government&nbsp;to provide, in writing, its reasons for the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;before a Dec. 5 hearing.

Rajib Subba, an expert on cyber security, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;had affected many people for whom the&nbsp;app&nbsp;was "a social medium of livelihood, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship and advocacy". There are about 2.2 million TikTok users in Nepal, said Sudhir Parajuli, president of the Internet Service Providers' Association of Nepal (ISPAN).

In a letter to&nbsp;Nepal's&nbsp;telecom regulator, TikTok said it routinely addresses "content and behaviour" that violate its community guidelines. It did not provide any details.

More than 1,600 cyber crime cases, most of them related to TikTok, have been registered over the last four years in Nepal, according to local media reports.

Nepali housewife Sushila Pokharel, a regular user of the platform who posts videos of her dancing and singing, said the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;deprives people of a source of recreation.

"Stop anything bad in it, but it is wrong to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;the&nbsp;app&nbsp;completely," she said.

Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill".

Nepali TikTok creator Manjita Manandhar was caught off guard when the Himalayan nation banned the popular social media platform last week for disturbing "social harmony and goodwill". "I was shocked as the decision came suddenly," said Manandhar, who earns about $1,500 a month by making content for restaurants, hotels and brands, and posting them on the app. "Business has halved since the ban and the income from other social platforms like Instagram and YouTube is not enough to support this loss," she said. The 26-year-old splits her income with a videographer and a manager, who oversees communication with clients. Nepal's centre-left coalition government is the latest to ban the app. TikTok is owned by China-based ByteDance, and several countries have raised concerns over its proximity to the Chinese government and hold over user data across the world. Neighbour India banned TikTok along with dozens of other apps by Chinese developers in June 2020, saying that they could compromise national security and integrity. Many Nepalis, however, said the ban has cut off a source of income and shut down a forum for free speech. Dozens of people held protests in Kathmandu demanding the government revoke the ban, while others filed petitions against it at the Supreme Court. The court has asked the government to provide, in writing, its reasons for the ban before a Dec. 5 hearing. Rajib Subba, an expert on cyber security, said the ban had affected many people for whom the app was "a social medium of livelihood, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship and advocacy". There are about 2.2 million TikTok users in Nepal, said Sudhir Parajuli, president of the Internet Service Providers' Association of Nepal (ISPAN). In a letter to Nepal's telecom regulator, TikTok said it routinely addresses "content and behaviour" that violate its community guidelines. It did not provide any details. More than 1,600 cyber crime cases, most of them related to TikTok, have been registered over the last four years in Nepal, according to local media reports. Nepali housewife Sushila Pokharel, a regular user of the platform who posts videos of her dancing and singing, said the ban deprives people of a source of recreation. "Stop anything bad in it, but it is wrong to ban the app completely," she said.

Protests, court appeals as Nepal's TikTokers decry government ban on app

In a big boost to India's ambitions to be a tech manufacturing hub, the Narendra Modi government has allowed 27 companies to manufacture tech hardware in the country. This decision, taken under a 2 billion dollar incentive scheme, will help companies like Dell, HP and Foxconn.

Government allows 27 companies to manufacture hardware in India

UK government's plan to transfer asylum seekers to Rwanda is illegal, according to the British Supreme Court, because they wouldn't be safe there. The plan would expose asylum seekers to "risk of ill-treatment," as they could be returned to their home countries after being in Rwanda, according to the majority decision rendered by the UK's highest court on Wednesday. To know more watch this interview with Senior Journalist Nicholas Nugent.

UK Court: Rwanda not safe for asylum seekers

The new government of Slovakia on Wednesday (Nov 8) cancelled the last military aid package worth €40.3 million ($43.07 million) to Ukraine which was finalised by the previous administration. 
 
"The government doesn't approve the proposal for the donation of military equipment to Ukraine," stated the government, in a resolution which was adopted on Wednesday. 
 
It had pledged earlier to stop arms deliveries to the war-torn country. Earlier, the government had decided to provide Ukraine with rockets and ammunition, however, incoming Prime Minister Robert Fico took a pledge to stop any military aid to Kyiv as it battles the Russian invasion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mikhail-filiponenko-russia-backed-politician-killed-in-car-bomb-in-eastern-ukraine-656504">Mikhail Filiponenko: Russia-backed politician killed in car bomb attack in eastern Ukraine</a>

The aid package for Ukraine included more than 5,000 pieces of 125 mm cannon ammunition, 140 KUB air defence system rockets and 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition, as per the deal which was proposed by the caretaker government of the NATO country before it handed over power last month. 
 
