Japan is extending its coronavirus state of emergency until March 7, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced, following a government meeting.

Japan extends state of emergency in Tokyo and 9 other cities until 7th March

Japan has expressed "regret" after Sri Lanka scrapped 2019 deal with New Delhi and Tokyo for development of Colombo port's East Container Terminal.&nbsp;

A Japanese embassy official in Delhi responding to WION' question, "expressed regret at the unilateral decision taken by Sri Lanka".

Sri Lankan cabinet on Monday unanimously approved that the East terminal of the port will be developed solely&nbsp;by the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA).

Meanwhile in the aftermath of the development Japan envoy to Colombo Akira Sugiyama met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Wednesday to discuss a "range of matters relevant to the bilateral partnership between Sri Lanka and Japan", a tweet from Sri Lankan MFA said.

Earlier over the weekend,&nbsp;Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured protesting local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity.

In a tweet, he said, that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt".&nbsp;

In 2019,&nbsp;India, Japan and Sri Lanka signed a trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation for development of the terminal under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt.

Under the trilateral arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities.

While India is yet to react on Colombo's decision, ahead of the announcement by Sri Lankan Govt, a&nbsp;spokesperson of the Indian High Commission in Colombo "reiterated the expectation of Government of India for expeditious implementation of the trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC)" signed in May&nbsp;2019&nbsp;

Pointing out to the "commitment of Government of Sri Lanka in this regard has been conveyed several times in the recent past, including at the leadership level... All sides should continue to abide by the existing understandings and commitment."

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government, perhaps as a compensatory offer has said it would involve India and Japan for development of Colombo port’s West Container terminal.

Japan has expressed "regret" after Sri Lanka scrapped 2019 deal with New Delhi and Tokyo for development of Colombo port's East Container Terminal. A Japanese embassy official in Delhi responding to WION' question, "expressed regret at the unilateral decision taken by Sri Lanka".

Japan has expressed "regret" after Sri Lanka scrapped 2019 deal with New Delhi and Tokyo for development of Colombo port's East Container Terminal. A Japanese embassy official in Delhi responding to WION' question, "expressed regret at the unilateral decision taken by Sri Lanka". Sri Lankan cabinet on Monday unanimously approved that the East terminal of the port will be developed solely by the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA). Meanwhile in the aftermath of the development Japan envoy to Colombo Akira Sugiyama met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Wednesday to discuss a "range of matters relevant to the bilateral partnership between Sri Lanka and Japan", a tweet from Sri Lankan MFA said. Earlier over the weekend, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured protesting local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity. In a tweet, he said, that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt". In 2019, India, Japan and Sri Lanka signed a trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation for development of the terminal under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt. Under the trilateral arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities. While India is yet to react on Colombo's decision, ahead of the announcement by Sri Lankan Govt, a spokesperson of the Indian High Commission in Colombo "reiterated the expectation of Government of India for expeditious implementation of the trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC)" signed in May 2019 Pointing out to the "commitment of Government of Sri Lanka in this regard has been conveyed several times in the recent past, including at the leadership level... All sides should continue to abide by the existing understandings and commitment." Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government, perhaps as a compensatory offer has said it would involve India and Japan for development of Colombo port’s West Container terminal.

Japan regrets Sri Lanka scrapping 2019 deal with New Delhi, Tokyo

Japan's services sector shrank at the fastest pace in five months, as a heavy blow to demand from a resurgence in coronavirus infections and a state of emergency in parts of the country greatly hurt new business orders.

World Business Watch: Japan's service sector slump deepens as COVID-19 emergency hits business

Japan&nbsp;is expected to extend a state of emergency on Tuesday to fight the spread of COVID-19 for Tokyo and other areas, three sources with knowledge of the legal procedures said on Monday.

Last month the government declared a one-month state of emergency, due to end on Sunday, Feb. 7, for 11 areas, including Tokyo and its neighbouring prefectures, as part of measures to rein in the pandemic.

The government will decide on extending the state of emergency after a meeting of its experts panel on Tuesday, with the emergency period in prefectures including the Tokyo area expected to run for another month, the sources said.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to hold a news conference on Tuesday, one source told Reuters.

Public broadcaster NHK later reported that the government had decided to extend the state of emergency for 10 prefectures including Tokyo until March 7, but would lift it in one less populated area, Tochigi Prefecture, which has seen a decline in cases.

Suga has launched a raft of measures to contain a third wave of infections as his government remains determined that the Olympics go ahead as planned on July 23.

But public support for his administration has weakened amid unhappiness with its handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which critics have called too slow and inconsistent.

A Nikkei newspaper poll showed 90% of respondents favoured extending the emergency period in areas where it is implemented.

Japan&nbsp;has had a total of 390,687 coronavirus cases and 5,766 deaths, NHK said. In Tokyo, new cases totalled 633 on Sunday, below 1,000 for the third consecutive day.

Separately, the lower house on Monday passed a revision to the coronavirus special measures law that the upper house is expected to approve on Wednesday, domestic media said. The revision would toughen regulations and allow authorities to levy fines on those who break the law.

Japan is expected to extend a state of emergency on Tuesday to fight the spread of COVID-19 for Tokyo and other areas, three sources with knowledge of the legal procedures said on Monday.

Japan is expected to extend a state of emergency on Tuesday to fight the spread of COVID-19 for Tokyo and other areas, three sources with knowledge of the legal procedures said on Monday. Last month the government declared a one-month state of emergency, due to end on Sunday, Feb. 7, for 11 areas, including Tokyo and its neighbouring prefectures, as part of measures to rein in the pandemic. The government will decide on extending the state of emergency after a meeting of its experts panel on Tuesday, with the emergency period in prefectures including the Tokyo area expected to run for another month, the sources said. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to hold a news conference on Tuesday, one source told Reuters. Public broadcaster NHK later reported that the government had decided to extend the state of emergency for 10 prefectures including Tokyo until March 7, but would lift it in one less populated area, Tochigi Prefecture, which has seen a decline in cases. Suga has launched a raft of measures to contain a third wave of infections as his government remains determined that the Olympics go ahead as planned on July 23. But public support for his administration has weakened amid unhappiness with its handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which critics have called too slow and inconsistent. A Nikkei newspaper poll showed 90% of respondents favoured extending the emergency period in areas where it is implemented. Japan has had a total of 390,687 coronavirus cases and 5,766 deaths, NHK said. In Tokyo, new cases totalled 633 on Sunday, below 1,000 for the third consecutive day. Separately, the lower house on Monday passed a revision to the coronavirus special measures law that the upper house is expected to approve on Wednesday, domestic media said. The revision would toughen regulations and allow authorities to levy fines on those who break the law.

