Legendary lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, Sir Brian May received a knighthood from Britain's King Charles III during an investiture ceremony on Tuesday (March 14) at Buckingham Palace, the royal family said. May received the title of "Knight Bachelor" for his contribution to music and charity.&nbsp; He&nbsp;attended the ceremony with his wife, Anita Dobson, a former actress. Queen's official account tweeted a post congratulating him. The post read, "Arise Sir Brian May."&nbsp; May&nbsp;joins other musicians, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger and Rod Stewart, who have received the same prestigious honour. Here's everything you need to know about Sir May and what actually the&nbsp;honour means:

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Arise Sir Brian May ⚔️🎸 
Brian's investiture as a Knight of The Realm took place today at Buckingham Palace. The knighthood was presented to Brian by His Royal Highness, King Charles. 
 
Many congratulations, Sir Brian! 
 
📸©️ Alamy <a href="https://t.co/nE3ZmfvPSZ">pic.twitter.com/nE3ZmfvPSZ</a>
— Queen (@QueenWillRock) <a href="https://twitter.com/QueenWillRock/status/1635659806160592896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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🎷🎸🎶 Musicians Brian May and YolanDa Brown congratulate each other after receiving their honours from The King during an Investiture at Buckingham Palace. 
 
YolanDa performed in front of His Majesty as part of yesterday’s Commonwealth Day Service in Westminster Abbey. <a href="https://t.co/xaMs15XVlg">pic.twitter.com/xaMs15XVlg</a>
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Who is Brian May?

Sir Brian Harold May is the lead guitarist of the band Queen. Other than being an artist, he is also an astrophysicist. He wrote numerous hit songs for Queen "We Will Rock You," "I Want It All," "Flash," "The Show Must Go On," and many more.&nbsp;

May was ranked no 26 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All. Later in 2012, the "Guitar World" magazine readers poll ranked him as the &nbsp;"second greatest guitarist" of all.

He&nbsp;was even inducted into the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" as a member of Queen and in 2018 he received the "Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award."

His career as an astrophysicist was none less. In 2005, he was appointed as "commander"&nbsp;of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

In 2007, he earned a PhD in astrophysics.&nbsp;

May was a "science team collaborator" with US-based space agency NASA's New Horizons "Pluto mission."

Who is Knight Bachelor?

The title of Knight Bachelor is a basic rank awarded to a man who has been knighted by the UK monarch but is not inducted as a member of one of the organised orders of chivalry, which is a part of the British honours system.&nbsp;

Knights are addressed as "sir" or "dame," followed by their name.&nbsp;

Following the announcement, May told &nbsp;Associated Press that this honour might bring "a little bit more clout." He said, "Maybe a few more people will listen to me than they would otherwise, you know if it's Sir Brian on the phone."

Talking about his wife who accompanied him to the ceremony, May said&nbsp;she was thrilled to bits. "Yes, yes, she's very happy about that. Yes, Lady Anita will be enjoying it, and it's a thrill to me to be able to kind of confer that on her," Fox News reported.&nbsp;

Legendary lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, Sir Brian May received a knighthood from Britain's King Charles III during an investiture ceremony on Tuesday (March 14) at Buckingham Palace, the royal family said.

Legendary lead guitarist of the rock band Queen, Sir Brian May received a knighthood from Britain's King Charles III during an investiture ceremony on Tuesday (March 14) at Buckingham Palace, the royal family said. May received the title of "Knight Bachelor" for his contribution to music and charity. He attended the ceremony with his wife, Anita Dobson, a former actress. Queen's official account tweeted a post congratulating him. The post read, "Arise Sir Brian May." May joins other musicians, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger and Rod Stewart, who have received the same prestigious honour. Here's everything you need to know about Sir May and what actually the honour means: Arise Sir Brian May ⚔️🎸 Brian's investiture as a Knight of The Realm took place today at Buckingham Palace. The knighthood was presented to Brian by His Royal Highness, King Charles. Many congratulations, Sir Brian! 📸©️ Alamy pic.twitter.com/nE3ZmfvPSZ — Queen (@QueenWillRock) March 14, 2023 × 🎷🎸🎶 Musicians Brian May and YolanDa Brown congratulate each other after receiving their honours from The King during an Investiture at Buckingham Palace. YolanDa performed in front of His Majesty as part of yesterday’s Commonwealth Day Service in Westminster Abbey. pic.twitter.com/xaMs15XVlg — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 14, 2023 × Who is Brian May? Sir Brian Harold May is the lead guitarist of the band Queen. Other than being an artist, he is also an astrophysicist. He wrote numerous hit songs for Queen "We Will Rock You," "I Want It All," "Flash," "The Show Must Go On," and many more. May was ranked no 26 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All. Later in 2012, the "Guitar World" magazine readers poll ranked him as the "second greatest guitarist" of all. He was even inducted into the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" as a member of Queen and in 2018 he received the "Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award." His career as an astrophysicist was none less. In 2005, he was appointed as "commander" of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. In 2007, he earned a PhD in astrophysics. May was a "science team collaborator" with US-based space agency NASA's New Horizons "Pluto mission." Who is Knight Bachelor? The title of Knight Bachelor is a basic rank awarded to a man who has been knighted by the UK monarch but is not inducted as a member of one of the organised orders of chivalry, which is a part of the British honours system. Knights are addressed as "sir" or "dame," followed by their name. Following the announcement, May told Associated Press that this honour might bring "a little bit more clout." He said, "Maybe a few more people will listen to me than they would otherwise, you know if it's Sir Brian on the phone." Talking about his wife who accompanied him to the ceremony, May said she was thrilled to bits. "Yes, yes, she's very happy about that. Yes, Lady Anita will be enjoying it, and it's a thrill to me to be able to kind of confer that on her," Fox News reported.

'Arise Sir Brian May': Queen's lead guitarist receives 'Knight Bachelor' by UK King Charles III

Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time. Trump made these claims while promoting a soon-to-be-released book titled "Letters to Trump". Speaking to Breitbart, Trump said that he "knew them all — and every one of them kissed my ass, and now I only have half of them kissing my ass."

Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr from his ex-wife Ivana Trump, claimed that the tone of these celebrities witnessed a drastic u-turn when his father ran for office. He said that the book will shine a light on "how phoney" the disdain of these people is.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence

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"It’s amazing how quickly their adoration of him changed when he ran for office as a Republican. Letters to Trump shows you exactly how they felt about him and how phoney their newfound disdain truly is."

"Letters to Trump" is Trump's second book release since the 2021 historic loss in the presidential race. The first book "Our Journey Together" was a collection of historic photos from his time in office.

Here's all you need to know:

<h2>Donald Trump's new book</h2>

The former President as per reports will soon be releasing a new book through which readers are "going to see a very fascinating life".

<h2>What is so "fascinating" about the book?</h2>

"Letters to Trump" as per&nbsp;The Hill features correspondence between Donald Trump and some of the biggest names in recent history.

According to Breitbart, it includes letters sent and received by the businessman.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-trump-slams-nations-insane-woke-education-system-at-iowa-rally-571750">Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally</a>

It includes missives from "interesting, famous, powerful, and influential people over the years," both during his time as president and for the decades leading up to his time in the White House.

<h2>Which famous figures are featured in the book?</h2>

The book, as per Breitbart, "includes correspondence with such wide-ranging figures as royal world leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana; cultural figures like Clint Eastwood, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jackson; sports stars like Shaquille O’Neal; and former presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H&nbsp;W&nbsp;Bush, George W&nbsp;Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-grab-them-by-the-py-tape-to-be-used-in-civil-rape-trial-570885">Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial</a>

Additionally, it has correspondence the former president Trump had with "foreign leaders like Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korea leader Kim Jong-un, and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro."

<h2>When will the book be published?</h2>

The book, as per Winning Publishing, the publisher behind the book, will be released on April 25. Two editions of the book will be made available — the normal edition will be sold for $99, and a signed edition of 'Letters to Trump' will cost $399.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time.

Former President Donald Trump said that royals Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, and other celebrities like Richard Nixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Hillary Clinton "kissed my ass" once upon a time. Trump made these claims while promoting a soon-to-be-released book titled "Letters to Trump". Speaking to Breitbart, Trump said that he "knew them all — and every one of them kissed my ass, and now I only have half of them kissing my ass." Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr from his ex-wife Ivana Trump, claimed that the tone of these celebrities witnessed a drastic u-turn when his father ran for office. He said that the book will shine a light on "how phoney" the disdain of these people is. Watch | Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence "It’s amazing how quickly their adoration of him changed when he ran for office as a Republican. Letters to Trump shows you exactly how they felt about him and how phoney their newfound disdain truly is." "Letters to Trump" is Trump's second book release since the 2021 historic loss in the presidential race. The first book "Our Journey Together" was a collection of historic photos from his time in office. Here's all you need to know: Donald Trump's new book The former President as per reports will soon be releasing a new book through which readers are "going to see a very fascinating life". What is so "fascinating" about the book? "Letters to Trump" as per The Hill features correspondence between Donald Trump and some of the biggest names in recent history. According to Breitbart, it includes letters sent and received by the businessman. Also read | Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally It includes missives from "interesting, famous, powerful, and influential people over the years," both during his time as president and for the decades leading up to his time in the White House. Which famous figures are featured in the book? The book, as per Breitbart, "includes correspondence with such wide-ranging figures as royal world leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana; cultural figures like Clint Eastwood, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jackson; sports stars like Shaquille O’Neal; and former presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H W Bush, George W Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama." Also read | Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial Additionally, it has correspondence the former president Trump had with "foreign leaders like Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korea leader Kim Jong-un, and former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro." When will the book be published? The book, as per Winning Publishing, the publisher behind the book, will be released on April 25. Two editions of the book will be made available — the normal edition will be sold for $99, and a signed edition of 'Letters to Trump' will cost $399. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New book 'Letters to Trump' will show Queen Elizabeth, Princess Diana 'kissed my a**,' says Donald Trump

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and&nbsp;has sparked anger among environmentalists. The announcement comes a day after the administration, in a big conservation move, said that it would bar or limit drilling in some other areas of Alaska or the Arctic Ocean. The decision approved by Rep. Mary Peltola was hailed by the Alaska delegation, saying that the "people of Alaska were heard." US Senator Lisa Murkowski also applauded the move, saying, "We did it, Alaska!"

