Gustav Klimt’s “Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer” just made headlines — it sold for $236.4 million at Sotheby’s, setting a new auction record for modern art. 
This isn’t just a pricey painting: the work has a powerful history. Lederer’s life story during the Holocaust, and how the portrait survived, adds deep emotional weight to this massive sale.

Klimt’s Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer Sells for $236M, Setting Historic Sotheby’s Record

In a historic achievement, Chandrayaan-3 became the first lunar mission to have detected more than 250 seismic signatures from the south pole of the Moon, since the Apollo missions.

These 250 seismic signals included 50 unique signals that are likely to have links with moonquakes, which refer to the earthquake on the lunar soil. 
&nbsp; 
This is the first time seismic data has been collected from the South Pole of the lunar surface and also the first time such an activity has been recorded since the Apollo missions.

According to the media reports, 250 seismic signatures have been detected by the Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) aboard the Vikram Lander during its operational period from August 24 to&nbsp;September 4, 2023, between the coordinates of 69.37&nbsp;degrees south and 32.32&nbsp;degrees east.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-chandrayaan-3-sends-home-lunar-bonanza-with-magma-theory-evidence-752146">India's Chandrayaan-3 sends home lunar bonanza with magma theory evidence</a>

In 2023, the India Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that the ILSA payload on Chandrayaan 3 Lander&nbsp;has been able to record the movements of Rover and other payloads.

The ILSA payload is the first Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology-based instrument on the moon that&nbsp;utilises sensors manufactured with cutting-edge silicon micromachining technology.

<h2>All about 250 seismic signals detected by Chandrayaan-3</h2>

Among the 250 seismic signals, nearly 200 of them were said to have been produced by different mission activities like the Pragyan rover's movements or the operation of scientific instruments like the ChaSTE thermal probe or Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS).

However, the remaining 50 signals were classified as "uncorrelated" and the scientists were not able to draw a connection between them and any mission-related activities. This raised the possibility of these signals being produced from real moonquakes.

These findings related to the moonquakes were mentioned in a recent paper published in&nbsp;ICARUS, which is a famous scientific journal.

Watch:&nbsp;Blue supermoon rises above South Korean capital Seoul

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Commenting on the findings, LEOS Director Sriram said, “Out of the 250 seismic events, about 200 correlate with Pragyan’s movements or other instrument operations. The remaining 50 signals do not align with any known activities, warranting further investigation to understand their origins."

The study emphasised that the longest continuous seismic signal recorded had lasted 14 minutes.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic achievement, Chandrayaan-3 became the first lunar mission to have detected more than 250 seismic signatures from the south pole of the Moon, since the Apollo missions.

In a historic achievement, Chandrayaan-3 became the first lunar mission to have detected more than 250 seismic signatures from the south pole of the Moon, since the Apollo missions. These 250 seismic signals included 50 unique signals that are likely to have links with moonquakes, which refer to the earthquake on the lunar soil. This is the first time seismic data has been collected from the South Pole of the lunar surface and also the first time such an activity has been recorded since the Apollo missions. According to the media reports, 250 seismic signatures have been detected by the Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) aboard the Vikram Lander during its operational period from August 24 to September 4, 2023, between the coordinates of 69.37 degrees south and 32.32 degrees east. Also Read: India's Chandrayaan-3 sends home lunar bonanza with magma theory evidence In 2023, the India Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said that the ILSA payload on Chandrayaan 3 Lander has been able to record the movements of Rover and other payloads. The ILSA payload is the first Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology-based instrument on the moon that utilises sensors manufactured with cutting-edge silicon micromachining technology. All about 250 seismic signals detected by Chandrayaan-3 Among the 250 seismic signals, nearly 200 of them were said to have been produced by different mission activities like the Pragyan rover's movements or the operation of scientific instruments like the ChaSTE thermal probe or Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS). However, the remaining 50 signals were classified as "uncorrelated" and the scientists were not able to draw a connection between them and any mission-related activities. This raised the possibility of these signals being produced from real moonquakes. These findings related to the moonquakes were mentioned in a recent paper published in ICARUS, which is a famous scientific journal. Watch: Blue supermoon rises above South Korean capital Seoul Commenting on the findings, LEOS Director Sriram said, “Out of the 250 seismic events, about 200 correlate with Pragyan’s movements or other instrument operations. The remaining 50 signals do not align with any known activities, warranting further investigation to understand their origins." The study emphasised that the longest continuous seismic signal recorded had lasted 14 minutes. (With inputs from agencies)

Historic first! India's Chandrayaan-3 records more than 50 moonquakes. Here's what it means

A 72-year-old woman in France is seeking justice to 92 counts of rape that were committed on her by 72 men over a span of 10 years. Watch WION to know more.

Man who drugged wife for rape by strangers goes on trial in France

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). 
 
The 75-year-old once powerful Italian cardinal was jailed by a Vatican Court for financial crimes, which brought the historic trial to an end 
 
Becciu, who was the Catholic Church's most senior clergyman, had earlier strongly denied charges which included abuse of office and embezzlement. 
 
He along with nine other defendants, which includes lawyers, financiers, and former Vatican employees, were on trial after they were accused of financial crimes which focused on an opaque property deal done in London.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-calls-for-binding-global-treaty-to-regulate-ai-669704">Pope Francis calls for binding global treaty to regulate AI</a>

The verdict was read out by court president Giuseppe Pignatone on Saturday (Dec 16), with Becciu facing accusations of abuse of office, witness tampering and embezzlement. 
 
Becciu's lawyer Fabio Viglione said that they will respect the court's sentence but will "certainly" appeal. He was further imposed a fine of €8,000 (approx. $8726).

<h2>Vatican fraud trial</h2>

At the centre of the Vatican fraud trial was the purchase of a luxury property, worth €350 million ($380 million), in London which was part of an investment which started in 2014 and ended with the Vatican paying tens of millions of euros. 
 
The trial, which started in July 2021, has brought to the limelight the murky finances of the Holy See, which Pope Francis has decided to clean up since he took the helm of the Catholic Church in March 2013. This is also a test of his reforms. 
 
Francis, just weeks before the trial, gave the civilian courts of the Vatican the power to try bishops and cardinals, where earlier they were judged by a court which presided over by cardinals. 
 
Prosecutor Alessandro Diddi had called for seven years and three months of imprisonment for Becciu, and nearly four and 13 years prison sentence for the others.

Watch:&nbsp;Vatican re-creates first-ever nativity scene from 800-years-ago, lights up Christmas tree | WION

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Becciu had always said that he was innocent and that the accusations against him as "totally unfounded" and added that he never took a cent. 
 
The Holy See, meanwhile, viewed itself as "an offended party" and had asked the court, via Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, to "punish all crimes". 
 
Among the Vatican entities, four are civil parties who had requested compensation from the defendants, which included €177 million (approx. $193 million) for reputational and moral damage.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a former advisor to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment for financial crimes in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). The 75-year-old once powerful Italian cardinal was jailed by a Vatican Court for financial crimes, which brought the historic trial to an end Becciu, who was the Catholic Church's most senior clergyman, had earlier strongly denied charges which included abuse of office and embezzlement. He along with nine other defendants, which includes lawyers, financiers, and former Vatican employees, were on trial after they were accused of financial crimes which focused on an opaque property deal done in London. Also read: Pope Francis calls for binding global treaty to regulate AI The verdict was read out by court president Giuseppe Pignatone on Saturday (Dec 16), with Becciu facing accusations of abuse of office, witness tampering and embezzlement. Becciu's lawyer Fabio Viglione said that they will respect the court's sentence but will "certainly" appeal. He was further imposed a fine of €8,000 (approx. $8726). Vatican fraud trial At the centre of the Vatican fraud trial was the purchase of a luxury property, worth €350 million ($380 million), in London which was part of an investment which started in 2014 and ended with the Vatican paying tens of millions of euros. The trial, which started in July 2021, has brought to the limelight the murky finances of the Holy See, which Pope Francis has decided to clean up since he took the helm of the Catholic Church in March 2013. This is also a test of his reforms. Francis, just weeks before the trial, gave the civilian courts of the Vatican the power to try bishops and cardinals, where earlier they were judged by a court which presided over by cardinals. Prosecutor Alessandro Diddi had called for seven years and three months of imprisonment for Becciu, and nearly four and 13 years prison sentence for the others. Watch: Vatican re-creates first-ever nativity scene from 800-years-ago, lights up Christmas tree | WION Becciu had always said that he was innocent and that the accusations against him as "totally unfounded" and added that he never took a cent. The Holy See, meanwhile, viewed itself as "an offended party" and had asked the court, via Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, to "punish all crimes". Among the Vatican entities, four are civil parties who had requested compensation from the defendants, which included €177 million (approx. $193 million) for reputational and moral damage. (With inputs from agencies)

Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial

US President Joe Biden will be participating in the United Auto Workers picket line on Tuesday (September 26). This will be the strongest show of support by the leader for union members who have been striking against Ford, Stellantis and General Motors. 
 
