In the backdrop of a series of leaks and blasts that rocked the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, the Italian government has upped its surveillance on underwater cables, according to a report by Reuters.

In the backdrop of a series of leaks and blasts that rocked the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, the Italian government has upped its surveillance on underwater cables, according to a report by Reuters. The threat of underwater energy and telecommunications cables being targeted has grown manifold in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Back in 2020, NATO ministers had discussed the threat of Russian submarines causing potential damage to the underwater internet cables by cutting or tapping them. To get ahead of the curve, the Italian Navy in July signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the country's largest private cable provider viz. Sparkle to ensure that undersea internet cables are protected. Read more: Nord Stream leak: Powerful blasts recorded in leakage areas “The Italian Navy is one of the main pillars of national maritime cluster and works daily to defend and support it. We have professional competences and skills to perform submarine operations and today, also thanks to Sparkle, an important process begins that gives the right attention to the underwater dimension of Italy, a maritime country with 8,000 km of coastline, at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea,” Chief of the Italian Navy, Admiral Enrico Credendino Credendino was quoted as saying after the signing of the MoU. The Italian Navy intends to use submarines to monitor the cables and ensure that no untoward incident happens around them. The Italian Navy is building four upgraded NFS (Near Future Submarine) to level up its capabilities and replace its older Sauro-class vessels. Modern technology and increased espionage capabilities have allowed enemy parties to use underwater as another frontier to execute their deceitful plans. The internet cables laid down in the Atlantic Ocean in recent times entered the Mediterranean Sea via the Strait of Gibraltar. They exit through the Suez Canbal and run to Asia and West Asia. According to experts, these cables, which carry over 95 per cent of the world’s internet volume are extremely critical and require increased surveillance. As reported extensively by WION, Nord Stream 1 and 2 are major pipelines that transmit gas from western Siberia in Russia to Europe. The pipelines have been a major focus of geopolitical tension as Russia chose to reduce gas supply as retaliation to western sanctions in the wake of the Ukraine war. The recent leaks have started a blame game among the stakeholders. While Russia remains adamant that is not responsible for the blasts or leaks, the West accuses Kremlin of sabotage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Italy heightens surveillance of underwater cables after Nord Stream pipeline leaks, says report

Just imagine you go for grocery shopping and then luck plays its role and you win a lottery for $190K. Isn't it incredible?

A similar instance happened in the United States when a man claimed to the Michigan Lottery that his wife sent him to the grocery shop, which turned out to be quite fortunate for him as he ended up winning the lottery for $190,736 (Rs 1.5 crore).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/week-after-3-million-lottery-win-keralite-says-hes-surrounded-by-people-asking-for-money-519832">Also read |&nbsp;Week after $3 million lottery win, Indian man says he's surrounded by people asking for money</a>

Preston Maki, 46, claimed that he wouldn't have purchased the ticket if it weren't for his wife and her messages.

Maki said, "I was finishing up my day at work when my wife sent me a text message asking me to make a stop for groceries on my way home." He further added, "I usually don't play Fantasy 5 unless the jackpot is more than $200,000, but I saw it was close and decided to buy five easy picks," Times Now reported.

He then claimed to have checked his ticket the following day. Maki said, "The next morning, I was in the kitchen and scanned the ticket with the Lottery's mobile app and saw I was the jackpot winner! Winning is so unimaginable."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-wins-rs10-million-lottery-hours-before-selling-house-to-pay-off-debt-501992">Also read |&nbsp;Indian man wins Rs10 million lottery hours before selling house to pay off debt</a>

He stated that he plans to divide his award among his family and set aside a portion for investments.

Another such instance is claimed to have happened when a man is said to have gone for a similar shopping run and won a jackpot of $1.8 million (Rs 15 crore).&nbsp;

According to South Carolina Education Lottery officials, the winner said that he ran out of milk and needed it for his morning coffee, and then he casually glanced at the customer service desk and made an impulse purchase of a purchaser ticket.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Just imagine you go for grocery shopping and then luck plays its role and you win a lottery for $190K. Isn't it incredible? A similar instance happened in the United States when a man claimed to the Michigan Lottery that his wife sent him to the grocery shop, which turned out to be quite fortunate for him as he ended up winning the lottery for $190,736 (Rs 1.