Japan expected to extend COVID-19 state of emergency

Japanese baseball star Masahiro Tanaka said Saturday he hopes to win a gold medal at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and celebrate with Japan fans, as the pitcher returns home after a seven-year stint with the New York Yankees.

Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo, the 32-year-old -- now set to play for the Rakuten Eagles -- was asked about the possibility of him playing in the postponed Summer Games.

"If I ever have a chance to participate, there is no reason for me to reject," he said.

"I had a bitter feeling when I played in the Beijing Olympics... This time I want to win a gold medal" as part of the host country's team, he added.

"I'm very excited at the fact I will be able to pitch in front of fans in Japan."

The timing of this year's games is particularly meaningful, he said, as it comes 10 years after a 2011 tsunami that left thousands dead in Japan.

Star pitcher Tanaka played for the Eagles from 2007 until 2013, when the team won their first-ever "Japan Series" title to the joy of fans in its home city of Sendai, which was devastated by the disaster.

He began a seven-year $155 million contract with the Yankees the following year.

Rakuten's chairman Hiroshi Mikitani said he hoped Tanaka's pitching would "invigorate" Japan this year.

The Tokyo Olympics -- initially set to take place last year but postponed due to the coronavirus -- are set to begin on July 23.

Despite growing concern over the event's feasibility, organisers and the International Olympic Committee insist it can go ahead safely.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga vowed Friday that the Olympics would be held this summer "as a symbol of global unity" to "bring hope and courage to the world".

Japanese baseball star Masahiro Tanaka said Saturday he hopes to win a gold medal at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and celebrate with Japan fans, as the pitcher returns home after a seven-year stint with the New York Yankees.

Japanese baseball star Masahiro Tanaka said Saturday he hopes to win a gold medal at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and celebrate with Japan fans, as the pitcher returns home after a seven-year stint with the New York Yankees. Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo, the 32-year-old -- now set to play for the Rakuten Eagles -- was asked about the possibility of him playing in the postponed Summer Games. "If I ever have a chance to participate, there is no reason for me to reject," he said. "I had a bitter feeling when I played in the Beijing Olympics... This time I want to win a gold medal" as part of the host country's team, he added. "I'm very excited at the fact I will be able to pitch in front of fans in Japan." The timing of this year's games is particularly meaningful, he said, as it comes 10 years after a 2011 tsunami that left thousands dead in Japan. Star pitcher Tanaka played for the Eagles from 2007 until 2013, when the team won their first-ever "Japan Series" title to the joy of fans in its home city of Sendai, which was devastated by the disaster. He began a seven-year $155 million contract with the Yankees the following year. Rakuten's chairman Hiroshi Mikitani said he hoped Tanaka's pitching would "invigorate" Japan this year. The Tokyo Olympics -- initially set to take place last year but postponed due to the coronavirus -- are set to begin on July 23. Despite growing concern over the event's feasibility, organisers and the International Olympic Committee insist it can go ahead safely. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga vowed Friday that the Olympics would be held this summer "as a symbol of global unity" to "bring hope and courage to the world".

Star pitcher Tanaka wants Olympic gold with Japan fans

A Japanese woman who said she hid her mother's corpse in a freezer in her apartment for a decade told police she feared eviction if the death was discovered, media reported Saturday.

Yumi Yoshino was held "on suspicion of abandoning and hiding a female body" found Wednesday inside the freezer in a Tokyo apartment.

The 48-year-old woman said she hid the body 10 years ago because she "didn't want to move out" of the home she shared with her mother, after finding her dead.

The mother, thought to be aged around 60 at the time of her death, was named on the lease of the apartment in a municipal housing complex.

Yoshino had been forced to leave the apartment in mid-January after missing rent payments, the reports said, and a cleaner discovered the body in a freezer hidden in a closet.

An autopsy could not determine the time and cause of woman's death.

A Japanese woman who said she hid her mother's corpse in a freezer in her apartment for a decade told police she feared eviction if the death was discovered, media reported Saturday.

A Japanese woman who said she hid her mother's corpse in a freezer in her apartment for a decade told police she feared eviction if the death was discovered, media reported Saturday. Yumi Yoshino was held "on suspicion of abandoning and hiding a female body" found Wednesday inside the freezer in a Tokyo apartment. The 48-year-old woman said she hid the body 10 years ago because she "didn't want to move out" of the home she shared with her mother, after finding her dead. The mother, thought to be aged around 60 at the time of her death, was named on the lease of the apartment in a municipal housing complex. Yoshino had been forced to leave the apartment in mid-January after missing rent payments, the reports said, and a cleaner discovered the body in a freezer hidden in a closet. An autopsy could not determine the time and cause of woman's death.

Japan woman hid mum's frozen corpse for 10 years, reports say

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The review was carried out at the fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum.

The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Japanese Ambassador Suzuki Satoshi, the MEA said.

"The AEF reviewed progress of ongoing projects in the North Eastern Region of India in various areas including connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development, harnessing of water resources, and skill development," it said in a statement.

It said the two sides discussed several new projects being undertaken under India-Japan bilateral cooperation and also exchanged views on cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, agro-industries bamboo value chain development, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

The AEF provides a platform for India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern Region under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's vision for a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'.

"The Foreign Secretary and the Japanese Ambassador appreciated the role played by the AEF since its establishment in 2017 in streamlining India-Japan bilateral cooperation for the modernisation of the North Eastern region," the MEA said.

