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<p>Damaged sea cables caused widespread internet outages in Pakistan on Friday (Apr 27), according to ARY News.&nbsp;The fibre optic cable&nbsp;that connects&nbsp;Singapore to Pakistan and Europe&nbsp;was&nbsp;discovered&nbsp;broken at multiple spots.</p>

<p>The fiber optic cable connecting Singapore to Pakistan and Europe was destroyed near Indonesia at various locations, impacting internet service in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.</p>

<p>According to people familiar with the issue, five&nbsp;breaks in the&nbsp;fibre optic underwater cable severely affected internet services, particularly those routed from the east.&nbsp;The restoration operation&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;to&nbsp;take roughly one month&nbsp;to fully patch the fibre optic cable to its original condition. However, both PTCL and Transworld are having eastbound traffic issues.</p>

<p>With fewer than 10% of internet traffic coming from the east, Pakistani consumers have experienced difficulty accessing the internet, particularly in the evenings.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/hopeless-pakistani-man-offers-his-children-for-sale-715593" hreflang="en">Hopeless Pakistani man offers his children for sale</a></strong></p>

<p>To lessen the impact,&nbsp;PTCL has diverted internet traffic from the eastern direction to alternate routes.&nbsp;Nevertheless, until the fiber optic line&nbsp;is&nbsp;completely&nbsp;fixed, customers may still have difficulties.</p>

<h2><strong>What is fiber optic cable?</strong></h2>

<p>A fiber optic cable is a network cable&nbsp;made up of&nbsp;strands of glass fibers enclosed in an insulated casing.&nbsp;They're intended&nbsp;for long-distance, high-performance data networking and communications.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuid5ceRoWpEMeOe" /><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/cross-border-heart-transplant-indian-donor-saves-pakistani-teenagers-life-714692" target="_blank">Cross-border heart transplant: Indian donor saves Pakistani teenager's life</a></strong></p>

<p>Fiber optic lines have more bandwidth than conventional cables and can carry data over greater distances. Fiber&nbsp;optic cables power much of the world's internet, cable television, and telephone services.</p>


Damaged sea cables caused widespread internet outages in Pakistan on Friday (Apr 27), according to ARY News. The fibre optic cable that connects Singapore to Pakistan and Europe was discovered broken at multiple spots.

Damaged sea cables caused widespread internet outages in Pakistan on Friday (Apr 27), according to ARY News. The fibre optic cable that connects Singapore to Pakistan and Europe was discovered broken at multiple spots. The fiber optic cable connecting Singapore to Pakistan and Europe was destroyed near Indonesia at various locations, impacting internet service in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. According to people familiar with the issue, five breaks in the fibre optic underwater cable severely affected internet services, particularly those routed from the east. The restoration operation is expected to take roughly one month to fully patch the fibre optic cable to its original condition. However, both PTCL and Transworld are having eastbound traffic issues. With fewer than 10% of internet traffic coming from the east, Pakistani consumers have experienced difficulty accessing the internet, particularly in the evenings. Also read: Hopeless Pakistani man offers his children for sale To lessen the impact, PTCL has diverted internet traffic from the eastern direction to alternate routes. Nevertheless, until the fiber optic line is completely fixed, customers may still have difficulties. What is fiber optic cable? A fiber optic cable is a network cable made up of strands of glass fibers enclosed in an insulated casing. They're intended for long-distance, high-performance data networking and communications. Also read: Cross-border heart transplant: Indian donor saves Pakistani teenager's life Fiber optic lines have more bandwidth than conventional cables and can carry data over greater distances. Fiber optic cables power much of the world's internet, cable television, and telephone services.

Damaged sea cables trigger major internet disruption in Pakistan

Internet users are facing a significant setback due to damage to the fiber optic cable connecting Singapore to Pakistan and Europe. Watch in for more details!

Internet users face problem as undersea cable damaged

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<p>A new online game has taken over the internet. However, the players do not try to find a word or solve a puzzle. Instead, they try to guess a song.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bandle, the new song-guessing app, has become famous on platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and YouTube, where streamers and content creators have posted videos of themselves playing the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The free game gives players information about one song, including the year it was released. The player listens to the track, instrument by instrument, starting with drums and figures out the song. Players can guess the song at each layer until they reach the vocals. They can also ask for a clue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The game's creator, John Levy from France, said the success of the popular online puzzle game Wordle inspired him to create Bandle, NBC reported. After Wordle's success, many developers have tried to make games in a similar format, including Heardle, another music-guessing game; Poeltl, a basketball-player guessing game; and Lewdle, a bad word-guessing game.</p>

<p>Levy told NBC, "Everybody's&nbsp;asking me,&nbsp;'It's&nbsp;a great game. I want to play all day. And how do I do that? That's how it became an app — just because people gave me the idea."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-king-charles-gives-new-titles-to-william-and-kate-heres-what-it-means-714487">King Charles gives new titles to William and Kate; here's what it means</a></p>

<p>Levy also thanked the streamers for helping the app have an organic marketing boost. "I haven't done any [marketing] at all whatsoever," Levy said. "I don't have the budget for that anyway. It spread with word of mouth."</p>

<p>Anthony Fantano, a content creator and music reviewer who goes by the name 'The Needle Drop' on YouTube and 'The Needle Tok' on TikTok, said he heard about the game through some followers who commented suggesting he give it a try. "Sometimes, I'm pretty bad at sort of, like, instantly recalling song titles and stuff like that on the fly. But, you know, it's still a fun challenge," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fantano enjoys seeing his followers react to the Bandle videos, even when they get the wrong answer. Watching others online participate, like TikTok user "Noodles.Music.Dailies," is also enjoyable for him. "I have this alert on Google for the keyword 'Bandle' and each time there's a new video, from anyone really, I watch that," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new online game has taken over the internet. However, the players do not try to find a word or solve a puzzle. Instead, they try to guess a song. Bandle, the new song-guessing app, has become famous on platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and YouTube, where streamers and content creators have posted videos of themselves playing the game.

A new online game has taken over the internet. However, the players do not try to find a word or solve a puzzle. Instead, they try to guess a song. Bandle, the new song-guessing app, has become famous on platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and YouTube, where streamers and content creators have posted videos of themselves playing the game. The free game gives players information about one song, including the year it was released. The player listens to the track, instrument by instrument, starting with drums and figures out the song. Players can guess the song at each layer until they reach the vocals. They can also ask for a clue. The game's creator, John Levy from France, said the success of the popular online puzzle game Wordle inspired him to create Bandle, NBC reported. After Wordle's success, many developers have tried to make games in a similar format, including Heardle, another music-guessing game; Poeltl, a basketball-player guessing game; and Lewdle, a bad word-guessing game. Levy told NBC, "Everybody's asking me, 'It's a great game. I want to play all day. And how do I do that? That's how it became an app — just because people gave me the idea." ALSO READ | King Charles gives new titles to William and Kate; here's what it means Levy also thanked the streamers for helping the app have an organic marketing boost. "I haven't done any [marketing] at all whatsoever," Levy said. "I don't have the budget for that anyway. It spread with word of mouth." Anthony Fantano, a content creator and music reviewer who goes by the name 'The Needle Drop' on YouTube and 'The Needle Tok' on TikTok, said he heard about the game through some followers who commented suggesting he give it a try. "Sometimes, I'm pretty bad at sort of, like, instantly recalling song titles and stuff like that on the fly. But, you know, it's still a fun challenge," he said. Fantano enjoys seeing his followers react to the Bandle videos, even when they get the wrong answer. Watching others online participate, like TikTok user "Noodles.Music.Dailies," is also enjoyable for him. "I have this alert on Google for the keyword 'Bandle' and each time there's a new video, from anyone really, I watch that," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

After Wordle, a song-guessing game named Bandle takes over the internet

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Mar 14) again left netizens and media speechless after he non-hesitantly asked permission from one of his staffers to “take a couple of questions” from the audience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden was caught taking the bizarre permission during a campaign stop in Michigan, after which his other aides quickly shifted media reporters out of earshot.</p>

<p>“Can I take a couple questions?” asked 81-year-old Biden to a female staffer while meeting campaign volunteers and his supporters on the front porch of the home of a Saginaw city council member.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Yeah, we’re going to take a few questions,” replied the staffer. The response of the staffer apparently gave a signal to three other aides who then started herding up the media reporters already present on the sidewalk nearly 20 feet away.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BIDEN: "Can I take a couple questions?"<br />
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His handlers IMMEDIATELY remove the press. <a href="https://t.co/nJVb3WNVz3">pic.twitter.com/nJVb3WNVz3</a></p>
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) <a href="https://twitter.com/RNCResearch/status/1768357201586892930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Thank you, press … back in the vehicles,” the aides said as they escorted media personnel away before any of their questions were taken by Biden.</p>

