Japan Maritime Self-defense Force (JMSDF) unveils the newly modified multi-role helicopter carrier Kaga to the press on April 8 at its Kure base in Kure, Hiroshima prefecture—much to China’s discomfiture—after completing the first phase of the transformation process.

Japan unveils partially upgraded aircraft carrier JS Kaga

No matter what is one's first name, Japanese will have the same surname by 2531. As per a study, Japanese citizens will all have the same family name in 500 years unless married couples are permitted to use separate surnames.

Why will everyone's family name be 'Sato' in Japan by 2531?

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is working on converting JS Kaga, a helicopter carrier, into an aircraft carrier and the first of the two-stage modification was completed last month. The aircraft carrier is expected to operate the Lockheed Martin F-35B fighter aircraft.&nbsp;

The crucial modification includes changes in the deck's shape from a trapezoid to a rectangle and applying heat-resistant coating so that it can withstand the high temperatures from the jet engines. It aims to ensure the safe takeoff and landing of fighter aircraft.&nbsp;

Captain Ichiro Kokubu, who is the Kaga's commander, highlighted the significance of the transformation Kaga is undergoing. As quoted by the EurAsian Times, Kokubu said: "It is the first time for the MSDF to undertake such big (modification) work."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/yellens-china-visit-clean-energy-trade-talks-709752">Yellen's China visit: Clean energy trade talks</a>&nbsp;

Japanese defence ministry is reportedly also planning to convert JS Kaga's sister ship 'Izumo' into an aircraft carrier. However, a report by Navy Recognition mentioned that neither JS Izumo nor JS Kaga will permanently carry squadrons of F-35Bs. The government has clarified to ensure that both of them don't qualify as "attack-type aircraft carriers".&nbsp;

As quoted by the Naval News, Admiral Ryo Sakai, Chief of staff of the JMSDF, said: "We had carried out the first special modification work on the destroyer Kaga in conjunction with a regular inspection for about two years starting at the end of fiscal year 2021, and the modification was completed as planned on March 29 of this year."&nbsp;

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Watch:&nbsp;Japan PM Kishida arrives in US ahead of White House meeting with Biden&nbsp;

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"The destroyer Kaga is scheduled to undergo various tests (such as sea trials) during this fiscal year after the first modification, and the results of those tests will be reflected in the second special modification of Izumo, which will begin this fiscal year," Sakai said.&nbsp;

"The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force will continue to steadily advance the necessary modifications to acquire the operational capability of the F-35B on Izumo-class destroyers," the top officer of the JMSDF added as quoted.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that the completion of the first phase, which started in March 2022, was finalised on March 29, 2024.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is working on converting JS Kaga, a helicopter carrier, into an aircraft carrier and the first of the two-stage modification was completed last month.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is working on converting JS Kaga, a helicopter carrier, into an aircraft carrier and the first of the two-stage modification was completed last month. The aircraft carrier is expected to operate the Lockheed Martin F-35B fighter aircraft. The crucial modification includes changes in the deck's shape from a trapezoid to a rectangle and applying heat-resistant coating so that it can withstand the high temperatures from the jet engines. It aims to ensure the safe takeoff and landing of fighter aircraft. Captain Ichiro Kokubu, who is the Kaga's commander, highlighted the significance of the transformation Kaga is undergoing. As quoted by the EurAsian Times, Kokubu said: "It is the first time for the MSDF to undertake such big (modification) work." Also read: Yellen's China visit: Clean energy trade talks Japanese defence ministry is reportedly also planning to convert JS Kaga's sister ship 'Izumo' into an aircraft carrier. However, a report by Navy Recognition mentioned that neither JS Izumo nor JS Kaga will permanently carry squadrons of F-35Bs. The government has clarified to ensure that both of them don't qualify as "attack-type aircraft carriers". As quoted by the Naval News, Admiral Ryo Sakai, Chief of staff of the JMSDF, said: "We had carried out the first special modification work on the destroyer Kaga in conjunction with a regular inspection for about two years starting at the end of fiscal year 2021, and the modification was completed as planned on March 29 of this year." Also read: Putin to visit Beijing soon? Lavrov's China visit lays groundwork as the two countries defy West Watch: Japan PM Kishida arrives in US ahead of White House meeting with Biden × "The destroyer Kaga is scheduled to undergo various tests (such as sea trials) during this fiscal year after the first modification, and the results of those tests will be reflected in the second special modification of Izumo, which will begin this fiscal year," Sakai said. "The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force will continue to steadily advance the necessary modifications to acquire the operational capability of the F-35B on Izumo-class destroyers," the top officer of the JMSDF added as quoted. Reports have mentioned that the completion of the first phase, which started in March 2022, was finalised on March 29, 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan unveils partially upgraded aircraft carrier JS Kaga. It will be base for F-35Bs