Just imagine you go for grocery shopping and then luck plays its role and you win a lottery for $190K. Isn't it incredible? A similar instance happened in the United States when a man claimed to the Michigan Lottery that his wife sent him to the grocery shop, which turned out to be quite fortunate for him as he ended up winning the lottery for $190,736 (Rs 1.5 crore). Also read | Week after $3 million lottery win, Indian man says he's surrounded by people asking for money Preston Maki, 46, claimed that he wouldn't have purchased the ticket if it weren't for his wife and her messages. Maki said, "I was finishing up my day at work when my wife sent me a text message asking me to make a stop for groceries on my way home." He further added, "I usually don't play Fantasy 5 unless the jackpot is more than $200,000, but I saw it was close and decided to buy five easy picks," Times Now reported. He then claimed to have checked his ticket the following day. Maki said, "The next morning, I was in the kitchen and scanned the ticket with the Lottery's mobile app and saw I was the jackpot winner! Winning is so unimaginable." Also read | Indian man wins Rs10 million lottery hours before selling house to pay off debt He stated that he plans to divide his award among his family and set aside a portion for investments. Another such instance is claimed to have happened when a man is said to have gone for a similar shopping run and won a jackpot of $1.8 million (Rs 15 crore). According to South Carolina Education Lottery officials, the winner said that he ran out of milk and needed it for his morning coffee, and then he casually glanced at the customer service desk and made an impulse purchase of a purchaser ticket. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Man sent for grocery shopping by wife wins lottery of $190K, intends to distribute money amongst family

French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti will stand trial before a special judicial body in a conflict of interest case that has become the Achilles heel of President Emmanuel Macron's government.

French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti will stand trial before a special judicial body in a conflict of interest case that has become the Achilles heel of President Emmanuel Macron's government. The Court of Justice of the Republic which deals with suspected cases of crime or offence committed by a member of the government will be hearing the case. The jury usually comprises of lawmakers and judges of France's highest court, the Cour de Cassation. Since the judicial body's inception in 1993, it has only held eight formal trials, making Dupond-Moretti a notable exception. Judicial trials by their nature are extremely volatile, however, Remi Lorrain, Dupond-Moretti's lawyer stated that "the minister is extremely confident and he will not resign". As reported by WION, Eric Dupond-Moretti, a 60-year-old former star lawyer, was recruited by President Emmanuel Macron just a year ago, swapping his life as one of the country's most famous criminal lawyers for a career in politics. Read more: French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti charged in conflict of interest probe He stands accused of taking advantage of his position as minister to settle scores with opponents from his legal career. Notably, Dupond-Moretti is France's first sitting justice minister to be charged in a legal probe. In January, the French court launched an investigation after an anti-corruption group and three magistrates' unions filed conflict of interest complaints against Dupond-Moretti. Dupond-Moretti has said the unions were using the allegations of conflict of interest to block his reforms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French justice minister to face trial over conflict of interest charges

Its festive season in India and people across the country are celebrating Durga Puja. WION brings this exclusive report from the Indian city of Kolkata.

WION Dispatch | India celebrates Goddess Durga; 'pandals' with themes to spread awareness

Lula da Silva, a left-wing former president, finished in first place Sunday in Brazil's presidential election, but failed to secure enough votes for an outright victory and will face right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in an October 30 run-off. WION in an exclusive conversation with Michael Fox, a senior journalist.

WION Dispatch | Brazil presidential elections: Jair Bolsonaro vs Lula da Silva: No clear winner?

In a humiliating U-turn, the UK government has been forced to abandon its plan to abolish the 45% top rate of income tax, it comes after a growing Conservative party revolt over the policy and turbulent reaction from the markets.

UK economy | Liz Truss' U-Turn on 45% tax cut for the rich

The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea".