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

India and Japan on Thursday reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The review was carried out at the fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum. The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Japanese Ambassador Suzuki Satoshi, the MEA said. "The AEF reviewed progress of ongoing projects in the North Eastern Region of India in various areas including connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development, harnessing of water resources, and skill development," it said in a statement. It said the two sides discussed several new projects being undertaken under India-Japan bilateral cooperation and also exchanged views on cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, agro-industries bamboo value chain development, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. The AEF provides a platform for India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern Region under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's vision for a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'. "The Foreign Secretary and the Japanese Ambassador appreciated the role played by the AEF since its establishment in 2017 in streamlining India-Japan bilateral cooperation for the modernisation of the North Eastern region," the MEA said.

India, Japan review implementation of projects in northeastern region

Japan has said that reports of Tokyo Olympics being cancelled is untrue. But experts say the games can only be conducted safely if Japan vaccinates its entire population. Japan is home to 127 people, and the country is yet to start its vaccination program. Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the details

Gravitas: Will Tokyo Olympics be cancelled?

Economy to values: Tokyo Olympics highlight stark difference from 1964 to 2021

The Japanese government has refuted reports suggesting the cancellation of the Tokyo Olympics due to coronavirus pandemic. There is no truth to a report about the possible cancellation of the Tokyo Olympics, Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai, a government spokesman, told reporters on Friday, denying the Times' report.

The Japanese government has refuted reports suggesting the cancellation of the Tokyo Olympics due to coronavirus pandemic. There is no truth to a report about the possible cancellation of the Tokyo Olympics, Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai, a government spokesman, told reporters on Friday, denying the Times' report. According to The Times report, the Japanese government had privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics, that was scheduled to be held this year, will have to be cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. The newspaper cited an unnamed senior member of the ruling party. ALSO READ: Around 80% want Tokyo Olympics cancelled or delayed: Japanese survey The Times suggested that Japan's government is now looking to secure the mega event for Tokyo in the next available year, 2032. The Games were scheduled to be held in 2020 but were postponed by a year due to coronavirus outbreak but the recent surge in confirmed cases raised many doubts over the Olympics being held. In early international reactions, both the Australian and United States Olympic Committees said on Friday they remained focused on preparing for the Games as now scheduled. "Any official communication on the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 will come from the IOC, Tokyo Organizing Committee and the Japanese government," the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee wrote on Twitter. "We have not received any information suggesting the Games will not happen as planned, and our focus remains on the health and preparedness of Team USA athletes ahead of the Games this summer." ALSO READ: Tokyo Games may be too big a gamble, disease expert says "The AOC is continuing its planning to ensuring the Australian Olympic Team arrives in Tokyo, competes and returns home safe and COVID-free," the AOC said in a statement. Earlier, Japan's local media (Kyodo News) did a survey and found out that around 80 per cent of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to either be cancelled or delayed after a surge in coronavirus cases in the Asian country. According to the survey, 35.3 per cent want the Games to be cancelled and 44.8 per cent favoured another delay. As per the Times report, the government is seeking a way to save face by announcing a cancellation that leaves the door open to Tokyo hosting at a later date. "No one wants to be the first to say so but the consensus is that it's too difficult," The Times quoted the source as saying. "Personally, I don't think it's going to happen." Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga this week said the showpiece event would "bring hope and courage to the world." International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach reaffirmed his commitment to holding the Games this year in an interview with Kyodo News on Thursday. "We have at this moment, no reason whatsoever to believe that the Olympic Games in Tokyo will not open on the 23rd of July in the Olympic stadium in Tokyo," Bach told Kyodo. (Inputs from agencies)

Tokyo Olympics cancelled? Japanese government issues clarification

The number of people taking their own lives in Japan rose for the first time in over a decade last year, as the pandemic reversed years of progress combatting a stubbornly high suicide rate.

Japan's health and welfare ministry said Friday that 20,919 people died by suicide in 2020 according to preliminary data, up 3.7 per cent from the previous year. That compares with 3,460 deaths from coronavirus in the same period.

It marks the first year-on-year rise in suicides in more than a decade, with women and children, in particular, taking their lives at higher rates.

Japan has long had the highest suicide rate among the Group of Seven advanced countries -- though regionally South Korea registers higher figures. But the government has worked in recent years to better support people with mental health needs.

Japan has seen a smaller coronavirus outbreak than some countries, avoiding the harsh lockdown measures put in place elsewhere, and a fall in suicides during the first half of 2020 raised hopes that the pandemic's impact might be limited.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-cancelled-japanese-government-issues-clarification-358428">Tokyo Olympics cancelled? Japanese government issues clarification</a>

But the figures began to rise in July after the first state of emergency was lifted in May, pattern experts say tracks with data showing suicides often drop in the first phase of crises such as conflicts and natural disasters, before rising sharply.

"For suicide in Japan, the rise was a major event and I think it was a big turning point," said Michiko Ueda, an associate professor of political science at Waseda University in Tokyo who studies suicide in Japan.

"The coronavirus is definitely a major factor," she told AFP, warning "we cannot deny the possibility that figures will rise again this year".

Virus 'highlighted gender gap'

Mental health experts around the world have warned that suicides could rise during the pandemic, driven by diverse factors including economic hardship, stress and family abuse.

In Japan, the rise is the first since 2009, in the wake of the global economic crisis, but it follows a different pattern from previous years.

"The coronavirus pandemic forced people into unusual circumstances," a health ministry official told AFP.

"In particular, problems experienced by women have been highlighted, which are thought to have led to suicides."

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-undertake-mass-coronavirus-vaccination-with-eye-on-olympics-357894">&nbsp;Japan to undertake mass coronavirus vaccination with eye on Olympics</a>

Suicides among men actually fell slightly from 2019, but over 14 per cent more suicides were recorded among women.

While determining the causes of rising suicides is complicated, Ueda said likely factors included increasing unemployment for women and extra burdens at home, in a country where household responsibilities are often unevenly shared in families.