Every Spring Japan erupts in a dazzling display of pink and white. The iconic cherry blossoms called Sakura are a National Treasure drawing millions of tourists each year but climate change is casting an ominous Shadow on them this year.

Why did the Cherry blossoms bloom early? A warning of climate change: Study

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko arrived in Washington on Monday. Kishida will hold a meeting with US President Joe Biden and attend a state dinner on Wednesday. He will deliver a speech at a joint session of Congress on Thursday before attending the first trilateral summit with Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.

US President Biden aims to upgrade US-Japan defence ties: Reports

92% of Japanese population considers China a threat to their national security. A majority of the population also supports an increased spending on defence. How will this deteriorating opinion of China impact the fast-changing geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific?

Gravitas: 92% of Japanese consider Xi Jinping's China a threat, here's why

The cherished Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, known as "hanami," should ideally be a simple joy. Each year, during early spring, these delicate flowers grace the country&nbsp;for about 10 days, inviting a nationwide celebration of outdoor picnics and leisurely daytime revelry.

However, this annual celebration&nbsp;has been tinged with apprehension. Climate change has infused&nbsp;uncertainty into the once-predictable timing of cherry blossom blooms, as reported by The Times.

Amongst flowers worldwide, none are awaited with as much anticipation as the sakura, or flowering cherry. These blooms symbolise the advent of spring, and mark the beginning of the academic and fiscal year in Japan.

Also watch |&nbsp;Japanese PM Fumio Kishida makes landmark US visit, first for Japan in nine years

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<h2>Dominance of Somei-Yoshino</h2>

In previous centuries, a diverse array of cherry blossom species flourished.

However, over the past century, one variety has come to dominate: the Somei-Yoshino. These cloned trees, with their fluffy pink-white blossoms, bloom simultaneously but fleetingly, lasting barely a week.

While Somei-Yoshino trees are popular, they are susceptible to a disease called witches' broom, which mars their appearance and inhibits flowering. Recognising this threat, the Flower Association of Japan has ceased distributing Somei-Yoshino in favour of a heartier alternative known as Jindai Akebono.

<h2>The impact of climate change</h2>

Climate change has introduced new uncertainties into the timing and duration of cherry blossom blooms.

Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns have disrupted the once-definite schedule of sakura blossoms, leading to challenges for tourism operators and local businesses that depend on the annual influx of visitors during peak bloom season.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average date of cherry blossom blooming has been advancing by approximately 1.2 days every decade since 1963, creating logistical challenges for organisers of hanami events and tours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/critical-situation-japans-number-of-births-fell-to-record-low-in-2023-marriages-down-by-59-694545">Also read |&nbsp;'Critical situation': Japan's number of births fell to record low in 2023, marriages down by 5.9%</a>

In response to the challenges facing cherry blossom viewing, efforts are underway to diversify tree varieties and promote more resilient species. The Flower Association of Japan has discontinued the distribution of Somei-Yoshino trees in favour of hardier alternatives such as Jindai Akebono. Additionally, conservation initiatives aim to protect cherry blossom trees from diseases and environmental threats, ensuring their continued presence for future generations to enjoy.

(With inputs from agencies)

The cherished Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, known as "hanami," should ideally be a simple joy. Each year, during early spring, these delicate flowers grace the country for about 10 days, inviting a nationwide celebration of outdoor picnics and leisurely daytime revelry.