The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea". The exercise will run till October 14 and will see the participation of 2,550 American and 530 Filipino troops. According to reports, alongside the two countries, Japan and South Korea will be joining the exercise as observers. The exercise held in select areas throughout Luzon will involve island-based armed operations and drills in amphibious landings, live fire and humanitarian assistance. "The exercise aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and interoperability among participating forces in the conduct of combined tactical operations that focus on capacitating the Marine Amphibious Ready Unit and enhancing their capabilities in Special Operations, Coastal Defense Capability, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) Operations, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Operations," the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) said in a statement. Read more: Philippines holds biggest military exercises in seven years with US amid South China Sea tensions Speaking at the kickoff ceremony of the sixth iteration of the exercise, Philippine Navy Acting Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia stated it would be bigger than the previous year's event. “The last exercise was not really conducted the way we want it to be [because of the COVID-19 pandemic]. This is a bigger exercise compared to what we did last year. There are a lot of marine corps participating this year. Last year was just virtual and tabletop exercises.” As reported by WION, earlier this year, the two countries held their biggest military exercise in seven years called Balikatan, Tagalog for shoulder-to-shoulder. The exercise ran from March 29 to April 8 with nearly 9,000 navy, marines, air force and army troops, including 5,100 American military personnel participating in it. WATCH | Philippines, US to begin two-week joint military drill from Monday × The US and the Philippines have a mutual defence treaty, signed way back in 1951. Under the treaty, both nations have sworn to defend each other in case of an attack by a third party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US and Philippines kick off joint naval exercise amid China tension

The US Secretary of Defense has claimed that China is trying to establish a new normal around them. Taiwan speaking to an American broadcaster Lloyd Austin said that Washington does not think an invasion is imminent but Beijing is trying to change the status quo via military actions around the island.

US Secretary of Defence says China trying to establish new normal, invasion not imminent

Iranian security forces have clashed with students at a prominent university in Tehran. Anti-government protests erupted in Iran in September after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained by the morality police.

Iran's Khamenei breaks silence on protests, remarks on death of 22-year-old

More than two months after re-opening the "Express Entry' scheme, the Canadian government is expected to clock in massive changes which will reflect in the 2023 calendar. Reportedly, in an attempt to address the labour shortage in the country,&nbsp;

The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will now be&nbsp;issuing an Invitation to Apply (ITA)&nbsp;to candidates with specific work experience, education or language abilities that are well-positioned to support Canada's economy and labour force.

Succinctly put, the move will ensure that apart from the top-ranking candidates in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), other applicants with a much narrow but efficient ability are also given a chance.&nbsp;

Currently, vacancies are at an all-time high in the country which might have necessitated such a move.&nbsp;

“Canadas high immigration targets, including those through Express Entry programs, stem from several factors including a job vacancy rate that currently stands at 5.7 per cent," a CIC report said.&nbsp;

In an attempt to bring more labour force to the country, the Canadian government has reduced the CRS score to as low as 504 in the recent round of draws. Moreover, in the latest draw, IRCC invited&nbsp;&nbsp;3,750 candidates, which was an increase of 500 candidates over the previous draw.&nbsp;

What exactly is the Express Entry scheme?

As reported by WION, the 'Express Entry Scheme' for&nbsp;permanent residency was reopened in Canada after a hiatus of 18 months. In simple terms, this scheme is an application management system used to select and zero in on candidates best suited to live and work in the North American country.&nbsp;

Currently, IRCC uses CRS to rank prospective candidates based on parameters such as age, education, language skills and work experience.&nbsp;

Three separate programs concurrently run under this scheme viz. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Draws for FSWP and FSTP were put on hold in December 2020 while CEC was halted later in September 2021.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explain-want-express-entry-into-canada-here-is-a-scheme-learn-how-it-works-497733">Read more: Explainer: Want express entry into Canada? Here is a scheme. Learn how it works</a>

While it is not necessary to have a job offer in hand to be eligible for the aforementioned schemes, it does help in gathering the minimum marks for CRS.&nbsp;

Once an applicant has figured out their CRS score and the scheme they want to apply to, they need to create a profile and simply fill it out. If the marks are good enough and the documentation water-tight, they will receive an ITA.&nbsp;

Afterward, they need to fill out the form and upload the documents, all within two months of receiving the ITA.&nbsp;The Canadian government or IRCC will attempt to process the applications within a timeframe of six months or less.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

More than two months after re-opening the "Express Entry' scheme, the Canadian government is expected to clock in massive changes which will reflect in the 2023 calendar.