The pandemic disproportionately hit industries that employ many women, often on temporary contracts, including hospitality and hotels.

A survey released by public broadcaster NHK in December found 26 per cent of female workers reported employment problems including layoffs since April, compared with 19 per cent of men.

"The coronavirus has highlighted Japan's gender gap," added Yayo Okano, a professor of feminism at Doshisha University in Kyoto.

In a separate NHK poll, 28 per cent of women reported spending more time on housework during the pandemic, compared with 19 per cent of men, with at-home supervision of children -- after schools closed -- falling mostly to mothers.

"Household burdens on women have long been disproportionately heavy in Japan and their burdens have increased because of coronavirus," Okano told AFP.

'They don't know what to do'

Rising suicides among children have also alarmed experts: more than 300 children in elementary, junior high and high school died by suicide in the eight months to November, up nearly 30 per cent from the same month a year earlier. December figures were not yet available.

"Students are feeling anxiety about their future," said Akiko Mura, a counsellor at the Tokyo Suicide Prevention Centre.

"They don't know what to do. They used to be able to release their stress by talking to their friends, but now they can't even go to karaoke."

Experts fear a series of high-profile celebrity suicides in Japan last year may also have triggered vulnerable people to consider taking their lives.

The number of suicides in Japan peaked at around 34,000 in 2003, but efforts since then to tackle the problem -- including addressing deaths linked to overwork and introducing online counselling -- had helped bring the numbers down.

Munetaka Kaneko, a counsellor at suicide prevention NGO Sotto, said the government now needed to make suicide response a key plank of its virus policy, with "prevention measures fit for the pandemic era".

"For some, the risks of suicide are far graver than those posed by the pandemic."

The number of people taking their own lives in Japan rose for the first time in over a decade last year, as the pandemic reversed years of progress combatting a stubbornly high suicide rate.

The number of people taking their own lives in Japan rose for the first time in over a decade last year, as the pandemic reversed years of progress combatting a stubbornly high suicide rate. Japan's health and welfare ministry said Friday that 20,919 people died by suicide in 2020 according to preliminary data, up 3.7 per cent from the previous year. That compares with 3,460 deaths from coronavirus in the same period. It marks the first year-on-year rise in suicides in more than a decade, with women and children, in particular, taking their lives at higher rates. Japan has long had the highest suicide rate among the Group of Seven advanced countries -- though regionally South Korea registers higher figures. But the government has worked in recent years to better support people with mental health needs. Japan has seen a smaller coronavirus outbreak than some countries, avoiding the harsh lockdown measures put in place elsewhere, and a fall in suicides during the first half of 2020 raised hopes that the pandemic's impact might be limited. Also read| Tokyo Olympics cancelled? Japanese government issues clarification But the figures began to rise in July after the first state of emergency was lifted in May, pattern experts say tracks with data showing suicides often drop in the first phase of crises such as conflicts and natural disasters, before rising sharply. "For suicide in Japan, the rise was a major event and I think it was a big turning point," said Michiko Ueda, an associate professor of political science at Waseda University in Tokyo who studies suicide in Japan. "The coronavirus is definitely a major factor," she told AFP, warning "we cannot deny the possibility that figures will rise again this year". Virus 'highlighted gender gap' Mental health experts around the world have warned that suicides could rise during the pandemic, driven by diverse factors including economic hardship, stress and family abuse. In Japan, the rise is the first since 2009, in the wake of the global economic crisis, but it follows a different pattern from previous years. "The coronavirus pandemic forced people into unusual circumstances," a health ministry official told AFP. "In particular, problems experienced by women have been highlighted, which are thought to have led to suicides." Also read| Japan to undertake mass coronavirus vaccination with eye on Olympics Suicides among men actually fell slightly from 2019, but over 14 per cent more suicides were recorded among women. While determining the causes of rising suicides is complicated, Ueda said likely factors included increasing unemployment for women and extra burdens at home, in a country where household responsibilities are often unevenly shared in families. The pandemic disproportionately hit industries that employ many women, often on temporary contracts, including hospitality and hotels. A survey released by public broadcaster NHK in December found 26 per cent of female workers reported employment problems including layoffs since April, compared with 19 per cent of men. "The coronavirus has highlighted Japan's gender gap," added Yayo Okano, a professor of feminism at Doshisha University in Kyoto. In a separate NHK poll, 28 per cent of women reported spending more time on housework during the pandemic, compared with 19 per cent of men, with at-home supervision of children -- after schools closed -- falling mostly to mothers. "Household burdens on women have long been disproportionately heavy in Japan and their burdens have increased because of coronavirus," Okano told AFP. 'They don't know what to do' Rising suicides among children have also alarmed experts: more than 300 children in elementary, junior high and high school died by suicide in the eight months to November, up nearly 30 per cent from the same month a year earlier. December figures were not yet available. "Students are feeling anxiety about their future," said Akiko Mura, a counsellor at the Tokyo Suicide Prevention Centre. "They don't know what to do. They used to be able to release their stress by talking to their friends, but now they can't even go to karaoke." Experts fear a series of high-profile celebrity suicides in Japan last year may also have triggered vulnerable people to consider taking their lives. The number of suicides in Japan peaked at around 34,000 in 2003, but efforts since then to tackle the problem -- including addressing deaths linked to overwork and introducing online counselling -- had helped bring the numbers down. Munetaka Kaneko, a counsellor at suicide prevention NGO Sotto, said the government now needed to make suicide response a key plank of its virus policy, with "prevention measures fit for the pandemic era". "For some, the risks of suicide are far graver than those posed by the pandemic."

Pandemic raises Japan suicide rate after decade of decline

The world’s third-largest economy has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak so far, with around 4,500 deaths and largely without the drastic lockdowns seen in other countries.

COVID pandemic reveals hidden poverty in wealthy Japan

In growing convergences between India, France and Japan's "strategic triangle", all three countries have strongly backed the Indo-Pacific vision which has increasingly gained currency within democratic nations of the region and around the world.