But what exactly is the Willow Project? Why are the environmentalists angry? Scroll to read the details:

What is the Willow Project?

Alaska's significant and long-lasting oil drilling project on the National Petroleum Reserve's North Slope a.k.a the 'Willow Project' was proposed by Conoco&nbsp;Phillips, which aims to produce up to 180,000 barrels of oil a day, about 1.5 per cent of the US total oil production, CNN reported.

Alaska Republican Dan Sullivan said this oil development could be one of the biggest and most important resource development projects in history.&nbsp;

The company proposed five drilling initiatives as part of the project. However, the US Bureau of Land Management approved three drill sites, which ConocoPhillips Alaska said was a viable option. The interior department added that the final approval reduces the project's drill pads by probably 40 per cent.&nbsp;

The company further agreed to give up its rights to about 68,000 acres in existing leaves within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. The move reduces the project's freshwater use and eliminates all infrastructure related to the two rejected drills.&nbsp;

Is Joe Biden in trouble?

As soon as US President Joe Biden approved Alaska's oil project, it turned&nbsp; environmentalists and many US Democrats in Congress against him, who said that the project&nbsp;is out of step with his goals, CBS News reported.&nbsp;

Environmentalists have argued that approval of such a project represents a "betrayal" by Biden and his administration, who promised during his 2020 election campaign that fighting climate change will be his top priority and ending all new oil and gas drilling on federal lands and to move to clear energy.&nbsp;

Environmental activists have launched a #StopWillowcampaign across all social media platforms, seeking to remind Biden of his pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;

Federal officials have claimed that an increase in domestic oil drilling would result in fewer net global emissions because it would decrease petroleum imports.&nbsp;

The latest review under the Biden administration received backlash over its inclusion of a suggestion that 50 per cent of Willow's net emission could be offset by planting more trees in national forests to capture and store carbon dioxide."

Who supports and opposes the oil project?

Other than state lawmakers who say that the project will increase employment, boost domestic production and lessen the country's dependency, a coalition of native groups in Alaska also supports the project. According to them, the project is a much-needed source of revenue in the region and funds services like education and healthcare.&nbsp;

However, some Alaska Natives living closer to the planned project raised their concerns about the health and environmental impacts of the development.&nbsp;

In a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Nuiqsut Mayor Rosemary Ahtuangaruak and other officials said that the village will bear the consequences of the harmful project. The letter read, "We are at ground zero for the industrialisation of the Arctic.

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and has sparked anger among environmentalists.

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and has sparked anger among environmentalists. The announcement comes a day after the administration, in a big conservation move, said that it would bar or limit drilling in some other areas of Alaska or the Arctic Ocean. The decision approved by Rep. Mary Peltola was hailed by the Alaska delegation, saying that the "people of Alaska were heard." US Senator Lisa Murkowski also applauded the move, saying, "We did it, Alaska!" But what exactly is the Willow Project? Why are the environmentalists angry? Scroll to read the details: What is the Willow Project? Alaska's significant and long-lasting oil drilling project on the National Petroleum Reserve's North Slope a.k.a the 'Willow Project' was proposed by Conoco Phillips, which aims to produce up to 180,000 barrels of oil a day, about 1.5 per cent of the US total oil production, CNN reported. Alaska Republican Dan Sullivan said this oil development could be one of the biggest and most important resource development projects in history. The company proposed five drilling initiatives as part of the project. However, the US Bureau of Land Management approved three drill sites, which ConocoPhillips Alaska said was a viable option. The interior department added that the final approval reduces the project's drill pads by probably 40 per cent. The company further agreed to give up its rights to about 68,000 acres in existing leaves within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. The move reduces the project's freshwater use and eliminates all infrastructure related to the two rejected drills. Is Joe Biden in trouble? As soon as US President Joe Biden approved Alaska's oil project, it turned environmentalists and many US Democrats in Congress against him, who said that the project is out of step with his goals, CBS News reported. Environmentalists have argued that approval of such a project represents a "betrayal" by Biden and his administration, who promised during his 2020 election campaign that fighting climate change will be his top priority and ending all new oil and gas drilling on federal lands and to move to clear energy. Environmental activists have launched a #StopWillowcampaign across all social media platforms, seeking to remind Biden of his pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Federal officials have claimed that an increase in domestic oil drilling would result in fewer net global emissions because it would decrease petroleum imports. The latest review under the Biden administration received backlash over its inclusion of a suggestion that 50 per cent of Willow's net emission could be offset by planting more trees in national forests to capture and store carbon dioxide." Who supports and opposes the oil project? Other than state lawmakers who say that the project will increase employment, boost domestic production and lessen the country's dependency, a coalition of native groups in Alaska also supports the project. According to them, the project is a much-needed source of revenue in the region and funds services like education and healthcare. However, some Alaska Natives living closer to the planned project raised their concerns about the health and environmental impacts of the development. In a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Nuiqsut Mayor Rosemary Ahtuangaruak and other officials said that the village will bear the consequences of the harmful project. The letter read, "We are at ground zero for the industrialisation of the Arctic.

#StopWillowCampaign: Biden Administration approves oil drilling project in Alaska. Here's all you need to know

Popular video-sharing platform TikTok is reportedly considering separation from parent company ByteDance. As per Bloomberg, the reason behind this probable split stems from concerns voiced by the United States over the app and the alleged national security risks it poses.

Citing people familiar with the matter, the publication reports that a "divestiture" is considered a last resort and will only be pursued if the company's existing proposal with US national security officials is not approved. A divestiture can lead to a sale or an initial public offering (IPO).

Watch |&nbsp;Rishi Sunak hints at TikTok ban from UK government devices

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The short video format mobile app is currently under scrutiny. It is undergoing a national security review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

Last year, in an attempt to placate hostile lawmakers, TikTok even agreed to the implementation of a number of plans nicknamed "Project Texas".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uae-spymaster-purchases-100-million-stake-in-tiktok-maker-bytedance-company-valuation-at-220-billion-572240">UAE spymaster purchases $100 million stake in TikTok maker ByteDance; company valuation at $220 billion</a>

CFIUS has, however, left TikTok unsure about its future in America. CFIUS members have allegedly been unwilling to accept TikTok's proposal.

The agency has reportedly stalled in its process, leaving the app in a lurch, unsure about whether its attempts will be enough to ensure the continuation of TikTok's operations in the US.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mulling-over-tiktok-ban-on-government-devices-over-data-security-concerns-571913">After India and US, UK mulls TikTok ban on govt devices over data security concerns linked to China</a>

CFIUS and TikTok have been holding negotiations ever since, with the app claiming it has already spent more than $1.5 billion on rigorous data security efforts.

National security body CFIUS had recommended that ByteDance divest TikTok back in 2020. The app has increasingly come under fire over fears that undermining Western security interests user data can end up in the Chinese government's hands. TikTok, however, rejects the spying allegations.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Popular video-sharing platform TikTok is reportedly considering separation from parent company ByteDance. As per Bloomberg, the reason behind this probable split stems from concerns voiced by the United States over the app and the alleged national security risks it poses.

Popular video-sharing platform TikTok is reportedly considering separation from parent company ByteDance. As per Bloomberg, the reason behind this probable split stems from concerns voiced by the United States over the app and the alleged national security risks it poses. Citing people familiar with the matter, the publication reports that a "divestiture" is considered a last resort and will only be pursued if the company's existing proposal with US national security officials is not approved. A divestiture can lead to a sale or an initial public offering (IPO). Watch | Rishi Sunak hints at TikTok ban from UK government devices The short video format mobile app is currently under scrutiny. It is undergoing a national security review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). Last year, in an attempt to placate hostile lawmakers, TikTok even agreed to the implementation of a number of plans nicknamed "Project Texas". Also read | UAE spymaster purchases $100 million stake in TikTok maker ByteDance; company valuation at $220 billion CFIUS has, however, left TikTok unsure about its future in America. CFIUS members have allegedly been unwilling to accept TikTok's proposal. The agency has reportedly stalled in its process, leaving the app in a lurch, unsure about whether its attempts will be enough to ensure the continuation of TikTok's operations in the US. Also read | After India and US, UK mulls TikTok ban on govt devices over data security concerns linked to China CFIUS and TikTok have been holding negotiations ever since, with the app claiming it has already spent more than $1.5 billion on rigorous data security efforts. National security body CFIUS had recommended that ByteDance divest TikTok back in 2020. The app has increasingly come under fire over fears that undermining Western security interests user data can end up in the Chinese government's hands. TikTok, however, rejects the spying allegations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

TikTok mulls separation from parent company ByteDance if US officials don’t approve proposal

Every morning at dawn, sleepy teenagers can be seen "trudging zombie-like" through the streets of Indonesia. The sleep-deprived teenagers have become reluctant participants of a new controversial experiment that attempts to get their days off to a much earlier start.&nbsp;The pilot project is taking place in Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara province.&nbsp;Under it, twelfth-graders from 10 high schools have been starting classes early in the morning, 5:30 am to be precise.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Can lack of sleep affect your vaccination?

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The scheme was announced last month by governor Viktor Laiskodat. Authorities say that it is intended to strengthen children's discipline.

Parents, however, are not pleased with the scheme. As per AFP, parents are claiming that children are "exhausted" by the time they come from school.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lack-of-sleep-in-men-linked-with-reduced-effect-of-vaccine-shot-study-571767">Lack of sleep in men linked with reduced effect of vaccine shot: Study</a>

"It is extremely difficult, they now have to leave home while it's still pitch dark. I can't accept this... their safety is not guaranteed when it's dark and quiet," said Rambu Ata, mother of a 16-year-old while speaking to AFP.&nbsp;

Netizens too are not too pleased with the experiment. As one Twitter user puts it "Yikes".

Another user ColminIndonesia has suggested school clubs to increase productivity, they wrote, the "early bird catches the worm - but only if it's light enough to see the worm and the bird is not half asleep already. This pilot initiative goes too far, does more harm than good. It should stop. Better to run productive after school clubs instead."