<h2><strong>Biden taking 'permission' not a first</strong></h2>

<p>This is the second time in a week that Biden has been seen asking for permission before taking any questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schumers-comments-on-israel-are-his-not-of-joe-biden-administration-us-state-department-700249">Schumer's comments on Israel are his, not of Joe Biden administration: US State Department</a></p>

<p>Biden after ending his speech at the New Hampshire Democratic headquarters in Manchester on Monday (Mar 11), asked, “Am I allowed to take any questions?”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Anybody here a sta–” he went on and was most likely to say “staff” before he trailed off, as the crowd broke into laughter.</p>

<p>After this, a staff member quickly said, “Thank you, press,” before the camera feed of the event was snapped.</p>

<p>Many times, Biden has spoken to crowds about landing “in trouble” for answering unauthorised questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a viral incident, Biden was stopped from giving answers regarding Afghanistan at the White House Easter Egg Roll in April 2022 after one of his staff members interrupted the press meeting and took him away.</p>

<h2><strong>Social media reacts to Biden's escape from public</strong></h2>

<p>The insistence of Biden's campaign to not take any questions from people in front of some media reporters troubled social media users.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Biden, Trump win party presidential nominations</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-trump-win-party-presidential-nominations-699787/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;“This is bad. Really bad. They’ve told his staff not to let him open his mouth,” wrote conservative columnist Buzz Patterson on X, while reacting to the video footage of the Saginaw event.</p>

<p>“Trump would’ve walked out and spoken spontaneously for an hour," he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Fox News contributor Joe Conchan said, “So if [you’re] wondering why poll numbers are dropping post [State of the Union], here’s Exhibit Z since then…”</p>

<p>“The ‘leader’ of the free world has to ask permission to speak to the press,” wrote another X user.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Mar 14) again left netizens and media speechless after he non-hesitantly asked permission from one of his staffers to “take a couple of questions” from the audience.

United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (Mar 14) again left netizens and media speechless after he non-hesitantly asked permission from one of his staffers to “take a couple of questions” from the audience. Biden was caught taking the bizarre permission during a campaign stop in Michigan, after which his other aides quickly shifted media reporters out of earshot. “Can I take a couple questions?” asked 81-year-old Biden to a female staffer while meeting campaign volunteers and his supporters on the front porch of the home of a Saginaw city council member. “Yeah, we’re going to take a few questions,” replied the staffer. The response of the staffer apparently gave a signal to three other aides who then started herding up the media reporters already present on the sidewalk nearly 20 feet away. BIDEN: "Can I take a couple questions?" His handlers IMMEDIATELY remove the press. pic.twitter.com/nJVb3WNVz3 — RNC Research (@RNCResearch) March 14, 2024 × “Thank you, press … back in the vehicles,” the aides said as they escorted media personnel away before any of their questions were taken by Biden. Biden taking 'permission' not a first This is the second time in a week that Biden has been seen asking for permission before taking any questions. Also Read: Schumer's comments on Israel are his, not of Joe Biden administration: US State Department Biden after ending his speech at the New Hampshire Democratic headquarters in Manchester on Monday (Mar 11), asked, “Am I allowed to take any questions?” “Anybody here a sta–” he went on and was most likely to say “staff” before he trailed off, as the crowd broke into laughter. After this, a staff member quickly said, “Thank you, press,” before the camera feed of the event was snapped. Many times, Biden has spoken to crowds about landing “in trouble” for answering unauthorised questions. In a viral incident, Biden was stopped from giving answers regarding Afghanistan at the White House Easter Egg Roll in April 2022 after one of his staff members interrupted the press meeting and took him away. Social media reacts to Biden's escape from public The insistence of Biden's campaign to not take any questions from people in front of some media reporters troubled social media users. Watch: Biden, Trump win party presidential nominations “This is bad. Really bad. They’ve told his staff not to let him open his mouth,” wrote conservative columnist Buzz Patterson on X, while reacting to the video footage of the Saginaw event. “Trump would’ve walked out and spoken spontaneously for an hour," he said. Meanwhile, Fox News contributor Joe Conchan said, “So if [you’re] wondering why poll numbers are dropping post [State of the Union], here’s Exhibit Z since then…” “The ‘leader’ of the free world has to ask permission to speak to the press,” wrote another X user. (With inputs from agencies)

Netizens flabbergasted to see Biden seek staffer's permission to take questions from media in Michigan

A dozen countries across Africa suffered a major internet outage on Thursday as multiple undersea telecommunication cables reported failures. Watch in for more details!

Major internet outage hits dozens of countries in Africa

A recent report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and Kantar highlights a significant shift in how Indians access the Internet. Nearly 45% of the rural population, or 665 million people, still lack internet access. However, there is a growing preference for local languages. 57% of internet users in rural areas now choose to access the web in their native tongue, with Hindi leading the pack.

Local languages drive internet growth in rural India

<p>Researchers have warned that scammers and propagandists around the world are deploying AI tools to build fake news sites, often leading readers and viewers to take it as an authentic source of information. The generative AI tools offer significantly cheaper and faster ways to manufacture content, a concerning trend as proxies increasingly use it to sway the masses in a year of high-stakes elections worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>The fictional ‘psychiatrist’</strong></h2>

<p>One such fake story produced by AI and published on Global Village Space, a Pakistani digital outlet, went viral on the internet and claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s psychiatrist had committed “suicide”.</p>

<p>The article, which emerged in November, claimed the ‘psychiatrist’ blamed Netanyahu for his death in a suicide note.</p>

<p>NewsGuard, a US-based research organisation that tracks misinformation, later revealed that the outlet was flooded with AI-generated content, mainly scrapped from mainstream online sources. Upon research, the organisation found significant similarities between the fake article and a fictitious 2010 article on a satirical website.</p>

<p>"The exponential growth in AI-generated news and information sources is alarming because these sites can be perceived by the average user as legitimate, trustworthy sources of information," NewsGuard analyst McKenzie Sadeghi was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Used by propagandists</strong></h2>

<p>The fake article about Netanyahu’s psychiatrist went viral, in the face of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. An Iranian TV channel took it with both hands and&nbsp;urged the viewers to read the full article on Global Village Space.</p>

<p>The article was also translated into multiple languages, including Arabic, Farsi and French and then amplified by several handles across social media platforms.</p>

<p>A handful of sites even published obituaries of the fictional "psychiatrist".</p>

<h2><strong>Why is it concerning?</strong></h2>

<p>Experts believe scammers might use AI to disseminate misinformation in a year full of high-stakes elections, like in the US and India.</p>

<p>"Auto-generated misinformation is likely to be a major part of the 2024 elections," New York University professor Gary Marcus was quoted as saying by AFP. "Scammers are using (Generative) AI left, right and centre," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How AI is changing the future of work</strong></p>

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<p>According to NewsGuard, there are at least 739 AI-generated "low-hanging news" sites that operate with little to no human oversight and come with generic names such as "Ireland Top News".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzosyWxuuEAxUD2DgGHRayAbkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ai-mission-cabinet-approves-plan-with-outlay-of-125-billion-697716" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ai-mission-cabinet-approves-plan-with-outlay-of-125-billion-697716&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzosyWxuuEAxUD2DgGHRayAbkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India AI Mission: Cabinet approves plan with outlay of $1.25 billion</a></strong></p>

<p>Analysts believe it can also harm the interests of advertisers as they might be seen indirectly supporting content not based on facts and realities on the ground.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers have warned that scammers and propagandists around the world are deploying AI tools to build fake news sites, often leading readers and viewers to take it as an authentic source of information.

Researchers have warned that scammers and propagandists around the world are deploying AI tools to build fake news sites, often leading readers and viewers to take it as an authentic source of information. The generative AI tools offer significantly cheaper and faster ways to manufacture content, a concerning trend as proxies increasingly use it to sway the masses in a year of high-stakes elections worldwide. The fictional ‘psychiatrist’ One such fake story produced by AI and published on Global Village Space, a Pakistani digital outlet, went viral on the internet and claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s psychiatrist had committed “suicide”. The article, which emerged in November, claimed the ‘psychiatrist’ blamed Netanyahu for his death in a suicide note. NewsGuard, a US-based research organisation that tracks misinformation, later revealed that the outlet was flooded with AI-generated content, mainly scrapped from mainstream online sources. Upon research, the organisation found significant similarities between the fake article and a fictitious 2010 article on a satirical website. "The exponential growth in AI-generated news and information sources is alarming because these sites can be perceived by the average user as legitimate, trustworthy sources of information," NewsGuard analyst McKenzie Sadeghi was quoted as saying by AFP. Used by propagandists The fake article about Netanyahu’s psychiatrist went viral, in the face of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. An Iranian TV channel took it with both hands and urged the viewers to read the full article on Global Village Space. The article was also translated into multiple languages, including Arabic, Farsi and French and then amplified by several handles across social media platforms. A handful of sites even published obituaries of the fictional "psychiatrist". Why is it concerning? Experts believe scammers might use AI to disseminate misinformation in a year full of high-stakes elections, like in the US and India. "Auto-generated misinformation is likely to be a major part of the 2024 elections," New York University professor Gary Marcus was quoted as saying by AFP. "Scammers are using (Generative) AI left, right and centre," he said. Watch: How AI is changing the future of work × According to NewsGuard, there are at least 739 AI-generated "low-hanging news" sites that operate with little to no human oversight and come with generic names such as "Ireland Top News". Also read: India AI Mission: Cabinet approves plan with outlay of $1.25 billion Analysts believe it can also harm the interests of advertisers as they might be seen indirectly supporting content not based on facts and realities on the ground. (With inputs from agencies)

Internet flooded with AI-powered ‘news’ sites that push propaganda, false stories: Report

Pakistan's newly appointed Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has sparked a big debate online after a video showing her adjusting a female police officer's headscarf went viral. While some praised her gesture as compassionate, others have called it moral policing. The episode has ignited broader discussions around personal space and patriarchal norms in Pakistan.