The cherished Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, known as "hanami," should ideally be a simple joy. Each year, during early spring, these delicate flowers grace the country for about 10 days, inviting a nationwide celebration of outdoor picnics and leisurely daytime revelry. However, this annual celebration has been tinged with apprehension. Climate change has infused uncertainty into the once-predictable timing of cherry blossom blooms, as reported by The Times. Amongst flowers worldwide, none are awaited with as much anticipation as the sakura, or flowering cherry. These blooms symbolise the advent of spring, and mark the beginning of the academic and fiscal year in Japan. Also watch | Japanese PM Fumio Kishida makes landmark US visit, first for Japan in nine years Dominance of Somei-Yoshino In previous centuries, a diverse array of cherry blossom species flourished. However, over the past century, one variety has come to dominate: the Somei-Yoshino. These cloned trees, with their fluffy pink-white blossoms, bloom simultaneously but fleetingly, lasting barely a week. While Somei-Yoshino trees are popular, they are susceptible to a disease called witches' broom, which mars their appearance and inhibits flowering. Recognising this threat, the Flower Association of Japan has ceased distributing Somei-Yoshino in favour of a heartier alternative known as Jindai Akebono. The impact of climate change Climate change has introduced new uncertainties into the timing and duration of cherry blossom blooms. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns have disrupted the once-definite schedule of sakura blossoms, leading to challenges for tourism operators and local businesses that depend on the annual influx of visitors during peak bloom season. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average date of cherry blossom blooming has been advancing by approximately 1.2 days every decade since 1963, creating logistical challenges for organisers of hanami events and tours. Also read | 'Critical situation': Japan's number of births fell to record low in 2023, marriages down by 5.9% In response to the challenges facing cherry blossom viewing, efforts are underway to diversify tree varieties and promote more resilient species. The Flower Association of Japan has discontinued the distribution of Somei-Yoshino trees in favour of hardier alternatives such as Jindai Akebono. Additionally, conservation initiatives aim to protect cherry blossom trees from diseases and environmental threats, ensuring their continued presence for future generations to enjoy. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms are feeling the impact of severe climate change. Here’s how

Japanese Prime Minister says that the country is forced to revise its no war policy alluding to the various geopolitical tensions across the planet. Japanese PM Kishida says that the world is on the verge of a historic turning point. Watch in for more details!

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida warns world at 'historic turning point'

Japan PM Fumio Kishida arrives in Washington, set to address US Congress

Japan PM Fumio Kishida arrives in Washington, US and Japan seek to strengthen ties

US: Joe Biden to host Japan's Kishida | US & Japan seek to strengthen ties | World News | WION

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida left for Washington on Monday, becoming the first Japanese leader to make a state visit to the United States (US) in nine years, highlighting the growing importance of the two nations' cooperation.

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida makes landmark US visit, first for Japan in nine years

The downward trajectory of real wages in Japan has persisted in February, marking the 23rd consecutive month of decline, according to recent data released on Monday. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, this prolonged decrease in real wages is indicative of the sustained pressure on consumers' purchasing power, attributed to rising prices. <o:p></o:p>

The data on wages serves as a key indicator for the Bank of Japan (BOJ) in assessing both pay trends and inflation outlooks, important factors guiding decisions on monetary policy adjustments. <o:p></o:p>

The latest figures indicate a 1.3 per cent year-on-year decrease in inflation-adjusted real wages in February, following a revised decline of 1.1 per cent in January. <o:p></o:p>

This decline reflects the constant attrition of consumer purchasing power amid escalating prices. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the consumer inflation rate, which incorporates fresh food prices while excluding rent, accelerated to 3.3 per cent in February from 2.5 per cent in January. <o:p></o:p>

Despite this inflationary pressure, nominal pay increased by 1.8 per cent in February compared to the previous year, marking a considerable growth since June last year.<o:p></o:p>

A ministry said that monitoring the interplay between nominal pay growth and the dampening effect of price increases on real wages would be crucial. <o:p></o:p>

Against this backdrop, Japanese firms have promised a wage hike of 5.24 per cent this year, marking a major increase in the last 33 years.<o:p></o:p>

Breaking down the wage components, regular or base salary recorded an increase of 2.2 per cent year-on-year in February, surpassing the revised figure from the previous month. <o:p></o:p>

However, special payments, including bonuses, saw a downturn, declining by 5.5 per cent compared to the same period last year, following a revised gain of 12.4 per cent in January. <o:p></o:p>

The data on real wages comes against the backdrop of a significant policy shift by the Bank of Japan, which recently announced the termination of eight years of negative interest rates and other unconventional policies.<o:p></o:p>

This historic move signals a departure from the central bank's longstanding focus on stimulating growth through heavy monetary stimulus. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The downward trajectory of real wages in Japan has persisted in February, marking the 23rd consecutive month of decline, according to recent data released on Monday.