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Yikes Indonesia is about to start having their 12th graders start their school day at 5:30 am. That's a long school day 5:30am- 4/5pm and don't forget in Indonesia most go to school on Saturdays as well
— Space Cowgirl on a bebop land 💞 (@Bremichele012) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bremichele012/status/1635948419624714242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In Indonesia, schools generally start between 7 and 8 am. Experts, however, recommend a later hour.

A study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2014 recommended that school for middle and high schoolers should start at 8:30 am or later. This, as per the study, would allow the children enough time to sleep and catch up on the zzzs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-based-chatgpt-will-soon-let-you-convert-text-into-video-heres-all-you-need-to-know-571446">AI based ChatGPT will soon let you convert text into video. Here's all you need to know</a>

Marsel Robot, an education expert from Nusa Cendana University, agrees. Speaking to AFP, Robot said that the 5:30 am classes scheme has "no correlation with the effort to improve the quality of education." He said that it can cause sleep deprivation, which can affect their health and behaviour.&nbsp;

"They will only sleep for a few hours and this is a serious risk for their health. This also will cause them stress and they will vent their stress by acting out," he said.

In spite of the criticism, authorities have maintained the experiment. It has actually been extended to the local education agency, due to which the agency's civil servants now also start their day at 5:30 am.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Every morning at dawn, sleepy teenagers can be seen "trudging zombie-like" through the streets of Indonesia. The sleep-deprived teenagers have become reluctant participants of a new controversial experiment that attempts to get their days off to a much earlier start.

Every morning at dawn, sleepy teenagers can be seen "trudging zombie-like" through the streets of Indonesia. The sleep-deprived teenagers have become reluctant participants of a new controversial experiment that attempts to get their days off to a much earlier start. The pilot project is taking place in Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara province. Under it, twelfth-graders from 10 high schools have been starting classes early in the morning, 5:30 am to be precise. Watch | Gravitas: Can lack of sleep affect your vaccination? The scheme was announced last month by governor Viktor Laiskodat. Authorities say that it is intended to strengthen children's discipline. Parents, however, are not pleased with the scheme. As per AFP, parents are claiming that children are "exhausted" by the time they come from school. Also read | Lack of sleep in men linked with reduced effect of vaccine shot: Study "It is extremely difficult, they now have to leave home while it's still pitch dark. I can't accept this... their safety is not guaranteed when it's dark and quiet," said Rambu Ata, mother of a 16-year-old while speaking to AFP. Netizens too are not too pleased with the experiment. As one Twitter user puts it "Yikes". Another user ColminIndonesia has suggested school clubs to increase productivity, they wrote, the "early bird catches the worm - but only if it's light enough to see the worm and the bird is not half asleep already. This pilot initiative goes too far, does more harm than good. It should stop. Better to run productive after school clubs instead." Yikes Indonesia is about to start having their 12th graders start their school day at 5:30 am. That's a long school day 5:30am- 4/5pm and don't forget in Indonesia most go to school on Saturdays as well — Space Cowgirl on a bebop land 💞 (@Bremichele012) March 15, 2023 × In Indonesia, schools generally start between 7 and 8 am. Experts, however, recommend a later hour. A study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2014 recommended that school for middle and high schoolers should start at 8:30 am or later. This, as per the study, would allow the children enough time to sleep and catch up on the zzzs. Also read | AI based ChatGPT will soon let you convert text into video. Here's all you need to know Marsel Robot, an education expert from Nusa Cendana University, agrees. Speaking to AFP, Robot said that the 5:30 am classes scheme has "no correlation with the effort to improve the quality of education." He said that it can cause sleep deprivation, which can affect their health and behaviour. "They will only sleep for a few hours and this is a serious risk for their health. This also will cause them stress and they will vent their stress by acting out," he said. In spite of the criticism, authorities have maintained the experiment. It has actually been extended to the local education agency, due to which the agency's civil servants now also start their day at 5:30 am. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Controversial trial in Indonesia leaves school students trudging like ‘zombies’, parents fume

Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign.

Trump was speaking to potential voters in Iowa when he touched upon the highly debated issue that is expected to continue to dominate the conversations throughout the year and up to next year's elections.

Watch |&nbsp;Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence

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"We have to get back to common sense, and that is reading, writing, arithmetic," Trump told the crowd in Davenport. As per AFP, he was answering an audience question about schools becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualizing our children."

Reiterating Republican allegations of appropriation of "wokeness" into teaching, Donald Trump at the Iowa rally said that "what they're teaching in schools today is insane."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-grab-them-by-the-py-tape-to-be-used-in-civil-rape-trial-570885">Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial</a>

Earlier, in January, Trump had called for federal funding cuts to school programmes that dealt with "critical race theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content."

Trump also promised to champion "school choice" i.e., giving parents the right to elect principals, and state — rather than federal — control over curriculums. As per Merriam-Webster, it also means that "students are given the choice to attend a school other than their district's public school".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-justice-for-all-knocks-miley-cyrus-flower-to-become-itunes-no-1-song-571366">Donald Trump's ‘Justice for All’ knocks Miley Cyrus's 'Flowers' to become iTunes No. 1 song</a>

Former president Trump said that if he were to win the 2024 Presidential elections, he'll "fight to expand that right to every single state in America."

He also echoed his previous pledge to "keep men out of women's sports." This is a reference to another highly debated topic about whether transgender women and girls should be allowed to participate in women's sports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign.

Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign. Trump was speaking to potential voters in Iowa when he touched upon the highly debated issue that is expected to continue to dominate the conversations throughout the year and up to next year's elections. Watch | Charges likely as Evidence reveals Donald Trump paid Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels for silence "We have to get back to common sense, and that is reading, writing, arithmetic," Trump told the crowd in Davenport. As per AFP, he was answering an audience question about schools becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualizing our children." Reiterating Republican allegations of appropriation of "wokeness" into teaching, Donald Trump at the Iowa rally said that "what they're teaching in schools today is insane." Also read | Donald Trump’s ‘grab them by the p***y’ tape to be used in civil rape trial Earlier, in January, Trump had called for federal funding cuts to school programmes that dealt with "critical race theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content." Trump also promised to champion "school choice" i.e., giving parents the right to elect principals, and state — rather than federal — control over curriculums. As per Merriam-Webster, it also means that "students are given the choice to attend a school other than their district's public school". Also read | Donald Trump's ‘Justice for All’ knocks Miley Cyrus's 'Flowers' to become iTunes No. 1 song Former president Trump said that if he were to win the 2024 Presidential elections, he'll "fight to expand that right to every single state in America." He also echoed his previous pledge to "keep men out of women's sports." This is a reference to another highly debated topic about whether transgender women and girls should be allowed to participate in women's sports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally

<h1>&nbsp;</h1>

The verdict of India's infamous Bhopal Gas Tragedy is expected today; back in 1984, the tragedy claimed approximately 4,000 lives and also caused&nbsp;over half a million non-fatal injuries. In other news, former US president Donald Trump while addressing a rally in Devenport, Iowa slammed America's "insane" education system and vowed that as President he will bring back common sense to a system where schools are becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualising our children." Meanwhile, in the Canadian town of Amqui, a pickup truck rammed over pedestrians, killing two and injuring nine others.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-braces-for-more-flooding-as-another-atmospheric-river-approaches-571738">California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approaches</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/14/338576-untitled-design-2023-03-14t080900527.png?imwidth=1920" />

California has been facing the brunt of flooding and severe storms over the past several weeks. A levee broke on the Pajaro River over the&nbsp;weekend, forcing the community of Pajaro to take shelter at an evacuation centre in Watsonville on Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-trump-slams-nations-insane-woke-education-system-at-iowa-rally-571750">Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/14/338585-new-wion-19.png?imwidth=1920" />

Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-lone-trucker-runs-over-pedestrians-many-killed-pm-trudeau-reacts-571735">Canada: Lone trucker runs over pedestrians, many killed; PM Trudeau reacts</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/14/338571-untitled-design-16.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Two people were killed in the Canadian town of Amqui while nine other pedestrians were injured after they were run over by a pickup truck, about 650 kilometres north of Montreal, authorities said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-to-decide-on-increased-compensation-for-1984-industrial-disaster-victims-571747">India's top court to decide on increased compensation for 1984 industrial disaster victims</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/14/338583-untitled-design-17.jpg?imwidth=1920" />India's Supreme Court on March 14 will pronounce its judgement on a revisionary petition filed by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh-led government in 2010, for increased compensation to the victims of 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, referring to a nearly four decade old industrial disaster in Central India that claimed at least 4,000 lives and resulted in over half a million non-fatal injuries.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Heavy losses reported as battle for Bakhmut rages

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The verdict of India's infamous Bhopal Gas Tragedy is expected today; back in 1984, the tragedy claimed approximately 4,000 lives and also caused over half a million non-fatal injuries.

The verdict of India's infamous Bhopal Gas Tragedy is expected today; back in 1984, the tragedy claimed approximately 4,000 lives and also caused over half a million non-fatal injuries. In other news, former US president Donald Trump while addressing a rally in Devenport, Iowa slammed America's "insane" education system and vowed that as President he will bring back common sense to a system where schools are becoming "indoctrination camps," focused on "sexualising our children." Meanwhile, in the Canadian town of Amqui, a pickup truck rammed over pedestrians, killing two and injuring nine others. Click on the headlines to read more: California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approaches California has been facing the brunt of flooding and severe storms over the past several weeks. A levee broke on the Pajaro River over the weekend, forcing the community of Pajaro to take shelter at an evacuation centre in Watsonville on Monday. Former US president Trump slams nation's 'insane', 'woke' education system at Iowa rally Former United States president Donald Trump on Monday slammed the nation's "insane" education system and vowed to revamp it. He further pledged to bring back "common sense" schooling as part of his "America First" campaign. Canada: Lone trucker runs over pedestrians, many killed; PM Trudeau reacts Two people were killed in the Canadian town of Amqui while nine other pedestrians were injured after they were run over by a pickup truck, about 650 kilometres north of Montreal, authorities said. India's top court to decide on increased compensation for 1984 industrial disaster victims India's Supreme Court on March 14 will pronounce its judgement on a revisionary petition filed by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh-led government in 2010, for increased compensation to the victims of 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, referring to a nearly four decade old industrial disaster in Central India that claimed at least 4,000 lives and resulted in over half a million non-fatal injuries. Watch | Ukraine war: Heavy losses reported as battle for Bakhmut rages

Morning news brief: Bhopal gas tragedy verdict today, Trump Iowa rally, and more

Masatoshi Ito, the Japanese man behind the hugely successful 7-Eleven convenience store chain has died aged 98. As per a BBC report, the Japanese billionaire helped turn the store chain into a global business empire. Ito as per operator Seven &amp; I Holdings died last Friday (March 10) due to old age. “We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your kindness and friendship during his life and respectfully inform you of his passing," said the firm.