More than two months after re-opening the "Express Entry' scheme, the Canadian government is expected to clock in massive changes which will reflect in the 2023 calendar. Reportedly, in an attempt to address the labour shortage in the country, The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will now be issuing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to candidates with specific work experience, education or language abilities that are well-positioned to support Canada's economy and labour force. Succinctly put, the move will ensure that apart from the top-ranking candidates in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), other applicants with a much narrow but efficient ability are also given a chance. Currently, vacancies are at an all-time high in the country which might have necessitated such a move. “Canadas high immigration targets, including those through Express Entry programs, stem from several factors including a job vacancy rate that currently stands at 5.7 per cent," a CIC report said. In an attempt to bring more labour force to the country, the Canadian government has reduced the CRS score to as low as 504 in the recent round of draws. Moreover, in the latest draw, IRCC invited 3,750 candidates, which was an increase of 500 candidates over the previous draw. What exactly is the Express Entry scheme? As reported by WION, the 'Express Entry Scheme' for permanent residency was reopened in Canada after a hiatus of 18 months. In simple terms, this scheme is an application management system used to select and zero in on candidates best suited to live and work in the North American country. Currently, IRCC uses CRS to rank prospective candidates based on parameters such as age, education, language skills and work experience. Three separate programs concurrently run under this scheme viz. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Draws for FSWP and FSTP were put on hold in December 2020 while CEC was halted later in September 2021. Read more: Explainer: Want express entry into Canada? Here is a scheme. Learn how it works While it is not necessary to have a job offer in hand to be eligible for the aforementioned schemes, it does help in gathering the minimum marks for CRS. Once an applicant has figured out their CRS score and the scheme they want to apply to, they need to create a profile and simply fill it out. If the marks are good enough and the documentation water-tight, they will receive an ITA. Afterward, they need to fill out the form and upload the documents, all within two months of receiving the ITA. The Canadian government or IRCC will attempt to process the applications within a timeframe of six months or less. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada to change 'Express Entry' rules from 2023

Japan PM Fumio Kishida will consider more steps to cushion the blow of rising electricity bills, underscoring the pressure it faces in addressing the burden on households of higher prices for imports from a weak yen.

Japan PM Fumio Kishida vows to ease pain of high electricity bills

Bosnia and Herzegovina is gearing up for another tripartite inter-ethnic government after 3.36 million Bosnians cast their vote on Sunday. Currently, moderate candidate Denis Becirevic is leading the race for the Bosniak seat while incumbent Zeljko Komsic and Zeljka Cvijanovic lead the race for the Croat and Serbian seats respectively, based on preliminary results.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is gearing up for another tripartite inter-ethnic government after 3.36 million Bosnians cast their vote on Sunday. Currently, moderate candidate Denis Becirevic is leading the race for the Bosniak seat while incumbent Zeljko Komsic and Zeljka Cvijanovic lead the race for the Croat and Serbian seats respectively, based on preliminary results. It's a rather unique system that a three-member presidential council - which must have an ethnic Bosnian, a Croat and a Serbian - steps up to the plate. Why should a country have three presidents? The violent and bloody history of the country necessitated such an arrangement. The genesis of the arrangement lies in how Bosnia and Herzegovina came into being. The country declared independence from Yugoslavia in March 1992 which instantly triggered a country-wide secessionist movement with the three main ethnic groups viz. Eastern Orthodox Serbs, Catholic Croats, and Muslim Bosniaks WATCH | Bosnia Elections 2022: Moderate Bosniak candidate leads in race for Presidency × Eventually, a war transpired where over 100,000 lost their lives between 1992 and 1995. Many experts believe that it was the bloodiest conflict Europe had witnessed since World War II. To bring the war to an end, a US-sponsored peace deal named Dayton Peace Accords was signed which incidentally also serves as the country's constitution. The Dayton Accords ended the brutal war between the ethnic groups by dividing the country into two highly independent entities. Read more: Moderate Bosniak candidate leads in race for presidency seat The entities, one run by Serbs and the other shared by Bosniaks and Croats have broad autonomy but are linked by shared national institutions. All countrywide actions require consensus from all three ethnic groups. The parliament of the country encompasses a 42-member House of Representatives and a 15-member House of Peoples. The three individuals to be elected on Tuesday for the presidency will rotate seats every eight months. The Sunday election included races for the three members of the shared Bosnian presidency, parliament deputies at the state, entity and regional levels; and the president of the country’s Serb-run part. Election turnout on Sunday was 50 per cent or over two percentage points down from the 2018 general election. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