Pakistan: Maryam Nawaz divides internet | Video of her fixing lady cop's headscarf sparks debate

<p>Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor who created the Ram Lalla idol which now sits in the sanctum sanctorum of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, has shared unseen pictures of the statue on social media.</p>

<p>The image is from the time when the process of carving was still incomplete. The images have taken the internet by storm as users sing praises for Yogiraj.</p>

<p>“At the time of work in progress… Even after feeling confident about the proportions and symmetry, feeling the Ram Lalla through our sensitive touch will make a big difference in the final outcome,” Arun Yogiraj wrote as he shared an image of the sculpture on Instagram.</p>

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<p>The image shows Yogiraj standing in front of the idol and holding its chin.</p>

<p>“Great work, so proud of you,” wrote an Instagram user. “This is so beautiful,” added another. “Great work, sir,” commented a third.</p>

<h2><strong>About Ram Lalla idol</strong></h2>

<p>Ram Lalla idol was placed inside the Ram Mandir before the consecration ceremony on January 22 . The statue represents Lord Rama as a 5-year-old child, standing on a lotus. The 51-inch idol is made up of an azure-coloured Krishna Shila (black schist).</p>

<h2><strong>Eyes were made within 20 minutes</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, in an exclusive conversation with WION, Yogiraj said the eyes of the idol were created within 20 minutes as there was an auspicious muhurat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-lallas-eyes-were-sculpted-by-arun-yogiraj-in-ayodhya-in-just-20-minutes-685014">Ram Lalla's eyes were sculpted in just 20 minutes, Arun Yogiraj tells WION</a></strong></p>

<p>“But, for making the eyes there was a muhurat (auspicious time) 20 minutes. So, we were given 20 minutes to complete the work on eyes,” he told WION.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Arun Yogiraj?</strong></h2>

<p>Arun Yogiraj is an Indian sculptor based out of the southern state of Karnataka. He belongs to a lineage of renowned sculptures. Yogiraj started his career in the corporate world after completing his MBA but returned to his roots in 2008.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-lalla-idols-sculptor-arun-yogiraj-calls-himself-luckiest-person-on-earth-after-consecration-682454">Ram Mandir I Ram Lalla idol sculptor Arun Yogiraj says he's ‘luckiest person on Earth’ after consecration</a></strong></p>

<p>Since then, he has been creating beautiful sculptures that have helped him earn global praise.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor who created the Ram Lalla idol which now sits in the sanctum sanctorum of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, has shared unseen pictures of the statue on social media.

Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor who created the Ram Lalla idol which now sits in the sanctum sanctorum of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, has shared unseen pictures of the statue on social media. The image is from the time when the process of carving was still incomplete. The images have taken the internet by storm as users sing praises for Yogiraj. “At the time of work in progress… Even after feeling confident about the proportions and symmetry, feeling the Ram Lalla through our sensitive touch will make a big difference in the final outcome,” Arun Yogiraj wrote as he shared an image of the sculpture on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arun Yogiraj (@arun_yogiraj) × The image shows Yogiraj standing in front of the idol and holding its chin. “Great work, so proud of you,” wrote an Instagram user. “This is so beautiful,” added another. “Great work, sir,” commented a third. About Ram Lalla idol Ram Lalla idol was placed inside the Ram Mandir before the consecration ceremony on January 22 . The statue represents Lord Rama as a 5-year-old child, standing on a lotus. The 51-inch idol is made up of an azure-coloured Krishna Shila (black schist). Eyes were made within 20 minutes Earlier, in an exclusive conversation with WION, Yogiraj said the eyes of the idol were created within 20 minutes as there was an auspicious muhurat. Also read: Ram Lalla's eyes were sculpted in just 20 minutes, Arun Yogiraj tells WION “But, for making the eyes there was a muhurat (auspicious time) 20 minutes. So, we were given 20 minutes to complete the work on eyes,” he told WION. Who is Arun Yogiraj? Arun Yogiraj is an Indian sculptor based out of the southern state of Karnataka. He belongs to a lineage of renowned sculptures. Yogiraj started his career in the corporate world after completing his MBA but returned to his roots in 2008. Also read: Ram Mandir I Ram Lalla idol sculptor Arun Yogiraj says he's ‘luckiest person on Earth’ after consecration Since then, he has been creating beautiful sculptures that have helped him earn global praise. (With inputs from agencies)

Sculptor Arun Yogiraj wins internet by sharing unseen pictures of Ram Lalla idol

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">India is the third-largest digitalised country in the world, just behind the United States and China, says a new report by a Delhi-based think tank.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The&nbsp;<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:
normal">'State of India's Digital Economy 2024'</i>&nbsp;report by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations shows that the state of digitalisation is better than economically-advanced countries.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">While the United Kingdom is ranked fourth, Germany – Europe's largest-economy – is at the fifth position. South Korea is placed sixth while Japan is ranked ninth.&nbsp; Australia (seventh), Indonesia (eighth) and France (tenth) make up the rest of the list.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">India's digital infrastructure does well at the aggregate level, given the massive size of the population.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">At over 700 million, India has the second-highest number of internet users in the world. This is more than twice the size of the United States’ population.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The country does particularly well when it comes to providing affordable data connection and utilising internet-based services like payment apps on a regular basis.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Where India lags in internet connectivity<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, at an individual user's level, India ranks 12th among the G-20 countries.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The report puts the digital divide in the following manner: "While India as a nation is vastly digitalised, the average user is not."&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">For instance: At an individual user's level, Fiji, with 88 per cent of its 0.9 million population connected to the internet, is ranked better than India, where only 52 per cent of the 1.4 billion population is connected to the web.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The difference in the aggregate and individual level of digitalisation exposes India’s digital divide, indicating that there is a great scope for improvement.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">India’s gender gap in internet connectivity at 10 per cent, is higher than the world average of 9 per cent.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The rural-urban divide is even higher at 58 per cent, compared to the world average at 49 per cent, adds the report.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">How are the countries and states measured?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The report is based on the CHIPS framework:&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Connect</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;takes into account affordability, quality and accessibility of internet facilities.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Harness</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;tracks how internet services are being used in the real economy.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Innovate</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;looks at the investment landscape in the tech world.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Protect</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;looks at measures taken for safe and secured internet facilities.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Sustain</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;measures efforts towards making the digital economy more environmentally sustainable.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">These five pillars are further divided into 16 sub-pillars and 50 indicators.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Countries and states are rated out of 100, with zero means no digitalisation and 100 means fully digitalised.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">India’s third position is largely due to its exceptional performance in the Connect and Harness categories.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Moreover, the gap between India (39.1) and the top two countries – US (65.1) and China (62.3) – is huge.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">How India's states perform&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">There is wide variation in the overall performance of Indian states.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Karnataka tops the list of digitalised states, followed by Maharashtra, Telangana, Gujarat and Haryana.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">On the other end of the spectrum are the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odiisha, Madhya Pradesh and Assam.</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Among the Union Territories and smaller states, Delhi leads the list while Arunachal Pradesh ranks at the bottom.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The ranking of states and Union Territories tell the story of regional economic disparity in India.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">“Richer states and union territories in India have relatively higher levels of digitalisation than poorer states,” says the report while noting that the gap is shrinking.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, a closer look at the report shows that no state or Union Territory ranks high in every category.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Chhattisgarh, which is ranked 14th in this year’s list, leads in the sub-categories of gender inclusion and public services (through the internet).&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The report notes that the regional disparity in the level of digitalisation across India is less than that for G-20 countries.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">“Uniform national-level policies, common infrastructure and homogeneity in cultural norms and consumption patterns implies that state performances are likely to be less unequal than in other countries,” states the report.&nbsp;</span></p>


India is the third-largest digitalised country in the world, just behind the United States and China, says a new report by a Delhi-based think tank. The 'State of India's Digital Economy 2024' report by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations shows that the state of digitalisation is better than economically-advanced countries.