Speaking at a virtual event, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "India, France and Japan are leading stakeholders in the region and with other like-minded countries, it is upon us to ensure that the Indo-Pacific remains peaceful and open, taking into account needs and concerns of all its inhabitants."

Geographically New Delhi sees the Indo-Pacific as a "seamless interface" of the Indian and Pacific ocean from the western coast of North America to the eastern shores of Africa. Over 50 per cent&nbsp;of global trade traverses this maritime domain which is also home to over 60 per cent of the world’s population and the global GDP.&nbsp;

Calling his country an "Indo-Pacific power" due to its territories in the region, French envoy Emmanuel Lenain said, "We are building piece by piece a strategic triangle between Paris, Tokyo and Delhi committed to a rules-based Indo-Pacific order."

France has its territories in the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Indian Ocean. It also has 8,000 military personnel based in the region. In 2018, the country published its Indo-Pacific strategy whose main objective was to promote a rules-based, multilateral regional order, free of any hegemony.&nbsp;

Japanese envoy Satoshi Suzuki who was also present in the event highlighted his country's "unwavering" commitment to the vision, pointing out that "free and open Indo-Pacific vision has been the core diplomatic concept that Japan stands on".

He cited the first foreign visit of the new Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga’s to Vietnam and Indonesia and hosting of Quad Foreign ministers meet last year as the testament to Tokyo's efforts.

It was in 2007, in Delhi, that the then Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had spoken about the emerging dynamics of the region that links Pacific and Indian ocean. Almost a decade later in 2016 in Kenya, Abe unveiled Japan’s “Indo-Pacific Vision”.

In growing convergences between India, France and Japan's "strategic triangle", all three countries have strongly backed the Indo-Pacific vision which has increasingly gained currency within democratic nations of the region and around the world.

In growing convergences between India, France and Japan's "strategic triangle", all three countries have strongly backed the Indo-Pacific vision which has increasingly gained currency within democratic nations of the region and around the world. Speaking at a virtual event, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "India, France and Japan are leading stakeholders in the region and with other like-minded countries, it is upon us to ensure that the Indo-Pacific remains peaceful and open, taking into account needs and concerns of all its inhabitants." Geographically New Delhi sees the Indo-Pacific as a "seamless interface" of the Indian and Pacific ocean from the western coast of North America to the eastern shores of Africa. Over 50 per cent of global trade traverses this maritime domain which is also home to over 60 per cent of the world’s population and the global GDP. Calling his country an "Indo-Pacific power" due to its territories in the region, French envoy Emmanuel Lenain said, "We are building piece by piece a strategic triangle between Paris, Tokyo and Delhi committed to a rules-based Indo-Pacific order." France has its territories in the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Indian Ocean. It also has 8,000 military personnel based in the region. In 2018, the country published its Indo-Pacific strategy whose main objective was to promote a rules-based, multilateral regional order, free of any hegemony. Japanese envoy Satoshi Suzuki who was also present in the event highlighted his country's "unwavering" commitment to the vision, pointing out that "free and open Indo-Pacific vision has been the core diplomatic concept that Japan stands on". He cited the first foreign visit of the new Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga’s to Vietnam and Indonesia and hosting of Quad Foreign ministers meet last year as the testament to Tokyo's efforts. It was in 2007, in Delhi, that the then Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had spoken about the emerging dynamics of the region that links Pacific and Indian ocean. Almost a decade later in 2016 in Kenya, Abe unveiled Japan’s “Indo-Pacific Vision”.

India, France, Japan strongly back Indo Pacific vision

Among the young sumo wrestlers lifting weights in the ring, 10-year-old Kyuta Kumagai stands out. At 85 kilograms (187 lb), Kyuta is twice the size of the other children his age and is so dominant that he wrestles, and beats, boys five or six years older.

Meet Kyuta: the 10-year-old, 85-kilo sumo in training

Japan on Monday detected the new UK variant of coronavirus among three people. The Health Ministry reported that none of them had any travel history to the UK.

The variant in question is considered more infectious, if not more fatal, and is now spreading across different parts of the world. Many countries are still reeling from the first variant of the virus which first emerged in December 2019. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-finds-new-covid-strain-in-travellers-from-brazil-355927/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The three patients aged between 20-60 are situated in the Shizuoka prefecture, which lies about 200 kilometres west of Tokyo. They first developed symptoms in early January, the ministry said.

&nbsp;

The ministry claims that it is trying to ascertain how they became infected with the virus without travelling to the country.&nbsp; They, however added that till now there’s no evidence of the new variant spreading in Shizuoka. 
 
So far, Japan has recorded 45 cases of the new variants of the virus which were reported in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hotels-quarantined-schools-shut-down-in-swiss-ski-resort-to-contain-covid-19-variant-357526" hreflang="en">New Covid-19 variant? Hotels quarantined, schools shut down in Swiss ski resort</a>

Japan had earlier announced a state of emergency for Tokyo, but soon after a spike the country extended it to seven more prefectures in a bid to limit the spread of the virus. 
 
In total, the country has recorded 335,000 cases of COVID-19, which has killed 4,500 people, according to the state broadcaster NHK.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/how-british-scientists-found-the-more-infectious-coronavirus-variant-357185" hreflang="en">How British scientists found the more infectious coronavirus variant</a>

On January 13, the World Health Organization said the new variant from the United Kingdom is currently in 50 countries across the globe, while the one from South Africa is making rounds in 20 countries. The organisation added that another variant from Japan remains of concern, and that it needed more investigation.

Japan on Monday detected the new UK variant of coronavirus among three people. The Health Ministry reported that none of them had any travel history to the UK. The variant in question is considered more infectious, if not more fatal, and is now spreading across different parts of the world.

