The UK government's strong stance on the immigration policy has come under fire again, this time its over the country's farmers with many having gone out of business allegedly because of the government's conservative approach to the issue.

UK: Farmers, MPs urge government to increase number of temporary visas

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan reached his residence here Saturday early morning after a prolonged standoff with authorities in Islamabad during which he was made to stay in the court premises over the provision of security to him despite being granted bail in a number of cases.

Pakistan: Former PM Imran Khan targets government, army establishment

The apple farmers and traders in the Kashmir Valley are extremely happy after the Indian&nbsp; government decided to amend its import policy for apples. The central government recently changed the import policy of India for apples and also banned the import of apples below the minimum price.&nbsp;

The Government of India recently took a decision and introduced a Minimum Import Price (MIP) to protect the interest of the country's apple growers. The decision has been lauded by the apple growers across India, including those in Kashmir Valley and Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), besides other farmers' associations in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, had pushed for a cap on such imports to save the local apple farmers of the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rare-alligator-gar-fish-found-in-dal-lake-in-kashmir-591699">India: Rare Alligator Gar Fish found in Dal Lake of Kashmir</a>

The Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) had written to the Indian Ministry of Commerce's joint secretary highlighting the issue.&nbsp;

''I welcome the decision of the government that they have put a cap of Rs 50 on imports. It's a cap that the government has implemented. It will majorly hit the apple from Iran and Turkey. The other country's apples, like the United States, are already giving duty. This will benefit the Kashmiri apple growers. The apples from Iran and Turkey hit the market of Kashmir and Himachal. The local demand for our apples in the country will increase for sure,'' said Mohammad Shahid Chaudhary, General Secretary, JK Fruit Association.&nbsp;

The government issued an order on May 8 stating that "in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 read with section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, read with para 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, as amended from time to time, the Central Government hereby ITC (HS), 2022, amends the import policy position under ITC (HS) 08081000 of Chapter-08 of Schedule-I (Import Policy)".&nbsp;

According to the new Import Policy of India, the import of apples under ITC (HS) 08081000 is now 'prohibited' where the CIF import value is equal to or less than Rs 50&nbsp;per kg.&nbsp;

WATCH | India: Major revamp in Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar gets smart city treatment

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However, these Minimum Import Price (MIP) conditions will not apply to imports from Bhutan. The previous season the apple growers of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal had to bear huge losses as apples at much lower cost were imported from the neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

As the input cost of apples is increasing rapidly, low market prices are discouraging apple cultivation in both Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.

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The apple farmers and traders in the Kashmir Valley are extremely happy after the Indian government decided to amend its import policy for apples. The central government recently changed the import policy of India for apples and also banned the import of apples below the minimum price.

The apple farmers and traders in the Kashmir Valley are extremely happy after the Indian government decided to amend its import policy for apples. The central government recently changed the import policy of India for apples and also banned the import of apples below the minimum price. The Government of India recently took a decision and introduced a Minimum Import Price (MIP) to protect the interest of the country's apple growers. The decision has been lauded by the apple growers across India, including those in Kashmir Valley and Himachal Pradesh. The Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA), besides other farmers' associations in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, had pushed for a cap on such imports to save the local apple farmers of the country. ALSO READ | India: Rare Alligator Gar Fish found in Dal Lake of Kashmir The Jammu and Kashmir Fruit and Vegetable Processing and Integrated Cold Chain Association (JKPICCA) had written to the Indian Ministry of Commerce's joint secretary highlighting the issue. ''I welcome the decision of the government that they have put a cap of Rs 50 on imports. It's a cap that the government has implemented. It will majorly hit the apple from Iran and Turkey. The other country's apples, like the United States, are already giving duty. This will benefit the Kashmiri apple growers. The apples from Iran and Turkey hit the market of Kashmir and Himachal. The local demand for our apples in the country will increase for sure,'' said Mohammad Shahid Chaudhary, General Secretary, JK Fruit Association. The government issued an order on May 8 stating that "in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3 read with section 5 of the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, read with para 1.02 and 2.01 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, as amended from time to time, the Central Government hereby ITC (HS), 2022, amends the import policy position under ITC (HS) 08081000 of Chapter-08 of Schedule-I (Import Policy)". According to the new Import Policy of India, the import of apples under ITC (HS) 08081000 is now 'prohibited' where the CIF import value is equal to or less than Rs 50 per kg. WATCH | India: Major revamp in Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar gets smart city treatment However, these Minimum Import Price (MIP) conditions will not apply to imports from Bhutan. The previous season the apple growers of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal had to bear huge losses as apples at much lower cost were imported from the neighbouring countries. As the input cost of apples is increasing rapidly, low market prices are discouraging apple cultivation in both Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Kashmiri apple farmers happy after Indian government amends apple import policy

A five-judge Constitution Bench which comprises Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Hima Kohli, Justice PS Narasimha, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice S Ravindra Bhat is listening to a batch of petitions related to ‘marriage equality rights' for LGBTQIA+ community.

Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told&nbsp;the court that the government remains positive about the idea of adopting administrative steps in this regard.&nbsp;

"The issue has some genuine human concerns and there were discussions on whether something can be done administratively. The government is positive. This would need coordination by different ministries. A committee headed by a cabinet secretary will be formed and suggestions given by the petitioners will be addressed," Mehta said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/urban-elite-concept-indian-govt-opposes-same-sex-marriage-as-sc-to-begin-hearing-583259"> ‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing</a>

Speaking to the bench, Mehta said that this would require coordination between various ministries and may need some time. He stated that the petitioners can provide their suggestions on what administrative steps can be adopted in this regard.

Replying to this, CJI Chandrachud said, "The petitioners can submit suggestions between today and the next hearing so that they can apply their minds as well to it."

However, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi told the bench that the matter is very complicated and it needs interpretation of the law. Justice Ravindra Bhat stated, "Sometimes beginnings are small".&nbsp;

Justice SK Kaul further added, "This is without prejudice to everyone's rights, even if marriage rights are granted, there will be many changes required in the legislative and administrative domain. The government is not reluctant to solve the problems arising from gay companionship, just not the label of marriage."

Meanwhile, senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy, who is appearing for the petitioners, said, "I speak here mostly for young people in the small towns who want to be married. Please do not leave them."

WATCH | Gravitas: Indian Government opposes same-sex marriage

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After listening to the arguments, the CJI said that the Supreme Court, as a constitutional court, has an issue "if we go by what young people feel".&nbsp;

"If we entertain this argument, then the other side will throw at us what the country wants and we cannot go into that. This is a social institution which is evolving and the court, as a facilitator, can ensure that there is some development. If we don't recognize same-sex marriage, we do not want you to be with nothing in your hand," he added.&nbsp;

The court hearing continued on Wednesday for the seventh day. A batch of petitions is being heard that seek legal recognition of same-sex marriage in India.

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A five-judge Constitution Bench which comprises Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Hima Kohli, Justice PS Narasimha, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice S Ravindra Bhat is listening to a batch of petitions related to ‘marriage equality rights' for LGBTQIA+ community.