The government led by Fico rejected the package during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, as per the government's website.

<h2>Slovakia stops shipments from army stores to Ukraine</h2>

Fico had led a campaign in which he had criticised the Western nations for providing military support to Ukraine and pressing sanctions against Russia. He had also supported peace talks, which was also propagated by Hungary's leader Viktor Orban. However, it was rejected by Ukraine. 
 
The election was won by Fico's leftist SMER-SSD party on September 30 after which it formed a ruling coalition with the nationalist SNS and centre-left HLAS parties.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: 6 killed in Donetsk; Zelensky says, 'Deployed more air defence systems' | WION

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Fico repeatedly stated that the country will stop shipments from army stores to Ukraine, however, he recently clarified that the private business deals will remain unaffected. 
 
The country had staunchly supported Ukraine and military equipment which included the S-300 air defence system and MiG-29 jets were supplied by a previous centre-right government. 
 
Slovakia, which shares its eastern border with Ukraine, had provided military aid in 13 packages which were worth €671 million to Ukraine since Russia launched an attack on Ukraine in February 2022 before the appointment of Fico. 
 
The diplomats stated that army stocks have been depleted largely so a cancellation of official military aid is likely to have limited impact.

(With inputs from agencies)

The new government of Slovakia on Wednesday (Nov 8) cancelled the last military aid package worth €40.3 million ($43.07 million) to Ukraine which was finalised by the previous administration.

The new government of Slovakia on Wednesday (Nov 8) cancelled the last military aid package worth €40.3 million ($43.07 million) to Ukraine which was finalised by the previous administration. "The government doesn't approve the proposal for the donation of military equipment to Ukraine," stated the government, in a resolution which was adopted on Wednesday. It had pledged earlier to stop arms deliveries to the war-torn country. Earlier, the government had decided to provide Ukraine with rockets and ammunition, however, incoming Prime Minister Robert Fico took a pledge to stop any military aid to Kyiv as it battles the Russian invasion. ALSO READ | Mikhail Filiponenko: Russia-backed politician killed in car bomb attack in eastern Ukraine The aid package for Ukraine included more than 5,000 pieces of 125 mm cannon ammunition, 140 KUB air defence system rockets and 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition, as per the deal which was proposed by the caretaker government of the NATO country before it handed over power last month. The government led by Fico rejected the package during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, as per the government's website. Slovakia stops shipments from army stores to Ukraine Fico had led a campaign in which he had criticised the Western nations for providing military support to Ukraine and pressing sanctions against Russia. He had also supported peace talks, which was also propagated by Hungary's leader Viktor Orban. However, it was rejected by Ukraine. The election was won by Fico's leftist SMER-SSD party on September 30 after which it formed a ruling coalition with the nationalist SNS and centre-left HLAS parties. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: 6 killed in Donetsk; Zelensky says, 'Deployed more air defence systems' | WION Fico repeatedly stated that the country will stop shipments from army stores to Ukraine, however, he recently clarified that the private business deals will remain unaffected. The country had staunchly supported Ukraine and military equipment which included the S-300 air defence system and MiG-29 jets were supplied by a previous centre-right government. Slovakia, which shares its eastern border with Ukraine, had provided military aid in 13 packages which were worth €671 million to Ukraine since Russia launched an attack on Ukraine in February 2022 before the appointment of Fico. The diplomats stated that army stocks have been depleted largely so a cancellation of official military aid is likely to have limited impact. (With inputs from agencies)

Slovakia cancels final military aid package to Ukraine

The schools in Delhi are set to remain closed for an early winter break from November 9 to 18 as the capital remains blanketed with the toxic smog since the last six days. 
 
The announcement was made by the city’s Directorate of Education on Wednesday, as it noted that "no respite from adverse weather conditions" has been predicted over the next few days. 
 
The government took the decision to bring ahead the winter vacation, which is normally given to students in the months of December and January, to protect the health of children.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: The 'Smog Tower' in Connaught Place has now been made operational as a measure to curb air pollution 
 
The Supreme Court yesterday directed the government to repair the smog tower, as the air quality in Delhi continues to remain in the 'severe' category. <a href="https://t.co/z4DmWzE0Z3">pic.twitter.com/z4DmWzE0Z3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1722145154566598934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The schools have been asked to adjust the November 9 to 18 holiday against the traditional break in December-January. 
 