On Friday, Biden took to X to announce that he will be travelling to Wayne County, Michigan, "to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create." 
 
It is a move that some experts have called unprecedented in modern political history, a step which the White House has quickly called “historic”.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-raised-canadas-claims-of-sikh-separatist-leaders-death-with-modi-at-g20-ft-report-638391">Nijjar death: Biden, Modi discussed Canada murder row; no 'special exemption,' says US NSA</a>

"He supports the UAW workers and tomorrow what you're going to see is historic," said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, while speaking to the reporters on Monday. 
 
"This is going to be a historic visit,” the White House said.

Jean-Pierre was asked if the president is officially siding with the demands of the striking workers by joining the picket line, and how his appearance is consistent with the claim of the White House that he will not get involved in the negotiations.

<h2>Biden not involved in negotiations</h2>

To this, she said, "He is standing with the workers. We are not involved in negotiations."

"That is something for them to decide what is going to work for the parties that are involved, but he is standing with the autoworkers,” she said. 
 
The appearance of Biden will come one day before former president Donald Trump reaches Michigan, a 2024 battleground, to campaign instead of participating in the second Republican primary debate to be held on Wednesday night. 
 
WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden establishes formal diplomatic ties with Cook islands and Niue

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"I'm not gonna get into the details of what's being negotiated right now on the table with certainly with the parties. What we're saying is that we support the autoworkers," Jean-Pierre said. 
 
Biden has stated that he feels union workers deserve their "fair share" of the record earnings of the companies and added that the time has come for a "win-win agreement" between the automakers and union. 
 
On Monday, when quizzed whether he supports the UAW demands, Biden said, “I think the UAW gave up an incredible amount back when the automobile industry was going under. They gave up everything from their pensions on, and they saved the automobile industry.” 
 
“And I think that now that the industry is roaring back, they should -- they should participate in the benefit of that. And if you take a look at the significant increase in salaries for the executives and growth for the industry, they should benefit from it. So yes, I support -- I always support the UAW,” he added while speaking to ABC.

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US President Joe Biden will be participating in the United Auto Workers picket line on Tuesday (September 26). This will be the strongest show of support by the leader for union members who have been striking against Ford, Stellantis and General Motors.

US President Joe Biden will be participating in the United Auto Workers picket line on Tuesday (September 26). This will be the strongest show of support by the leader for union members who have been striking against Ford, Stellantis and General Motors. On Friday, Biden took to X to announce that he will be travelling to Wayne County, Michigan, "to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create." It is a move that some experts have called unprecedented in modern political history, a step which the White House has quickly called “historic”. ALSO READ | Nijjar death: Biden, Modi discussed Canada murder row; no 'special exemption,' says US NSA "He supports the UAW workers and tomorrow what you're going to see is historic," said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, while speaking to the reporters on Monday. "This is going to be a historic visit,” the White House said. Jean-Pierre was asked if the president is officially siding with the demands of the striking workers by joining the picket line, and how his appearance is consistent with the claim of the White House that he will not get involved in the negotiations. Biden not involved in negotiations To this, she said, "He is standing with the workers. We are not involved in negotiations." "That is something for them to decide what is going to work for the parties that are involved, but he is standing with the autoworkers,” she said. The appearance of Biden will come one day before former president Donald Trump reaches Michigan, a 2024 battleground, to campaign instead of participating in the second Republican primary debate to be held on Wednesday night. WATCH | US President Joe Biden establishes formal diplomatic ties with Cook islands and Niue "I'm not gonna get into the details of what's being negotiated right now on the table with certainly with the parties. What we're saying is that we support the autoworkers," Jean-Pierre said. Biden has stated that he feels union workers deserve their "fair share" of the record earnings of the companies and added that the time has come for a "win-win agreement" between the automakers and union. On Monday, when quizzed whether he supports the UAW demands, Biden said, “I think the UAW gave up an incredible amount back when the automobile industry was going under. They gave up everything from their pensions on, and they saved the automobile industry.” “And I think that now that the industry is roaring back, they should -- they should participate in the benefit of that. And if you take a look at the significant increase in salaries for the executives and growth for the industry, they should benefit from it. So yes, I support -- I always support the UAW,” he added while speaking to ABC. 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

Biden to take part in striking autoworkers' picket line, White House calls it 'historic'

In a groundbreaking development that marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral economic ties, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) completed the first-ever crude oil transaction under the newly implemented Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system.

The transaction involved the sale of approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil, with both Indian Rupees (INR) and UAE Dirhams (AED) being used for settlement. A statement from the Indian mission in UAE said, "LCS is likely to have a transformational impact not only on the bilateral economic relationship but in the larger economic engagements across the world."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ew-to-yum-new-york-chef-promotes-eating-creepy-crawlies-as-sustainable-delicacies-625500">From 'ew' to 'yum': New York chef promotes eating creepy crawlies as sustainable delicacies</a>

The LCS mechanism was established as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchanged during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to UAE last month on July 15. This agreement is expected to significantly reduce transaction costs and time, while also promoting the use of national currencies for cross-border transactions.

The LCS mechanism provides traders with the flexibility to choose the payment currency based on mutual agreement. Additionally, the surplus balance in local currencies resulting from transactions can be invested in various local currency assets such as corporate bonds, government securities, and equity markets. This innovative approach is set to have a transformative impact on not only the economic relationship between India and the UAE but also on broader economic engagements across the world.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-five-killed-seven-missing-after-migrant-boat-capsizes-off-tunisian-coast-625496">At least five killed, seven missing after migrant boat capsizes off Tunisian coast</a>

While the oil transaction between ADNOC and IOCL is the second major exchange under the LCS, the first transaction involved&nbsp;gold. This earlier transaction involved the sale of 25 kg of gold from a prominent UAE gold exporter to a buyer in India, with the invoice totalling approximately Rs 12.84 crore. This successful gold transaction demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of the LCS mechanism.

WATCH | India: Chandrayaan-3 craft completes 30 days in space

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Petroleum and petroleum products constitute a major portion of bilateral trade between the two nations. Last year alone, the trade in petroleum products amounted to a staggering US$ 35.10 billion, accounting for 41.4 per cent&nbsp;of the total bilateral trade volume. The UAE stands as the fourth-largest source of crude oil and the second-largest source of LNG and LPG for India.

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In a groundbreaking development that marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral economic ties, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) completed the first-ever crude oil transaction under the newly implemented Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system.

In a groundbreaking development that marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral economic ties, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) completed the first-ever crude oil transaction under the newly implemented Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system. The transaction involved the sale of approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil, with both Indian Rupees (INR) and UAE Dirhams (AED) being used for settlement. A statement from the Indian mission in UAE said, "LCS is likely to have a transformational impact not only on the bilateral economic relationship but in the larger economic engagements across the world." Also Read | From 'ew' to 'yum': New York chef promotes eating creepy crawlies as sustainable delicacies The LCS mechanism was established as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchanged during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to UAE last month on July 15. This agreement is expected to significantly reduce transaction costs and time, while also promoting the use of national currencies for cross-border transactions. The LCS mechanism provides traders with the flexibility to choose the payment currency based on mutual agreement. Additionally, the surplus balance in local currencies resulting from transactions can be invested in various local currency assets such as corporate bonds, government securities, and equity markets. This innovative approach is set to have a transformative impact on not only the economic relationship between India and the UAE but also on broader economic engagements across the world. Also Read | At least five killed, seven missing after migrant boat capsizes off Tunisian coast While the oil transaction between ADNOC and IOCL is the second major exchange under the LCS, the first transaction involved gold. This earlier transaction involved the sale of 25 kg of gold from a prominent UAE gold exporter to a buyer in India, with the invoice totalling approximately Rs 12.84 crore. This successful gold transaction demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of the LCS mechanism. WATCH | India: Chandrayaan-3 craft completes 30 days in space × Petroleum and petroleum products constitute a major portion of bilateral trade between the two nations. Last year alone, the trade in petroleum products amounted to a staggering US$ 35.10 billion, accounting for 41.4 per cent of the total bilateral trade volume. The UAE stands as the fourth-largest source of crude oil and the second-largest source of LNG and LPG for India. 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. ×

Historic first: India and UAE settle crude oil transaction using national currencies

India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying <a name="_Hlk140532454">144,000 </a>kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.)

The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Calling it a “historic milestone”, Shah said that India has now attained an “astounding record” of destroying one million kg&nbsp;of seized drugs worth Rs 120 billion in just one year.

"The remarkable feat achieved at the Regional Conference on Drug Trafficking and National Security exemplifies the MHA's staunch and relentless pursuit of PM Narendra Modi Ji's vision of a drug-free India," he said.