Seven &amp; I Holdings today operates over 83,000 stores globally. A quarter of these stores are located in Japan.

Ito is credited with changing the face of retail in Japan. He took over a small apparel store business run by his uncle and half-brother. Over the years, he turned it into an international brand that sells everything from yoghurt and cereal to clothes and medicine.

In 1956 he took over the store, after renaming it Ito-Yokado, a range of stores that sold a wide range of goods. The company went public in 1972.&nbsp;Ito-Yokado was subsequently, in 2005, renamed to Seven &amp; I Holdings.&nbsp;

As per BBC, around the same time, while visiting the USA, an Ito-Yokado, Toshifumi Suzuki, spotted a 7-Eleven store. Soon after, the company forged a deal with 7-Eleven, a US-based Southland Corporation at the time. In 1974, Japan got its first 7-Eleven store.&nbsp;

The year 1992 saw Ito resigning from his position at Ito-Yokado over alleged illegal payments made by three executives to yakuza gangsters to keep order at a shareholders' meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Masatoshi Ito, the Japanese man behind the hugely successful 7-Eleven convenience store chain has died aged 98. As per a BBC report, the Japanese billionaire helped turn the store chain into a global business empire.

Masatoshi Ito, the Japanese man behind the hugely successful 7-Eleven convenience store chain has died aged 98. As per a BBC report, the Japanese billionaire helped turn the store chain into a global business empire. Ito as per operator Seven & I Holdings died last Friday (March 10) due to old age. “We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your kindness and friendship during his life and respectfully inform you of his passing," said the firm. Seven & I Holdings today operates over 83,000 stores globally. A quarter of these stores are located in Japan. Ito is credited with changing the face of retail in Japan. He took over a small apparel store business run by his uncle and half-brother. Over the years, he turned it into an international brand that sells everything from yoghurt and cereal to clothes and medicine. In 1956 he took over the store, after renaming it Ito-Yokado, a range of stores that sold a wide range of goods. The company went public in 1972. Ito-Yokado was subsequently, in 2005, renamed to Seven & I Holdings. As per BBC, around the same time, while visiting the USA, an Ito-Yokado, Toshifumi Suzuki, spotted a 7-Eleven store. Soon after, the company forged a deal with 7-Eleven, a US-based Southland Corporation at the time. In 1974, Japan got its first 7-Eleven store. The year 1992 saw Ito resigning from his position at Ito-Yokado over alleged illegal payments made by three executives to yakuza gangsters to keep order at a shareholders' meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Obituary | Masatoshi Ito, the Japanese man behind global success of 7-Eleven dies aged 98

Lawmakers in the US state of South Carolina are all set to bring in a bill that would make a woman who had an abortion eligible for the death penalty. The bill called "South Carolina Prenatal Equal Protection Act of 2023," seeks to amend the state's current law, redefining a "person" to include a fertilised egg at the point of conception, affording that zygote "equal protection under the homicide laws of the state" . Destroying it, therefore, will be punishable up to and including the death penalty, if the bill becomes law. Currently, South Carolina punishes abortion with a $1,000 fine and up to two years in prison. At least 13 US states have banned abortion following the Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v Wade.

Here's everything you need to know about the bill:

Abortion rule in South Carolina:

Abortion is currently legal in South Carolina but up to 21 weeks and 6 days; outlawing a 2021 ban, where abortion at six weeks was struck down by the US top court, CNBC News reported.&nbsp;

This is not the first time a US lawmaker has introduced the death penalty, which is one of the harshest punishments. Back in March 2021, Texas state Rep. Bryan Slaton proposed legislation that would not only ban abortion but would also criminalise it, and might even lead up to the death penalty, the Texas Tribune reported. However, the bill, like other similar legislations, was not passed.&nbsp;

'Life needs to be protected'

The bill authored by State Rep Rob Harris implies that getting an abortion is the same as committing homicide, Business Insider reported. The bill was initially pre-filed in December but now sits in the Judiciary Committee. Till now, 21 lawmakers have agreed to the bill.&nbsp;

Harris told local media, "if we call and define it (fertilised egg) as a life, then why should anyone be able to take that life. If&nbsp;it's life, it need to be protected like any other life."

Harris said, “Murder of the pre-born is harsh.”

He added that the bill aims to ensure that an unborn child who is a victim of assault is offered&nbsp;equal protection under the assault laws of the state, but with exceptions.

Advocates of "Planned Parenthood" opposes the bill:

A spokesperson for "Planned Parenthood," Vicki Ringer criticised the bill. He told WBTW, "That's a hard pill to swallow for anybody.To recognise that you are not valuable. To call this equal protection, it is far from equal. It is giving greater weight to a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus than it is to a human being. You can consider a fetus to be a person, but you can't consider it to have more weight than the living person who is a life fully lived on this planet."

Rep Nancy Mace, who represents South Carolina in the US House said that she sees the bill as a "deeply disturbing" trend.&nbsp;

Lawmakers in the US state of South Carolina are all set to bring in a bill that would make a woman who had an abortion eligible for the death penalty. The bill called "South Carolina Prenatal Equal Protection Act of 2023," seeks to amend the state's current law, redefining a "person" to include a fertilised egg at the point of conception, affording that zygote "equal protection under the homicide laws of the state" .

Lawmakers in the US state of South Carolina are all set to bring in a bill that would make a woman who had an abortion eligible for the death penalty. The bill called "South Carolina Prenatal Equal Protection Act of 2023," seeks to amend the state's current law, redefining a "person" to include a fertilised egg at the point of conception, affording that zygote "equal protection under the homicide laws of the state" . Destroying it, therefore, will be punishable up to and including the death penalty, if the bill becomes law. Currently, South Carolina punishes abortion with a $1,000 fine and up to two years in prison. At least 13 US states have banned abortion following the Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v Wade. Here's everything you need to know about the bill: Abortion rule in South Carolina: Abortion is currently legal in South Carolina but up to 21 weeks and 6 days; outlawing a 2021 ban, where abortion at six weeks was struck down by the US top court, CNBC News reported. This is not the first time a US lawmaker has introduced the death penalty, which is one of the harshest punishments. Back in March 2021, Texas state Rep. Bryan Slaton proposed legislation that would not only ban abortion but would also criminalise it, and might even lead up to the death penalty, the Texas Tribune reported. However, the bill, like other similar legislations, was not passed. 'Life needs to be protected' The bill authored by State Rep Rob Harris implies that getting an abortion is the same as committing homicide, Business Insider reported. The bill was initially pre-filed in December but now sits in the Judiciary Committee. Till now, 21 lawmakers have agreed to the bill. Harris told local media, "if we call and define it (fertilised egg) as a life, then why should anyone be able to take that life. If it's life, it need to be protected like any other life." Harris said, “Murder of the pre-born is harsh.” He added that the bill aims to ensure that an unborn child who is a victim of assault is offered equal protection under the assault laws of the state, but with exceptions. Advocates of "Planned Parenthood" opposes the bill: A spokesperson for "Planned Parenthood," Vicki Ringer criticised the bill. He told WBTW, "That's a hard pill to swallow for anybody.To recognise that you are not valuable. To call this equal protection, it is far from equal. It is giving greater weight to a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus than it is to a human being. You can consider a fetus to be a person, but you can't consider it to have more weight than the living person who is a life fully lived on this planet." Rep Nancy Mace, who represents South Carolina in the US House said that she sees the bill as a "deeply disturbing" trend.

US: South Carolina lawmakers propose 'death penalty' for women who had abortions

Russian forces have surrounded Bakhmut. The Ukrainians are putting up a ferocious fight. Why is this city so significant? Who's closer to winning this battle? Molly Gambhir explains on Gravitas Plus.

Gravitas Plus: Explained: The Battle for Bakhmut

Things are looking up for India’s aviation sector. Air India placed a record order of 470 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. India’s budget carrier Indigo might break the record as it plans to buy 500 passenger planes. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas Plus: What’s happening in India’s aviation sector?

The US banking system is in chaos again as shares of the First Republic Bank (FRC) dropped 70 per cent in pre-market trading on Monday. This comes after Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the financial organisation that dealt&nbsp;with only tech startups in the country, collapsed. The First Republic Bank on Friday closed 15 per cent lower at $81.76. This comes despite the FRC insisting its capital and liquidity are "very strong"&nbsp;and that regulators rolled out measures "designed to stabilise the finance industry in the US."

Regional banks' shares&nbsp;tumble&nbsp;

It was just not SVB and FRC, even other regional bank stocks tumbled, prompting trading halts. The FRC said it had access to some additional credit from Fed and JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (JPM) pointing out that "total available and unused liquidity to fund its operations is still over $70 billion."&nbsp;

Regional lenders Western Alliance Bancorp (WAL) declined 82 per cent and the PacWest Bancorp (PACW) tumbled by over half before trading was halted.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden had earlier assured the country's banking system was safe but after the collapse of SVB and Signature Bank, he called for full accountability.

The Silicon Valley Bank was hit by one of the oldest problems in the banking industry- a bank run, which led to its failure. It was one of the largest failures of a financial organisation in the US after the collapse of Washington Mutual which occurred at the height of the financial crisis over a decade ago.&nbsp;

The SVB bank was hit by the downturn in technology stocks as well as when the Federal Reserve planned to increase its interest rates to combat inflation.&nbsp;

Due to the collapse of SVB, many startups that had ties to the lender scrambled to pay their workers and feared that they might have to pause their projects or lay off staff.