The downward trajectory of real wages in Japan has persisted in February, marking the 23rd consecutive month of decline, according to recent data released on Monday. According to Reuters, this prolonged decrease in real wages is indicative of the sustained pressure on consumers' purchasing power, attributed to rising prices. The data on wages serves as a key indicator for the Bank of Japan (BOJ) in assessing both pay trends and inflation outlooks, important factors guiding decisions on monetary policy adjustments. The latest figures indicate a 1.3 per cent year-on-year decrease in inflation-adjusted real wages in February, following a revised decline of 1.1 per cent in January. This decline reflects the constant attrition of consumer purchasing power amid escalating prices. Meanwhile, the consumer inflation rate, which incorporates fresh food prices while excluding rent, accelerated to 3.3 per cent in February from 2.5 per cent in January. Despite this inflationary pressure, nominal pay increased by 1.8 per cent in February compared to the previous year, marking a considerable growth since June last year. A ministry said that monitoring the interplay between nominal pay growth and the dampening effect of price increases on real wages would be crucial. Against this backdrop, Japanese firms have promised a wage hike of 5.24 per cent this year, marking a major increase in the last 33 years. Breaking down the wage components, regular or base salary recorded an increase of 2.2 per cent year-on-year in February, surpassing the revised figure from the previous month. However, special payments, including bonuses, saw a downturn, declining by 5.5 per cent compared to the same period last year, following a revised gain of 12.4 per cent in January. The data on real wages comes against the backdrop of a significant policy shift by the Bank of Japan, which recently announced the termination of eight years of negative interest rates and other unconventional policies. This historic move signals a departure from the central bank's longstanding focus on stimulating growth through heavy monetary stimulus. (With inputs from Reuters)

Japan's real wages decline for 23rd consecutive month in February

China’s military conducted a naval and air patrol in the disputed South China Sea on Sunday – the same day the Philippines, US, Japan and Australia held joint drills in the area. Watch to know more.

Australia, Philippines, US and Japan hold joint military drills in disputed South China Sea

Navy ships from four countries - Japan, US, Australia & Philippines - participate in maritime drill

The US Japan Australia and Philippines held a maritime exercise in the South China Sea. The drills aimed at supporting a free and open Indo Pacific against the backdrop of China's growing assertiveness in the region. In response to the drills China also conducted air and sea Patrols in the disputed Waters. Watch in for more details!

China holds combat patrol amid US-led war games in South China Sea

Japan, Australia, Philippines and US hold joint military drills in South China Sea

Exercise in South China Sea: Japan, US, Australia & the Philippines hold maritime drill

China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

<h2>China’s ‘combat patrols’</h2>

“The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills

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The statement also indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “all military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.”

However, the statement did not mention&nbsp;the joint drills being hosted by the Philippines or&nbsp;give any further details about its activities in the South China Sea.

<h2>First joint drills</h2>

The defence chiefs of the four countries, on Saturday (Apr 6) announced that they would conduct a “maritime cooperative activity” to safeguard the rule of law and uphold the right to sail through and fly over the waters and that the exercise would take place within the “Philippine exclusive economic zone.” &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-uk-australia-to-begin-talks-on-bringing-new-members-into-aukus-report-708601">US, UK &amp; Australia to begin talks on bringing new members into AUKUS: Report</a>

The first full-scale exercise involving the Philippines, the US, Australia and Japan would demonstrate “collective commitment” to strengthening regional and international cooperation “in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said the countries in a joint statement.&nbsp;

The war games also came days ahead of US President Joe Biden’s first trilateral summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that naval vessels and aircraft from the four countries participated in the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA).&nbsp;

“BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS15) with AW109 helicopter, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with AW159 Wildcat ASW helicopter, and BRP Valentin Diaz (PS177) from the Philippine Navy; the USS Mobile and a P-8A Poseidon from the United States Navy; the Royal Australian Navy HMAS Warramunga and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft; and the JS Akebono from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces” participated in the drills, it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Tensions in South China Sea</h2>

China has been at the centre of a long dispute and repeatedly claimed almost the entire South China Sea as its own despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 which said that Beijing has no legal basis for its claim.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a>

However, China has ignored that decision. Over the years, this&nbsp;territorial dispute has led to several skirmishes between Beijing and Manila which have flared up particularly since last year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, China has&nbsp;accused the US of inflaming tensions by meddling in the disputes as Washington backs Manila and even conducted joint patrols with the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;in a show of support.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.

China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia. China’s ‘combat patrols’ “The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning. WATCH | US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills The statement also indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “all military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.” However, the statement did not mention the joint drills being hosted by the Philippines or give any further details about its activities in the South China Sea. First joint drills The defence chiefs of the four countries, on Saturday (Apr 6) announced that they would conduct a “maritime cooperative activity” to safeguard the rule of law and uphold the right to sail through and fly over the waters and that the exercise would take place within the “Philippine exclusive economic zone.” Also Read | US, UK & Australia to begin talks on bringing new members into AUKUS: Report The first full-scale exercise involving the Philippines, the US, Australia and Japan would demonstrate “collective commitment” to strengthening regional and international cooperation “in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said the countries in a joint statement. The war games also came days ahead of US President Joe Biden’s first trilateral summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines. In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that naval vessels and aircraft from the four countries participated in the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA). “BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS15) with AW109 helicopter, BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with AW159 Wildcat ASW helicopter, and BRP Valentin Diaz (PS177) from the Philippine Navy; the USS Mobile and a P-8A Poseidon from the United States Navy; the Royal Australian Navy HMAS Warramunga and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft; and the JS Akebono from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces” participated in the drills, it added. Tensions in South China Sea China has been at the centre of a long dispute and repeatedly claimed almost the entire South China Sea as its own despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 which said that Beijing has no legal basis for its claim. Also Read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan However, China has ignored that decision. Over the years, this territorial dispute has led to several skirmishes between Beijing and Manila which have flared up particularly since last year. Meanwhile, China has accused the US of inflaming tensions by meddling in the disputes as Washington backs Manila and even conducted joint patrols with the Philippines in a show of support. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing patrols South China Sea amid first US-led war games with Australia, Japan, and Philippines

Japan, US, Australia and Philippines hold drills in South China Sea

Prior to joint military drills with its partners, the Philippines has claimed that two Chinese coastguard ships "harassed" Filipino fishing vessels within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the disputed South China Sea. Watch to know more.

Philippines accuses ‘harassment’ by Chinese vessels ahead of Japan, US drills

Rescuers are looking for 18 people still missing after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the islands mountainous and scenic east coast a day after Taiwan was rocked by its most intense earthquake in 25 years.

Taiwan lashes out at China for thanking nations on its behalf

Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, e-visa will be a single-entry short-term stay (up to 90 days) visa for the purpose of tourism. While for other reasons, the travellers would still have to apply for visas on paper at Japanese embassies and consulates.

The ministry further stated that if provided an electronic visa, the passenger will not have a visa sticker in their passport.

"While checking in at the airport, you will be asked to display a visa issuance notice on your device (smartphone, tablet) to show that you have a valid e-visa," it said.

The e-visa facility is now accessible to nationals from Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea and India.

How to apply for Japan e-visa?

<ul>
	<li>The traveller will have to visit the Japan e-visa website: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index and fill in the details.</li>
	<li>The results of the visa application will be sent to the registered e-mail address of the traveller.</li>
	<li>The visa fees will be notified to you by e-mail to Japanese overseas establishments where you are applying.</li>
	<li>The applicant might be requested to come in person to the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview.</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan.