<h2>PM Modi lauds initiative</h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi later replied to Shah’s tweet, commending the historic achievement.

"Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drug menace," he said.

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Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drugs menace. <a href="https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT">https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT</a>
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Earlier in the day, Shah, while chairing the Regional Conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' in the capital New Delhi, said that drug trafficking and its usage not only ruin future generations but also affect India’s national security.

He conveyed PM Modi’s message of setting a target to make India drug-free by the time the centenary of the country's independence is celebrated.

Over 1,44,000 kg of drugs were destroyed worth Rs 2,378 crore across India under Home Minister Amit Shah's supervision.

The minister noted this is a record for the highest quantity of drugs destroyed in a single day.&nbsp;

<h2>Bulks of drugs destroyed in Madhya Pradesh</h2>

Among the drugs that were destroyed include 6,590 kg seized by the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB) Hyderabad unit, 822 kg seized by the Indore unit and 356 kg by the Jammu unit, the officials said.

The bulk of the seized narcotics were destroyed in Madhya Pradesh with 1,03,884 kg followed by 1,486 kg in Assam, 229 kg in Chandigarh, 25 kg in Goa, 4,277 kg in Gujarat, 2,458 kg in Haryana, 4,069 kg in Jammu and Kashmir, 159 kg in Maharashtra, 1,803 kg in Tripura and 4,049 kg in Uttar Pradesh, PTI news agency reported.

From June 1, 2022, to July 15, 2023, regional units of the NCB and anti-narcotics task forces of the states collectively destroyed around 8,76,554 kg of seized drugs worth around Rs 9.5 billion ($11.5 million approx.) which is more than 11 times the target.

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India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying 144,000 kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.) The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying 144,000 kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.) The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Calling it a “historic milestone”, Shah said that India has now attained an “astounding record” of destroying one million kg of seized drugs worth Rs 120 billion in just one year. "The remarkable feat achieved at the Regional Conference on Drug Trafficking and National Security exemplifies the MHA's staunch and relentless pursuit of PM Narendra Modi Ji's vision of a drug-free India," he said. PM Modi lauds initiative Prime Minister Narendra Modi later replied to Shah’s tweet, commending the historic achievement. "Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drug menace," he said. Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drugs menace. https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 17, 2023 × Earlier in the day, Shah, while chairing the Regional Conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' in the capital New Delhi, said that drug trafficking and its usage not only ruin future generations but also affect India’s national security. He conveyed PM Modi’s message of setting a target to make India drug-free by the time the centenary of the country's independence is celebrated. Over 1,44,000 kg of drugs were destroyed worth Rs 2,378 crore across India under Home Minister Amit Shah's supervision. The minister noted this is a record for the highest quantity of drugs destroyed in a single day. Bulks of drugs destroyed in Madhya Pradesh Among the drugs that were destroyed include 6,590 kg seized by the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB) Hyderabad unit, 822 kg seized by the Indore unit and 356 kg by the Jammu unit, the officials said. The bulk of the seized narcotics were destroyed in Madhya Pradesh with 1,03,884 kg followed by 1,486 kg in Assam, 229 kg in Chandigarh, 25 kg in Goa, 4,277 kg in Gujarat, 2,458 kg in Haryana, 4,069 kg in Jammu and Kashmir, 159 kg in Maharashtra, 1,803 kg in Tripura and 4,049 kg in Uttar Pradesh, PTI news agency reported. From June 1, 2022, to July 15, 2023, regional units of the NCB and anti-narcotics task forces of the states collectively destroyed around 8,76,554 kg of seized drugs worth around Rs 9.5 billion ($11.5 million approx.) which is more than 11 times the target. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India achieves ‘historic milestone’, destroys 144,000kg seized narcotics worth $289mn

In Pics | Egypt historic mosque reopens after years of restoration

A castle in Shetland is on the market for £30,000 ($37,153.35)&nbsp;but any potential buyer will also need to spare&nbsp;£12 million (over&nbsp;$15 million).&nbsp;Brough Lodge on the island of Fetlar may be purchased for less than the cost of a Glasgow apartment.

The 200-year-old castle is built on 40 acres of land and has folly towers, a courtyard, and walled gardens, reported the BBC.

However, investors have been advised that they will need a lot of money to afford the expense of the modifications.

The Brough Lodge Trust has sought a "philanthropic entrepreneur" to take up plans to convert the estate into a world-class resort.

<h2>What does the revamp&nbsp;plan entail?</h2>

Their plans include preserving the original structure, which dates back to 1820, as well as adding 24 guestrooms and a restaurant.

Brough Lodge, located on the north-west end of Fetlar, is a category A listed building of national significance.

It was constructed by a merchant named Arthur Nicholson and was inspired by the architecture he saw while touring in France, Switzerland, and Italy.

It has been unoccupied since the 1980s, when the last occupant Lady Nicholson moved out, making it a one-of-a-kind structure on the island of only 61 inhabitants.

Olive Borland, the last heir of the Nicholson family, surrendered ownership of the estate to the Brough Lodge Trust in 2007 and currently serves on its board of trustees.

The trust&nbsp;has spent more than £500,000 ($6,18,950)&nbsp;in contributions since taking over the estate to make the home waterproof and add a new roof.

However, the trust estimates that the buyer will have to pay £12 million to finish the construction.

"The vision is simple but effective," the trust explains on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.broughlodge.org/the-vision">its website</a>.

"Under the plans we have developed, the building's historic character would be fully respected."

In addition to enjoying panoramic views of the North Sea, visitors at Brough Lodge would be able to participate in yoga and textile lessons, as well as learn about Shetland knitting and weaving traditions.

According to the Brough Lodge Trust, the earnings from the sale of the lodge would go towards hand knitting lessons for youngsters, preserving a vital part of the islands' cultural legacy.

In addition to bringing visitors to the island, the trust stated that the proposed works will offer economic advantages to the island.

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A castle in Shetland is on the market for £30,000 ($37,153.35) but any potential buyer will also need to spare £12 million (over $15 million). Brough Lodge on the island of Fetlar may be purchased for less than the cost of a Glasgow apartment.

A castle in Shetland is on the market for £30,000 ($37,153.35) but any potential buyer will also need to spare £12 million (over $15 million). Brough Lodge on the island of Fetlar may be purchased for less than the cost of a Glasgow apartment. The 200-year-old castle is built on 40 acres of land and has folly towers, a courtyard, and walled gardens, reported the BBC. However, investors have been advised that they will need a lot of money to afford the expense of the modifications. The Brough Lodge Trust has sought a "philanthropic entrepreneur" to take up plans to convert the estate into a world-class resort. What does the revamp plan entail? Their plans include preserving the original structure, which dates back to 1820, as well as adding 24 guestrooms and a restaurant. Brough Lodge, located on the north-west end of Fetlar, is a category A listed building of national significance. It was constructed by a merchant named Arthur Nicholson and was inspired by the architecture he saw while touring in France, Switzerland, and Italy. It has been unoccupied since the 1980s, when the last occupant Lady Nicholson moved out, making it a one-of-a-kind structure on the island of only 61 inhabitants. Olive Borland, the last heir of the Nicholson family, surrendered ownership of the estate to the Brough Lodge Trust in 2007 and currently serves on its board of trustees. The trust has spent more than £500,000 ($6,18,950) in contributions since taking over the estate to make the home waterproof and add a new roof. However, the trust estimates that the buyer will have to pay £12 million to finish the construction. "The vision is simple but effective," the trust explains on its website. "Under the plans we have developed, the building's historic character would be fully respected." In addition to enjoying panoramic views of the North Sea, visitors at Brough Lodge would be able to participate in yoga and textile lessons, as well as learn about Shetland knitting and weaving traditions. According to the Brough Lodge Trust, the earnings from the sale of the lodge would go towards hand knitting lessons for youngsters, preserving a vital part of the islands' cultural legacy. In addition to bringing visitors to the island, the trust stated that the proposed works will offer economic advantages to the island. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Bizarre! This historical castle in Shetland is up for grabs, but there's a catch

The renowned Flatiron Building in New York, known for its slender, triangular shape, has been sold at an&nbsp;auction for $190 million, following&nbsp;a court order.&nbsp;

After an open tender war, the 1902-built, 22-story skyscraper that is rumoured to resemble a clothes iron sold for almost four times its opening price of $50 million, reported AFP.

"It's been my lifelong dream of mine since I'm 14 years old," winner Jacob Garlick, managing partner at the Abraham Trust investment fund, told TV station NY 1.

The broadcaster noted that Garlick has not yet revealed his plans for the historically significant structure.&nbsp;

The Flatiron in Manhattan, which spans Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 22nd Street, has been vacant since 2019 after MacMillian Publishers moved out.&nbsp;

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Sitting here on Friday night thinking about how one of the most iconic buildings on earth sold this week. The flatiron building. 
 