The SVB had bought bonds worth billion of dollars using its customers' deposits over the past few years.&nbsp;

These investments were typically considered to be safe, but the value of those investments fell because they paid lower interest rates than what today a bond would pay if issued in today’s higher interest rate environment. 
&nbsp;

The US banking system is in chaos again as shares of the First Republic Bank (FRC) dropped 70 per cent in pre-market trading on Monday. This comes after Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the financial organisation that dealt with only tech startups in the country, collapsed.

The US banking system is in chaos again as shares of the First Republic Bank (FRC) dropped 70 per cent in pre-market trading on Monday. This comes after Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), the financial organisation that dealt with only tech startups in the country, collapsed. The First Republic Bank on Friday closed 15 per cent lower at $81.76. This comes despite the FRC insisting its capital and liquidity are "very strong" and that regulators rolled out measures "designed to stabilise the finance industry in the US." Regional banks' shares tumble It was just not SVB and FRC, even other regional bank stocks tumbled, prompting trading halts. The FRC said it had access to some additional credit from Fed and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) pointing out that "total available and unused liquidity to fund its operations is still over $70 billion." Regional lenders Western Alliance Bancorp (WAL) declined 82 per cent and the PacWest Bancorp (PACW) tumbled by over half before trading was halted. US President Joe Biden had earlier assured the country's banking system was safe but after the collapse of SVB and Signature Bank, he called for full accountability. The Silicon Valley Bank was hit by one of the oldest problems in the banking industry- a bank run, which led to its failure. It was one of the largest failures of a financial organisation in the US after the collapse of Washington Mutual which occurred at the height of the financial crisis over a decade ago. The SVB bank was hit by the downturn in technology stocks as well as when the Federal Reserve planned to increase its interest rates to combat inflation. Due to the collapse of SVB, many startups that had ties to the lender scrambled to pay their workers and feared that they might have to pause their projects or lay off staff. The SVB had bought bonds worth billion of dollars using its customers' deposits over the past few years. These investments were typically considered to be safe, but the value of those investments fell because they paid lower interest rates than what today a bond would pay if issued in today’s higher interest rate environment.

US: First Republic Bank drops 70% amid Silicon Valley Bank collapse, regional banks raise concern

A Californian appeals court has ruled that "gig" economy firms like Uber and Lyft can continue to treat their state-based drivers as independent contractors. This verdict comes in a case regarding a labour measure known as Proposition 22. Labour groups have for long opposed the measure; they claim that it robs them of sick leave and other rights. The appeals court, however, found the measure largely constitutional. This decision overturns an earlier decision by a lower court. The 2021 verdict said that Proposition 22 affected lawmakers' powers to set standards at the workplace.

A three-judge panel on Monday ruled that the measure was legal and California-based workers at Uber, Lyft and other similar firms can continue to be treated as independent contractors.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Global bank stock rout deepens after SVB collapse

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The judges, however, removed a clause that put restrictions on collective bargaining by the independent contractors.

Uber's chief legal officer, Tony West, hailed the verdict and said that "today's ruling is a victory for app-based workers and millions of Californians who voted for Prop 22."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-crypto-lender-loses-usd-200-million-to-hackers-571683">UK: Crypto lender loses USD 200 million to hackers</a>

"We're pleased that the court respected the will of the people and that Prop 22 will remain in place, preserving independence for drivers," he added.

Lyft too celebrated the victory and said that Proposition 22 "protects the independence drivers value and gives them new, historic benefits."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apples-top-executives-are-leaving-at-a-breakneck-speed-heres-why-571599">Apple's top executives are leaving at a breakneck speed. Here's why</a>&nbsp;

Following the ruling, shares of the two companies experienced an almost five per cent high in after-hours trading. Proposition 22 was passed by Californian voters in November 2020. Since then, many drivers and labour groups have opposed it. They claim that the proposition denies gig workers benefits like sick days, leave and overtime pay, all of which are available to 'employees'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Californian appeals court has ruled that "gig" economy firms like Uber and Lyft can continue to treat their state-based drivers as independent contractors. This verdict comes in a case regarding a labour measure known as Proposition 22.

A Californian appeals court has ruled that "gig" economy firms like Uber and Lyft can continue to treat their state-based drivers as independent contractors. This verdict comes in a case regarding a labour measure known as Proposition 22. Labour groups have for long opposed the measure; they claim that it robs them of sick leave and other rights. The appeals court, however, found the measure largely constitutional. This decision overturns an earlier decision by a lower court. The 2021 verdict said that Proposition 22 affected lawmakers' powers to set standards at the workplace. A three-judge panel on Monday ruled that the measure was legal and California-based workers at Uber, Lyft and other similar firms can continue to be treated as independent contractors. Watch | Global bank stock rout deepens after SVB collapse The judges, however, removed a clause that put restrictions on collective bargaining by the independent contractors. Uber's chief legal officer, Tony West, hailed the verdict and said that "today's ruling is a victory for app-based workers and millions of Californians who voted for Prop 22." Also read | UK: Crypto lender loses USD 200 million to hackers "We're pleased that the court respected the will of the people and that Prop 22 will remain in place, preserving independence for drivers," he added. Lyft too celebrated the victory and said that Proposition 22 "protects the independence drivers value and gives them new, historic benefits." Also read | Apple's top executives are leaving at a breakneck speed. Here's why Following the ruling, shares of the two companies experienced an almost five per cent high in after-hours trading. Proposition 22 was passed by Californian voters in November 2020. Since then, many drivers and labour groups have opposed it. They claim that the proposition denies gig workers benefits like sick days, leave and overtime pay, all of which are available to 'employees'. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

California appeal court allows for Uber, Lyft worker to be classified as individual contractors

Oscars 2023 turned out to be great for India as it wins in Best Documentary Short Film and Best Originals Song at the 95th Academy awards. The documentary The Elephant Whisperers&nbsp;by Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga made history, where the director went on to thank the Academy, producer Monga, her family and friends for their support and most importantly her mother country India. But who is Kartiki Gonsalves, what were her previous works and her total net worth? Let's take a look at the details.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Kartiki Gonsalves?&nbsp;</h2>

Gonsalves has done a broad range of work and is best categorised as an Indian wildlife photographer and filmmaker who specialises in social and natural history documentaries.&nbsp;

She lives in Mumbai and was brought up in Nilgiris. Gonsalves focuses on work, regardless of theme and focuses on promoting awareness related to conversation.&nbsp;

She has always described herself as a traveller and explorer.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/protagonists-of-oscar-winning-docu-the-elephant-whisperers-cant-watch-the-film-at-home-heres-why-571614">Protagonists of Oscar-winning docu 'The Elephant Whisperers' can't watch the film at home, here's why</a>&nbsp;

She made her directing debut with the now Oscar-winning short film The Elephant Whisperers,&nbsp;but has been earlier mentioned in several magazines and blogs.&nbsp;

In her award acceptance speech at the Oscars, Gonsalves said, "I stand here today to speak for the sacred bond between us and our natural world, for the respect of indigenous communities, and empathy towards other living beings we share space with and finally, for coexistence."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Oscars 2023: Here's who won big at the Academy Awards&nbsp;

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<h2>Her early life</h2>

Gonsalves said she was only three when she first visited a sanctuary. Her love for wildlife is hereditary.&nbsp;

Her father also worked as a photographer and her mother was a fauna enthusiast. However, the love for nature was passed on from her grandmother, who was an amateur naturalist.&nbsp;

<h2>The Elephant Whisperers&nbsp;</h2>

The 41-minute short documentary film explores the bond of people who have been generationally working with elephants and so they are aware of the needs of the jungle. The movie focuses on the bond between Raghu, an orphaned elephant and his caretakers, who devoted their whole life protecting him from poachers and raised him as their own child.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
After the win, Monga said on her Instagram post:&nbsp;"Kartiki has spent the last five years living alongside Bommon, Billie and the Elephants, uncovering the extraordinary story of two caregivers, who despite all odds, saved an orphaned baby elephant. In the documentary, Kartiki shows a rare, beautiful and sacred bond between humans, animals and the environment, that establishes the importance of protecting and carrying the practice of caregiving forward for future generations. (sic)"&nbsp;

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Oscars 2023 turned out to be great for India as it wins in Best Documentary Short Film and Best Originals Song at the 95th Academy awards. The documentary The Elephant Whisperers by Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga made history, where the director went on to thank the Academy, producer Monga, her family and friends for their support and most importantly her mother country India.

Oscars 2023 turned out to be great for India as it wins in Best Documentary Short Film and Best Originals Song at the 95th Academy awards. The documentary The Elephant Whisperers by Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga made history, where the director went on to thank the Academy, producer Monga, her family and friends for their support and most importantly her mother country India. But who is Kartiki Gonsalves, what were her previous works and her total net worth? Let's take a look at the details. Who is Kartiki Gonsalves? Gonsalves has done a broad range of work and is best categorised as an Indian wildlife photographer and filmmaker who specialises in social and natural history documentaries. She lives in Mumbai and was brought up in Nilgiris. Gonsalves focuses on work, regardless of theme and focuses on promoting awareness related to conversation. She has always described herself as a traveller and explorer. ALSO READ | Protagonists of Oscar-winning docu 'The Elephant Whisperers' can't watch the film at home, here's why She made her directing debut with the now Oscar-winning short film The Elephant Whisperers, but has been earlier mentioned in several magazines and blogs. In her award acceptance speech at the Oscars, Gonsalves said, "I stand here today to speak for the sacred bond between us and our natural world, for the respect of indigenous communities, and empathy towards other living beings we share space with and finally, for coexistence." WATCH | Oscars 2023: Here's who won big at the Academy Awards × Her early life Gonsalves said she was only three when she first visited a sanctuary. Her love for wildlife is hereditary. Her father also worked as a photographer and her mother was a fauna enthusiast. However, the love for nature was passed on from her grandmother, who was an amateur naturalist. The Elephant Whisperers The 41-minute short documentary film explores the bond of people who have been generationally working with elephants and so they are aware of the needs of the jungle. The movie focuses on the bond between Raghu, an orphaned elephant and his caretakers, who devoted their whole life protecting him from poachers and raised him as their own child. After the win, Monga said on her Instagram post: "Kartiki has spent the last five years living alongside Bommon, Billie and the Elephants, uncovering the extraordinary story of two caregivers, who despite all odds, saved an orphaned baby elephant. In the documentary, Kartiki shows a rare, beautiful and sacred bond between humans, animals and the environment, that establishes the importance of protecting and carrying the practice of caregiving forward for future generations. (sic)" WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Kartiki Gonsalves? The filmmaker wins Oscars 2023 for best short film The Elephant Whisperers

Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city.