A five-judge Constitution Bench which comprises Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Hima Kohli, Justice PS Narasimha, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice S Ravindra Bhat is listening to a batch of petitions related to ‘marriage equality rights' for LGBTQIA+ community. Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that the government remains positive about the idea of adopting administrative steps in this regard. "The issue has some genuine human concerns and there were discussions on whether something can be done administratively. The government is positive. This would need coordination by different ministries. A committee headed by a cabinet secretary will be formed and suggestions given by the petitioners will be addressed," Mehta said. ALSO READ | ‘Urban elite concept’: Indian govt opposes same-sex marriage as SC to begin hearing Speaking to the bench, Mehta said that this would require coordination between various ministries and may need some time. He stated that the petitioners can provide their suggestions on what administrative steps can be adopted in this regard. Replying to this, CJI Chandrachud said, "The petitioners can submit suggestions between today and the next hearing so that they can apply their minds as well to it." However, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi told the bench that the matter is very complicated and it needs interpretation of the law. Justice Ravindra Bhat stated, "Sometimes beginnings are small". Justice SK Kaul further added, "This is without prejudice to everyone's rights, even if marriage rights are granted, there will be many changes required in the legislative and administrative domain. The government is not reluctant to solve the problems arising from gay companionship, just not the label of marriage." Meanwhile, senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy, who is appearing for the petitioners, said, "I speak here mostly for young people in the small towns who want to be married. Please do not leave them." WATCH | Gravitas: Indian Government opposes same-sex marriage After listening to the arguments, the CJI said that the Supreme Court, as a constitutional court, has an issue "if we go by what young people feel". "If we entertain this argument, then the other side will throw at us what the country wants and we cannot go into that. This is a social institution which is evolving and the court, as a facilitator, can ensure that there is some development. If we don't recognize same-sex marriage, we do not want you to be with nothing in your hand," he added. The court hearing continued on Wednesday for the seventh day. A batch of petitions is being heard that seek legal recognition of same-sex marriage in India. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Will form committee to address issues being faced by same-sex couples, govt tells SC

The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August.&nbsp;

This comes as Supreme Court was all set to hear a number of pleas contesting the constitutionality of the&nbsp;sedition law under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code.

In recent years, the use of the sedition law in India has become a subject of controversy, with some critics arguing that it is being misused to stifle free speech and dissent. There have been a number of high-profile cases in which individuals, including journalists, activists, and students, have been charged with sedition.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-18-dead-dozens-injured-as-tourist-bus-in-mexico-plunges-in-ravine-587657">At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine</a>

The consultation process, according to Attorney General R. Venkataramani, is at an advanced level, and he will be seen it before it is presented to Parliament.

He pleaded with the bench, "Kindly post the matter for further hearing after the Monsoon session of Parliament." Gopal Sankaranarayanan, a senior advocate, had requested the bench to form a bench of seven judges to decide the concerns. The bench ruled that even if the case had to be heard by seven judges, a five-judge bench would have to hear it first.

The colonial-era legal code against sedition was placed on pause by the supreme court on 11 May, 2022, pending a "proper" government forum's review of it.

The court also instructed the federal government and the states not to file any new FIRs citing the crime. The top court had decided that in addition to the filing of FIRs, all investigations, trials, and other actions related to the sedition statute across the nation would be put on hold.

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The bench talked of the necessity to strike a balance between the interests of civil rights and individuals with those of the State, noting that the legislation has come under heavy public criticism for its alleged use as a tool to stifle dissent, notably on social media.

Sedition was added to the penal code in 1890, about 30 years after the IPC was created and 57 years before Independence, and carries a maximum prison sentence of life under Section 124A of the IPC for "creating disaffection towards the government."

Critics of the sedition law argue that it is a colonial-era law that is outdated and incompatible with democratic principles, and that it is being used to suppress dissent and criticism of the government.

Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country, and that it is an important tool in combating various forms of extremism.

A growing number of people have been accused of sedition, including the Maharashtra political couple Navneet and Ravi Rana, novelist Arundhati Roy, student activist Umar Khalid, and journalist Siddique Kappan.

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Overall, the use of the sedition law in India remains a contentious issue, with ongoing debates about its relevance and appropriateness in a democratic society that values freedom of speech and expression.

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The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August.

The Centre on Monday told India's Supreme Court that it was in the advanced stages of consultation with regard to reexamining the colonial-era sedition law. Upon this, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala postponed the hearing of please against the law till the second week of August. This comes as Supreme Court was all set to hear a number of pleas contesting the constitutionality of the sedition law under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code. In recent years, the use of the sedition law in India has become a subject of controversy, with some critics arguing that it is being misused to stifle free speech and dissent. There have been a number of high-profile cases in which individuals, including journalists, activists, and students, have been charged with sedition. Also Read | At least 18 dead, dozens injured as tourist bus in Mexico plunges into ravine The consultation process, according to Attorney General R. Venkataramani, is at an advanced level, and he will be seen it before it is presented to Parliament. He pleaded with the bench, "Kindly post the matter for further hearing after the Monsoon session of Parliament." Gopal Sankaranarayanan, a senior advocate, had requested the bench to form a bench of seven judges to decide the concerns. The bench ruled that even if the case had to be heard by seven judges, a five-judge bench would have to hear it first. The colonial-era legal code against sedition was placed on pause by the supreme court on 11 May, 2022, pending a "proper" government forum's review of it. The court also instructed the federal government and the states not to file any new FIRs citing the crime. The top court had decided that in addition to the filing of FIRs, all investigations, trials, and other actions related to the sedition statute across the nation would be put on hold. Also Read | Suspected ISIS chief, codename Abu Hussein al-Qurashi, killed in Syria: Turkey president The bench talked of the necessity to strike a balance between the interests of civil rights and individuals with those of the State, noting that the legislation has come under heavy public criticism for its alleged use as a tool to stifle dissent, notably on social media. Sedition was added to the penal code in 1890, about 30 years after the IPC was created and 57 years before Independence, and carries a maximum prison sentence of life under Section 124A of the IPC for "creating disaffection towards the government." Critics of the sedition law argue that it is a colonial-era law that is outdated and incompatible with democratic principles, and that it is being used to suppress dissent and criticism of the government. Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country, and that it is an important tool in combating various forms of extremism. A growing number of people have been accused of sedition, including the Maharashtra political couple Navneet and Ravi Rana, novelist Arundhati Roy, student activist Umar Khalid, and journalist Siddique Kappan. Watch | Experts predict AI to be the forefront of 2024 US election campaign × Overall, the use of the sedition law in India remains a contentious issue, with ongoing debates about its relevance and appropriateness in a democratic society that values freedom of speech and expression. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian SC defers hearing on pleas against sedition law, govt says re-examining at advanced consultation stage

Chile’s lithium industry is at a crossroads. Chile's President Gabriel Boric announced to nationalise the country's lithium industry. The step is taken to boost its economy and protect its environment. From industry super giants, the reign would now be in the hands of a separate state-owned company.

Why is Chile planning to nationalise its vast lithium industry?

The government of South Korea is urging reclusive kids to step out of their homes and experience the world outside.

The country's Ministry of Gender Equality and Family said that the cabinet approved a resolution on Tuesday to potentially spend thousands of dollars year on education, career counselling, and health support for those who are living as recluses and are between the ages of nine&nbsp;and 24, reported Bloomberg.&nbsp;

The programme, which expands on a November statement, is aimed at people who have significant social withdrawal, or "hikikomori," a term coined in Japan to describe the condition, which likely became worse by the pandemic.&nbsp;

Youth in South Korea who meet certain criteria can get funding in a number of categories, including a monthly living expense allowance of 650,000 won (US$490).&nbsp;

The ministry issued a statement stating that the government is "strengthening its support to enable reclusive youth to recover their daily lives and reintegrate into society."&nbsp;

ALSO&nbsp;READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-hikikomori-the-trend-keeping-almost-15-mn-japanese-living-in-isolation-579782">What is hikikomori? The trend keeping almost 1.5mn Japanese in isolation</a>

The primary objective of the policy is to assist underprivileged kids, but it is also a means by which the nation might address its declining working-age population in the face of frighteningly low birthrates and stringent immigration regulations.&nbsp;

By 2044, South Korea is expected to have an ageing population that will only be surpassed by Hong Kong in terms of the proportion of the population that is over 65.&nbsp;

Government officials have responded by making a number of emergency actions, such as providing childcare subsidies to raise the lowest fertility rate in the world. Attempts to raise the country’s population through births have cost more than $200 billion so far, but with limited success. &nbsp;

ALSO&nbsp;WATCH |&nbsp;Pentagon leak shows South Korea divided on sending Ukraine weapons | Trending on WION

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This action was taken right after President Yoon Suk Yeol urged officials to approach the matter with a "emergency mindset" and dubbed the birthrate and subsequent drop in productivity a "crucial national agenda".