India is the third-largest digitalised country in the world, just behind the United States and China, says a new report by a Delhi-based think tank. The 'State of India's Digital Economy 2024' report by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations shows that the state of digitalisation is better than economically-advanced countries. While the United Kingdom is ranked fourth, Germany – Europe's largest-economy – is at the fifth position. South Korea is placed sixth while Japan is ranked ninth. Australia (seventh), Indonesia (eighth) and France (tenth) make up the rest of the list. India's digital infrastructure does well at the aggregate level, given the massive size of the population. At over 700 million, India has the second-highest number of internet users in the world. This is more than twice the size of the United States’ population. The country does particularly well when it comes to providing affordable data connection and utilising internet-based services like payment apps on a regular basis. Where India lags in internet connectivity However, at an individual user's level, India ranks 12th among the G-20 countries. The report puts the digital divide in the following manner: "While India as a nation is vastly digitalised, the average user is not." For instance: At an individual user's level, Fiji, with 88 per cent of its 0.9 million population connected to the internet, is ranked better than India, where only 52 per cent of the 1.4 billion population is connected to the web. The difference in the aggregate and individual level of digitalisation exposes India’s digital divide, indicating that there is a great scope for improvement. India’s gender gap in internet connectivity at 10 per cent, is higher than the world average of 9 per cent. The rural-urban divide is even higher at 58 per cent, compared to the world average at 49 per cent, adds the report. How are the countries and states measured? The report is based on the CHIPS framework: Connect takes into account affordability, quality and accessibility of internet facilities. Harness tracks how internet services are being used in the real economy. Innovate looks at the investment landscape in the tech world. Protect looks at measures taken for safe and secured internet facilities. Sustain measures efforts towards making the digital economy more environmentally sustainable. These five pillars are further divided into 16 sub-pillars and 50 indicators. Countries and states are rated out of 100, with zero means no digitalisation and 100 means fully digitalised. India’s third position is largely due to its exceptional performance in the Connect and Harness categories. Moreover, the gap between India (39.1) and the top two countries – US (65.1) and China (62.3) – is huge. How India's states perform There is wide variation in the overall performance of Indian states. Karnataka tops the list of digitalised states, followed by Maharashtra, Telangana, Gujarat and Haryana. On the other end of the spectrum are the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odiisha, Madhya Pradesh and Assam. Among the Union Territories and smaller states, Delhi leads the list while Arunachal Pradesh ranks at the bottom. The ranking of states and Union Territories tell the story of regional economic disparity in India. “Richer states and union territories in India have relatively higher levels of digitalisation than poorer states,” says the report while noting that the gap is shrinking. However, a closer look at the report shows that no state or Union Territory ranks high in every category. Chhattisgarh, which is ranked 14th in this year’s list, leads in the sub-categories of gender inclusion and public services (through the internet). The report notes that the regional disparity in the level of digitalisation across India is less than that for G-20 countries. “Uniform national-level policies, common infrastructure and homogeneity in cultural norms and consumption patterns implies that state performances are likely to be less unequal than in other countries,” states the report.

Reading the fineprint: India is the third-largest digitalised country, says report

<p>Amid the ongoing farmers' protest, the Haryana government on Saturday (Feb 17) extended the suspension of mobile internet services in seven districts by two more days.</p>

<p>As per the notification released by the state government, the mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services will be blocked in seven districts till Monday (Feb 19).</p>

<p>The affected districts are Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the Manohar Lal Khattar-led government had extended the ban on mobile internet on February 13 and 15.</p>

<p>The protesting farmers have stayed put at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab’s border with Haryana as the demonstration enters the sixth day.</p>

<h2><strong>Govt requests time for talks</strong></h2>

<p>Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee leaders on Sunday (Feb 18) said that the Centre had asked for some time to discuss the matter with the union ministers.</p>

<p>"It is our sixth day at the Shambhu border. Today we are also holding a fourth round of talks with the government. The government has asked for some time and said that it will discuss the matter with the union ministers and find a solution to it," the committee's general secretary Sarvan Singh Pandher said on Sunday.</p>

<p>Earlier, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on Friday (Feb 16) stated that negotiations with farmers will resume on Sunday and that the efforts to find a solution are still ongoing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-major-jail-breach-rocks-khalistani-separatist-amritpal-singhs-cell-in-assam-691307">India: Phones, spy cam found in Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh’s jail cell in Assam</a></p>

<p>In the midst of the impasse between protestors and security forces on the Punjab-Haryana border, the third round of negotiations with the central government concluded on Thursday.</p>

<p>"This was the third meeting between the farmers and the government. Several issues and topics were raised and discussed. We will surely reach a conclusion if we will carry forward the talks peacefully. I am hopeful that we will soon find a solution. Another meeting with the farmers will be held on Sunday. We will discuss things in that meeting and will find a solution," the Union Minister had said.</p>

<p>Munda said that they will have to consider all relevant factors while making the decision.</p>

<p>"The decision cannot be taken in such a way that people criticize the situation without thinking and understanding in the coming days. Rather, we should try to keep in mind all the aspects of it and discuss it. The common life of the people should not be troubled in any way," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Farmers' protest 2024: What are farmers demanding?</strong></h2>

<p>Farmers are demanding legal guarantee for MSP, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pension for farmers, and various other agricultural reforms.</p>

<p>The farmers' list of demands also includes issues ranging from farm debt waivers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases against protesting farmers, justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act - 2013, as well as compensation for the families of farmers who died during the previous agitation in 2020-21.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid the ongoing farmers' protest, the Haryana government on Saturday (Feb 17) extended the suspension of mobile internet services in seven districts by two more days.

Amid the ongoing farmers' protest, the Haryana government on Saturday (Feb 17) extended the suspension of mobile internet services in seven districts by two more days. As per the notification released by the state government, the mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services will be blocked in seven districts till Monday (Feb 19). The affected districts are Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa. Earlier, the Manohar Lal Khattar-led government had extended the ban on mobile internet on February 13 and 15. The protesting farmers have stayed put at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab’s border with Haryana as the demonstration enters the sixth day. Govt requests time for talks Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee leaders on Sunday (Feb 18) said that the Centre had asked for some time to discuss the matter with the union ministers. "It is our sixth day at the Shambhu border. Today we are also holding a fourth round of talks with the government. The government has asked for some time and said that it will discuss the matter with the union ministers and find a solution to it," the committee's general secretary Sarvan Singh Pandher said on Sunday. Earlier, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on Friday (Feb 16) stated that negotiations with farmers will resume on Sunday and that the efforts to find a solution are still ongoing. Also read: India: Phones, spy cam found in Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh’s jail cell in Assam In the midst of the impasse between protestors and security forces on the Punjab-Haryana border, the third round of negotiations with the central government concluded on Thursday. "This was the third meeting between the farmers and the government. Several issues and topics were raised and discussed. We will surely reach a conclusion if we will carry forward the talks peacefully. I am hopeful that we will soon find a solution. Another meeting with the farmers will be held on Sunday. We will discuss things in that meeting and will find a solution," the Union Minister had said. Munda said that they will have to consider all relevant factors while making the decision. "The decision cannot be taken in such a way that people criticize the situation without thinking and understanding in the coming days. Rather, we should try to keep in mind all the aspects of it and discuss it. The common life of the people should not be troubled in any way," he added. Farmers' protest 2024: What are farmers demanding? Farmers are demanding legal guarantee for MSP, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pension for farmers, and various other agricultural reforms. The farmers' list of demands also includes issues ranging from farm debt waivers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases against protesting farmers, justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act - 2013, as well as compensation for the families of farmers who died during the previous agitation in 2020-21. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: Haryana government extends ban on mobile internet services

Russians are finding ways to escape the internet censorship being imposed in the country amid war. Reports say that more and more people are downloading VPN apps.

Gravitas | Putin Tightens Grip on Internet Access | How Russians Are Evading Kremlin's Eyes

Safer Internet Day, observed annually on February 6, is a global initiative dedicated to creating a safer and more responsible online environment, particularly for young individuals.

Safer Internet Day 2024: Promoting responsible use of internet

In January 2023, Google laid off 12,000 employees, which is 6% of its workforce. This was the largest layoff in the company's history. The layoffs were part of an effort to reduce costs and streamline operations. Most of the employees let go were working on voice-based Google Assistant and the augmented reality hardware team.