To suggest dust control measures, BMC has formed a seven-member committee under the chairmanship of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Sanjeev Kumar. As per the directions given by Municipal Commissioner I S Chahal, the panel shall submit a report within seven days.

“There are around 5,000 sites where construction work is going on currently. The air quality in Mumbai region including the city is currently bad due to changes in the wind speed conditions combined with dust arising from various development and construction works, which are going on a large scale. In view of this, dust is the main factor responsible for air pollution,” said a senior BMC official.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/air-pollution-causes-serious-health-issues-but-not-enough-being-done-to-mitigate-it-554791">WATCH |&nbsp;Air pollution causes serious health issues, but not enough being done to mitigate it</a>

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The committee’s main role will be to form a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dust control in the BMC area. It has to be finalised and implemented from April 1, 2023. Anyone found violating the rules will face strict action including being forced to stop the construction activity.

Usually, it is the national capital city of Delhi making headlines for its bad air quality, say officials. However, something has been different for Mumbai this time around.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-overtakes-delhi-to-become-most-polluted-indian-city-561748">Read more:&nbsp;Mumbai overtakes Delhi to become most-polluted Indian city</a>

Mumbai, which has a long coastline, and is believed to have better air quality than&nbsp;Delhi has surpassed the national capital's pollution levels several times.&nbsp;

With the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, doctors have sounded the alarm and advised those with respiratory illnesses to be cautious.

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Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city.

Poor air quality for the last three months has been a cause of concern for citizens living in India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Its civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has blamed construction activity as the major cause for the rising bad air quality in the city. To suggest dust control measures, BMC has formed a seven-member committee under the chairmanship of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Sanjeev Kumar. As per the directions given by Municipal Commissioner I S Chahal, the panel shall submit a report within seven days. “There are around 5,000 sites where construction work is going on currently. The air quality in Mumbai region including the city is currently bad due to changes in the wind speed conditions combined with dust arising from various development and construction works, which are going on a large scale. In view of this, dust is the main factor responsible for air pollution,” said a senior BMC official. WATCH | Air pollution causes serious health issues, but not enough being done to mitigate it × The committee’s main role will be to form a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dust control in the BMC area. It has to be finalised and implemented from April 1, 2023. Anyone found violating the rules will face strict action including being forced to stop the construction activity. Usually, it is the national capital city of Delhi making headlines for its bad air quality, say officials. However, something has been different for Mumbai this time around. Read more: Mumbai overtakes Delhi to become most-polluted Indian city Mumbai, which has a long coastline, and is believed to have better air quality than Delhi has surpassed the national capital's pollution levels several times. With the deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, doctors have sounded the alarm and advised those with respiratory illnesses to be cautious. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Mumbai's civic body forms a seven-member committee to address deteriorating air quality

China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type. Tasked with reviving the world's second-largest economy, the newly installed premier faces multiple challenges including weak consumer and private industry confidence, sluggish exports demand and a souring relationship with the United States.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media at his debut press conference as the China premier, Qiang said that the country will also undertake measures to boost jobs, and for that, he said "developing the economy is the fundamental solution".

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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China's economy is in the doldrums. Last year the nation's economy grew by just three per cent, the&nbsp;target as per AFP was around 5.5 per cent. Due to the impact of strict Covid policies and a property crisis, China missed the goal by a huge margin.

Keeping with that, this year's GDP growth target is a conservative five per cent. However, China Premier Li Qiang says that with the nation facing many difficulties, achieving this target would not be easy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/career-bureaucrat-xi-jinpings-ally-and-now-chinas-second-most-powerful-man-who-is-li-qiang-570929">Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?</a>

Notably, the set target is one of the lowest in decades.&nbsp;

"I'm afraid that reaching our growth target of around five per cent will be no easy task, and will require that we redouble our efforts," said the China premier at a press conference held to mark the closing of the National People's Congress (NPC).

Li is a close ally and longtime confidant of China's President Xi Jinping and was appointed to the nation's second most powerful post last week during the annual session of Beijing's "rubber-stamp" parliament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-calls-for-fortification-of-armed-forces-into-a-great-wall-of-steel-571333">Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into a 'Great Wall of steel'</a>

Speaking at the closing session of the CCP session, Xi Jinping called for greater self-reliance and said China needs security to develop. He also stressed on the importance of modernising the armed forces to make it into a "Great Wall of Steel".

"Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," said Xi.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type.

China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type. Tasked with reviving the world's second-largest economy, the newly installed premier faces multiple challenges including weak consumer and private industry confidence, sluggish exports demand and a souring relationship with the United States. Speaking to the media at his debut press conference as the China premier, Qiang said that the country will also undertake measures to boost jobs, and for that, he said "developing the economy is the fundamental solution". Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president China's economy is in the doldrums. Last year the nation's economy grew by just three per cent, the target as per AFP was around 5.5 per cent. Due to the impact of strict Covid policies and a property crisis, China missed the goal by a huge margin. Keeping with that, this year's GDP growth target is a conservative five per cent. However, China Premier Li Qiang says that with the nation facing many difficulties, achieving this target would not be easy. Also read | Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? Notably, the set target is one of the lowest in decades. "I'm afraid that reaching our growth target of around five per cent will be no easy task, and will require that we redouble our efforts," said the China premier at a press conference held to mark the closing of the National People's Congress (NPC). Li is a close ally and longtime confidant of China's President Xi Jinping and was appointed to the nation's second most powerful post last week during the annual session of Beijing's "rubber-stamp" parliament. Also read | Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into a 'Great Wall of steel' Speaking at the closing session of the CCP session, Xi Jinping called for greater self-reliance and said China needs security to develop. He also stressed on the importance of modernising the armed forces to make it into a "Great Wall of Steel". "Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," said Xi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China premier Li Qiang says achieving 5% growth target 'no easy task'

The 95th annual ceremony took place on Sunday, March 12, at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, California.&nbsp;Everything Everywhere All At Once dominated the show while India's pride RRR also bagged a trophy. In another news, ahead of the start of&nbsp;US-South Korea military drills, North Korea on Monday fired two cruise missiles from a submarine.

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscar-awards-2023-live-updates-stage-set-for-the-biggest-night-of-hollywood-571045">LIVE UPDATES | Oscars 2023: Everything Everywhere All At Once dominates the 95th Academy Awards, wins Best Picture with 6 other awards</a>

The 95th Oscar awards ceremony&nbsp;saw&nbsp;Everything Everywhere All At Once&nbsp;sweep the awards gallery with seven trophies. Meanwhile, it was a momentous occasion for Indian cinema as 'RRR' and 'Elephant&nbsp;Whisperers' bagged a trophy each.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-strategic-cruise-missiles-from-a-submarine-571286">North Korea fires two strategic cruise missiles from a submarine</a>

North Korea, on Sunday, test-fired two strategic cruise missiles from a submarine, state news agency KCNA reported Monday.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/13/338283-untitled-design-2023-03-13t074435897.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-govt-says-svb-customers-can-access-their-money-as-second-bank-fails-571313">US govt says SVB customers can access their money as second bank fails</a>

Depositors of the embattled Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) will be able to access all their cash from Monday (March 13), said the US government.&nbsp;The announcement came on Sunday when another bank, Signature Bank&nbsp;was shut down by the regulators.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/13/338295-svb.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-pow-whose-on-camera-execution-caused-widespread-rage-identified-571307">'A true hero': Ukrainian POW executed on camera was a sniper who went missing in December</a>

The identity of the Ukrainian soldier who was shot on camera after shouting "Glory to Ukraine!" has been officially confirmed by Ukrainian intelligence officials.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/13/338291-untitled-design-2023-03-13t084538893.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-over-200000-people-pack-the-streets-of-tel-aviv-571232">WATCH |&nbsp;Israel: Over 200,000 people pack the streets of Tel Aviv</a>

Israel is in the throes of possibly its biggest public uprising ever and is over the proposed judicial reforms. Protests over this issue are now in their 10th week with over half a million Israelis protesting on the streets, chanting that Israel will not be a dictatorship.

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&nbsp;

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The 95th annual ceremony took place on Sunday, March 12, at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, California. Everything Everywhere All At Once dominated the show while India's pride RRR also bagged a trophy.

The 95th annual ceremony took place on Sunday, March 12, at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, California. Everything Everywhere All At Once dominated the show while India's pride RRR also bagged a trophy. In another news, ahead of the start of US-South Korea military drills, North Korea on Monday fired two cruise missiles from a submarine. Click on headlines to read more: LIVE UPDATES | Oscars 2023: Everything Everywhere All At Once dominates the 95th Academy Awards, wins Best Picture with 6 other awards The 95th Oscar awards ceremony saw Everything Everywhere All At Once sweep the awards gallery with seven trophies. Meanwhile, it was a momentous occasion for Indian cinema as 'RRR' and 'Elephant Whisperers' bagged a trophy each. North Korea fires two strategic cruise missiles from a submarine North Korea, on Sunday, test-fired two strategic cruise missiles from a submarine, state news agency KCNA reported Monday. US govt says SVB customers can access their money as second bank fails Depositors of the embattled Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) will be able to access all their cash from Monday (March 13), said the US government. The announcement came on Sunday when another bank, Signature Bank was shut down by the regulators. 'A true hero': Ukrainian POW executed on camera was a sniper who went missing in December The identity of the Ukrainian soldier who was shot on camera after shouting "Glory to Ukraine!" has been officially confirmed by Ukrainian intelligence officials. WATCH | Israel: Over 200,000 people pack the streets of Tel Aviv Israel is in the throes of possibly its biggest public uprising ever and is over the proposed judicial reforms. Protests over this issue are now in their 10th week with over half a million Israelis protesting on the streets, chanting that Israel will not be a dictatorship. ×

Morning news brief: RRR wins an Oscar, N Korea fires two cruise missiles, and more

Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over&nbsp;the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs. He was appointed to the seven-member CCP Politburo Standing Committee — China’s highest echelon of power — at the Communist Party's 20th Congress last October. With his latest appointment, China Premier Li Qiang now ranks second in leadership after President Xi Jinping.