“This policy is fundamentally a welfare measure,” said&nbsp;Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University in Seoul, who spoke to Bloomberg.&nbsp;“While it’s good to try various approaches to boost working age population, it cannot be seen as a long-term solution to fix the population problem here.”

Despite the country's booming economy in recent years, South Korea continues to struggle with high youth unemployment, which is the highest among all age groups at 7.2 per cent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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The government of South Korea is urging reclusive kids to step out of their homes and experience the world outside. The country's Ministry of Gender Equality and Family said that the cabinet approved a resolution on Tuesday to potentially spend thousands of dollars year on education, career counselling, and health support for those who are living as recluses and are between the ages of nine and 24, reported Bloomberg.

The government of South Korea is urging reclusive kids to step out of their homes and experience the world outside. The country's Ministry of Gender Equality and Family said that the cabinet approved a resolution on Tuesday to potentially spend thousands of dollars year on education, career counselling, and health support for those who are living as recluses and are between the ages of nine and 24, reported Bloomberg. The programme, which expands on a November statement, is aimed at people who have significant social withdrawal, or "hikikomori," a term coined in Japan to describe the condition, which likely became worse by the pandemic. Youth in South Korea who meet certain criteria can get funding in a number of categories, including a monthly living expense allowance of 650,000 won (US$490). The ministry issued a statement stating that the government is "strengthening its support to enable reclusive youth to recover their daily lives and reintegrate into society." ALSO READ | What is hikikomori? The trend keeping almost 1.5mn Japanese in isolation The primary objective of the policy is to assist underprivileged kids, but it is also a means by which the nation might address its declining working-age population in the face of frighteningly low birthrates and stringent immigration regulations. By 2044, South Korea is expected to have an ageing population that will only be surpassed by Hong Kong in terms of the proportion of the population that is over 65. Government officials have responded by making a number of emergency actions, such as providing childcare subsidies to raise the lowest fertility rate in the world. Attempts to raise the country’s population through births have cost more than $200 billion so far, but with limited success. ALSO WATCH | Pentagon leak shows South Korea divided on sending Ukraine weapons | Trending on WION This action was taken right after President Yoon Suk Yeol urged officials to approach the matter with a "emergency mindset" and dubbed the birthrate and subsequent drop in productivity a "crucial national agenda". “This policy is fundamentally a welfare measure,” said Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University in Seoul, who spoke to Bloomberg. “While it’s good to try various approaches to boost working age population, it cannot be seen as a long-term solution to fix the population problem here.” Despite the country's booming economy in recent years, South Korea continues to struggle with high youth unemployment, which is the highest among all age groups at 7.2 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korea tries $500 incentive to encourage reclusive kids to venture out

The&nbsp;teenagers appealed to the government of Australia&nbsp;to impose tougher restrictions which can help them free themselves from their nicotine addiction, revealed the submissions made to a major consultation on the issue of vaping reforms.

South Australia’s commissioner for children and young people Helen Connolly made a submission to the drug regulator Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) which included comments written by around 950 teenagers between the age of 13-to-19 in a survey conducted by her office regarding vaping.

“All we have to do is go to a cheap servo…and there we can buy a vape without being asked for identification of age. There really needs to be restrictions put in place to make them not so easy to access and then the addiction would be forced to stop. I know many people, me included, would be extremely angry at first when there [sic] in the first few days without nicotine but if adults want children to stop, I truly believe it’s the only way,” a 16-year-old girl wrote.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaping-age-in-the-us-decreasing-intensity-of-use-shooting-up-new-study-says-532537">Vaping age in the US decreasing, intensity of use shooting up, new study says</a>

“Stop treating kids with vaping addiction like they’re awful people because you would help an adult with one but not a child,” said a 15-year-old girl.

“Some of us aren’t doing it to look cool, some of us are genuinely struggling with addictions or are using them as coping mechanisms like a stress reliever,” mentioned a 17-year-old girl in her comments.

Connolly said that on the basis of comments made by the teenagers in the survey, the government should ban nicotine and non-nicotine vaping products from importation unless they are bound for pharmacies.

She added that the products must be tested, certified and labelled properly and should be packed in plain packaging, except for colouring agents and tobacco, which should be prohibited.

“Such a response must avoid punishing children and young people, while ensuring there is information and support available for all children, with particular support for those who may be dependent or addicted to nicotine vapes and may struggle with withdrawals,” she stated.

The TGA published around 4,000 submissions added to the vaping reform inquiry on Thursday. The Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia made a submission, which stated, “The direct comments from students read as a cri-de-coeur.” 
&nbsp;

WATCH | Gravitas: China's vaping devices plague UK

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They quoted a 17-year-old student in the submission saying, “I’ve tried to quit and I couldn’t think straight. I had the worst ever headaches of my life and I found it to be much too difficult to quit.”

Speaking to Guardian Australia, Health Minister Mark Butler&nbsp;said, “The status quo on vaping is completely unacceptable. We know this problem has exploded over the last several years and we know the urgency to act is this year.”

A second tobacco control round table will be held by Butler in April. “Health ministers are determined to take strong action about the explosion of illegal vaping in Australia and stamp out this menace,” he said.&nbsp; 
 
 
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The teenagers appealed to the government of Australia to impose tougher restrictions which can help them free themselves from their nicotine addiction, revealed the submissions made to a major consultation on the issue of vaping reforms.

The teenagers appealed to the government of Australia to impose tougher restrictions which can help them free themselves from their nicotine addiction, revealed the submissions made to a major consultation on the issue of vaping reforms. South Australia’s commissioner for children and young people Helen Connolly made a submission to the drug regulator Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) which included comments written by around 950 teenagers between the age of 13-to-19 in a survey conducted by her office regarding vaping. “All we have to do is go to a cheap servo…and there we can buy a vape without being asked for identification of age. There really needs to be restrictions put in place to make them not so easy to access and then the addiction would be forced to stop. I know many people, me included, would be extremely angry at first when there [sic] in the first few days without nicotine but if adults want children to stop, I truly believe it’s the only way,” a 16-year-old girl wrote. ALSO READ | Vaping age in the US decreasing, intensity of use shooting up, new study says “Stop treating kids with vaping addiction like they’re awful people because you would help an adult with one but not a child,” said a 15-year-old girl. “Some of us aren’t doing it to look cool, some of us are genuinely struggling with addictions or are using them as coping mechanisms like a stress reliever,” mentioned a 17-year-old girl in her comments. Connolly said that on the basis of comments made by the teenagers in the survey, the government should ban nicotine and non-nicotine vaping products from importation unless they are bound for pharmacies. She added that the products must be tested, certified and labelled properly and should be packed in plain packaging, except for colouring agents and tobacco, which should be prohibited. “Such a response must avoid punishing children and young people, while ensuring there is information and support available for all children, with particular support for those who may be dependent or addicted to nicotine vapes and may struggle with withdrawals,” she stated. The TGA published around 4,000 submissions added to the vaping reform inquiry on Thursday. The Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia made a submission, which stated, “The direct comments from students read as a cri-de-coeur.” WATCH | Gravitas: China's vaping devices plague UK They quoted a 17-year-old student in the submission saying, “I’ve tried to quit and I couldn’t think straight. I had the worst ever headaches of my life and I found it to be much too difficult to quit.” Speaking to Guardian Australia, Health Minister Mark Butler said, “The status quo on vaping is completely unacceptable. We know this problem has exploded over the last several years and we know the urgency to act is this year.” A second tobacco control round table will be held by Butler in April. “Health ministers are determined to take strong action about the explosion of illegal vaping in Australia and stamp out this menace,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: Teenagers urge government to help them fight off vaping addiction

A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court led by Justice S.K. Kaul on March 14 dismissed the Central Government’s curative petition to enhance the $470 million (about ₹725 crore at the then exchange rate) compensation granted to victims of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy that killed over 3,000 people and caused environmental damage.