Google lays off hundreds of workers across division

<p>The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The company said: "We regret to announce a complete breakdown of fixed telecommunications and internet services in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing offensive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said on Tuesday that the war with Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip will last "for many more months".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a televised press conference, Halevi said that the war "will continue for many more months, and we will work with different methods so that our achievements are preserved for a long time".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-mulling-over-increasing-defence-spending-by-us8-billion-in-2024-673740">Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since the war broke out on October 7. The United Nations has raised concerns and said it was "gravely concerned" by Israel's continued bombardment of the central Gaza Strip. The UN also urged Israeli forces to take all available measures to protect civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN Human Rights Office said all attacks had to adhere to international humanitarian law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza by Israeli forces," rights office spokesman Seif Magango said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is particularly concerning that this latest intense bombardment comes after Israeli forces ordered residents from the south of Wadi Gaza to move to Middle Gaza and Tal al-Sultan in Rafah."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-comes-out-with-peace-proposal-plant-to-end-israel-hamas-war-report-673593">Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Netanyahu heckled inside parliament by families of hostages</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Death toll rises</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The health ministry in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip claimed on Tuesday that at least 20,915 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory so far. The ministry said another 54,918 people have been wounded in more than 11 weeks of fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel's military said on Tuesday that an anti-tank missile fired by the Lebanese Hezbollah group wounded nine soldiers. The military said that they rescued a civilian who was injured in another cross-border strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the soldiers was in "serious condition", the army said, after the group was hit when rescuing the civilian injured by an anti-tank missile fired from Lebanon amid the Gaza war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7.

The Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that internet and telephone services were cut again across the war-torn Gaza Strip. The company announced the fourth such breakdown since the war began on October 7. The company said: "We regret to announce a complete breakdown of fixed telecommunications and internet services in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing offensive." Meanwhile, Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said on Tuesday that the war with Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip will last "for many more months". At a televised press conference, Halevi said that the war "will continue for many more months, and we will work with different methods so that our achievements are preserved for a long time". Also read: Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024 Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since the war broke out on October 7. The United Nations has raised concerns and said it was "gravely concerned" by Israel's continued bombardment of the central Gaza Strip. The UN also urged Israeli forces to take all available measures to protect civilians. The UN Human Rights Office said all attacks had to adhere to international humanitarian law. "We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza by Israeli forces," rights office spokesman Seif Magango said in a statement. "It is particularly concerning that this latest intense bombardment comes after Israeli forces ordered residents from the south of Wadi Gaza to move to Middle Gaza and Tal al-Sultan in Rafah." Also read: Egypt comes out with peace plan to end war, as Israel's Netanyahu hell-bent on destroying Hamas Watch: PM Netanyahu heckled inside parliament by families of hostages × Death toll rises The health ministry in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip claimed on Tuesday that at least 20,915 people have been killed in the Palestinian territory so far. The ministry said another 54,918 people have been wounded in more than 11 weeks of fighting. Meanwhile, Israel's military said on Tuesday that an anti-tank missile fired by the Lebanese Hezbollah group wounded nine soldiers. The military said that they rescued a civilian who was injured in another cross-border strike. One of the soldiers was in "serious condition", the army said, after the group was hit when rescuing the civilian injured by an anti-tank missile fired from Lebanon amid the Gaza war. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Internet, phone services again disrupted across Gaza, Israel says war will last ‘for many more months’

China has launched the world's fastest internet network, capable of transmitting data at a rate of 1.2 terabits per second (Tbps) . The network spans 3,000 kilometres from Beijing to Guangzhou and was built by Huawei Technologies Co., China Mobile Ltd., Tsinghua University, and research provider Cernet.com Corp.

World's fastest 1.2 TBPS internet connection launched by China | World News

<p>Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations&nbsp;in Gaza.&nbsp;Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.<br />
<br />
"Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X.<br />
<br />
"I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered.<br />
<br />
I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. <a href="https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u">https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u</a></p>
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) <a href="https://twitter.com/AOC/status/1718053947498217715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza.<br />
<br />
[ComStar]</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1718224153474388433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to Musk's claims,&nbsp;Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country&nbsp;would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”.</p>

<p><br />
"HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink,"&nbsp;Karhi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this.<br />
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HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS.<br />
<br />
Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… <a href="https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ">https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ</a></p>
— 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/shlomo_karhi/status/1718309963666211328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas</strong></h2>

<p>Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musks-social-media-platform-x-to-roll-out-audio-video-calling-in-a-step-towards-everything-app-651325">Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’</a></p>

<p>The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation.<br />
<br />
The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea."<br />
<br />
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes.<br />
<br />
The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit</strong></p>

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<p>"We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown.<br />
<br />
"The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page.<br />
<br />
Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.

Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night. "Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X. "I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added. Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered. I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) October 27, 2023 × Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza." Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. [ComStar] — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 28, 2023 × Reacting to Musk's claims, Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”. "HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink," Karhi said. Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this. HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ — 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) October 28, 2023 × Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations. ALSO READ | Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’ The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation. The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea." The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes. The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff. WATCH | US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit "We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown. "The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page. Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Starlink to provide internet to aid groups in Gaza, says Musk in response to US leader

<p>The Manipur government has extended mobile internet ban for another five days till October 31, officials said on Thursday. The move comes barely a week after Chief Minister N Biren Singh had said the government would withdraw the ban within the next few days.</p>

<p>The ban was extended following "apprehensions that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate videos inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law and order situation," a government notification said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/angry-with-frequent-power-cuts-karnataka-farmers-threatens-officials-with-a-live-crocodile-at-their-office-651603">Angry with frequent power cuts, Karnataka farmers bring live crocodile to power station</a></p>

<p>The notification by commissioner (home) T Ranjit Singh informed that the DGP vide letter dated October 25 had "reported that there are still reports of incidents of violence like confrontation of the public with security forces, attempts to mob elected members residences and civil protests in front of police stations."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-indian-navy-officers-awarded-death-penalty-in-qatar-india-expresses-shock-651570">Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, 'deeply shocked' India exploring all legal options</a></p>

<p>"To thwart the designs and activities of anti-nationals and anti-socials and to maintain peace and communal harmony and to prevent any loss of life, it has become necessary to take adequate measures to maintain law and order in public interest by stopping the spread of disinformation and rumours through social media platforms," the notification said.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bsf-jawan-4-civilians-injured-as-pak-troops-open-fire-at-5-indian-posts-in-jammu-651790">BSF jawan, 4 civilians injured as Pak troops open fire at 5 Indian posts in Jammu&nbsp;</a></strong></p>
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<p>Mobile internet was banned in the state after violence broke out on May 3. Though it was restored on September 23, it had to be curbed again four days later on September 26 after students clashed with security forces after images of the bodies of two missing youths surfaced.</p>
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The Manipur government has extended mobile internet ban for another five days till October 31, officials said on Thursday. The move comes barely a week after Chief Minister N Biren Singh had said the government would withdraw the ban within the next few days.

The Manipur government has extended mobile internet ban for another five days till October 31, officials said on Thursday. The move comes barely a week after Chief Minister N Biren Singh had said the government would withdraw the ban within the next few days. The ban was extended following "apprehensions that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate videos inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law and order situation," a government notification said. Also Read | Angry with frequent power cuts, Karnataka farmers bring live crocodile to power station The notification by commissioner (home) T Ranjit Singh informed that the DGP vide letter dated October 25 had "reported that there are still reports of incidents of violence like confrontation of the public with security forces, attempts to mob elected members residences and civil protests in front of police stations." Also Read | Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, 'deeply shocked' India exploring all legal options "To thwart the designs and activities of anti-nationals and anti-socials and to maintain peace and communal harmony and to prevent any loss of life, it has become necessary to take adequate measures to maintain law and order in public interest by stopping the spread of disinformation and rumours through social media platforms," the notification said. Watch | BSF jawan, 4 civilians injured as Pak troops open fire at 5 Indian posts in Jammu × Mobile internet was banned in the state after violence broke out on May 3. Though it was restored on September 23, it had to be curbed again four days later on September 26 after students clashed with security forces after images of the bodies of two missing youths surfaced. 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. ×

Manipur mobile internet ban extended till October 31

<p>Mobile internet services, which were suspended as ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in early May, were restored after over four months from Saturday.</p>

<p>The services resumed hours after Chief Minister N Biren Singh made an announcement in this regard in the morning. He also called for the cancellation of the free movement regime that allows people residing close to both sides of the India-Myanmar border to venture 16 km deep into each other's territory without any document.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference here, Singh said, "The government had suspended mobile internet services on May 3 to check the spread of fake news, propaganda and hate speech. However, with the improvement of the situation, mobile internet services will be restored across the state from today."</p>

<p>The chief minister said the government will continue to deal with the influx of "illegal immigrants" and stressed the need for complete fencing of the India-Myanmar border.</p>

<p>"The Union Home Ministry has taken steps to fence 60 km of the international border in Manipur," he said.</p>

<p>The CM claimed that the present situation was a result of unplanned policies of the previous governments and not an immediate aftermath of any recent decision.</p>

<p>"Our government has requested the Union Home Ministry to cancel the free movement regime. Also, security forces have not properly guarded the border. Instead of being deployed at zero point, they were found guarding the border 14-15 km inside Indian territory," he claimed.</p>

<p>The CM also came out strongly against the bandh culture and incidents of "rampant verbal abuse against MLAs, ministers and police officials, which has diverted people from real issues and created conflict among ourselves".</p>

<p>"Over the last two months, the situation has improved and the frequency of firing incidents has come down with the deployment of security forces in vulnerable areas," he said.</p>

<p>Singh claimed that a countrywide survey has found a rise in drug and substance abuse among youths of the state, which was the reason why his government launched a 'war on drugs' in 2018.</p>

<p>"This will continue... it will be carried out more strongly to destroy poppy plantations in the hills," he said. Singh said that incidents of extortion, kidnappings and perpetrating other crimes by miscreants impersonating policemen have increased.</p>

<p>"We have to stay focused on real issues in the state, namely dealing with influx of illegal immigrants, taking up welfare activities for internally displaced people and fighting massive poppy cultivation," he said.</p>

<p>"With the objective of establishing the rule of law in Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Moreh and Imphal, our government is taking up multiple initiatives," Singh added.</p>

<p>More than 175 people have been killed and several hundred injured since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, when a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status.</p>

<p>Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mostly in the hill districts.</p>

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Mobile internet services, which were suspended as ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in early May, were restored after over four months from Saturday. The services resumed hours after Chief Minister N Biren Singh made an announcement in this regard in the morning.