Indians travelling to Japan can now obtain e-visas instead of actual passport stickers as Japan has started issuing eVisas for Indian tourists from April 1. The Japan Visa Application Center of VFS Global is now open to Indian citizens who wish to travel to Japan. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, e-visa will be a single-entry short-term stay (up to 90 days) visa for the purpose of tourism. While for other reasons, the travellers would still have to apply for visas on paper at Japanese embassies and consulates. The ministry further stated that if provided an electronic visa, the passenger will not have a visa sticker in their passport. "While checking in at the airport, you will be asked to display a visa issuance notice on your device (smartphone, tablet) to show that you have a valid e-visa," it said. The e-visa facility is now accessible to nationals from Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea and India. How to apply for Japan e-visa? The traveller will have to visit the Japan e-visa website: https://www.evisa.mofa.go.jp/index and fill in the details. The results of the visa application will be sent to the registered e-mail address of the traveller. The visa fees will be notified to you by e-mail to Japanese overseas establishments where you are applying. The applicant might be requested to come in person to the Japanese overseas establishment with jurisdiction over the place of the applicant’s residence for an interview. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan rolls out e-visas for Indian tourists. All you need to know

At least about nine people have been killed and over 700 others have been injured after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Taiwan's Capital Taipei. An estimated 50 people at this moment are still said to be missing. Watch in for more details!

Taiwan Earthquake: Rescue efforts continue

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

Taiwan Earthquake triggers landslides | Iran, Syria condemn Israel attack

Nine people have died and at least 50 others are missing following a 7.2 magnitude quake in Taiwan. The tremors were felt a little before 8 AM. Tsunami alerts were issued in the Philippines and Japan. Taiwan is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Is the island prepared for mega quakes?

Taiwan Earthquake: Two Indians reportedly missing | Is the island prepared for mega earthquakes?

At least about nine people have been killed and over 700 others have been injured after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Taiwan's Capital Taipei. An estimated 50 people at this moment are still said to be missing.

Taiwan Earthquake: Japan and Philippines lift Tsunami warnings

Taiwan Earthquake: A powerful earthquake of 7.2 magnitude earthquake jolted the Islands capital of Tapei. The earthquake has prompted tsunami warnings in the self-ruled island parts of Southern Japan and Philippines.

Taiwan Earthquak hits at depth of 15.5 kilometers, strongest quake to hit in 25 years

Taiwan Earthquake: Major earthquake collapses buildings in Taiwan, shocks felt in China

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People in Japan could all have the same surname in about 500 years, a study has suggested. Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, led the study as part of a campaign to update the civil code that has been in place since the 1800s.

People in Japan could all have the same surname in about 500 years, a study has suggested. Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, led the study as part of a campaign to update the civil code that has been in place since the 1800s. The research revealed that the entire Japanese population might go by the last name of Sato-san by 2531 unless married couples are permitted to use separate surnames. For now, Japanese couples must have the same family name. The study, based on several assumptions, aimed to draw attention to the impact the present system has on Japanese society. "If everyone becomes Sato, we may have to be addressed by our first names or by numbers," the professor said, according to the Japanese publication Mainichi. "I don't think that would be a good world to live in." Sato is the most common surname in Japan at the moment. It accounts for 1.5 per cent of the 125.1 million-strong population. The second is Suzuki. ALSO READ | China's services sector shows accelerated growth in March, Caixin PMI reveals Since the study was published on April 1, some people think it's a prank. However, Yoshida wants people to take the matter seriously. According to him, if everyone had the same surname, it would be difficult to find another way to differentiate between people. The professor called it, "not only inconvenient but also [undermining] individual dignity." Apart from practical difficulties, losing different surnames would cause a loss of cultural, regional, and family heritage. The proportion of Satos increased 1.0083 times between 2022 and 2023. Around half of the Japanese population would have that name in 2446 if Satos increased at this rate, reaching 100 per cent in 2531. In Japan, the woman has to change her last name in 95 per cent of marriages. However, it is not specific in the current laws. But more and more people are now in support of married couples using separate surnames. Japan does not allow couples to have separate last names, becoming the only country in the world that requires spouses to use the same family name. However, the government has allowed maiden names to appear alongside married names on passports, driving licences and residence certificates. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party has given the main argument against the issue. They say changing the law would undermine family unity and could cause confusion among children. (With inputs from agencies)

Entire population of Japan to have same surname by 2531, study suggests

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