Makes me wonder what trophy I should go chase in my backyard. 
 
What generationally held CRE is going to trade next??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/retwit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#retwit</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cre?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cre</a> <a href="https://t.co/xKE2y1dA4S">pic.twitter.com/xKE2y1dA4S</a>
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The building had been held by a group of real estate firms before the auction, but they couldn't agree on remodelling plans or potential tenants.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-death-and-destruction-says-his-arrest-would-be-catastrophic-for-us-575491">Donald Trump threatens 'death and destruction', says his arrest would be 'catastrophic' for US</a>

A judge mandated that the building be placed up for sale after the parties filed a lawsuit and countersuit.&nbsp;

According to Matthew Mannion of Mannion Auctions, which conducted the sale on Wednesday, Garlick needed&nbsp;to pay a 10% deposit by Friday at 5:00 p.m. ET, or the building would be granted to the next-highest bidder.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The renowned Flatiron Building in New York, known for its slender, triangular shape, has been sold at an auction for $190 million, following a court order. After an open tender war, the 1902-built, 22-story skyscraper that is rumoured to resemble a clothes iron sold for almost four times its opening price of $50 million, reported AFP.

The renowned Flatiron Building in New York, known for its slender, triangular shape, has been sold at an auction for $190 million, following a court order. After an open tender war, the 1902-built, 22-story skyscraper that is rumoured to resemble a clothes iron sold for almost four times its opening price of $50 million, reported AFP. "It's been my lifelong dream of mine since I'm 14 years old," winner Jacob Garlick, managing partner at the Abraham Trust investment fund, told TV station NY 1. The broadcaster noted that Garlick has not yet revealed his plans for the historically significant structure. The Flatiron in Manhattan, which spans Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 22nd Street, has been vacant since 2019 after MacMillian Publishers moved out. Sitting here on Friday night thinking about how one of the most iconic buildings on earth sold this week. The flatiron building. Makes me wonder what trophy I should go chase in my backyard. What generationally held CRE is going to trade next??#retwit#cre pic.twitter.com/xKE2y1dA4S — NNN Income / Chris Hatch (@NNNIncome) March 25, 2023 × The building had been held by a group of real estate firms before the auction, but they couldn't agree on remodelling plans or potential tenants. ALSO READ | Donald Trump threatens 'death and destruction', says his arrest would be 'catastrophic' for US A judge mandated that the building be placed up for sale after the parties filed a lawsuit and countersuit. According to Matthew Mannion of Mannion Auctions, which conducted the sale on Wednesday, Garlick needed to pay a 10% deposit by Friday at 5:00 p.m. ET, or the building would be granted to the next-highest bidder. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New York's historic Flatiron building auctioned for $190 million following court order

The historic St Edward's Crown, which has been the centrepiece of the coronation of monarchs in England for more than 350 years, has been removed from the Tower of London to be modified for the coronation of King Charles III next May, Buckingham Palace said.

The crown, which usually forms part of the Crown Jewels on display at the Tower, has been used since the coronation of King Charles II in 1661 after the monarchy was restored following the 10-year republic of Oliver Cromwell.

The St Edward's Crown replaced a medieval version, thought to have dated back to the 11th Century reign of Edward the Confessor which was melted down in 1649.

King Charles III will be crowned with St Edward's Crown during the solemn ceremony to be held at London's Westminster Abbey on May 6, just as his late mother Queen Elizabeth II was in 1953. He will also wear the Imperial State Crown during the service.

The St Edward's Crown, made up of a solid gold frame set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, topazes and tourmalines, follows its original medieval forebear in having four crosses-pattée and four fleurs-de-lis. It also has a velvet cap with an ermine band.

The historic St Edward's Crown, which has been the centrepiece of the coronation of monarchs in England for more than 350 years, has been removed from the Tower of London to be modified for the coronation of King Charles III next May, Buckingham Palace said.

The historic St Edward's Crown, which has been the centrepiece of the coronation of monarchs in England for more than 350 years, has been removed from the Tower of London to be modified for the coronation of King Charles III next May, Buckingham Palace said. The crown, which usually forms part of the Crown Jewels on display at the Tower, has been used since the coronation of King Charles II in 1661 after the monarchy was restored following the 10-year republic of Oliver Cromwell. The St Edward's Crown replaced a medieval version, thought to have dated back to the 11th Century reign of Edward the Confessor which was melted down in 1649. King Charles III will be crowned with St Edward's Crown during the solemn ceremony to be held at London's Westminster Abbey on May 6, just as his late mother Queen Elizabeth II was in 1953. He will also wear the Imperial State Crown during the service. The St Edward's Crown, made up of a solid gold frame set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, topazes and tourmalines, follows its original medieval forebear in having four crosses-pattée and four fleurs-de-lis. It also has a velvet cap with an ermine band.

Historic crown to be modified for the coronation of King Charles III

From Zendaya being the youngest woman to win an Emmy twice to Squid Game winning 6 historic Emmys this year, we made a list of all the historic victories at the Academy Awards 2022.

Emmy 2022: Five historic wins you need to know about

Korean drama Squid Game became the first ever non-English drama series for an Emmy nomination. Out of 14 nominations, the South Korean survival drama made history by bagging top honours. Here's everything you need to know about the historic wins that the Netflix drama Squid Game took home.

Emmy 2022: Squid Game takes home historic wins

The music scene in India has underwent several phases since Independence. Watch the historical moments in the Indian music industry.

India@75: Historical moments in music industry

In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP. In the first of three planned launches from the Arnhem Space Centre, the rocket, carrying technology likened to a "mini Hubble" telescope, lifted off and blasted about 350 kilometres (218 miles) into the night sky.

Equatorial Launch Australia CEO Michael Jones told AFP ahead of the lift-off, "It is a momentous occasion for us as a company in particular, but it's historic for Australia."&nbsp;

Jones, whose company owns and operates the launch site in the far north of Australia, described it as a "coming out" party for the country's space industry and said the chance to work with NASA was a milestone for commercial space firms in the country.

After a series of rain and wind delays, the suborbital-sounding rocket soared into the sky to study x-rays emanating from the Alpha Centauri A and B systems. After reaching its apogee, the rocket's payload was to capture data on the star systems before parachuting back to earth.

According to NASA, the launch offers a unique glimpse of the distant systems and unlocked fresh possibilities for scientists.

"We're excited to be able to launch important science missions from the Southern Hemisphere and see targets that we can't from the United States," Nicky Fox, NASA's Heliophysics Division director in Washington, said on announcing the mission.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dollar-bankruptcy-russia-may-default-on-debt-servicing-492039">Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing</a>

Jones said the unique location had made preparations hard, with years of work to get regulatory approval and the need to haul rockets on barges to the launch site -- about 28 hours drive from Darwin in northern Australia.

"I think for the team, it's gonna be, you know, a huge relief that it's done," he said.

It is the first NASA rocket to launch from Australia since 1995, and the project was hailed as the start of a "new era" for the country's space industry by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
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In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP.

In a historic moment for the United States’ space industry, NASA's first-ever launch from a commercial site outside of the United States blasted off from Australia's Outback late on Sunday, as reported by AFP. In the first of three planned launches from the Arnhem Space Centre, the rocket, carrying technology likened to a "mini Hubble" telescope, lifted off and blasted about 350 kilometres (218 miles) into the night sky. Equatorial Launch Australia CEO Michael Jones told AFP ahead of the lift-off, "It is a momentous occasion for us as a company in particular, but it's historic for Australia." Jones, whose company owns and operates the launch site in the far north of Australia, described it as a "coming out" party for the country's space industry and said the chance to work with NASA was a milestone for commercial space firms in the country. After a series of rain and wind delays, the suborbital-sounding rocket soared into the sky to study x-rays emanating from the Alpha Centauri A and B systems. After reaching its apogee, the rocket's payload was to capture data on the star systems before parachuting back to earth. According to NASA, the launch offers a unique glimpse of the distant systems and unlocked fresh possibilities for scientists. "We're excited to be able to launch important science missions from the Southern Hemisphere and see targets that we can't from the United States," Nicky Fox, NASA's Heliophysics Division director in Washington, said on announcing the mission. Also Read: Dollar bankruptcy: Russia may soon default on debt servicing Jones said the unique location had made preparations hard, with years of work to get regulatory approval and the need to haul rockets on barges to the launch site -- about 28 hours drive from Darwin in northern Australia. "I think for the team, it's gonna be, you know, a huge relief that it's done," he said. It is the first NASA rocket to launch from Australia since 1995, and the project was hailed as the start of a "new era" for the country's space industry by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Historic: NASA’s first-ever commercial launch outside United States

An uncrewed Chinese spacecraft successfully landed on the surface of Mars on Saturday, state news agency Xinhua reported, making China the second space-faring nation after the United States to land on the Red Planet.&nbsp;