Mobile internet services, which were suspended as ethnic violence erupted in Manipur in early May, were restored after over four months from Saturday. The services resumed hours after Chief Minister N Biren Singh made an announcement in this regard in the morning. He also called for the cancellation of the free movement regime that allows people residing close to both sides of the India-Myanmar border to venture 16 km deep into each other's territory without any document. Addressing a press conference here, Singh said, "The government had suspended mobile internet services on May 3 to check the spread of fake news, propaganda and hate speech. However, with the improvement of the situation, mobile internet services will be restored across the state from today." The chief minister said the government will continue to deal with the influx of "illegal immigrants" and stressed the need for complete fencing of the India-Myanmar border. "The Union Home Ministry has taken steps to fence 60 km of the international border in Manipur," he said. The CM claimed that the present situation was a result of unplanned policies of the previous governments and not an immediate aftermath of any recent decision. "Our government has requested the Union Home Ministry to cancel the free movement regime. Also, security forces have not properly guarded the border. Instead of being deployed at zero point, they were found guarding the border 14-15 km inside Indian territory," he claimed. The CM also came out strongly against the bandh culture and incidents of "rampant verbal abuse against MLAs, ministers and police officials, which has diverted people from real issues and created conflict among ourselves". "Over the last two months, the situation has improved and the frequency of firing incidents has come down with the deployment of security forces in vulnerable areas," he said. Singh claimed that a countrywide survey has found a rise in drug and substance abuse among youths of the state, which was the reason why his government launched a 'war on drugs' in 2018. "This will continue... it will be carried out more strongly to destroy poppy plantations in the hills," he said. Singh said that incidents of extortion, kidnappings and perpetrating other crimes by miscreants impersonating policemen have increased. "We have to stay focused on real issues in the state, namely dealing with influx of illegal immigrants, taking up welfare activities for internally displaced people and fighting massive poppy cultivation," he said. "With the objective of establishing the rule of law in Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Moreh and Imphal, our government is taking up multiple initiatives," Singh added. More than 175 people have been killed and several hundred injured since ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, when a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mostly in the hill districts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Mobile internet services restored in Manipur after over four months

<p>The recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi captured the attention of internet users worldwide, with a surge in interest, especially last week weekend. The English Wikipedia article titled "2023 G20 New Delhi Summit," published in October 2022, has amassed 1.7 million global page views.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the G20 Summit hosted in New Delhi, India found itself under the global media spotlight for several days. This attention has translated into a remarkable increase in pageviews for the English Wikipedia article. In August 2023, pageviews surged fourfold compared to July 2023, reaching over 220,000, and within the first two weeks of September 2023, they skyrocketed to over 550,000.</p>

<p>The heightened interest in the article not only reflects the global fascination with the event but also underscores India's prominence on the international stage. The G20 Summit and India's presidency have sparked widespread curiosity and engagement.</p>

<p>This fascination extends beyond the English-speaking audience, as the article has been translated into 18 languages, including French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish, accumulating a combined total of over 1.96 million pageviews.&nbsp; Volunteer editors have made hundreds of edits, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the information. In the case of the English Wikipedia G20 article alone, 166 editors have contributed over 450 edits since its publication.</p>

<p>While Wikipedia remained one of the sources of information, platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube played a significant role in disseminating information and fostering discussions.&nbsp;India's official G20 Presidency Twitter account, @g20org, garnered substantial attention with a followership of 644.4K. The use of popular hashtags like #G20India and #G20OfCourse facilitated conversations, allowing users to share insights and opinions about the summit.</p>

<p>YouTube, another powerful platform, became a primary source for live streaming the G20 Summit. The official G20 YouTube channel, with 67.4K subscribers, provided an accessible medium for people to watch the proceedings.</p>

<p>Furthermore, various Indian government YouTube channels, including PMO (Prime Minister's Office), MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), and PIB (Press Information Bureau), also streamed the summit and uploaded videos of various bilaterals, accumulating a significant number of views. This shift towards online streaming reflects a broader trend of people preferring digital platforms over traditional television for accessing important events.</p>

<p>The surge in online engagement during the G20 Summit underscores the growing influence of social media and digital platforms in shaping public discourse and disseminating information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi captured the attention of internet users worldwide, with a surge in interest, especially last week weekend. The English Wikipedia article titled "2023 G20 New Delhi Summit," published in October 2022, has amassed 1.

The recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi captured the attention of internet users worldwide, with a surge in interest, especially last week weekend. The English Wikipedia article titled "2023 G20 New Delhi Summit," published in October 2022, has amassed 1.7 million global page views. During the G20 Summit hosted in New Delhi, India found itself under the global media spotlight for several days. This attention has translated into a remarkable increase in pageviews for the English Wikipedia article. In August 2023, pageviews surged fourfold compared to July 2023, reaching over 220,000, and within the first two weeks of September 2023, they skyrocketed to over 550,000. The heightened interest in the article not only reflects the global fascination with the event but also underscores India's prominence on the international stage. The G20 Summit and India's presidency have sparked widespread curiosity and engagement. This fascination extends beyond the English-speaking audience, as the article has been translated into 18 languages, including French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish, accumulating a combined total of over 1.96 million pageviews. Volunteer editors have made hundreds of edits, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the information. In the case of the English Wikipedia G20 article alone, 166 editors have contributed over 450 edits since its publication. While Wikipedia remained one of the sources of information, platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube played a significant role in disseminating information and fostering discussions. India's official G20 Presidency Twitter account, @g20org, garnered substantial attention with a followership of 644.4K. The use of popular hashtags like #G20India and #G20OfCourse facilitated conversations, allowing users to share insights and opinions about the summit. YouTube, another powerful platform, became a primary source for live streaming the G20 Summit. The official G20 YouTube channel, with 67.4K subscribers, provided an accessible medium for people to watch the proceedings. Furthermore, various Indian government YouTube channels, including PMO (Prime Minister's Office), MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), and PIB (Press Information Bureau), also streamed the summit and uploaded videos of various bilaterals, accumulating a significant number of views. This shift towards online streaming reflects a broader trend of people preferring digital platforms over traditional television for accessing important events. The surge in online engagement during the G20 Summit underscores the growing influence of social media and digital platforms in shaping public discourse and disseminating information. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Internet was abuzz on India's G20 Summit amid global media spotlight, data shows

A Russian court has fined Tinder and Twitch for refusing to localize data. Match Group which operates Tinder has been fined $104,000 the streaming service Twitch on the other hand will have to pay a $135,000 fine. The reason for this is the repeated failure to localize data in accordance with Russian law.

Russia clamps down foreign internet companies

Mobile app stores operated by companies like Tencent and Xiaomi have begun blocking app publishers from debuting new apps if they haven’t made proper disclosures to the authorities, a news agency reported.

Chinese tech giants begin enforcing new government app rules

Indian satellite internet services may soon be available through Elon Musk's Starlink. The Department of Telecommunication authorities are expected to meet on September 20 to decide whether to allow Starlink to operate within the nation with the required license, according to The New Indian Express, citing officials familiar with the situation. In 32 nations throughout the world, Starlink's satellite internet services are accessible. During the communication blackout that occurred in Ukraine while at war with Russia, its services also played a significant role.

Starlink may soon offer internet services in India

Vietnam has an track record of blocking online content criticizing the one-party state. Now it is proposing to go a step further by blocking the users themselves from accessing the internet.

Vietnam's new measures to block users from accessing the internet

India is encountering another threat. The nation is being targeted by 'Religiously-motivated hacktivists'. Driven by the perception that the country has offended their religious sentiments.

What makes India the most targeted country by religiously-motivated hacktivists?