Bhopal gas tragedy case: Supreme Court dismisses Centre’s petition seeking additional compensation

In December 1984, more than 40 tons of methyl isocyanate, leaked from a pesticide plant in the Indian city of Bhopal. The gas leak killed over 3,000 people & caused significant morbidity & premature death for many thousands more. The Indian govt sought over $850 million from union carbide corporation’s successor firms to extend higher compensation. A 5-judge constitution bench dismissed the plea. The money sought was over & above the $470 million it got as a part of the settlement in 1989. As per the govt, the enormity of the actual damage could not be properly assessed at the time of the settlement in 1989. Dismissing the plea, India's top court said a settlement can only be set aside on the ground of fraud. The court dubbed the failure to take insurance policies as gross negligence. A sum of over $ 6.7 million lying with India's central bank shall be utilised to satisfy pending claims. Survivors have long been fighting for adequate compensation & proper medical treatment.

Bhopal gas leak: Govt plea for more funds dismissed | One of the deadliest industrial disasters ever

In December 1984, more than 40 tons of methyl isocyanate, leaked from a pesticide plant in the Indian city of Bhopal. The gas leak killed more than 3,000 people and caused significant morbidity and premature death for many thousands more. The successor firms of union carbide corporation earlier said the depreciation of the rupee since 1989 cannot be a ground to now seek a top-up of compensation. The successor firms cited the 1989 settlement between the company and the government. The firms told the court that, at the time of the settlement, the Indian government never suggested it was inadequate. The Indian government wants more than 850 million U.S. Dollars. This sum is over and above the 470 million dollars it got as a part of the settlement in 1989. As per the government, the enormity of the actual damage could not be properly assessed at the time of the settlement in 1989. The survivors of the tragedy have long been fighting for adequate compensation and proper medical treatment.

Bhopal gas tragedy: Indian Government's bid to extend higher compensation to victims | Details

Bhopal gas tragedy: Supreme Court rejects plea for more compensation for victims

Thousands of Israelis have gathered for evening protests across the country, capping a day of near-around-the-clock demonstrations against the government’s judicial overhaul plan. The two main evening protests are held in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

'Day of disruption' protests rock capital of Israel

Nepal's second largest party in Parliament - CPN-UML - on Monday decided to withdraw its support to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda"-led government in the wake of a renewed political equation in the run-up to the presidential election, dealing a jolt to the two-month-old ruling coalition.

KP Oli withdraws support from the government

UML had earlier decided to wait till the presidential elections scheduled for the 9th of March before taking a final call on whether to leave the government, Prachanda has now declared his intentions to back the Nepali Congress candidate.

Nepal's leftist parties part ways, KP Oli withdraws support from the govt

KP Oli withdraws support from the govt

Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd. said its chief executive officer will leave the beleaguered state-owned South African utility more than a month before planned, a day after he censured the government and the ruling African National Congress over corruption.

ESKOM Power Grid CEO steps down

India's foreign exchange reserves fell by $8.3 billion to $566.95 billion in the week ended February 10 -- its biggest weekly fall in 11 months. According to data released by RBI on Friday, the reserves are at their lowest level since January 6, 2023.

India's Forex Reserves fall biggest in 11 months

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday appealed to his supporters and workers to get ready for the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ (mass arrest movement) in protest against the government for inflicting torture on the leaders of his party and delaying the announcement for fresh general elections.&nbsp;The comments were made by the ousted prime minister on Saturday during his television address in which he was seen speaking from his Zaman Park residence.

The call has been made days after the cases of sedition were filed against Fawad Chaudhry, his party's Senior Vice-President, and former member of the National Assembly Shandana Gulzar.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pti-leader-fawad-chaudhry-arrested-for-sedition-imran-khan-may-be-put-under-house-arrest-555909">Pakistan: PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry arrested for sedition, Imran Khan may be put under house arrest</a>

“I ask the people to get ready and wait for my call for ‘jail bharo tehreek’. There will not be that much space in Pakistani jails to have them all,” said Khan.

He added that if the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government and their supporters in the military believe that “we will be frightened by harassment and custodial torture, they are seriously mistaken”.

“Wait for my call…when I will give you the signal to fill jails. I know the jails will choke as they don’t have that much capacity,” said Khan.

Khan's close aide Chaudhry was arrested last week from his Lahore residence in a pre-dawn raid after the Secretary of the Election Commission of Pakistan complained against him for “threatening” the members of the electoral body and their families.

Meanwhile, Gulzar, who had clinched victory from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province's reserved women’s seat, was booked for “inciting violence against constitutional institutions of the country”.

“Fawad Chaudhry was picked up from home at 3 am. What did Shandana Gulzar do that made her a terrorist? As the court gives bail to Sheikh Rashid, more cases are being filed against him,” Khan stated.

The former prime minister, in his fiery speech, stated that his party could have even held a nationwide strike. He added that, however, they decided to fill the prisons and not hold strikes as that may deteriorate the dwindling economy of the country.

“We have two options: Considering what they have been doing, we could have gone for a wheel-jam strike and demonstrations — which is also a way and a democratic one. But since the state of the economy is so bad, it will worsen it. Therefore, I ask all my workers, the Pakistani nation and everyone to prepare for the Jail Bharo movement,” Khan stated.

WATCH | WION Dispatch: Assassination bid on Pakistan PM Imran Khan, suspect arrested

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He added that under the leadership of incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the nation is heading towards the law of the jungle, where “might is right”.

Khan added that the “imported government” had planned to disqualify him and then announce dates for fresh general elections.