Japan on Monday detected the new UK variant of coronavirus among three people. The Health Ministry reported that none of them had any travel history to the UK. The variant in question is considered more infectious, if not more fatal, and is now spreading across different parts of the world. Many countries are still reeling from the first variant of the virus which first emerged in December 2019. The three patients aged between 20-60 are situated in the Shizuoka prefecture, which lies about 200 kilometres west of Tokyo. They first developed symptoms in early January, the ministry said. The ministry claims that it is trying to ascertain how they became infected with the virus without travelling to the country. They, however added that till now there’s no evidence of the new variant spreading in Shizuoka. So far, Japan has recorded 45 cases of the new variants of the virus which were reported in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil. Also read: New Covid-19 variant? Hotels quarantined, schools shut down in Swiss ski resort Japan had earlier announced a state of emergency for Tokyo, but soon after a spike the country extended it to seven more prefectures in a bid to limit the spread of the virus. In total, the country has recorded 335,000 cases of COVID-19, which has killed 4,500 people, according to the state broadcaster NHK. Also read: How British scientists found the more infectious coronavirus variant On January 13, the World Health Organization said the new variant from the United Kingdom is currently in 50 countries across the globe, while the one from South Africa is making rounds in 20 countries. The organisation added that another variant from Japan remains of concern, and that it needed more investigation.

Japan finds UK coronavirus strain among three people with no travel history

After a surge in cases in the country, Japan is thinking of imposing penalties and prison sentences for people who refuse to cooperate with the government and medical experts, especially after testing positive for coronavirus.

The rules were proposed by the Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in a meeting with the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry on Friday, which will be added in amendments in the soon-to-be-introduced infectious disease law.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-may-never-find-patient-zero-who-urges-countries-to-cooperate-357112" hreflang="en">'We may never find patient zero': WHO urges countries to cooperate</a>

As per these rules, the patients who test positive for coronavirus and refuse to get hospitalised, on the recommendation of the health experts, will face a fine of 1 million yen (over $9,600) or a jail sentence of up to one year.

In addition to this, people who refuse to cooperate for contact-tracing after testing positive will be fined 500,000 yen ($4,800) or face a prison sentence of six months.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-expands-coronavirus-emergency-to-seven-more-prefectures-356633">&nbsp;Japan expands coronavirus emergency to seven more prefectures</a>

While some have applauded the move by the government, some locals have addressed concern warning this would prove out to be more tedious for the healthcare workers who have the pressure of taking care of more paperwork now.

This has come as Japan crossed the mark of 300,000 coronavirus cases and 4,000 deaths with a recent surge, especially after the new mutations found in the UK, South Africa and Brazil.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-suga-highest-ever-infection-in-respective-regions-355329">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-suga-highest-ever-infection-in-respective-regions-355329/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is also being understood as a way to contain the wide spread of the deadly virus in the country before the planned Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

The news came at the same time when a report revealed that the suicide rates in Japan have massively increased during the second wave of coronavirus, especially among&nbsp;women and children, in comparison to the first wave.

"Unlike normal economic circumstances, this pandemic disproportionately affects the psychological health of children, adolescents and females (especially housewives)," the study claimed.

The reason behind this is also being reported to be loss of jobs among locals as businesses have suffered financial losses during the pandemic year.

After a surge in cases in the country, Japan is thinking of imposing penalties and prison sentences for people who refuse to cooperate with the government and medical experts, especially after testing positive for coronavirus.

After a surge in cases in the country, Japan is thinking of imposing penalties and prison sentences for people who refuse to cooperate with the government and medical experts, especially after testing positive for coronavirus. The rules were proposed by the Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in a meeting with the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry on Friday, which will be added in amendments in the soon-to-be-introduced infectious disease law. Also read| 'We may never find patient zero': WHO urges countries to cooperate As per these rules, the patients who test positive for coronavirus and refuse to get hospitalised, on the recommendation of the health experts, will face a fine of 1 million yen (over $9,600) or a jail sentence of up to one year. In addition to this, people who refuse to cooperate for contact-tracing after testing positive will be fined 500,000 yen ($4,800) or face a prison sentence of six months. Also read| Japan expands coronavirus emergency to seven more prefectures While some have applauded the move by the government, some locals have addressed concern warning this would prove out to be more tedious for the healthcare workers who have the pressure of taking care of more paperwork now. This has come as Japan crossed the mark of 300,000 coronavirus cases and 4,000 deaths with a recent surge, especially after the new mutations found in the UK, South Africa and Brazil. WATCH| It is also being understood as a way to contain the wide spread of the deadly virus in the country before the planned Tokyo Olympics. The news came at the same time when a report revealed that the suicide rates in Japan have massively increased during the second wave of coronavirus, especially among women and children, in comparison to the first wave. "Unlike normal economic circumstances, this pandemic disproportionately affects the psychological health of children, adolescents and females (especially housewives)," the study claimed. The reason behind this is also being reported to be loss of jobs among locals as businesses have suffered financial losses during the pandemic year.

Japan to charge fines and prison sentences for non-cooperation of COVID rules

Bird flu cases are growing at an alarming rate in Asia. The continent's poultry farmers are facing an unprecedented situation. Birds are being culled and people are staying away from poultry meat.&nbsp;

It is the worst such outbreak in the region's history. From Japan to India, the deadly virus is affecting birds across farms. Millions of chickens, ducks and turkeys have been culled. Poultry prices have dropped to an all-time low.

And Asia's farmers are staring at an unprecedented crisis. While bird flu is common in Asia during this time mostly due to migratory patterns. New strains of the virus have become more lethal. This makes countries on the flight path especially vulnerable.

In India, at least 10 states have reported cases of bird flu. Over 850 cases of bird deaths have been reported in the national capital. In Rajasthan-- over 4,000 birds died because of the flu. The Uttar Pradesh government has banned poultry from other states till January 24.

In Kerala, tens of thousands of birds were culled last week. Maharashtra has detected avian influenza in crows as well. Chicken prices in India fell almost a third last week. Wary customers have steered clear of meat.

Not just India, Japan too is dealing with its worst outbreak. A quarter of all prefectures are affected. More than 3 million birds have been culled so far. South Korea also dealt with an outbreak at a duck farm. With the virus strain being similar to the one in Japan.

Compulsory flu vaccination for poultry has protected China for now but the virus has still killed wild swans in the country.