<p>The Haryana government extended suspension of mobile internet and sms service on Saturday (August 5) to August 8, said an official order quoted by Press Trust of India.</p>

<p>In Palwal district, these two services will now be suspended till 5 pm on August 7.</p>

<p>Mobile internet and SMS services were suspended after clashes erupted in Nuh on July 31 over an attempt to stop a Vishwa Hindu Parishad procession and spread to Gurugram and other districts of the State. Six people have died in the clashes.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, district magistrate of Nuh has issued an order saying the curfew would be lifted for three hours on Sunday (August 6) and public movement will be allowed during these three hours.</p>

<p>Press Trust of India reported that the order to extend the suspension was issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home), T.V.S.N. Prasad, on Saturday evening. Earlier, the suspension of services was to extend till August 5.</p>

<p>"This order is extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of district Nuh and shall be in force up to 08.08.2023 (23:59 hrs)," it stated.</p>

<p>"It has been brought to my notice by the deputy commissioners of Nuh that the law-and-order situation has been reviewed and intimated that conditions are still critical and tense in their respective districts.</p>

<p>"After assessment of the current prevailing law-and-order situation as well as recommendation of the deputy commissioner, Nuh, I am of this view that there is a clear potential of disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets and amenities and disturbance of public law and order in district Nuh on account of misuse of internet services by way of spread of inflammatory material and false rumours, which are being or could be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media/messaging services on mobile internet services, SMS services and other dongle services," order stated.</p>

<p>In a separate order, the ACS (Home) said, "This order extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of district Palwal, Haryana, and shall be in force up to 07.08.2023 (1700 hrs)."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Haryana government extended suspension of mobile internet and sms service on Saturday (August 5) to August 8, said an official order quoted by Press Trust of India.

The Haryana government extended suspension of mobile internet and sms service on Saturday (August 5) to August 8, said an official order quoted by Press Trust of India. In Palwal district, these two services will now be suspended till 5 pm on August 7. Mobile internet and SMS services were suspended after clashes erupted in Nuh on July 31 over an attempt to stop a Vishwa Hindu Parishad procession and spread to Gurugram and other districts of the State. Six people have died in the clashes. Meanwhile, district magistrate of Nuh has issued an order saying the curfew would be lifted for three hours on Sunday (August 6) and public movement will be allowed during these three hours. Press Trust of India reported that the order to extend the suspension was issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home), T.V.S.N. Prasad, on Saturday evening. Earlier, the suspension of services was to extend till August 5. "This order is extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of district Nuh and shall be in force up to 08.08.2023 (23:59 hrs)," it stated. "It has been brought to my notice by the deputy commissioners of Nuh that the law-and-order situation has been reviewed and intimated that conditions are still critical and tense in their respective districts. "After assessment of the current prevailing law-and-order situation as well as recommendation of the deputy commissioner, Nuh, I am of this view that there is a clear potential of disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets and amenities and disturbance of public law and order in district Nuh on account of misuse of internet services by way of spread of inflammatory material and false rumours, which are being or could be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media/messaging services on mobile internet services, SMS services and other dongle services," order stated. In a separate order, the ACS (Home) said, "This order extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the jurisdiction of district Palwal, Haryana, and shall be in force up to 07.08.2023 (1700 hrs)." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Haryana clashes: Suspension of internet in Nuh, Palwal extended

A research has revealed that people who use social media passively (only consuming content created by others) are more likely to feel lonely and experience psychological distress than people who use social media in a more active way (sharing their own content and interacting with others). Watch this to know more.

Excessive use of social media apps can make you lonely and depressed: Study

<p>The rabbit hole of the internet can be a scary jungle sometimes. Going online was a deliberate act just 15 years ago. It has now become a perpetual state thanks to smartphones, smart this, smart that and whatnot. What was once the promise of a free and equal virtual world soon attracted the attention of big corporate companies and maybe thus started the cat-and-mouse game of regulations, laws and tactics to bypass them.</p>

<p>It is perhaps fair to charge users for services they choose to avail from companies and social media platforms. What is problematic is the tactics that compel users to pay without their knowledge or in ways that entice users to do something that they normally would not have done. When we study these tactics, we encounter what are known as dark patterns.</p>

<h2><strong>What are dark patterns?</strong></h2>

<p>Dark patterns are unethical tactics from companies to entice users to pay up for things, and services they would normally not have shelled out money for. Such tactics involve unethical user interface designs that may make your internet experience harder than it should be in order to even exploit you.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Mobile phones to be banned in classrooms from next year in Netherlands</strong></p>

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<p>Tech firms often use deceptive tactics to make users accept, for example, certain terms and conditions or products and services. For this, tech firms or other companies may flood your inbox with promotional emails or tweak their websites or apps in a way that users may think acceptance or certain conditions is the only way forward. This may not always be the requirement but a user may be tricked into thinking as a result of the design of the website/ app.</p>

<h2><strong>So how are dark patterns used by the companies?</strong></h2>

<p>Social media companies and tech giants like Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Skype, LinkedIn, Microsoft and Google have used dark patterns.</p>

<p>Amazon faced heat in the European Union (EU) over its multi-step cancellation process for Amazon Prime subscriptions. It was reportedly noted by the EU that if a user wished to subscribe to Prime, the process was much simpler as opposed to if he wanted to unsubscribe.</p>

<p>This year, Amazon made the cancellation process simpler for its customers in Europe.</p>

<p>Another example of dark patterns is the unsolicited, sponsored messages one gets from influencers. It is often seen that disabling the reception of such mail is a difficult process. It is often a multi-step process and requires familiarity with the platform's controls, which not many users may have.</p>

<p>Media has reported users complaining that Meta-owned Instagram was suggesting posts they did not want to see and that they were not able to set preferences permanently.</p>

<p>Another darf pattern is the use of videos scattered between reels and stories without the label "sponsored".</p>

<h2><strong>Why are dark patterns bad for users?</strong></h2>

<p>Dark patterns affect the user experience and even make them vulnerable to financial and data exploitation by Big Tech firms. Dark patterns may confuse users, and introduce online obstacles that make a simple function take too much of time.</p>

<p>They can even make users sign up for services and products they would not normally want. Dark patterns may also make users pay more money or share more personal data the user is comfortable with sharing.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the government's response to dark patterns?</strong></h2>

<p>Governments and regulators are slowly turning their gaze to the dark patterns. India warned last week that online players will face action if they don't stop using dark patterns. India's consumer affairs secretary Rohit Kumar Singh briefed the media about this.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"We took a soft approach and told them on June 13 not to indulge in this. On June 28, we wrote a tough letter and asked them not to stop this, otherwise will take action," he said. He was quoted by Press Trust of India (PTI).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/century-old-mystery-behind-antarcticas-blood-falls-finally-solved-612218">Century-old mystery behind Antarctica's Blood Falls finally SOLVED</a></strong></p>

<p>Singh added that it was possible that after a couple of months, the department will issue specific guidelines on dark patterns.</p>

<p>He said the dark pattern has caught the attention of the government and consumer protection regulator amid a rise in online shopping and an increase in the number of internet users, which is expected to touch 900 million by 2025.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deep-sea-marvel-extraordinary-octopus-nursery-found-in-costa-ricas-waters-612210">Deep-sea marvel: Extraordinary octopus nursery found in Costa Rica's waters</a></strong></p>

<p>"We were not aware of the dark patterns. Then we started reading what is happening in other geographies and countries and realised that this is a big problem. We have identified nine dark patterns and told the industry not to indulge in them," he said, as quoted by the PTI.</p>

<p>The department conveyed its views to online players in a meeting held in Mumbai on June 13.</p>

<p>Singh said that enforcement against online players for adopting dark patterns has begun. He further said that the consumer affairs department will take complaints from consumers and send them to the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Right now, dark patterns have been noticed as part of misleading advertisements. "We are yet to classify them as dark patterns. We have started doing it now," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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The rabbit hole of the internet can be a scary jungle sometimes. Going online was a deliberate act just 15 years ago. It has now become a perpetual state thanks to smartphones, smart this, smart that and whatnot.