It's complicated: Why Bosnia and Herzegovina elects three presidents, not one

Moscow's annexation of the Ukrainian territories may have turned the direction of the war. The battle between the two sides seems to be taking a dangerous turn now as the world is worried over Russia's invasion.

Putin announces use of nukes; Russia-Ukraine war takes a dangerous turn

Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear.

With 99% of the ballots counted, partial official results showed GERB winning with 25.4%. Its main rival, the reformist We Continue the Change of Kiril Petkov, whose coalition cabinet collapsed in June, came second with 20.2%.

The results point to difficult coalition talks in a fractured parliament or even another snap election in the European Union member state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-presidential-election-enters-runoff-as-bolsonaro-beats-expectations-to-finish-a-close-second-to-silva-521948">Brazil presidential election enters runoff as Bolsonaro beats expectations to finish a close second to Silva</a>

Either would prolong political instability amid steep surging energy and consumer prices and war in Ukraine and raise the prospect of&nbsp;Bulgaria&nbsp;missing its 2024 target date for entry into the single currency euro zone.

Five political parties are seen entering the next parliament, the partial results showed. Final official results are expected on Thursday.

Efforts to put together a functioning coalition are complicated by the fact that many of Borissov's political adversaries accuse him of allowing widespread corruption to fester during his decade-long rule that ended last year. Borissov denies the allegations.

Some voters in the European Union's poorest member state say Borissov offers stability and has diplomatic experience required to navigate&nbsp;Bulgaria's complex relationship with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/presidents-of-9-nato-countries-support-ukraines-membership-of-the-military-alliance-521907">Russia</a>.

Borissov is yet to comment on the election results. Prior to the vote he indicated he would be open to talks with to all political parties and appealed to his rivals to show "reason" ahead of difficult winter.

We Continue the Change party has conceded defeat and said it would stay in opposition.

"We have pledged that we would not go into coalition with GERB and we will stay true to our promise," Petkov said on Monday, adding that his party remained adamant about fighting endemic corruption.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear.

Bulgaria's centre-right GERB party of former long-serving prime minister Boyko Borissov is set to win Sunday's election, the fourth in less than two years, partial results showed, but its chances of forming a coalition government remain unclear. With 99% of the ballots counted, partial official results showed GERB winning with 25.4%. Its main rival, the reformist We Continue the Change of Kiril Petkov, whose coalition cabinet collapsed in June, came second with 20.2%. The results point to difficult coalition talks in a fractured parliament or even another snap election in the European Union member state. Also read | Brazil presidential election enters runoff as Bolsonaro beats expectations to finish a close second to Silva Either would prolong political instability amid steep surging energy and consumer prices and war in Ukraine and raise the prospect of Bulgaria missing its 2024 target date for entry into the single currency euro zone. Five political parties are seen entering the next parliament, the partial results showed. Final official results are expected on Thursday. Efforts to put together a functioning coalition are complicated by the fact that many of Borissov's political adversaries accuse him of allowing widespread corruption to fester during his decade-long rule that ended last year. Borissov denies the allegations. Some voters in the European Union's poorest member state say Borissov offers stability and has diplomatic experience required to navigate Bulgaria's complex relationship with Russia. Borissov is yet to comment on the election results. Prior to the vote he indicated he would be open to talks with to all political parties and appealed to his rivals to show "reason" ahead of difficult winter. We Continue the Change party has conceded defeat and said it would stay in opposition. "We have pledged that we would not go into coalition with GERB and we will stay true to our promise," Petkov said on Monday, adding that his party remained adamant about fighting endemic corruption. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Centre-right GERB party leads in Bulgaria election

Indian Air Force jets were scrambled earlier today after authorities received false information of a China-bound Iranian plane carrying a bomb. The intel was received when the plane was flying through the Indian airspace.