The Tianwen-1 spacecraft landed on a site on a vast plain known as Utopia Planitia, "leaving a Chinese footprint on Mars for the first time," Xinhua said.&nbsp;

The craft left its parked orbit at about 1700 GMT Friday (0100 Beijing time Saturday). The landing module separated from the orbiter three hours later and entered the Martian atmosphere, the official China Space News said.&nbsp;

It said the landing process consisted of 'nine minutes of terror' as the module decelerates and then slowly descends.&nbsp;

A solar-powered rover, named Zhurong, will now survey the landing site before departing from its platform to conduct inspections. Named after a mythical Chinese god of fire, Zhurong has six scientific instruments including a high-resolution topography camera.&nbsp;

The rover will study the planet's surface soil and atmosphere. Zhurong will also look for signs of ancient life, including any sub-surface water and ice, using a ground-penetrating radar.&nbsp;

Tianwen-1, or 'Questions to Heaven', after a Chinese poem written two millennia ago, is China’s first independent mission to Mars. A probe co-launched with Russia in 2011 failed to leave the Earth's orbit.&nbsp;

The five-tonne spacecraft blasted off from the southern Chinese island of Hainan in July last year, launched by the powerful Long March 5 rocket.&nbsp;

After more than six months in transit, Tianwen-1 reached the Red Planet in February where it had been in orbit since.&nbsp;

If Zhurong is successfully deployed, China would be the first country to orbit, land and release a rover in its maiden mission to Mars.&nbsp;

Tianwen-1 was one of three that reached Mars in February, with US rover Perseverance successfully touching down on February 18 in a huge depression called Jezero Crater, more than 2,000 km away from Utopia Planitia.&nbsp;

Hope - the third spacecraft that arrived at Mars in February this year - is not designed to make a landing. Launched by the United Arab Emirates, it is currently orbiting above Mars gathering data on its weather and atmosphere.&nbsp;

The first successful landing ever was made by NASA's Viking 1 in July 1976 and then by Viking 2 in September that year. A Mars probe launched by the former Soviet Union landed in December 1971, but communication was lost seconds after landing.&nbsp;

China is pursuing an ambitious space programme. It is testing reusable spacecraft and is also planning to establish manned lunar research station.&nbsp;

In a commentary published on Saturday, Xinhua said China was 'not looking to compete for leadership in space' but was committed to 'unveiling the secrets of the universe and contributing to humanity's peaceful use of space’.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

An uncrewed Chinese spacecraft successfully landed on the surface of Mars on Saturday, state news agency Xinhua reported, making China the second space-faring nation after the United States to land on the Red Planet.

An uncrewed Chinese spacecraft successfully landed on the surface of Mars on Saturday, state news agency Xinhua reported, making China the second space-faring nation after the United States to land on the Red Planet. The Tianwen-1 spacecraft landed on a site on a vast plain known as Utopia Planitia, "leaving a Chinese footprint on Mars for the first time," Xinhua said. The craft left its parked orbit at about 1700 GMT Friday (0100 Beijing time Saturday). The landing module separated from the orbiter three hours later and entered the Martian atmosphere, the official China Space News said. It said the landing process consisted of 'nine minutes of terror' as the module decelerates and then slowly descends. A solar-powered rover, named Zhurong, will now survey the landing site before departing from its platform to conduct inspections. Named after a mythical Chinese god of fire, Zhurong has six scientific instruments including a high-resolution topography camera. The rover will study the planet's surface soil and atmosphere. Zhurong will also look for signs of ancient life, including any sub-surface water and ice, using a ground-penetrating radar. Tianwen-1, or 'Questions to Heaven', after a Chinese poem written two millennia ago, is China’s first independent mission to Mars. A probe co-launched with Russia in 2011 failed to leave the Earth's orbit. The five-tonne spacecraft blasted off from the southern Chinese island of Hainan in July last year, launched by the powerful Long March 5 rocket. After more than six months in transit, Tianwen-1 reached the Red Planet in February where it had been in orbit since. If Zhurong is successfully deployed, China would be the first country to orbit, land and release a rover in its maiden mission to Mars. Tianwen-1 was one of three that reached Mars in February, with US rover Perseverance successfully touching down on February 18 in a huge depression called Jezero Crater, more than 2,000 km away from Utopia Planitia. Hope - the third spacecraft that arrived at Mars in February this year - is not designed to make a landing. Launched by the United Arab Emirates, it is currently orbiting above Mars gathering data on its weather and atmosphere. The first successful landing ever was made by NASA's Viking 1 in July 1976 and then by Viking 2 in September that year. A Mars probe launched by the former Soviet Union landed in December 1971, but communication was lost seconds after landing. China is pursuing an ambitious space programme. It is testing reusable spacecraft and is also planning to establish manned lunar research station. In a commentary published on Saturday, Xinhua said China was 'not looking to compete for leadership in space' but was committed to 'unveiling the secrets of the universe and contributing to humanity's peaceful use of space’. (With inputs from agencies)

China completes historic Mars spacecraft landing 

March 22 in history: Arab League is founded, laser is patented, and more

Pakistan's archaeological department has objected the demolition of three British-era bridges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Also read: Court orders former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to surrender in corruption case The department urged the provincial government to reverse its decision and preserve them given their historic importance.

Pakistan's archaeological department has objected the demolition of three British-era bridges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Also read: Court orders former Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to surrender in corruption case The department urged the provincial government to reverse its decision and preserve them given their historic importance. They have asked the KPK government to maintain Sardaryab, Naguman and Khialay bridges that hold a historic significance on Charsadda road near Peshawar. The archaeologists suggested to the government to preserve the bridges instead of demolishing them after the provincial highway authority moved a report to the KPK government to construct new bridges in place of these old bridges. (Inputs from PTI)

Pakistan's archaeological department objects demolishing bridges from British-era

Archaeologists have excavated more than 1,500 human bones in the western Japanese city of Osaka. The site is called the "Umeda Tomb" and is thought to be a burial site dating back to 160 years.

Archaeologists have excavated more than 1,500 human bones in the western Japanese city of Osaka. The site is called the "Umeda Tomb" and is thought to be a burial site dating back to 160 years. According to city officials, the "Umeda Tomb", is believed to be one of seven historical gravesites from the late Edo and early Meiji periods around the 1850s to 1860s. The researchers came across 350 small graves as well as remains of animals like four piglets, horses, and cats during the excavation. As per the Osaka City Cultural Properties Association, people buried at the site were most probably residents from around Osaka Castle town, with many believed to be in their 30s or small children. Some looked to have had signs of disease on their hands and feet, it said. According to the association, multiple bodies were found in some graves and many experts believe that they were buried together due to deaths related to an epidemic disease. (Inputs from Reuters)

'Umeda tomb': Archaeologists excavate over 1,500 human bones in Osaka

US&nbsp;astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir will make history on Friday when they conduct the first-ever all-female spacewalk to replace the power source on the International Space Station (ISS).

The pair will exit the ISS at 7:50 a.m. EDT (11:50 GMT) to fix the station’s faulty battery charge/discharge unit (BCDU) over a period of more than five hours.

An all-woman spacewalk was cancelled in March due to one woman's ill-fitting suit, leading to her replacement by a male colleague.

“Our achievements provide inspiration to students around the world, proving that hard work can lead you to great heights, and all students should be able to see themselves in those achievements,” a NASA spokeswoman said in an emailed statement.

The spacewalk will be broadcast in its entirety from 6:30 a.m. EDT (10:30 GMT) on National Aeronautics and Space Association (NASA) Television and on the agency's website.

Koch and Meir are replacing the BCDUs after they failed to provide increased power to the ISS, though this has not significantly impacted the crew or its mission.

According to NASA, BCDUs regulate the charge for batteries that draw energy from the station's solar collectors to provide power as the station orbits at night.

Koch, who is also set to complete the longest single spaceflight by a woman as she remains in orbit until February 2020, said gender milestones like the spacewalk were especially significant.

"There are a lot of people who derive motivation from inspiring stories from people who look like them, and I think that it’s an important aspect of the story to tell," she told a NASA briefing in Houston this month.

"What we’re doing now shows all the work in the decades prior from all the women that worked to get us where we are today,” Meir added.

Koch, who was slated for the earlier spacewalk, will be making her fourth walk and will become the 14th woman ever to walk in space. Friday will mark Meir's first spacewalk. The ISS has seen more than 200 spacewalks since 1998.

The March spacewalk was called off because astronaut Ann McClain needed a medium spacesuit but only a large was available. Due to safety issues with the fit, she did not participate.

"We must never accept a risk that can instead be mitigated," she said on Twitter after the event. "Safety of the crew and execution of the mission come first.”

At the time the cancellation drew widespread criticism, including from former US&nbsp;First Lady Hillary Clinton and global activism group March for Science.