Countries like Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia have been spared for now. But continue to face risks due to the movement of goods. What makes the virus even more dangerous is its contagious nature. Infected birds have to be culled to contain the spread. But amid all this- the biggest question is can we consume poultry meat?

According to governments, there is nothing to be worried about. The World Health Organisation says it is safe. That you will be safe if you eat well-cooked meat. However, health experts are not convinced. They are concerned about a species jump. This is when a virus strain moves from one species to another. In this instance -- it could be from birds to human beings.

It has happened once in 1997. While human to human transmission has not been detected yet it cannot be ruled out.

The last time, a virus jumped species tt led to the coronavirus pandemic.

Bird flu cases are growing at an alarming rate in Asia. The continent's poultry farmers are facing an unprecedented situation. Birds are being culled and people are staying away from poultry meat.

Bird flu cases are growing at an alarming rate in Asia. The continent's poultry farmers are facing an unprecedented situation. Birds are being culled and people are staying away from poultry meat. It is the worst such outbreak in the region's history. From Japan to India, the deadly virus is affecting birds across farms. Millions of chickens, ducks and turkeys have been culled. Poultry prices have dropped to an all-time low. And Asia's farmers are staring at an unprecedented crisis. While bird flu is common in Asia during this time mostly due to migratory patterns. New strains of the virus have become more lethal. This makes countries on the flight path especially vulnerable. In India, at least 10 states have reported cases of bird flu. Over 850 cases of bird deaths have been reported in the national capital. In Rajasthan-- over 4,000 birds died because of the flu. The Uttar Pradesh government has banned poultry from other states till January 24. In Kerala, tens of thousands of birds were culled last week. Maharashtra has detected avian influenza in crows as well. Chicken prices in India fell almost a third last week. Wary customers have steered clear of meat. Not just India, Japan too is dealing with its worst outbreak. A quarter of all prefectures are affected. More than 3 million birds have been culled so far. South Korea also dealt with an outbreak at a duck farm. With the virus strain being similar to the one in Japan. Compulsory flu vaccination for poultry has protected China for now but the virus has still killed wild swans in the country. Countries like Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia have been spared for now. But continue to face risks due to the movement of goods. What makes the virus even more dangerous is its contagious nature. Infected birds have to be culled to contain the spread. But amid all this- the biggest question is can we consume poultry meat? According to governments, there is nothing to be worried about. The World Health Organisation says it is safe. That you will be safe if you eat well-cooked meat. However, health experts are not convinced. They are concerned about a species jump. This is when a virus strain moves from one species to another. In this instance -- it could be from birds to human beings. It has happened once in 1997. While human to human transmission has not been detected yet it cannot be ruled out. The last time, a virus jumped species tt led to the coronavirus pandemic.

The next pandemic?: Bird flu spreads like wildfire across Asia

Japan has been hit by a heavy snowfall around the coast of the sea, due to the winter pressure distribution. Vehicles were stranded and the train services were affected as heavy snow continued to cross paths of the country.

Heavy snow continues along sea of Japan coast

In a ritual to purify their souls and pray for an end of the COVID-19 pandemic, a handful of people braved the cold and stepped into an ice bath at a shrine in Tokyo on Sunday (January 10).

Pilgrims in Tokyo plunge into icy bath for Shinto ritual, pray for end of the pandemic

Japan has found a new Coronavirus variant among travellers coming in from Brazil. The new strain was detected among four travellers from Brazil’s Amazonas state.

Japan finds new COVID strain in travellers from Brazil

Japanese health ministry on Sunday said that four travellers from Brazil were found to be infected by new COVID strain that is different from those in Britain and South Africa. Head of Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) confirmed this.

"I understand a new variant that is different from Britain's and South Africa's has been found," said Takaji Wakita, head of NIID.

Characteristics of the new variant, such as how effective vaccines can be against it and how serious its symptoms can be, are being studied, a health ministry official said.

The coronavirus pandemic has affected Tokyo Olympics which were to be held in 2020 but were postponed to 2021. However, pandemic continues to affect the organisation as fears of COVID spread still remain.

Earlier this week, Tokyo Metropolitan Government said that upcoming exhibitions of the Tokyo Olympics torch around the Japanese capital were postponed.

The torch had been on display in certain municipalities at the end of last year and the exhibitions were due to restart on Thursday.

(With Reuters inputs)

Japanese health ministry on Sunday said that four travellers from Brazil were found to be infected by new COVID strain that is different from those in Britain and South Africa.

Japanese health ministry on Sunday said that four travellers from Brazil were found to be infected by new COVID strain that is different from those in Britain and South Africa. Head of Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) confirmed this. "I understand a new variant that is different from Britain's and South Africa's has been found," said Takaji Wakita, head of NIID. Characteristics of the new variant, such as how effective vaccines can be against it and how serious its symptoms can be, are being studied, a health ministry official said. The coronavirus pandemic has affected Tokyo Olympics which were to be held in 2020 but were postponed to 2021. However, pandemic continues to affect the organisation as fears of COVID spread still remain. Earlier this week, Tokyo Metropolitan Government said that upcoming exhibitions of the Tokyo Olympics torch around the Japanese capital were postponed. The torch had been on display in certain municipalities at the end of last year and the exhibitions were due to restart on Thursday. (With Reuters inputs)

Japan detects newer coronavirus infection in travellers from Brazil

Japan on Friday extended a 30 billion Yen or around Rs 2129 crore financial assistance to India to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID crisis. Both sides exchanged notes for the 'COVID-19 Crisis Response Support Loan for Social Protection' in New Delhi with Japan being represented by its envoy Suzuki Satoshi. The Indian side was represented by Dr C. S. Mohapatra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs of the Ministry of Finance,&nbsp;

The loan will also be used to ensure social protection for the vulnerable sections affected by COVID-19. Japan has helped India financially in past to help it deal with COVID crisis.

An official of the Embassy of Japan in India explained to WION, "This Yen loan is a budget support to assist the Government of India’s policy objectives...allowing a higher degree of flexibility for the Government of India to make effective responses to the emergency situation." 
&nbsp; 
In August 2020, Japan had provided about Rs 3549 crore COVID emergency loan to support the implementation of health and medical policy by the Indian government.