“We dissolved governments in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces over two weeks but the incumbent rulers with the help of the Election Commission of Pakistan are trying their best to delay the elections which have to be held under 90 days under the Constitution (after the dissolution of the assemblies). The rulers fear that they will badly lose, that is why they don’t want polls now,” the prime minister said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday appealed to his supporters and workers to get ready for the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ (mass arrest movement) in protest against the government for inflicting torture on the leaders of his party and delaying the announcement for fresh general elections.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan on Saturday appealed to his supporters and workers to get ready for the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek’ (mass arrest movement) in protest against the government for inflicting torture on the leaders of his party and delaying the announcement for fresh general elections. The comments were made by the ousted prime minister on Saturday during his television address in which he was seen speaking from his Zaman Park residence. The call has been made days after the cases of sedition were filed against Fawad Chaudhry, his party's Senior Vice-President, and former member of the National Assembly Shandana Gulzar. ALSO READ | Pakistan: PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry arrested for sedition, Imran Khan may be put under house arrest “I ask the people to get ready and wait for my call for ‘jail bharo tehreek’. There will not be that much space in Pakistani jails to have them all,” said Khan. He added that if the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government and their supporters in the military believe that “we will be frightened by harassment and custodial torture, they are seriously mistaken”. “Wait for my call…when I will give you the signal to fill jails. I know the jails will choke as they don’t have that much capacity,” said Khan. Khan's close aide Chaudhry was arrested last week from his Lahore residence in a pre-dawn raid after the Secretary of the Election Commission of Pakistan complained against him for “threatening” the members of the electoral body and their families. Meanwhile, Gulzar, who had clinched victory from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province's reserved women’s seat, was booked for “inciting violence against constitutional institutions of the country”. “Fawad Chaudhry was picked up from home at 3 am. What did Shandana Gulzar do that made her a terrorist? As the court gives bail to Sheikh Rashid, more cases are being filed against him,” Khan stated. The former prime minister, in his fiery speech, stated that his party could have even held a nationwide strike. He added that, however, they decided to fill the prisons and not hold strikes as that may deteriorate the dwindling economy of the country. “We have two options: Considering what they have been doing, we could have gone for a wheel-jam strike and demonstrations — which is also a way and a democratic one. But since the state of the economy is so bad, it will worsen it. Therefore, I ask all my workers, the Pakistani nation and everyone to prepare for the Jail Bharo movement,” Khan stated. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Assassination bid on Pakistan PM Imran Khan, suspect arrested He added that under the leadership of incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the nation is heading towards the law of the jungle, where “might is right”. Khan added that the “imported government” had planned to disqualify him and then announce dates for fresh general elections. “We dissolved governments in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces over two weeks but the incumbent rulers with the help of the Election Commission of Pakistan are trying their best to delay the elections which have to be held under 90 days under the Constitution (after the dissolution of the assemblies). The rulers fear that they will badly lose, that is why they don’t want polls now,” the prime minister said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan: Imran Khan calls for ‘Jail Bharo’ movement against Shehbaz Sharif government

The Union government of India will not allow social media platforms to circulate any information that is identified as false, as per the new draft proposal of the IT rules of India released this week.&nbsp;This is the latest step in the many measures introduced by the Narendra Modi government being perceived as efforts to control the big technological firms.&nbsp;

Any kind of information which has been marked as "fake or false" by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) or other agencies, which have been authorised for the purpose of fact-checking by the government or "by its department in which such business is transacted", will not be allowed on social media under the draft.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/propaganda-piece-and-colonial-mindset-india-slams-bbc-documentary-on-2002-gujarat-riots-554189">'Propaganda piece and colonial mindset': India slams BBC documentary on 2002 Gujarat riots</a>

After the information was identified as fake, "reasonable efforts" would have to be made by social media platforms or other "online intermediaries" to ensure the people do not "host, display, upload, modify, publish, transmit, store, update or share" any such information, it stated.&nbsp;

The government had in October announced that it would set up a panel to hear users' complaints regarding social media firms' decisions related to content moderation. The social media firms already need to appoint executives and in-house grievance redressal officers to co-ordinate with officials of law enforcement.&nbsp;

WATCH | WION Fineprint | India the world's most populous country?

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Repeatedly, the government has faced tussles with different platforms which failed to fulfil their demands regarding the removal of certain accounts or content which were allegedly spreading misinformation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Union government of India will not allow social media platforms to circulate any information that is identified as false, as per the new draft proposal of the IT rules of India released this week.

The Union government of India will not allow social media platforms to circulate any information that is identified as false, as per the new draft proposal of the IT rules of India released this week. This is the latest step in the many measures introduced by the Narendra Modi government being perceived as efforts to control the big technological firms. Any kind of information which has been marked as "fake or false" by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) or other agencies, which have been authorised for the purpose of fact-checking by the government or "by its department in which such business is transacted", will not be allowed on social media under the draft. ALSO READ | 'Propaganda piece and colonial mindset': India slams BBC documentary on 2002 Gujarat riots After the information was identified as fake, "reasonable efforts" would have to be made by social media platforms or other "online intermediaries" to ensure the people do not "host, display, upload, modify, publish, transmit, store, update or share" any such information, it stated. The government had in October announced that it would set up a panel to hear users' complaints regarding social media firms' decisions related to content moderation. The social media firms already need to appoint executives and in-house grievance redressal officers to co-ordinate with officials of law enforcement. WATCH | WION Fineprint | India the world's most populous country? Repeatedly, the government has faced tussles with different platforms which failed to fulfil their demands regarding the removal of certain accounts or content which were allegedly spreading misinformation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian government mulls identifying and banning ‘fake’ news on social media platforms

After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday.&nbsp;

The government in a statement said, "fully being aware of his responsibilities before the party and people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions, quit his job and retire."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-carries-major-expansion-in-south-china-sea-says-report-543377">Also read |&nbsp;Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report</a>

Despite his downfall, the government on Tuesday praised Phuc for his achievements. It said, "as prime minister for the 2016-2021 term, he has made great efforts in leading, directing and administering the COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control, achieving important results."

Phuc, 68, who was premier from 2016-2021, held the presidential position for less than two years. He was the highest-ranking official targeted by the Communist party's sweeping corruption crackdown.

He was chosen in April 2021 to be president and was likely to succeed as the party's, General Secretary.

Over the past few weeks, there had been wide speculation that the president would quit following the dismissals of the two deputy prime ministers who served under him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-tightens-social-media-rules-move-may-help-regime-531174">Also read |&nbsp;Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime</a>

People familiar with the matter told Reuters, that the legislature will hold a brief meeting following Phuc's resignation, as it requires approval from the National Assembly.

He also served as a pro-business prime minister for five years, overseeing a further acceleration of an economic liberalisation drive that included trade deals with the European Union and Pacific powers, including countries like Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday.

After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday. The government in a statement said, "fully being aware of his responsibilities before the party and people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions, quit his job and retire." Also read | Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report Despite his downfall, the government on Tuesday praised Phuc for his achievements. It said, "as prime minister for the 2016-2021 term, he has made great efforts in leading, directing and administering the COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control, achieving important results." Phuc, 68, who was premier from 2016-2021, held the presidential position for less than two years. He was the highest-ranking official targeted by the Communist party's sweeping corruption crackdown. He was chosen in April 2021 to be president and was likely to succeed as the party's, General Secretary. Over the past few weeks, there had been wide speculation that the president would quit following the dismissals of the two deputy prime ministers who served under him. Also read | Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime People familiar with the matter told Reuters, that the legislature will hold a brief meeting following Phuc's resignation, as it requires approval from the National Assembly. He also served as a pro-business prime minister for five years, overseeing a further acceleration of an economic liberalisation drive that included trade deals with the European Union and Pacific powers, including countries like Japan and Australia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigns, blamed for 'violations and wrongdoing'

Protests among industry workers and climate groups have emerged as perhaps the biggest challenge for Rishi Sunak's government. The British government will announce the new proposals today to clamp down on protests.

PM Sunak to announce new proposals to clamp down protests

A plane carrying 72 people on board crashed in Nepal's Pokhara on Sunday. The incident claimed at least 68 lives. In the wake of the crash, the Nepali government now mandated a technical test for flights to be conducted before departure.

WION Ground Report: Nepal Government mandates technical test for all domestic flights

Benjamin Netanyahu was inaugurated in as prime minister by Israel's parliament, establishing the most far-right and religiously conservative administration in its history. On Thursday, just after Israel's Knesset passed a vote of confidence in his new administration, Netanyahu, 73, took the oath of office. Out of the 120 members of the parliament, 63 supported the new administration while 54 opposed it.