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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Here’s all you need to know about China’s second most powerful man:

<h2>Who is Li Qiang?</h2>

Qiang, as per Reuters, is a career bureaucrat who from 2017 to 2022 served as the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) secretary of the nation’s most populous city, Shanghai.

He joined the CCP in 1983 and since then has served in many capacities.

Qiang started his career as the secretary of the Communist Youth League of Rui'an, Zhejiang. He then went on to serve in the provincial department of civil affairs, following which he became the party secretary of Yong Kang, Wenzhou, the Political Legal Affairs Secretary of Zhejiang and later the deputy party secretary of the province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-nominates-longtime-ally-li-qiang-as-chinas-new-premier-570794">Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier</a>

In 2012, he became the governor of Zhejiang. He then became the party secretary of Jiangsu province and was then finally transferred to the position of party secretary of Shanghai in 2017. The same year, he was elevated and was made a member of the CCP Politburo. &nbsp;

<h2>Why was he appointed as China’s premier?</h2>

Chinese President Xi Jinping, following his groundbreaking appointment as the third time head of China, is appointing a slate of his loyalists in key governmental posts. This has been termed China’s biggest government reshuffle in a decade. As a generation of more reform-minded officials retire, Xi as per Reuters, is further consolidating power after being unanimously elected president.

Li Qiang is a close ally of Xi, and he even served as Xi’s chief of staff between 2004 and 2007; back when the current President was the provincial party secretary of Zhejiang province.

<h2>What do experts say about Li Qiang’s rise to power?</h2>

Due to Qiang’s handling of Shanghai’s two-month lockdown last spring, in which residents struggled to access food and medical care, his ascension had as per AFP earlier seemed in doubt.

Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, says, "if proof were needed that loyalty trumps meritocracy in Xi's China, Li Qiang's elevation provides it."

"Li might be quite capable, and may make a good premier, but it is hard to see how he got there other than through Xi's personal favour," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-xi-jinping-securing-third-term-as-chinas-president-a-look-at-his-political-career-570544">Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far</a>

Neil Thomas, senior China analyst at Eurasia Group says that while "(Li) was seen as a business-friendly local leader but it's questionable whether these skills will translate well to overseeing macroeconomic coordination and regulatory agendas as premier.”

Some even see Li’s loyalty to Xi as an impediment to making his mark in solving the problems China faces. They say that his appointment may serve as a way for President Xi to assert his own economic agenda.

According to Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute, despite being the president's "trusted lieutenant", the new premier's ability to push through policies is still limited.

"Xi will give Li Qiang more scope to run the State Council, but on the basis that Li Qiang will do what Xi wants and not go beyond the perimeter set by Xi," he remarked.

<h2>What is expected of Li Qiang's premiership?</h2>

In his current capacity as premier and the head of China’s cabinet, the State Council, in his capacity as premier and head of China's cabinet Li Qiang will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the country, as well as its macroeconomic policy.

His ascension comes at a time when China’s economy is in serious trouble. Last year it grew by just three per cent. Owing to this, the ongoing annual session of the Chinese parliament has set a modest growth target of five per cent for 2023. This is the lowest goal set by China in nearly three decades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-secures-third-term-as-chinas-president-570435">Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president</a>

As per Christopher Beddor, the deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, for Li, the top task this year will be beating the five per cent target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt.

"The leadership has already accepted two years of exceptionally weak economic growth in the name of COVID containment. Now that containment is gone, they won’t accept another," added Beddor.

<h2>What is the current state of China’s economy?</h2>

For the first time in 25 years of its survey, the American Chamber of Commerce in China found that China is no longer seen as a "top three investment priority". The results were based on a survey of companies,&nbsp;the majority of which said this.

In recent years, some of Beijing’s most successful private firms like Alibaba have been battered by abrupt crackdowns and regulatory hurdles.

Even as China tries to present a business-friendly face, in the face of global headwinds and weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, Li will have to work hard to restore confidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs.

Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs. He was appointed to the seven-member CCP Politburo Standing Committee — China’s highest echelon of power — at the Communist Party's 20th Congress last October. With his latest appointment, China Premier Li Qiang now ranks second in leadership after President Xi Jinping. Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president Here’s all you need to know about China’s second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? Qiang, as per Reuters, is a career bureaucrat who from 2017 to 2022 served as the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) secretary of the nation’s most populous city, Shanghai. He joined the CCP in 1983 and since then has served in many capacities. Qiang started his career as the secretary of the Communist Youth League of Rui'an, Zhejiang. He then went on to serve in the provincial department of civil affairs, following which he became the party secretary of Yong Kang, Wenzhou, the Political Legal Affairs Secretary of Zhejiang and later the deputy party secretary of the province. Also read | Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier In 2012, he became the governor of Zhejiang. He then became the party secretary of Jiangsu province and was then finally transferred to the position of party secretary of Shanghai in 2017. The same year, he was elevated and was made a member of the CCP Politburo. Why was he appointed as China’s premier? Chinese President Xi Jinping, following his groundbreaking appointment as the third time head of China, is appointing a slate of his loyalists in key governmental posts. This has been termed China’s biggest government reshuffle in a decade. As a generation of more reform-minded officials retire, Xi as per Reuters, is further consolidating power after being unanimously elected president. Li Qiang is a close ally of Xi, and he even served as Xi’s chief of staff between 2004 and 2007; back when the current President was the provincial party secretary of Zhejiang province. What do experts say about Li Qiang’s rise to power? Due to Qiang’s handling of Shanghai’s two-month lockdown last spring, in which residents struggled to access food and medical care, his ascension had as per AFP earlier seemed in doubt. Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, says, "if proof were needed that loyalty trumps meritocracy in Xi's China, Li Qiang's elevation provides it." "Li might be quite capable, and may make a good premier, but it is hard to see how he got there other than through Xi's personal favour," he added. Also read | Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far Neil Thomas, senior China analyst at Eurasia Group says that while "(Li) was seen as a business-friendly local leader but it's questionable whether these skills will translate well to overseeing macroeconomic coordination and regulatory agendas as premier.” Some even see Li’s loyalty to Xi as an impediment to making his mark in solving the problems China faces. They say that his appointment may serve as a way for President Xi to assert his own economic agenda. According to Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute, despite being the president's "trusted lieutenant", the new premier's ability to push through policies is still limited. "Xi will give Li Qiang more scope to run the State Council, but on the basis that Li Qiang will do what Xi wants and not go beyond the perimeter set by Xi," he remarked. What is expected of Li Qiang's premiership? In his current capacity as premier and the head of China’s cabinet, the State Council, in his capacity as premier and head of China's cabinet Li Qiang will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the country, as well as its macroeconomic policy. His ascension comes at a time when China’s economy is in serious trouble. Last year it grew by just three per cent. Owing to this, the ongoing annual session of the Chinese parliament has set a modest growth target of five per cent for 2023. This is the lowest goal set by China in nearly three decades. Also read | Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president As per Christopher Beddor, the deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, for Li, the top task this year will be beating the five per cent target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt. "The leadership has already accepted two years of exceptionally weak economic growth in the name of COVID containment. Now that containment is gone, they won’t accept another," added Beddor. What is the current state of China’s economy? For the first time in 25 years of its survey, the American Chamber of Commerce in China found that China is no longer seen as a "top three investment priority". The results were based on a survey of companies, the majority of which said this. In recent years, some of Beijing’s most successful private firms like Alibaba have been battered by abrupt crackdowns and regulatory hurdles. Even as China tries to present a business-friendly face, in the face of global headwinds and weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, Li will have to work hard to restore confidence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?

Nicaragua’s government said Sunday it has proposed suspending relations with the Vatican days after Pope Francis reportedly compared President Daniel Ortega’s administration to a communist or Nazi dictatorship amid a crackdown on the Catholic Church in the Central American country.

Nicaragua Closes Vatican Embassy in Managua, Suspends Diplomatic Ties

Hundreds of migrants attempt to force their way into USA at the Mexico border crossing

Pope Francis on Monday (March 13) will mark 10 years as the head of the Roman Catholic Church&nbsp;and will be celebrating Mass with cardinals in the chapel of the Vatican's Santa Marta hotel where he has been living since being elected as the catholic head. The 86-year-old is the first Jesuit and Latin American pope. He is the 266th pope elected, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down. With living such a religious life, Francis grabbed global attention for his remarks on the LGBTQ community, divorce/ remarriages and so on. Lets's take look at some of the controversies Francis was involved in:

Early life:

Jorge Mario Bergoglio or Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 17 December 1936 and worked as a bouncer, janitor and chemist in his early life before being elected as the pope. After being elected as he changed his name to Francis&nbsp;

His religious life began in 1969 when he ordained a Catholic priest and was the Jesuit provincial superior from 1973 to 1979 in Argentina. Being considered a rival by many, he became papal to Bergoglio after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.&nbsp;

Francis has always been lauded for his humility, concern for the poor and commitment to interreligious dialogue. He maintained the views of the Church regarding the ordination of women as priests and even initiated dialogue where women were made full members of dicasteries in the Roman Curia.&nbsp;

Here is the list of controversies under the papacy of Francis:

Hell does not exist:

The Catholic leader was quoted saying "there is no hell; there is the disappearance of sinful souls," by the Italian newspaper La Repubblica implying that sinners who die without achieving eternal salvation are not punished. This quote apparently caused panic within the church and even the news surfaced on social media slamming him for such a response. However, Francis dismissed the news and said that the interview with La Repubblica was a "reconstruction" and not a transcript of what the pope actually said. &nbsp;This controversy erupted as Pope washed the feet of 12 prisoners at Rome's Regina Coeli prison among which two were Muslims, an orthodox Christian and a Buddhist. Responding to this, Francis said that everyone has the opportunity to change life and one cannot judge.&nbsp;

Francis on LGBTQ- 'Who am I to judge?"