Woman spacewalks date to July 1984 when Russian cosmonaut Svetlana Savitskaya became the first to do so. Russian cosmonaut Alexei Leonov conducted history's first spacewalk in 1965.

While Friday's event is a long time coming, NASA said it was not purposefully planned.

"It is something that was bound to happen eventually, and the increase in female astronauts in space for the past year is providing another window of opportunity,” its spokeswoman said.

US astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir will make history on Friday when they conduct the first-ever all-female spacewalk to replace the power source on the International Space Station (ISS).

US astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir will make history on Friday when they conduct the first-ever all-female spacewalk to replace the power source on the International Space Station (ISS). The pair will exit the ISS at 7:50 a.m. EDT (11:50 GMT) to fix the station’s faulty battery charge/discharge unit (BCDU) over a period of more than five hours. An all-woman spacewalk was cancelled in March due to one woman's ill-fitting suit, leading to her replacement by a male colleague. “Our achievements provide inspiration to students around the world, proving that hard work can lead you to great heights, and all students should be able to see themselves in those achievements,” a NASA spokeswoman said in an emailed statement. The spacewalk will be broadcast in its entirety from 6:30 a.m. EDT (10:30 GMT) on National Aeronautics and Space Association (NASA) Television and on the agency's website. Koch and Meir are replacing the BCDUs after they failed to provide increased power to the ISS, though this has not significantly impacted the crew or its mission. According to NASA, BCDUs regulate the charge for batteries that draw energy from the station's solar collectors to provide power as the station orbits at night. Koch, who is also set to complete the longest single spaceflight by a woman as she remains in orbit until February 2020, said gender milestones like the spacewalk were especially significant. "There are a lot of people who derive motivation from inspiring stories from people who look like them, and I think that it’s an important aspect of the story to tell," she told a NASA briefing in Houston this month. "What we’re doing now shows all the work in the decades prior from all the women that worked to get us where we are today,” Meir added. Koch, who was slated for the earlier spacewalk, will be making her fourth walk and will become the 14th woman ever to walk in space. Friday will mark Meir's first spacewalk. The ISS has seen more than 200 spacewalks since 1998. The March spacewalk was called off because astronaut Ann McClain needed a medium spacesuit but only a large was available. Due to safety issues with the fit, she did not participate. "We must never accept a risk that can instead be mitigated," she said on Twitter after the event. "Safety of the crew and execution of the mission come first.” At the time the cancellation drew widespread criticism, including from former US First Lady Hillary Clinton and global activism group March for Science. Woman spacewalks date to July 1984 when Russian cosmonaut Svetlana Savitskaya became the first to do so. Russian cosmonaut Alexei Leonov conducted history's first spacewalk in 1965. While Friday's event is a long time coming, NASA said it was not purposefully planned. "It is something that was bound to happen eventually, and the increase in female astronauts in space for the past year is providing another window of opportunity,” its spokeswoman said.

Historic all-female spacewalk set for Friday at International Space Station

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated the people of Afghanistan as their national cricket team faces India in their historic first ever Test match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Afghanistan started its maiden five-day test match in Bengaluru on Thursday, with the match attended by top government officials from both sides.

The Prime Minister took to Twitter to wish luck to both the sides.

"I congratulate the people of Afghanistan as their cricket team plays their first international Test match. Glad that they have chosen to play the historic match with India. Best wishes to both teams! May sports continue to bring our people closer and strengthen ties," PM Narendra Modi wrote.

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I congratulate the people of Afghanistan as their cricket team plays their first international test match. Glad that they have chosen to play the historic match with India. Best wishes to both teams! May sports continue to bring our people closer and strengthen ties.
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India's sports minister, Rajyavardhan Rathore, shook hands with Afghan players before the match and read out a congratulatory statement from Modi.

Awarded full member status by the International Cricket Council (ICC) alongside Ireland in June last year, Afghanistan became the 12th test-playing nation after first being recognised by the ICC in 2001. India is the world's top-ranked test side.

Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai was presented with a memento from former India all-rounder Salim Durrani, who was born in Kabul before the match began.

India has already offered war-ravaged Afghanistan two stadiums in the country to host matches with other nations.

New Delhi enjoys close relations with Afghanistan and both accuse common neighbour Pakistan of not doing enough to stop Islamist militants operating on its territory.

"The historic friendship and relations between India and Afghanistan go back to centuries. I'm glad that cricket is now added as another layer," Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Atif Mashal said in January when the date and venue of the match were announced.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai was presented with a memento from former India all-rounder Salim Durrani, who was born in Kabul before the match began.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated the people of Afghanistan as their national cricket team faces India in their historic first ever Test match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Afghanistan started its maiden five-day test match in Bengaluru on Thursday, with the match attended by top government officials from both sides. The Prime Minister took to Twitter to wish luck to both the sides. "I congratulate the people of Afghanistan as their cricket team plays their first international Test match. Glad that they have chosen to play the historic match with India. Best wishes to both teams! May sports continue to bring our people closer and strengthen ties," PM Narendra Modi wrote. I congratulate the people of Afghanistan as their cricket team plays their first international test match. Glad that they have chosen to play the historic match with India. Best wishes to both teams! May sports continue to bring our people closer and strengthen ties. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2018 × India's sports minister, Rajyavardhan Rathore, shook hands with Afghan players before the match and read out a congratulatory statement from Modi. Awarded full member status by the International Cricket Council (ICC) alongside Ireland in June last year, Afghanistan became the 12th test-playing nation after first being recognised by the ICC in 2001. India is the world's top-ranked test side. Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai was presented with a memento from former India all-rounder Salim Durrani, who was born in Kabul before the match began. India has already offered war-ravaged Afghanistan two stadiums in the country to host matches with other nations. New Delhi enjoys close relations with Afghanistan and both accuse common neighbour Pakistan of not doing enough to stop Islamist militants operating on its territory. "The historic friendship and relations between India and Afghanistan go back to centuries. I'm glad that cricket is now added as another layer," Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Atif Mashal said in January when the date and venue of the match were announced. (With inputs from Agencies)

PM Modi hopes historic cricket match will boost ties with Afghanistan

Afghanistan Cricket team will play its maiden Test match against India tomorrow and the team received appreciation and warm wishes from none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp

Hailing the feat achieved by Afghanistan, Modi said the game had come in very challenging and difficult circumstances.

He said it reflects the indomitable Afghan spirit to overcome all challenges and realise aspirations for a prosperous, stable, united and a peaceful nation.

"Today, cricket is a unifying force for the people of Afghanistan. India takes pride in being shoulder-to-shoulder with Afghanistan in this journey. It is an honour for India to host the Afghan national team at home ground in Greater Noida and Dehradun," Modi said.&nbsp

PM Modi further described the occasion as 'historic' and praised the team for making great strides in a very short period of time.&nbsp

India has also been associated with the development of cricket in Afghanistan since 2001 when the latter joined the International Cricket Council.

<img alt="PM Modi12.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="550" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/PM%20Modi12.png" width="394" />

It had also helped the country construct cricket stadiums.

Players like Rashid Khan and Mohammed Nabi have won hearts of millions of people in India through their performance in the recently concluded IPL.

Modi said the game had come in very challenging and difficult circumstances.

Afghanistan Cricket team will play its maiden Test match against India tomorrow and the team received appreciation and warm wishes from none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hailing the feat achieved by Afghanistan, Modi said the game had come in very challenging and difficult circumstances. He said it reflects the indomitable Afghan spirit to overcome all challenges and realise aspirations for a prosperous, stable, united and a peaceful nation. "Today, cricket is a unifying force for the people of Afghanistan. India takes pride in being shoulder-to-shoulder with Afghanistan in this journey. It is an honour for India to host the Afghan national team at home ground in Greater Noida and Dehradun," Modi said. PM Modi further described the occasion as 'historic' and praised the team for making great strides in a very short period of time. India has also been associated with the development of cricket in Afghanistan since 2001 when the latter joined the International Cricket Council. It had also helped the country construct cricket stadiums. Players like Rashid Khan and Mohammed Nabi have won hearts of millions of people in India through their performance in the recently concluded IPL.

'Historic', says PM Modi on India-Afghanistan Test match

Nepalis across the country&#39;s mountainous north voted Sunday in elections that could herald change after 20 ruinous years marked by a bloody Maoist insurgency, a devastating earthquake, and crippling political instability.

The historic vote marks the final step of a drawn-out peace process, which began in 2006 with the end of the civil war between the Maoists and the state.

More than two million people - around 65 per cent of eligible voters - cast their ballot for representatives in new national and provincial parliaments.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-begins-historic-vote-army-says-rogue-maoists-behind-blasts-25144" target="_blank">Also read: Nepal begins historic vote, army says &#39;rogue&#39; Maoists behind blasts</a>

The two-phase elections will establish the country&#39;s first provincial assemblies as laid out in a post-war constitution that aims to devolve power from the top-heavy central governments to seven newly created provinces.