WION Dispatch | Israel: Netanyahu government takes charge, vows to expand settlements

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch&nbsp;in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity".

"Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-pm-rutte-issues-official-apology-for-netherlands-role-in-slavery-544587">Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery</a>

"But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added.&nbsp;

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean.&nbsp;

WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach'

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The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives.

King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events.

However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey". An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity". "Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague. ALSO READ| Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery "But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean. WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach' The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives. King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events. However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch king welcomes government's slavery apology, says 'start of a long journey'

Gambian government on Wednesday (December 21) said that it had thwarted a coup attempt on the previous day. Four soldiers were arrested.&nbsp;"The situation is under total control," it added in a statement.&nbsp;There weren't any immediate reports of confirmation of the purported coup from other sources.&nbsp;Witness accounts mentioned soldier movement around the presidential headquarters in Banjul, the capital of Gambia. Rumours of a possible coup circulated during the night.

"Based on intelligence reports that some soldiers of the Gambian army were plotting to overthrow the democratically elected government of President Adama Barrow, the (armed forces) in a swift military operation conducted yesterday arrested four soldiers linked to this alleged coup plot," the statement said.

"The apprehended soldiers are currently helping the military police with their investigations."

"Meanwhile, the army is in pursuit of three more alleged accomplices."

Gambia, a small African nation, is a fragile democracy. It still bears the scars of a brutal 22-year dictatorship under Yahya Jammeh.

Jammeh was defeated in presidential elections in December 2016 to political newcomer Barrow and fled to Equatorial Guinea, but retains clout back home.

Barrow was re-elected in December 2021 for a second five-year term with 53 per cent of the vote. He won a narrow victory in legislative elections in April, but fell short of an absolute majority in the 58-seat parliament.

West Africa has been shaken by a series of military power seizures since 2020, in Mali, Guinea and most recently in Burkina Faso.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gambian government on Wednesday (December 21) said that it had thwarted a coup attempt on the previous day. Four soldiers were arrested. "The situation is under total control," it added in a statement.

Gambian government on Wednesday (December 21) said that it had thwarted a coup attempt on the previous day. Four soldiers were arrested. "The situation is under total control," it added in a statement. There weren't any immediate reports of confirmation of the purported coup from other sources. Witness accounts mentioned soldier movement around the presidential headquarters in Banjul, the capital of Gambia. Rumours of a possible coup circulated during the night. "Based on intelligence reports that some soldiers of the Gambian army were plotting to overthrow the democratically elected government of President Adama Barrow, the (armed forces) in a swift military operation conducted yesterday arrested four soldiers linked to this alleged coup plot," the statement said. "The apprehended soldiers are currently helping the military police with their investigations." "Meanwhile, the army is in pursuit of three more alleged accomplices." Gambia, a small African nation, is a fragile democracy. It still bears the scars of a brutal 22-year dictatorship under Yahya Jammeh. Jammeh was defeated in presidential elections in December 2016 to political newcomer Barrow and fled to Equatorial Guinea, but retains clout back home. Barrow was re-elected in December 2021 for a second five-year term with 53 per cent of the vote. He won a narrow victory in legislative elections in April, but fell short of an absolute majority in the 58-seat parliament. West Africa has been shaken by a series of military power seizures since 2020, in Mali, Guinea and most recently in Burkina Faso. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Gambia government says thwarted a coup attempt, four soldiers involved in plot arrested

The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the number of start-ups by the youth of the Kashmir Valley. The Jammu and Kashmir government says over 400 start-ups have been registered in the union territory in the last two years. e-commerce, horticulture, agriculture, the food industry&nbsp;and crafts are some of the Major sectors in which these start-ups have been started.&nbsp;

Unemployment remains one of the major concerns for the government of Jammu and Kashmir and various government departments in the Valley are pushing for the setting up of new start-ups by the local youth. The government calls it a success as hundreds of start-ups has been established in Kashmir not only promoting local business but also generating employment for hundreds of youngsters.

One of the most successful start-ups in the Kashmir region is Fast Beetle, a door-to-door delivery start-up with a motive to help the local artisans and craftsmen of the valley and connect them with the global audiences. Fast Beetle was founded by Abid Rashid and Sami Ullah in 2019 and since then it has risen exponentially. The company has around 110 employees working with them creating employment opportunities for many.&nbsp;

''Kashmir is a virgin valley, there is a scope for many start-ups to come up here. Having a virgin market means an opportunity. There are people who are trying to change the dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. Start-ups are the main builders of any country or state, so having so many start-ups would generate employment and push us for growth. Our journey was tough, we bootstrapped it, but we saw there are people across the country who are willing to invest in start-ups in Jammu and Kashmir. We needed money for the growth, and we got that easily, '' said Abid Rashid, co-Founder Fast-Beetle.&nbsp;

Abid also added that the government needs to open a single window for entrepreneurs who are wanting to start a new venture. And the youth also need not only to depend on the government but also look for private investors as well. &nbsp;''I think a start-up is building a company and it needs to grow at 10x speed. A start-up needs to have finances within the first four to five months so that it can grow. The process with the government is delayed and it takes time. I would request and suggest that there should be a single window or committee which can process it faster so that it won't grow. I think youth need to look at the government for finances, but they have to also explore private investors. Getting private funding is easier and they should rely on both so that they can grow faster, '' said Abid Rashid, Co-Founder Fast-Beetle.&nbsp;

Another startup called Tiffin Aaw meaning '' Meal is here' with a motive of serving home-cooked food to offices, colleges and hospitals was set up in 2019. It became extremely popular when the start-up started delivering free food to hospitals during covid. The covid patients, attendants and doctors were sent home-cooked food free of cost by Tiffin Aaw. The start-up later crowd-funded and generated huge support from people across the globe for their work. The founder Rayees Ahmad says the start-ups tackle the major Unemployment issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a big way. &nbsp;Tiffin Aaw has a dozen employees working with them.&nbsp;

''Kashmir has a lot of unemployment and to tackle the problem of unemployment, It's very important to have many start-ups being started here. you don't really need a lot of money to start a business. I started from my home kitchen and used to deliver myself. It's a slow process and it grows with time. We eventually reach a stage where we provide employment to youngsters. Government has a lot of schemes for the youth, but it's very time-consuming so I couldn't really stop working and spending so much time with the government. There are many start-ups that need funding after 3-4 years also. The process takes 6 months to one year. That's why we didn't take any funding from the government, but if we had funding, I would have opened a bigger unit. The start-ups do tackle the problem of employment, I have around 12 youth working with me, '' said Rayees Ahmad, Founder, Tiffin Aaw.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir has been pushing for youngsters to start their own ventures in various sectors. According to the government, more than 400 start-ups have been registered with them and many of these have been extremely successful.&nbsp;

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''The start-ups are not only growing in JK but across the globe, there are more than 400 start-ups that have registered with JK start up and Start up India, but the major portion of these start-ups come from Horticulture or e-commerce, wherein they provide support to the artisans where they connect them with the global audiences. Today you also see a large number of people working in Multinational companies coming back and starting their own start-ups and providing employment to at least 50-100 youth in each start-up. There have been many successful cases in JK, '' said Irtif Lone, an expert on start-ups, J&amp;K Government.&nbsp;

The Government has started over a dozen incubation centres across the Union Territory for the youth. The handholding of these youngsters is done through training as well as providing them with a one-time grant by the government.&nbsp;

''There are lots of interventions that the government has done, major of them are setting up incubation centres, there are around a dozen incubation centres across the Union Territory. There is a grant of 12 lac rupees which is provided to the start-ups. There is also a need for private players to intervene. As much as the government can do, &nbsp;it also lies upon these private players. Alternate funding needs to be explored as well,'' said Irtif Lone, Expert Start-ups, J&amp;K Government.&nbsp;