The implementation of the odd-even rule has also been halted by the Delhi government.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-poor-aqi-what-is-grap-and-its-stages-indian-capitals-pollution-control-plan-655984">Delhi poor AQI: What is GRAP and its stages? Indian capital's pollution control plan</a>

The scheme was aimed at controlling air pollution caused by vehicular traffic by restricting the movement of cars on the basis of their registration numbers. 
 
The rule was halted after the Supreme Court questioned the scheme’s efficacy and called it “mere optics”. 
 
"The decision to implement the odd-even scheme will be made only after the Supreme Court reviews its effectiveness and issues an order," stated Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai.

<h2>Delhi restarts smog tower in Connaught Place</h2>

Meanwhile, the Delhi government stated that a smog tower has been restarted in the central shopping district of Connaught Place. 
 
This step was also taken by the Supreme Court’s intervention. 
 
"I want to thank Supreme Court for giving instruction to restart the smog tower, which was shut by the DPCC (Delhi Pollution Control Committee) Chairman," the minister stated.

WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi AQI: Stubble burning on the rise | AQI stands over 400

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The decisions were taken at a meeting which was chaired by minister Rai and saw the participation of education minister Atishi, transport minister Kailash Gahlot and senior Delhi government officials. 
 
The minister also took a swipe at the governments of neighbouring states and central government for "sitting silently" amid the crisis. 
 
Punjab and other neighbouring states are being seen as responsible for the worsening air quality crisis in the capital though now Punjab also has an Aam Aadmi Party government. The state on Tuesday (Oct 7) reported more than 1,500 stubble-burning incidents. 
 
The minister on Monday (Oct 6) had asked all the Delhi schools to suspend physical classes, apart from those in Class 10 and 12, till Friday (Nov 10) amid increasing air pollution levels.

(With inputs from agencies)

The schools in Delhi are set to remain closed for an early winter break from November 9 to 18 as the capital remains blanketed with the toxic smog since the last six days.

The schools in Delhi are set to remain closed for an early winter break from November 9 to 18 as the capital remains blanketed with the toxic smog since the last six days. The announcement was made by the city’s Directorate of Education on Wednesday, as it noted that "no respite from adverse weather conditions" has been predicted over the next few days. The government took the decision to bring ahead the winter vacation, which is normally given to students in the months of December and January, to protect the health of children. #WATCH | Delhi: The 'Smog Tower' in Connaught Place has now been made operational as a measure to curb air pollution The Supreme Court yesterday directed the government to repair the smog tower, as the air quality in Delhi continues to remain in the 'severe' category. pic.twitter.com/z4DmWzE0Z3 — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2023 × The schools have been asked to adjust the November 9 to 18 holiday against the traditional break in December-January. The implementation of the odd-even rule has also been halted by the Delhi government. ALSO READ | Delhi poor AQI: What is GRAP and its stages? Indian capital's pollution control plan The scheme was aimed at controlling air pollution caused by vehicular traffic by restricting the movement of cars on the basis of their registration numbers. The rule was halted after the Supreme Court questioned the scheme’s efficacy and called it “mere optics”. "The decision to implement the odd-even scheme will be made only after the Supreme Court reviews its effectiveness and issues an order," stated Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai. Delhi restarts smog tower in Connaught Place Meanwhile, the Delhi government stated that a smog tower has been restarted in the central shopping district of Connaught Place. This step was also taken by the Supreme Court’s intervention. "I want to thank Supreme Court for giving instruction to restart the smog tower, which was shut by the DPCC (Delhi Pollution Control Committee) Chairman," the minister stated. WATCH | Delhi AQI: Stubble burning on the rise | AQI stands over 400 The decisions were taken at a meeting which was chaired by minister Rai and saw the participation of education minister Atishi, transport minister Kailash Gahlot and senior Delhi government officials. The minister also took a swipe at the governments of neighbouring states and central government for "sitting silently" amid the crisis. Punjab and other neighbouring states are being seen as responsible for the worsening air quality crisis in the capital though now Punjab also has an Aam Aadmi Party government. The state on Tuesday (Oct 7) reported more than 1,500 stubble-burning incidents. The minister on Monday (Oct 6) had asked all the Delhi schools to suspend physical classes, apart from those in Class 10 and 12, till Friday (Nov 10) amid increasing air pollution levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi govt orders early winter break in schools from November 9 to 18 due to air pollution

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