The rabbit hole of the internet can be a scary jungle sometimes. Going online was a deliberate act just 15 years ago. It has now become a perpetual state thanks to smartphones, smart this, smart that and whatnot. What was once the promise of a free and equal virtual world soon attracted the attention of big corporate companies and maybe thus started the cat-and-mouse game of regulations, laws and tactics to bypass them. It is perhaps fair to charge users for services they choose to avail from companies and social media platforms. What is problematic is the tactics that compel users to pay without their knowledge or in ways that entice users to do something that they normally would not have done. When we study these tactics, we encounter what are known as dark patterns. What are dark patterns? Dark patterns are unethical tactics from companies to entice users to pay up for things, and services they would normally not have shelled out money for. Such tactics involve unethical user interface designs that may make your internet experience harder than it should be in order to even exploit you. Watch | Mobile phones to be banned in classrooms from next year in Netherlands × Tech firms often use deceptive tactics to make users accept, for example, certain terms and conditions or products and services. For this, tech firms or other companies may flood your inbox with promotional emails or tweak their websites or apps in a way that users may think acceptance or certain conditions is the only way forward. This may not always be the requirement but a user may be tricked into thinking as a result of the design of the website/ app. So how are dark patterns used by the companies? Social media companies and tech giants like Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Skype, LinkedIn, Microsoft and Google have used dark patterns. Amazon faced heat in the European Union (EU) over its multi-step cancellation process for Amazon Prime subscriptions. It was reportedly noted by the EU that if a user wished to subscribe to Prime, the process was much simpler as opposed to if he wanted to unsubscribe. This year, Amazon made the cancellation process simpler for its customers in Europe. Another example of dark patterns is the unsolicited, sponsored messages one gets from influencers. It is often seen that disabling the reception of such mail is a difficult process. It is often a multi-step process and requires familiarity with the platform's controls, which not many users may have. Media has reported users complaining that Meta-owned Instagram was suggesting posts they did not want to see and that they were not able to set preferences permanently. Another darf pattern is the use of videos scattered between reels and stories without the label "sponsored". Why are dark patterns bad for users? Dark patterns affect the user experience and even make them vulnerable to financial and data exploitation by Big Tech firms. Dark patterns may confuse users, and introduce online obstacles that make a simple function take too much of time. They can even make users sign up for services and products they would not normally want. Dark patterns may also make users pay more money or share more personal data the user is comfortable with sharing. What is the government's response to dark patterns? Governments and regulators are slowly turning their gaze to the dark patterns. India warned last week that online players will face action if they don't stop using dark patterns. India's consumer affairs secretary Rohit Kumar Singh briefed the media about this. "We took a soft approach and told them on June 13 not to indulge in this. On June 28, we wrote a tough letter and asked them not to stop this, otherwise will take action," he said. He was quoted by Press Trust of India (PTI). Also Read | Century-old mystery behind Antarctica's Blood Falls finally SOLVED Singh added that it was possible that after a couple of months, the department will issue specific guidelines on dark patterns. He said the dark pattern has caught the attention of the government and consumer protection regulator amid a rise in online shopping and an increase in the number of internet users, which is expected to touch 900 million by 2025. Also Read | Deep-sea marvel: Extraordinary octopus nursery found in Costa Rica's waters "We were not aware of the dark patterns. Then we started reading what is happening in other geographies and countries and realised that this is a big problem. We have identified nine dark patterns and told the industry not to indulge in them," he said, as quoted by the PTI. The department conveyed its views to online players in a meeting held in Mumbai on June 13. Singh said that enforcement against online players for adopting dark patterns has begun. He further said that the consumer affairs department will take complaints from consumers and send them to the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA). Right now, dark patterns have been noticed as part of misleading advertisements. "We are yet to classify them as dark patterns. We have started doing it now," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | What are 'dark patterns' and how they harm internet users

<p dir="ltr">To bridge the digital divide and ensure universal access to high-speed broadband, the White House has announced the allocation of $42 billion to all 50 states and U.S. territories, Reuters reported on Monday. The funding, authorized by President Joe Biden's $1 trillion 2021 infrastructure law, aims to address the gaps in internet connectivity nationwide. The initiative, known as the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, will leverage a newly released Federal Communications Commission coverage map to identify areas with inadequate broadband access. The funding distribution reflects the urgent need to address connectivity issues in both populated and rural regions.</p>

<p><strong>Funding Distribution &amp; High-Speed Internet</strong></p>

<p>Texas and California, the most populous states in the U.S., have received the largest funding shares, with Texas being allocated $3.1 billion and California receiving $1.9 billion. Surprisingly, less populous states like Virginia, Alabama, and Louisiana have also secured significant funding due to the lack of broadband infrastructure in their rural areas. Each state will receive a minimum of $107 million, ensuring a comprehensive nationwide approach, as per Reuters.</p>

<p>During a White House address, President Biden emphasised the significance of high-speed internet access, stating that it is just as essential as electricity, water, and other basic services in today's economy. The funding marks the largest-ever investment in high-speed internet, aiming to make internet access more equitable and inclusive.</p>

<p><strong>Impact of Broadband Inequality &amp; Future Plans</strong></p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the digital divide, especially when schools shifted to online learning, leaving students without proper connectivity at a disadvantage. The lack of broadband access in rural and low-population areas has been a persistent issue, preventing economic growth and hindering educational opportunities. This initiative seeks to bridge these gaps, ensuring that every American can participate fully in the digital economy.</p>

<p>States are expected to submit their initial plans later this year, which will unlock 20 per cent of the allocated funding. The plans will outline strategies to improve broadband access in underserved areas. Once the plans are finalised, the remaining funds will be released, which may extend until 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Biden's Economic Policies &amp; Public Opinion</strong></p>

<p>The allocation of funds for broadband access is part of President Biden's broader economic agenda. In an effort to promote his economic policies, Reuters reported that the President will deliver a major economic speech in Chicago, outlining his vision for 'Bidenomics'. This initiative, alongside other legislative efforts, will shape the public's perception of his handling of the economy, which will be a focal point in the 2024 election.</p>

<p>According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, 54 per cent of Americans disapprove of President Biden's overall job performance, while only 35 per cent approve of his handling of the economy. The upcoming election is expected to serve as a referendum on Biden's economic policies, with job creation and low unemployment being key factors. Concerns over elevated inflation and potential recessionary impacts from higher interest rates have added complexity to the economic landscape.</p>

<p>Broadband providers such as Verizon, Comcast, Charter Communications, and AT&amp;T have been hesitant to expand their services to low-population rural communities due to the expensive infrastructure investments and limited subscriber base. This has further contributed to the digital divide, and the current funding aims to incentivize providers to extend their services to these underserved areas.</p>

<p><i>(With Inputs from Reuters)</i></p>


To bridge the digital divide and ensure universal access to high-speed broadband, the White House has announced the allocation of $42 billion to all 50 states and U.

To bridge the digital divide and ensure universal access to high-speed broadband, the White House has announced the allocation of $42 billion to all 50 states and U.S. territories, Reuters reported on Monday. The funding, authorized by President Joe Biden's $1 trillion 2021 infrastructure law, aims to address the gaps in internet connectivity nationwide. The initiative, known as the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, will leverage a newly released Federal Communications Commission coverage map to identify areas with inadequate broadband access. The funding distribution reflects the urgent need to address connectivity issues in both populated and rural regions. Funding Distribution & High-Speed Internet Texas and California, the most populous states in the U.S., have received the largest funding shares, with Texas being allocated $3.1 billion and California receiving $1.9 billion. Surprisingly, less populous states like Virginia, Alabama, and Louisiana have also secured significant funding due to the lack of broadband infrastructure in their rural areas. Each state will receive a minimum of $107 million, ensuring a comprehensive nationwide approach, as per Reuters. During a White House address, President Biden emphasised the significance of high-speed internet access, stating that it is just as essential as electricity, water, and other basic services in today's economy. The funding marks the largest-ever investment in high-speed internet, aiming to make internet access more equitable and inclusive. Impact of Broadband Inequality & Future Plans The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the digital divide, especially when schools shifted to online learning, leaving students without proper connectivity at a disadvantage. The lack of broadband access in rural and low-population areas has been a persistent issue, preventing economic growth and hindering educational opportunities. This initiative seeks to bridge these gaps, ensuring that every American can participate fully in the digital economy. States are expected to submit their initial plans later this year, which will unlock 20 per cent of the allocated funding. The plans will outline strategies to improve broadband access in underserved areas. Once the plans are finalised, the remaining funds will be released, which may extend until 2025. Biden's Economic Policies & Public Opinion The allocation of funds for broadband access is part of President Biden's broader economic agenda. In an effort to promote his economic policies, Reuters reported that the President will deliver a major economic speech in Chicago, outlining his vision for 'Bidenomics'. This initiative, alongside other legislative efforts, will shape the public's perception of his handling of the economy, which will be a focal point in the 2024 election. According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, 54 per cent of Americans disapprove of President Biden's overall job performance, while only 35 per cent approve of his handling of the economy. The upcoming election is expected to serve as a referendum on Biden's economic policies, with job creation and low unemployment being key factors. Concerns over elevated inflation and potential recessionary impacts from higher interest rates have added complexity to the economic landscape. Broadband providers such as Verizon, Comcast, Charter Communications, and AT&T have been hesitant to expand their services to low-population rural communities due to the expensive infrastructure investments and limited subscriber base. This has further contributed to the digital divide, and the current funding aims to incentivize providers to extend their services to these underserved areas. (With Inputs from Reuters)

Internet for all: White House unveils $42 Billion plan to connect the US

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