While there is a growth in the number of startups in the Union Territory, there are very few private investment firms in Jammu and Kashmir. Last year Kashmir Angel Network was set up which has more than a dozen investors in its network. These investors are financing the start-ups in the region. Earlier these start-ups were reaching out to investors in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai but now they have options available at a local level with them.&nbsp;

''Kashmir Angel Network is the first of its kind company in the region, It was incorporated in July 2021, with the idea of fostering a platform. where the experts would meet investors and investors would meet the start-ups. The core idea is to give a business environment and enabling environment to start-ups. The raw and budding ideas of the businessmen particularly of the youth who could not find a platform where they could meet the experts, and funders, and get the business ideas. This kind of platform was required in this part of the country where no such platform existed, We have funded 8 start-ups and 12 are in the pipeline. We give mentorship and incubation facilities and valuation too. We even stay with them till they break even'' said Shabir Handoo, Chairman, Kashmir Angel Network.&nbsp;

These start-ups are not only helping promote the local craft and products but also providing employment opportunities to the thousands of unemployed youths in the region.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the number of start-ups by the youth of the Kashmir Valley. The Jammu and Kashmir government says over 400 start-ups have been registered in the union territory in the last two years.

The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a huge increase in the number of start-ups by the youth of the Kashmir Valley. The Jammu and Kashmir government says over 400 start-ups have been registered in the union territory in the last two years. e-commerce, horticulture, agriculture, the food industry and crafts are some of the Major sectors in which these start-ups have been started. Unemployment remains one of the major concerns for the government of Jammu and Kashmir and various government departments in the Valley are pushing for the setting up of new start-ups by the local youth. The government calls it a success as hundreds of start-ups has been established in Kashmir not only promoting local business but also generating employment for hundreds of youngsters. One of the most successful start-ups in the Kashmir region is Fast Beetle, a door-to-door delivery start-up with a motive to help the local artisans and craftsmen of the valley and connect them with the global audiences. Fast Beetle was founded by Abid Rashid and Sami Ullah in 2019 and since then it has risen exponentially. The company has around 110 employees working with them creating employment opportunities for many. ''Kashmir is a virgin valley, there is a scope for many start-ups to come up here. Having a virgin market means an opportunity. There are people who are trying to change the dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. Start-ups are the main builders of any country or state, so having so many start-ups would generate employment and push us for growth. Our journey was tough, we bootstrapped it, but we saw there are people across the country who are willing to invest in start-ups in Jammu and Kashmir. We needed money for the growth, and we got that easily, '' said Abid Rashid, co-Founder Fast-Beetle. Abid also added that the government needs to open a single window for entrepreneurs who are wanting to start a new venture. And the youth also need not only to depend on the government but also look for private investors as well. ''I think a start-up is building a company and it needs to grow at 10x speed. A start-up needs to have finances within the first four to five months so that it can grow. The process with the government is delayed and it takes time. I would request and suggest that there should be a single window or committee which can process it faster so that it won't grow. I think youth need to look at the government for finances, but they have to also explore private investors. Getting private funding is easier and they should rely on both so that they can grow faster, '' said Abid Rashid, Co-Founder Fast-Beetle. Another startup called Tiffin Aaw meaning '' Meal is here' with a motive of serving home-cooked food to offices, colleges and hospitals was set up in 2019. It became extremely popular when the start-up started delivering free food to hospitals during covid. The covid patients, attendants and doctors were sent home-cooked food free of cost by Tiffin Aaw. The start-up later crowd-funded and generated huge support from people across the globe for their work. The founder Rayees Ahmad says the start-ups tackle the major Unemployment issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a big way. Tiffin Aaw has a dozen employees working with them. ''Kashmir has a lot of unemployment and to tackle the problem of unemployment, It's very important to have many start-ups being started here. you don't really need a lot of money to start a business. I started from my home kitchen and used to deliver myself. It's a slow process and it grows with time. We eventually reach a stage where we provide employment to youngsters. Government has a lot of schemes for the youth, but it's very time-consuming so I couldn't really stop working and spending so much time with the government. There are many start-ups that need funding after 3-4 years also. The process takes 6 months to one year. That's why we didn't take any funding from the government, but if we had funding, I would have opened a bigger unit. The start-ups do tackle the problem of employment, I have around 12 youth working with me, '' said Rayees Ahmad, Founder, Tiffin Aaw. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has been pushing for youngsters to start their own ventures in various sectors. According to the government, more than 400 start-ups have been registered with them and many of these have been extremely successful. Also read | Zelensky leaves for US, will meet Biden at White House, address Congress ''The start-ups are not only growing in JK but across the globe, there are more than 400 start-ups that have registered with JK start up and Start up India, but the major portion of these start-ups come from Horticulture or e-commerce, wherein they provide support to the artisans where they connect them with the global audiences. Today you also see a large number of people working in Multinational companies coming back and starting their own start-ups and providing employment to at least 50-100 youth in each start-up. There have been many successful cases in JK, '' said Irtif Lone, an expert on start-ups, J&K Government. The Government has started over a dozen incubation centres across the Union Territory for the youth. The handholding of these youngsters is done through training as well as providing them with a one-time grant by the government. ''There are lots of interventions that the government has done, major of them are setting up incubation centres, there are around a dozen incubation centres across the Union Territory. There is a grant of 12 lac rupees which is provided to the start-ups. There is also a need for private players to intervene. As much as the government can do, it also lies upon these private players. Alternate funding needs to be explored as well,'' said Irtif Lone, Expert Start-ups, J&K Government. While there is a growth in the number of startups in the Union Territory, there are very few private investment firms in Jammu and Kashmir. Last year Kashmir Angel Network was set up which has more than a dozen investors in its network. These investors are financing the start-ups in the region. Earlier these start-ups were reaching out to investors in metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai but now they have options available at a local level with them. ''Kashmir Angel Network is the first of its kind company in the region, It was incorporated in July 2021, with the idea of fostering a platform. where the experts would meet investors and investors would meet the start-ups. The core idea is to give a business environment and enabling environment to start-ups. The raw and budding ideas of the businessmen particularly of the youth who could not find a platform where they could meet the experts, and funders, and get the business ideas. This kind of platform was required in this part of the country where no such platform existed, We have funded 8 start-ups and 12 are in the pipeline. We give mentorship and incubation facilities and valuation too. We even stay with them till they break even'' said Shabir Handoo, Chairman, Kashmir Angel Network. These start-ups are not only helping promote the local craft and products but also providing employment opportunities to the thousands of unemployed youths in the region.

Kashmir witnesses rise in start ups with over 400 registered with government

The British government’s plan to award more than 130 new licences for North Sea oil and gas exploration has run into trouble once again. Several environmental groups have called the move “unlawful” in accordance to the existing laws and they also pointed out that this will directly lead to the expansion of fossil fuel being produced by the United Kingdom. The groups have already written to Grant Shapps – the business minister – in an attempt to reverse the decision to award the licences.&nbsp;

The UK government decided to give the green light to the country’s first new coalmine in over 30 years to be built in Whitehaven in Cumbria. While the decision was taken in 2021, it has not been widely accepted and ministers are also facing a legal challenge questioning the validity of the decision.&nbsp;

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Greenpeace has recently accused the government of going back on its commitment towards promoting alternate fuel sources and alleged that the Cumbrian mine will not achieve the “net zero” target.&nbsp;

“When it comes to carbon, our planning system has a major blind spot,” said Phil Evans, an oil and gas campaigner at&nbsp;Greenpeace, according to The Guardian.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“Ministers keep greenlighting new fossil fuel projects without fully considering the climate-wrecking emissions from burning those fuels. That’s completely irresponsible. It’s like giving an unlit cigarette a quick sniff and concluding that it can’t do much harm,” he added.&nbsp;

Former finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng was in favour of issuing new licenses and it was also supported by his successor – Jacob Rees-Mogg. However, the decision was even attracted the attention of United States special presidential envoy for climate John Kerry who said that it is currently under their scanner.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The British government’s plan to award more than 130 new licences for North Sea oil and gas exploration has run into trouble once again. Several environmental groups have called the move “unlawful” in accordance to the existing laws and they also pointed out that this will directly lead to the expansion of fossil fuel being produced by the United Kingdom.