A loan was also provided for oxygen generators worth Rs 71 crore. Tokyo has provided assistance through international organizations like UNDP, UNICEF, UNHCR and IFRC. The loan amounts to around Rs 52 crore.

Together with the new loan announced on Friday, Japan’s COVID-19 related assistance to India amounts to more than INR 5,800 crore.

The official highlighted, "We hope this assistance will lead to the mitigation of socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 and to the higher resilience of India’s societies, helping India, a trusted partner and close friend of Japan, emerge even stronger after the pandemic."

Japan on Friday extended a 30 billion Yen or around Rs 2129 crore financial assistance to India to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID crisis. Both sides exchanged notes for the 'COVID-19 Crisis Response Support Loan for Social Protection' in New Delhi with Japan being represented by its envoy Suzuki Satoshi.

Japan on Friday extended a 30 billion Yen or around Rs 2129 crore financial assistance to India to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID crisis. Both sides exchanged notes for the 'COVID-19 Crisis Response Support Loan for Social Protection' in New Delhi with Japan being represented by its envoy Suzuki Satoshi. The Indian side was represented by Dr C. S. Mohapatra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs of the Ministry of Finance, The loan will also be used to ensure social protection for the vulnerable sections affected by COVID-19. Japan has helped India financially in past to help it deal with COVID crisis. An official of the Embassy of Japan in India explained to WION, "This Yen loan is a budget support to assist the Government of India’s policy objectives...allowing a higher degree of flexibility for the Government of India to make effective responses to the emergency situation." In August 2020, Japan had provided about Rs 3549 crore COVID emergency loan to support the implementation of health and medical policy by the Indian government. A loan was also provided for oxygen generators worth Rs 71 crore. Tokyo has provided assistance through international organizations like UNDP, UNICEF, UNHCR and IFRC. The loan amounts to around Rs 52 crore. Together with the new loan announced on Friday, Japan’s COVID-19 related assistance to India amounts to more than INR 5,800 crore. The official highlighted, "We hope this assistance will lead to the mitigation of socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 and to the higher resilience of India’s societies, helping India, a trusted partner and close friend of Japan, emerge even stronger after the pandemic."

Japan extends Rs 2000 crore COVID assistance to India

Japan has declared a limited state of emergency in the capital, Tokyo, and three neighbouring prefectures on Thursday to stem the spread of the coronavirus, resisting calls from some medics for wider curbs due to the economic damage they would cause.

Japan declares state of emergency for Tokyo area as COVID-19 cases surge

As Tokyo entered its second state of emergency on Friday (January 8), less than 200 days before the start of the postponed Olympics, many believe it will be difficult, perhaps impossible, to host the Games safely.

"It's impossible" - Japanese concerned over prospects of hosting Games

Japan PM Suga: Highest ever infection in respective regions

World has moulded itself as per&nbsp;the new normal. Masks have become part of our lives courtesy the COVID-19 virus. Though they pose minor inconvenience they are absolutely necessary for public health. There have been many tech innovations in the last year alone to help us cope with life with the pandemic, but this one is sure to raise questions from privacy advocates.

A Japanese company has developed a facial recognition system&nbsp;that is capable of recognising a person even when he/she is wearing a mask! NEC Corp, the system-maker has been mentioned in news reports as saying that main purpose of the software is to help people with allergies to navigate through world that is in increasing need of contactless behaviour.

Wearing a mask has been a common practice in Japan even from before the pandemic.

The system focusses on the uncovered parts of the face and recognises a person from his eyes and cheekbones. For this system to be effective, the person needs to submit his photo in advance.

The company has not disclosed the price of the system but its customers already include Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines.&nbsp;

NEC Corp claims that its facial recognition system has an accuracy of more than 99.9 per cent.

World has moulded itself as per the new normal. Masks have become part of our lives courtesy the COVID-19 virus. Though they pose minor inconvenience they are absolutely necessary for public health.

World has moulded itself as per the new normal. Masks have become part of our lives courtesy the COVID-19 virus. Though they pose minor inconvenience they are absolutely necessary for public health. There have been many tech innovations in the last year alone to help us cope with life with the pandemic, but this one is sure to raise questions from privacy advocates. A Japanese company has developed a facial recognition system that is capable of recognising a person even when he/she is wearing a mask! NEC Corp, the system-maker has been mentioned in news reports as saying that main purpose of the software is to help people with allergies to navigate through world that is in increasing need of contactless behaviour. Wearing a mask has been a common practice in Japan even from before the pandemic. The system focusses on the uncovered parts of the face and recognises a person from his eyes and cheekbones. For this system to be effective, the person needs to submit his photo in advance. The company has not disclosed the price of the system but its customers already include Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines. NEC Corp claims that its facial recognition system has an accuracy of more than 99.9 per cent.

Japanese company makes system that recognises people through masks

Japanese cheerleaders danced and cheered on commuters outside a Tokyo rail station on Thursday (January 7) in a bid to lift spirits with the capital heading into another state of emergency over the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rah! Japanese cheerleaders lift commuters' spirits amid pandemic

Tokyo's largest fish market, Toyosu, rang in the new year with its first tuna auction of 2021 on Tuesday (January 5) under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Toyosu staff, the price of the highest-selling tuna went at 20.8 million yen ($202,065) for a blue fin tuna. That was around only 10% of the highest selling tuna price of 2020, in which a blue fin tuna was sold at 193 million yen ($1.87 million), the second highest price in history.

Tokyo new year tuna auction sees highest price selling for only 10% of 2020

Japan will consider issuing a new emergency declaration after governors in the capital region urged action to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases, the head of the nation's pandemic response said on Saturday.

Japan PM says government will consider state of emergency

Japan to consider new COVID-19 emergency declaration

Japan may enter a state of emergency this week as the country grapples with soaring coronavirus cases

Japan poised for state of emergency as Covid-19 cases soar

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