Back in 2013, Pope sent a shockwave over his remarks on the LGBTQ community. He was asked whether there was a gay lobby at the church or not to which he replied, "if someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?"&nbsp;

The comment was hailed by all LGBTQ advocacies and mainstream media, marking it as a sign of change in the views of the Catholic church. The LGBT publication "The Advocate" even gave Francis their person of the year award and some even speculated that the church might become more open to blessing the communities.&nbsp;

The comment was appreciated largely because, Frabncis's predecessors like Pope Benedict XVI suggested that gay marriages are a threat to global peace, while on the other hand, Francis said that transsexuals and homosexuals should also be accepted and embraced by the Church, though he mentioned that he opposes schools and other institutions promoting or endorsing such tendencies.&nbsp;

Many advocacies celebrating the comment did not note that Francis also said that one must distinguish between a person who is gay and someone who makes a gay lobby, saying that a gay lobby isn't good

However, contradicting his own statement, in 2014 in Rome at a major gathering Francis said that "the complementarily of man and woman...is the root of marriage and family."

Marriage and Divorce

Speaking in Catholic terms, Francis issued an endorsement of major changes in the way priests approach Catholics who are either divorced or remarried. He outlined his vision on how the Vatican will promote family and family issues, by naming an American moderate to head the n ed VCatcian offside for families, directing to related institutes to give merciful care to spiritually wounded Catholics.&nbsp;

He even emphasised how he wants to focus on establishing church teaching on life and marriage issues with mercy, with an opening dialogue with other academic and scientific users, whether they are Christians or not.&nbsp;

Accuses sex abuse victims of slander

In Jan 2018, Pope shocked Chile by accusing the most notorious paedophile of slander that cost the Catholic church its credibility in the country. Francis said that until he sees proof that Bishop Juan Barros was involved in covering up the sex crimes of the Rev. Fernando Karadimas, all such accusations are "all calumny." His comments on the sex abuse scandals haunted the Vatican and it later announced that it is reviving its anti-paedophile community.

Pope Francis on Monday (March 13) will mark 10 years as the head of the Roman Catholic Church and will be celebrating Mass with cardinals in the chapel of the Vatican's Santa Marta hotel where he has been living since being elected as the catholic head.

Pope Francis on Monday (March 13) will mark 10 years as the head of the Roman Catholic Church and will be celebrating Mass with cardinals in the chapel of the Vatican's Santa Marta hotel where he has been living since being elected as the catholic head. The 86-year-old is the first Jesuit and Latin American pope. He is the 266th pope elected, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down. With living such a religious life, Francis grabbed global attention for his remarks on the LGBTQ community, divorce/ remarriages and so on. Lets's take look at some of the controversies Francis was involved in: Early life: Jorge Mario Bergoglio or Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 17 December 1936 and worked as a bouncer, janitor and chemist in his early life before being elected as the pope. After being elected as he changed his name to Francis His religious life began in 1969 when he ordained a Catholic priest and was the Jesuit provincial superior from 1973 to 1979 in Argentina. Being considered a rival by many, he became papal to Bergoglio after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Francis has always been lauded for his humility, concern for the poor and commitment to interreligious dialogue. He maintained the views of the Church regarding the ordination of women as priests and even initiated dialogue where women were made full members of dicasteries in the Roman Curia. Here is the list of controversies under the papacy of Francis: Hell does not exist: The Catholic leader was quoted saying "there is no hell; there is the disappearance of sinful souls," by the Italian newspaper La Repubblica implying that sinners who die without achieving eternal salvation are not punished. This quote apparently caused panic within the church and even the news surfaced on social media slamming him for such a response. However, Francis dismissed the news and said that the interview with La Repubblica was a "reconstruction" and not a transcript of what the pope actually said. This controversy erupted as Pope washed the feet of 12 prisoners at Rome's Regina Coeli prison among which two were Muslims, an orthodox Christian and a Buddhist. Responding to this, Francis said that everyone has the opportunity to change life and one cannot judge. Francis on LGBTQ- 'Who am I to judge?" Back in 2013, Pope sent a shockwave over his remarks on the LGBTQ community. He was asked whether there was a gay lobby at the church or not to which he replied, "if someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?" The comment was hailed by all LGBTQ advocacies and mainstream media, marking it as a sign of change in the views of the Catholic church. The LGBT publication "The Advocate" even gave Francis their person of the year award and some even speculated that the church might become more open to blessing the communities. The comment was appreciated largely because, Frabncis's predecessors like Pope Benedict XVI suggested that gay marriages are a threat to global peace, while on the other hand, Francis said that transsexuals and homosexuals should also be accepted and embraced by the Church, though he mentioned that he opposes schools and other institutions promoting or endorsing such tendencies. Many advocacies celebrating the comment did not note that Francis also said that one must distinguish between a person who is gay and someone who makes a gay lobby, saying that a gay lobby isn't good However, contradicting his own statement, in 2014 in Rome at a major gathering Francis said that "the complementarily of man and woman...is the root of marriage and family." Marriage and Divorce Speaking in Catholic terms, Francis issued an endorsement of major changes in the way priests approach Catholics who are either divorced or remarried. He outlined his vision on how the Vatican will promote family and family issues, by naming an American moderate to head the n ed VCatcian offside for families, directing to related institutes to give merciful care to spiritually wounded Catholics. He even emphasised how he wants to focus on establishing church teaching on life and marriage issues with mercy, with an opening dialogue with other academic and scientific users, whether they are Christians or not. Accuses sex abuse victims of slander In Jan 2018, Pope shocked Chile by accusing the most notorious paedophile of slander that cost the Catholic church its credibility in the country. Francis said that until he sees proof that Bishop Juan Barros was involved in covering up the sex crimes of the Rev. Fernando Karadimas, all such accusations are "all calumny." His comments on the sex abuse scandals haunted the Vatican and it later announced that it is reviving its anti-paedophile community.

As Pope Francis completes a decade in Vatican here are some controversies he was embroiled in

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel". His statement comes amid mounting tensions with the United States.

"Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," he said at the closing of China's annual parliament session.

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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"We must fully promote the modernisation of national defence and the armed forces, and build the people's armed forces into a Great Wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests," he added.

Xi also reiterated China's calls for unification with the self-ruled island of Taiwan and called for consolidated stability in once-restive Hong Kong.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/career-bureaucrat-xi-jinpings-ally-and-now-chinas-second-most-powerful-man-who-is-li-qiang-570929">Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?</a>

"The trust of the people is the greatest driving force pushing me forward, and also a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," he said.

"The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical process."

As per AFP, he also thanked thousands of delegates at Beijing's Great Hall of the People for giving him the historic third term. Xi vowed to "take the needs of the country as my mission, and the interests of the people as my yardstick".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-parliament-names-us-sanctioned-gen-li-shangfu-as-defence-minister-571131">China’s parliament names US-sanctioned Gen Li Shangfu as defence minister</a>

Last week, Xi was for the third term anointed as the president of China. The latest five-year term adds to his power and makes him China's most powerful leader in generations. His third rise to the top position is a break from long-standing political precedent. From Between 1982 and March 2018, the presidentship of China was limited to two consecutive terms. However, the limit&nbsp;was removed at the 2018 National People's Congress.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel".

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel". His statement comes amid mounting tensions with the United States. "Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," he said at the closing of China's annual parliament session. Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president "We must fully promote the modernisation of national defence and the armed forces, and build the people's armed forces into a Great Wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests," he added. Xi also reiterated China's calls for unification with the self-ruled island of Taiwan and called for consolidated stability in once-restive Hong Kong. Also read | Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? "The trust of the people is the greatest driving force pushing me forward, and also a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," he said. "The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical process." As per AFP, he also thanked thousands of delegates at Beijing's Great Hall of the People for giving him the historic third term. Xi vowed to "take the needs of the country as my mission, and the interests of the people as my yardstick". Also read | China’s parliament names US-sanctioned Gen Li Shangfu as defence minister Last week, Xi was for the third term anointed as the president of China. The latest five-year term adds to his power and makes him China's most powerful leader in generations. His third rise to the top position is a break from long-standing political precedent. From Between 1982 and March 2018, the presidentship of China was limited to two consecutive terms. However, the limit was removed at the 2018 National People's Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into 'Great Wall of Steel'

Israel is in the throes of possibly its biggest public uprising ever and is over the proposed judicial reforms. Protests over this issue are now in their 10th week with over half a million Israelis protesting on the streets, chanting that Israel will not be a dictatorship.

Israel: Over 200,000 people pack the streets of Tel Aviv

Russian advances seem to have stalled in Ukraine's Bakhmut city for now. Leading Washington-based think tank has said there are no confirmed advances by Russian forces in Bakhmut.

Washington-based think tank says Russian assault has stalled | Battle of Bakhmut

UK Defence Ministry says difficult for Russia to sustain Bakhmut assault | Battle of Bakhmut

Will the truce between Saudi Arabia and Iran which was mediated by China, spell the decline of U.S. influence in the region? Ambassador Jorge Heine, a Research Professor at Boston University weighs in on the growing influence of China in West Asia, in an exclusive chat with WION.

Saudi Arabia-Iran truce: China's rampaging rise in West Asia

Former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence has bashed former President Donald Trump for his role in inciting the 6th January Capital riots. This on the heels of both men competing to Duke it out over the upcoming Republican Presidential nomination.

Mike Pence: 'Trump was wrong, had no right to overturn election'

After the U.S. regulators pulled the plug on Silicon Valley Bank, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was called to take over the institution and hand over the sale of its assets. Employees of the fallen bank have been offered 45 days of employment at one and a half times their previous salary.

Reports: SVB employees siphoned annual bonuses before collapse

Venture capitalists quick to abandon ship on SVB

The former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has postponed holding his mega election rally in Lahore for tomorrow. This comes after the Punjab government banned huge public gatherings in the city calling the move illegal.

Imran Khan: Will hold election rally in Lahore on Monday

Imran Khan postpones Lahore rally

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