Bomb threat on China-bound Iranian plane, IAF scrambles jets

Israel has praised the United States proposal to resolve the maritime border dispute with Lebanon. The deal if finalized can lead to a possible profit sharing on future gas production by Beirut.

Yair Lapid: Proposal safeguards Israel's diplomatic, security interests

British Prime Minister Liz Truss will delay the vote on counting 45-point rate of tax for higher earners. This is being reported by a leading British publication quoting government sources. Last Friday Chancellor Kwasi Boateng announced the tax cuts as part of his mini budget.

UK: Prime Minister Liz Truss will delay vote on 45P tax cut for the wealthy

In Bosnia, as per the Presidential and Parliamentary polls held on Sunday, Moderate Bosniak candidate Denis Becirevic is leading in the run-up for the seat on Bosnia's tripartite inter-ethnic presidency.

Bosnia Elections 2022: Moderate Bosniak candidate leads in race for Presidency

The Indian government two years ago announced an ambitious $1.2 trillion mega project called Gati Shakti (Hindi for strength of speed) or National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity plan.

The Indian government two years ago announced an ambitious $1.2 trillion mega project called Gati Shakti (Hindi for strength of speed) or National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity plan. Now, under the project, the government is set to create a digital platform that will combine 16 ministries across different verticals so that infrastructure projects do not get entangled in bureaucratic mess and red tapism. Under the new portal, the private and government companies as well as investors will have a one-stop solution for the design and approval of projects while figuring out the costs without much difficulty. It is estimated that one in four infrastructure projects in India exceed their estimated budget while half of the projects get delayed. According to Amrit Lal Meena, special secretary of logistics in the ministry of commerce and industry, of the 1,300 projects, Gati Shakti’s portal currently oversees, almost 40 per cent were delayed due to issues related to land acquisition, forest, and environment clearances, resulting in cost overruns. “The mission is to implement projects without time overrun and cost overrun. Global companies choosing India as their manufacturing center is the objective.” said Meena regarding the objective of the new portal. As reported by WION, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the budget speech, earlier this year unveiled India at 100 plan while elaborating on PM Gati Shakti programme to accelerate growth. Read more: India Union Budget 2022: PM Gati Shakti plan highlights The plan involves seven engines namely: Railways, roads, airports, ports, mass transport, waterways, and logistics infrastructure. The minister also informed that 100 PM Gati Shakti cargo terminals will be developed during the next three years. Under the scheme 400 new generation, Vande Bharat trains with better efficiency will be brought in the next three years. Ever since PM Modi came to power, he has been focusing on making India a hub of infrastructure projects. To ensure that the benefits of the trillion-dollar project are visible on the ground, PM Modi in a speech batted for decentralisation of the programme. He said that states can come up with their own master plans along lines of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. “This would expedite the implementation of the Mission. Parallelly, they should work to use technology for enhancing ‘ease of living’ of the common man,” the PM was quoted as saying in the statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's ambitious infra push: A digital platform that combines 16 ministries

Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi expressed disappointment after India issued an order freezing near $680 million of the company assets. Xiaomi says that they will continue to protect their reputation and the interests of the company.

Indian agency order froze $682 million of Xiaomi's assets, company made royalty payments to Qualcomm

It has been barely a month since Liz Truss took over the reins from Boris Johnson as the UK’s Prime Minister and it seems that she is already facing a major crisis in gaining faith of the people. According to the Observer poll, the approval ratings of Truss and the Tories have plunged.

Is UK's financial disaster a warning to the world?

On Sunday, Brazilians will cast their ballots in one of the year's most carefully watched elections.

Former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro will square off. All of the governorships, 27 state and district legislature seats, all of the lower house seats, and a third of the Senate seats in Brazil will also be up for election.

WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES?

Despite there being 11 potential candidates, polls indicate that only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-youngest-voters-betting-on-76-year-old-candidate-521428">Bolsonaro and Lula</a> stand a chance of winning.