The British government’s plan to award more than 130 new licences for North Sea oil and gas exploration has run into trouble once again. Several environmental groups have called the move “unlawful” in accordance to the existing laws and they also pointed out that this will directly lead to the expansion of fossil fuel being produced by the United Kingdom. The groups have already written to Grant Shapps – the business minister – in an attempt to reverse the decision to award the licences. The UK government decided to give the green light to the country’s first new coalmine in over 30 years to be built in Whitehaven in Cumbria. While the decision was taken in 2021, it has not been widely accepted and ministers are also facing a legal challenge questioning the validity of the decision. Also read | EU calls corruption charges 'very worrisome' as Greece freezes Kaili's assets Greenpeace has recently accused the government of going back on its commitment towards promoting alternate fuel sources and alleged that the Cumbrian mine will not achieve the “net zero” target. “When it comes to carbon, our planning system has a major blind spot,” said Phil Evans, an oil and gas campaigner at Greenpeace, according to The Guardian. Also read | Iran executes second protester in less than a week “Ministers keep greenlighting new fossil fuel projects without fully considering the climate-wrecking emissions from burning those fuels. That’s completely irresponsible. It’s like giving an unlit cigarette a quick sniff and concluding that it can’t do much harm,” he added. Former finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng was in favour of issuing new licenses and it was also supported by his successor – Jacob Rees-Mogg. However, the decision was even attracted the attention of United States special presidential envoy for climate John Kerry who said that it is currently under their scanner.

UK government faces legal challenge over North Sea oil and gas licences

Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal. Netanyahu reached an understanding with an ultra-orthodox Jewish party regarding the division of cabinet positions to reach the majority number in the parliament. Reuters reported that the Shas party will receive five ministerial positions for lending their support to Netanyahu and his government.

"We have achieved another step towards forming a government," Netanyahu told local media.&nbsp;

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Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party, along with coalition partners – Religious Zionism, Jewish Power, and the anti-LGBT Noam – was able to gain significant amount&nbsp;of seats in the latest elections. However, they fell just short of clinching a parliamentary majority and that has allowed Shas to assert power.&nbsp;

While Shas will have the choice of multiple cabinet positions, its leader – Aryeh Deri – may find it difficult to become a minister. The politician was convicted of tax offenses by the country’s attorney general and under the current rules, that can disqualify him from serving as a cabinet minister.&nbsp;

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However, under the deal cracked by the two parties, Deri is supposed to become the new interior minister and health minister in Netanyahu's next government. If local media reports are to be believed, he can also become the first Orthodox Jew to become deputy prime minister of the country.&nbsp;

While Netanyahu has almost secured the right to form the new government, the parliament is expected to grant a two-week extension to the existing cabinet to smoothen the transition.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal.

Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal. Netanyahu reached an understanding with an ultra-orthodox Jewish party regarding the division of cabinet positions to reach the majority number in the parliament. Reuters reported that the Shas party will receive five ministerial positions for lending their support to Netanyahu and his government. "We have achieved another step towards forming a government," Netanyahu told local media. Also read | BJP inching towards over three-fourth majority on PM Modi’s home turf Gujarat Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party, along with coalition partners – Religious Zionism, Jewish Power, and the anti-LGBT Noam – was able to gain significant amount of seats in the latest elections. However, they fell just short of clinching a parliamentary majority and that has allowed Shas to assert power. While Shas will have the choice of multiple cabinet positions, its leader – Aryeh Deri – may find it difficult to become a minister. The politician was convicted of tax offenses by the country’s attorney general and under the current rules, that can disqualify him from serving as a cabinet minister. Also read | Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion However, under the deal cracked by the two parties, Deri is supposed to become the new interior minister and health minister in Netanyahu's next government. If local media reports are to be believed, he can also become the first Orthodox Jew to become deputy prime minister of the country. While Netanyahu has almost secured the right to form the new government, the parliament is expected to grant a two-week extension to the existing cabinet to smoothen the transition.

Benjamin Netanyahu inches closer towards forming new government in Israel

The United Kingdom will lead the net-zero mission and that's what PM Rishi Sunak said at this year's COP27 summit but within a month of that comment his government has approved a new coal mine project, something that the country hasn't seen in the last three decades. Watch full video to know more.

UK government approves first coal mine in three decades

Frustrated officials still using private Gmail accounts, personal laptops, pen and paper, and typewriters to run the government of the prime minister,&nbsp;one month after a cyber-attack brought down government servers and websites in Vanuatu, Ishmael Kalsakau, who took office just a few days after the crash said.

The Pacific island nation of 314,000 inhabitants and 80 islands has experienced delays in communication and coordination as a result of the malware attack on state networks.&nbsp;

To get government phone numbers, people turned to the internet Yellow Pages or the printed phone book. Some offices were hiding their Twitter and Facebook accounts.

According to a financial analyst who closely collaborates with the ministry's cybersecurity staff, the issues started approximately a month ago when suspected phishing activity was first discovered in emails sent to the Ministry of Finance.&nbsp;

Almost all government email and website archives were destroyed by malware. As opposed to web servers or the cloud, many departments continued to keep data on local hard drives.&nbsp;

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Whether the hackers demanded a ransom has not been made public by the government.&nbsp;

Inadvertent solutions have been used to improve communication between agencies and departments as government departments have struggled to keep linked, frustrating authorities.&nbsp;

Service delays at several government offices on outer islands are severe.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Frustrated officials still using private Gmail accounts, personal laptops, pen and paper, and typewriters to run the government of the prime minister, one month after a cyber-attack brought down government servers and websites in Vanuatu, Ishmael Kalsakau, who took office just a few days after the crash said.

Frustrated officials still using private Gmail accounts, personal laptops, pen and paper, and typewriters to run the government of the prime minister, one month after a cyber-attack brought down government servers and websites in Vanuatu, Ishmael Kalsakau, who took office just a few days after the crash said. The Pacific island nation of 314,000 inhabitants and 80 islands has experienced delays in communication and coordination as a result of the malware attack on state networks. To get government phone numbers, people turned to the internet Yellow Pages or the printed phone book. Some offices were hiding their Twitter and Facebook accounts. According to a financial analyst who closely collaborates with the ministry's cybersecurity staff, the issues started approximately a month ago when suspected phishing activity was first discovered in emails sent to the Ministry of Finance. Almost all government email and website archives were destroyed by malware. As opposed to web servers or the cloud, many departments continued to keep data on local hard drives. Also Read: Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general Whether the hackers demanded a ransom has not been made public by the government. Inadvertent solutions have been used to improve communication between agencies and departments as government departments have struggled to keep linked, frustrating authorities. Service delays at several government offices on outer islands are severe. (with inputs from agencies)

Vanuatu officials using pen and paper to run government, one month after cyber attack

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