Nepal&#39;s tumultuous transition from monarchy to democracy has been marred by the crippling instability that has seen 10 leaders hold power in 11 years - some of them more than once - hampering development and recovery from the earthquake that struck in 2015.

The areas that were worst hit by the quake, which killed 9,000 and destroyed half a million homes, voted on Sunday, with many expressing hope that sluggish reconstruction would be kickstarted by the political change.

&quot;I hope to see more development and better services in our district,&quot; said first-time voter Shanta Bhujel, 18, who cast his ballot in Chautara, a town east of the capital Kathmandu.

Polling station officials in Balephi, a small town in northern Sindhupalchowk district, sealed the plastic ballot boxes as the polls closed at 5 pm (1115 GMT) and loaded them into a truck to be transported to the district capital for storage.&nbsp;

Counting will only begin after the second phase of elections is held in the populous south on December 7, with results expected a few days later.

Elections were suspended and will be held again at two polling stations in the western district of Rukum after acid was sprinkled on ballot boxes and damaged the papers inside, said local official Bansi Kumar Acharya.

Meanwhile, voting was temporarily halted in another polling centre in the northeast after an explosive device was found. No injuries were reported.&nbsp;

Sporadic violence injured dozens in the lead-up to the polls, mostly blamed on a splinter faction of the Maoist Party. The faction pledged to disrupt the election.Many in the impoverished Himalayan nation walked for hours to reach their nearest polling station, while in the remote west voters also braved sub-zero temperatures and snow.

But nothing stopped a 114-year-old woman from casting her ballot in the western district of Baitadi.

The new constitution finally approved in 2015, mandates a sweeping overhaul of the political system, which should limit the impact of the horse-trading in Kathmandu on much-needed development in the rest of the country.

Rules under the new charter allocate a proportion of seats in the federal and provincial assemblies to women and people from indigenous communities and the lowest Dalit caste.

The rules will also weed out some fringe parties from the parliaments and raise the bar for ousting a prime minister, leading to hopes that the next government could be the first to last a full five-year term.

&quot;Our vote this time is in the hope that next time vote the country is in a better condition,&quot; said hotel owner Bhakta Lal Shrestha after casting his ballot in Balephi just before polling closed. 
However, analysts warn that the impact of the changes could be limited, with the three parties that have dominated the political stage since the end of the conflict expected to take the lion&#39;s share of seats.

The Maoist Party of the former rebels has formed an electoral alliance with the communist CNP-UML, fielding candidates jointly in key races.

The powerful bloc has left the ruling party, the centrist Nepali Congress, on the back foot and forced to look to smaller parties in a bid to remain in power.

&quot;Since there is no real ideological difference between the two alliances anymore, what we need for stable politics is a majority government with a strong opposition to keep it in check,&quot; the English-language Nepali Times wrote in an editorial Sunday. &quot;At this moment, that is the best we can hope for.&quot;

The historic vote marks the final step of a drawn-out peace process, which began in 2006 with the end of the civil war between the Maoists and the state

Nepalis across the country's mountainous north voted Sunday in elections that could herald change after 20 ruinous years marked by a bloody Maoist insurgency, a devastating earthquake, and crippling political instability. The historic vote marks the final step of a drawn-out peace process, which began in 2006 with the end of the civil war between the Maoists and the state. More than two million people - around 65 per cent of eligible voters - cast their ballot for representatives in new national and provincial parliaments. Also read: Nepal begins historic vote, army says 'rogue' Maoists behind blasts The two-phase elections will establish the country's first provincial assemblies as laid out in a post-war constitution that aims to devolve power from the top-heavy central governments to seven newly created provinces. Nepal's tumultuous transition from monarchy to democracy has been marred by the crippling instability that has seen 10 leaders hold power in 11 years - some of them more than once - hampering development and recovery from the earthquake that struck in 2015. The areas that were worst hit by the quake, which killed 9,000 and destroyed half a million homes, voted on Sunday, with many expressing hope that sluggish reconstruction would be kickstarted by the political change. "I hope to see more development and better services in our district," said first-time voter Shanta Bhujel, 18, who cast his ballot in Chautara, a town east of the capital Kathmandu. Polling station officials in Balephi, a small town in northern Sindhupalchowk district, sealed the plastic ballot boxes as the polls closed at 5 pm (1115 GMT) and loaded them into a truck to be transported to the district capital for storage. Counting will only begin after the second phase of elections is held in the populous south on December 7, with results expected a few days later. Elections were suspended and will be held again at two polling stations in the western district of Rukum after acid was sprinkled on ballot boxes and damaged the papers inside, said local official Bansi Kumar Acharya. Meanwhile, voting was temporarily halted in another polling centre in the northeast after an explosive device was found. No injuries were reported. Sporadic violence injured dozens in the lead-up to the polls, mostly blamed on a splinter faction of the Maoist Party. The faction pledged to disrupt the election.Many in the impoverished Himalayan nation walked for hours to reach their nearest polling station, while in the remote west voters also braved sub-zero temperatures and snow. But nothing stopped a 114-year-old woman from casting her ballot in the western district of Baitadi. The new constitution finally approved in 2015, mandates a sweeping overhaul of the political system, which should limit the impact of the horse-trading in Kathmandu on much-needed development in the rest of the country. Rules under the new charter allocate a proportion of seats in the federal and provincial assemblies to women and people from indigenous communities and the lowest Dalit caste. The rules will also weed out some fringe parties from the parliaments and raise the bar for ousting a prime minister, leading to hopes that the next government could be the first to last a full five-year term. "Our vote this time is in the hope that next time vote the country is in a better condition," said hotel owner Bhakta Lal Shrestha after casting his ballot in Balephi just before polling closed. However, analysts warn that the impact of the changes could be limited, with the three parties that have dominated the political stage since the end of the conflict expected to take the lion's share of seats. The Maoist Party of the former rebels has formed an electoral alliance with the communist CNP-UML, fielding candidates jointly in key races. The powerful bloc has left the ruling party, the centrist Nepali Congress, on the back foot and forced to look to smaller parties in a bid to remain in power. "Since there is no real ideological difference between the two alliances anymore, what we need for stable politics is a majority government with a strong opposition to keep it in check," the English-language Nepali Times wrote in an editorial Sunday. "At this moment, that is the best we can hope for."

Nepalese vote for stability in historic polls

Japan, on Saturday, marked 71 years since the city of Hiroshima was destroyed by a US atomic bomb, as its mayor urged the world to unite in abolishing nuclear weapons. 
 
The annual ceremony came just months after Barack Obama became the first sitting US president to visit the city, paying moving tribute to victims of the first atomic bomb. 
 
American B-29 bomber Enola Gay dropped its deadly payload, dubbed &quot;Little Boy&quot;, on the western Japanese city at 8:15 am local time on August 6, 1945.&nbsp;Much of the city was incinerated by a wall of heat up to 4,000 degrees Celsius (7,232 Fahrenheit), hot enough to melt steel, killing tens of thousands. 
 
Hiroshima mayor Kazumi Matsui recalled the visit by Obama in his peace declaration during the solemn ceremony.&nbsp;&quot;(His visit) was the proof that Hiroshima&#39;s strong wish not to tolerate the &#39;absolute evil&#39; was shared by President Obama,&quot; he said. &quot;It is the time for us to make actions towards the abolition of the &#39;absolute evil&#39;, the ultimate form of inhumanity, united and with passion.&quot; 
 
The bombing claimed the lives of 140,000 people. Some died immediately while others succumbed to injuries or radiation-related illnesses weeks, months and years later. 
 
A second bomb destroyed the city of Nagasaki three days later. Japan announced its surrender in World War II on August 15. 
 
Many in Japan feel the attacks amount to war crimes and atrocities because they targeted civilians and due to the unprecedented destructive nature of the weapons.&nbsp;But many Americans believe they hastened the end of a bloody conflict, and ultimately saved lives, thus justifying the bombings. 
 
Obama, in May, embraced survivors as he made his historic visit to the city and its Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. 
 
&quot;71 years ago, death fell from the sky and the world was changed,&quot; he said of the bomb, adding it &quot;demonstrated that mankind possessed the means to destroy itself&quot;. 
 
Obama offered no apology for the bombings, having insisted he would not revisit decisions made by then president Harry Truman.&nbsp;But his moving tribute and brief conversations with elderly atom bomb survivors, which included an unexpected embrace with one of them, profoundly impressed most Japanese. 
 
Since Obama went to Hiroshima the park and accompanying memorial museum have witnessed an increase in visitors. 
 
But an association of atomic bomb survivors has criticised his speech, saying he failed to explicitly mention US responsibility for the bombing.&nbsp;Abe, who also attended the service, faced harsh criticism last year, especially from A-bomb survivors, for his policy of expanding the role of Japan&#39;s military and opening the door to possibly sending troops into combat for the first time since the war. 
 
(AFP)

Much of the city was incinerated by a wall of heat up to 4,000 degrees Celsius. 140,000 died, some immediately, some weeks and years later

Japan, on Saturday, marked 71 years since the city of Hiroshima was destroyed by a US atomic bomb, as its mayor urged the world to unite in abolishing nuclear weapons. The annual ceremony came just months after Barack Obama became the first sitting US president to visit the city, paying moving tribute to victims of the first atomic bomb. American B-29 bomber Enola Gay dropped its deadly payload, dubbed "Little Boy", on the western Japanese city at 8:15 am local time on August 6, 1945. Much of the city was incinerated by a wall of heat up to 4,000 degrees Celsius (7,232 Fahrenheit), hot enough to melt steel, killing tens of thousands. Hiroshima mayor Kazumi Matsui recalled the visit by Obama in his peace declaration during the solemn ceremony. "(His visit) was the proof that Hiroshima's strong wish not to tolerate the 'absolute evil' was shared by President Obama," he said. "It is the time for us to make actions towards the abolition of the 'absolute evil', the ultimate form of inhumanity, united and with passion." The bombing claimed the lives of 140,000 people. Some died immediately while others succumbed to injuries or radiation-related illnesses weeks, months and years later. A second bomb destroyed the city of Nagasaki three days later. Japan announced its surrender in World War II on August 15. Many in Japan feel the attacks amount to war crimes and atrocities because they targeted civilians and due to the unprecedented destructive nature of the weapons. But many Americans believe they hastened the end of a bloody conflict, and ultimately saved lives, thus justifying the bombings. Obama, in May, embraced survivors as he made his historic visit to the city and its Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. "71 years ago, death fell from the sky and the world was changed," he said of the bomb, adding it "demonstrated that mankind possessed the means to destroy itself". Obama offered no apology for the bombings, having insisted he would not revisit decisions made by then president Harry Truman. But his moving tribute and brief conversations with elderly atom bomb survivors, which included an unexpected embrace with one of them, profoundly impressed most Japanese. Since Obama went to Hiroshima the park and accompanying memorial museum have witnessed an increase in visitors. But an association of atomic bomb survivors has criticised his speech, saying he failed to explicitly mention US responsibility for the bombing. Abe, who also attended the service, faced harsh criticism last year, especially from A-bomb survivors, for his policy of expanding the role of Japan's military and opening the door to possibly sending troops into combat for the first time since the war. (AFP)

Japan observes 71st anniversary of Hiroshima nuclear bombing

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro arrived in Havana late Wednesday night ahead of the signing of an agreement between Colombia&#39;s government and leftist FARC rebels. 
 
The two sides are slated to sign an agreement to end hostilities with a definitive ceasefire today. 
 
After more than three years of fraught talks in the Cuban capital, the agreement brings into sight an end to a conflict that began as a 1960s peasant revolt before exploding into a cocaine-fuelled war that has killed at least 220,000 people and displaced millions. 
 
The accord will be signed in Havana by President Juan Manuel Santos and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, rebel leader Rodrigo Londono, better known by his nom de guerre Timochenko. 
 
The agreement would leave the two sides just a step away from resolving the longest-running conflict in the Western Hemisphere. 
 
&quot;I congratulate (Colombian) President (Juan Manuel) Santos and the Colombian government. I congratulate the Revolutionary Armed Forces (of Colombia), the FARC and their commander, Timoleon for this historic advancement, this gigantic step. Peace in Colombia is our peace,&quot; Maduro said, referring to Londono by another of his aliases. 
 
Ban and Maduro were expected to attend the signing ceremony along with Cuban President Raul Castro and Chilean President Michelle Bachelet. 
 
The ceremony is expected to be held at 12:00 EDT (1600 GMT) 
 
(Reuters)

The agreement ends what started as a 1960s peasant revolt but ended up killing 220,000 and displacing millions

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro arrived in Havana late Wednesday night ahead of the signing of an agreement between Colombia's government and leftist FARC rebels. The two sides are slated to sign an agreement to end hostilities with a definitive ceasefire today. After more than three years of fraught talks in the Cuban capital, the agreement brings into sight an end to a conflict that began as a 1960s peasant revolt before exploding into a cocaine-fuelled war that has killed at least 220,000 people and displaced millions. The accord will be signed in Havana by President Juan Manuel Santos and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, rebel leader Rodrigo Londono, better known by his nom de guerre Timochenko. The agreement would leave the two sides just a step away from resolving the longest-running conflict in the Western Hemisphere. "I congratulate (Colombian) President (Juan Manuel) Santos and the Colombian government. I congratulate the Revolutionary Armed Forces (of Colombia), the FARC and their commander, Timoleon for this historic advancement, this gigantic step. Peace in Colombia is our peace," Maduro said, referring to Londono by another of his aliases. Ban and Maduro were expected to attend the signing ceremony along with Cuban President Raul Castro and Chilean President Michelle Bachelet. The ceremony is expected to be held at 12:00 EDT (1600 GMT) (Reuters)

Ban Ki-moon and Venezuela's Maduro arrive for Colombia-FARC agreement

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday launched restoration work at Kabul`s historic Darul Aman Palace, whose bombed out ruins have long symbolised the suffering caused by decades of conflict.&nbsp; 
 
The once-grand hilltop palace at the edge of Kabul was also the venue of Ghani`s cabinet meeting on Monday, the first such official gathering there in nearly a century. 
 
The building`s lion-headed buttresses are broken, its colonnades pockmarked by bullets, the metal sheets of its roof crumpled.&nbsp; 
Up to $20 million will be spent on restoring the former glory of the palace, built by Afghan King Amanullah Khan in the 1920s, Ghani`s office said, calling the project a symbol of national pride. 
 
&quot;Today we are returning to our past... to set the foundation for our future,&quot; Ghani said at the inauguration of the project.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;We are determined to reconstruct the historical structure from the budget of the Afghan government.&quot; 
 
The palace fell victim to the carnage of the early 1990s as rival mujahideen groups fought for power following the fall of a Soviet-backed regime after Moscow withdrew its troops from Afghanistan.&nbsp; 
 
Despite Ghani`s rhetoric, some in Kabul were against the restoration, however -- albeit for different reasons. 
&quot;I think it is a waste of money,&quot; Daud Hotak, a Kabul shopkeeper, told AFP. 
&quot;It comes at a time when the economy is in free fall and security is deteriorating. That money could have been spent to create jobs as thousands of people flee the country.&quot; 
 
Omaid Sharifi, a civil society activist, also pleaded against the restoration, though from a different perspective.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani">@ashrafghani</a> keep <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DarulamanPalace?src=hash">#DarulamanPalace</a> like this, let&#39;s remind our younger generation the brutality of war <a href="https://t.co/EzzYglMbhZ">pic.twitter.com/EzzYglMbhZ</a>
&mdash; Omaid Sharifi (@OmaidSharifi) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmaidSharifi/status/737168607227088896">May 30, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="~/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript"></script>

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday launched restoration work at Kabul`s historic Darul Aman Palace, whose bombed out ruins have long symbolised the suffering caused by decades of conflict.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday launched restoration work at Kabul`s historic Darul Aman Palace, whose bombed out ruins have long symbolised the suffering caused by decades of conflict. The once-grand hilltop palace at the edge of Kabul was also the venue of Ghani`s cabinet meeting on Monday, the first such official gathering there in nearly a century. The building`s lion-headed buttresses are broken, its colonnades pockmarked by bullets, the metal sheets of its roof crumpled. Up to $20 million will be spent on restoring the former glory of the palace, built by Afghan King Amanullah Khan in the 1920s, Ghani`s office said, calling the project a symbol of national pride. "Today we are returning to our past... to set the foundation for our future," Ghani said at the inauguration of the project. "We are determined to reconstruct the historical structure from the budget of the Afghan government." The palace fell victim to the carnage of the early 1990s as rival mujahideen groups fought for power following the fall of a Soviet-backed regime after Moscow withdrew its troops from Afghanistan. Despite Ghani`s rhetoric, some in Kabul were against the restoration, however -- albeit for different reasons. "I think it is a waste of money," Daud Hotak, a Kabul shopkeeper, told AFP. "It comes at a time when the economy is in free fall and security is deteriorating. That money could have been spent to create jobs as thousands of people flee the country." Omaid Sharifi, a civil society activist, also pleaded against the restoration, though from a different perspective. President @ashrafghani keep #DarulamanPalace like this, let's remind our younger generation the brutality of war pic.twitter.com/EzzYglMbhZ — Omaid Sharifi (@OmaidSharifi) May 30, 2016

Restoration starts at Kabul`s war-battered palace

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