<img alt="pic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87df4519-cc9c-4308-a0a3-0b289de6b917" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_15.png" />

Bolsonaro (left) and Lula (right). Photo credits: AFP

Bolsonaro, a former army captain who was elected in 2018, has pushed to enforce his conservative agenda in the biggest nation in Latin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trevor-noah-quits-the-daily-show-6-major-controversies-that-plagued-comedians-tenure-521141">America</a>, but he has come under fire for failing to raise living standards and for making remarks that were widely perceived as misogynistic and racist.

He rejects what he refers to as "gender ideology" and called the coronavirus "a little fever." Federal safeguards for the Amazon rainforest have been systematically undermined by the administration. In addition, he made unfounded attacks on the validity of Brazil's computerised voting system and cast doubt on his ability to gracefully concede loss.

Lula's popularity increased while he was in office as he used a strong economy to significantly widen Brazil's social safety net. However, the economy deteriorated, his hand-picked successor was deposed, and numerous of his allies were sent to prison in the years after his resignation. Due to corruption accusations, Lula himself spent 19 months <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-arrest-woman-for-eating-at-restaurant-without-hijab-says-family-521414">in prison</a> before they were dropped for procedural reasons.

HOW DOES EVERYTHING WORK?

The voting booths are open from 8 a.m., Brasilia time (1100 GMT), to 5 p.m. The voting is all electronic, so results will come in quickly—probably within a few hours of the polls shutting.

If no candidate wins with more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on October 30 between the top two contenders, most likely Bolsonaro and Lula.

WHO IS WINNING?

Although some polls suggest the former president's margin is significantly greater, all major surveys show him leading by at least 8 percentage points. He was ahead by about 17 points, according to a Monday poll by pollster IPEC.

Major surveys, however, are divided on whether Lula has the support necessary to win in the first round with a majority of the vote.

The turnout is another problem. Although Bolsonaro has a larger base of supporters than Lula does, there are signs that Bolsonaro's constituency is more fervent.

WILL IT BE PEACEFUL?

The biggest question regarding the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kuwaits-national-assembly-women-candidates-make-a-comeback-521620">vote</a> is possibly that one.

In Brazil, political violence is increasing. Recent months have seen a number of Lula supporters—and at least one Bolsonaro supporter—murdered because of their political beliefs.

Bolsonaro has stated numerous times that he might not accept defeat in an election while asserting that the army is on his side. Most observers believe that a military takeover in the event of a Bolsonaro defeat is unlikely, but many worry about an extended period of political unrest and economic hardship.

Under Bolsonaro, there has been a sharp increase in gun ownership, and the president is generally supported politically by the rank-and-file police personnel, making for a potentially explosive combination.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Sunday, Brazilians will cast their ballots in one of the year's most carefully watched elections. Former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro will square off.

On Sunday, Brazilians will cast their ballots in one of the year's most carefully watched elections. Former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and right-wing incumbent Jair Bolsonaro will square off. All of the governorships, 27 state and district legislature seats, all of the lower house seats, and a third of the Senate seats in Brazil will also be up for election. WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES? Despite there being 11 potential candidates, polls indicate that only Bolsonaro and Lula stand a chance of winning. Bolsonaro (left) and Lula (right). Photo credits: AFP Bolsonaro, a former army captain who was elected in 2018, has pushed to enforce his conservative agenda in the biggest nation in Latin America, but he has come under fire for failing to raise living standards and for making remarks that were widely perceived as misogynistic and racist. He rejects what he refers to as "gender ideology" and called the coronavirus "a little fever." Federal safeguards for the Amazon rainforest have been systematically undermined by the administration. In addition, he made unfounded attacks on the validity of Brazil's computerised voting system and cast doubt on his ability to gracefully concede loss. Lula's popularity increased while he was in office as he used a strong economy to significantly widen Brazil's social safety net. However, the economy deteriorated, his hand-picked successor was deposed, and numerous of his allies were sent to prison in the years after his resignation. Due to corruption accusations, Lula himself spent 19 months in prison before they were dropped for procedural reasons. HOW DOES EVERYTHING WORK? The voting booths are open from 8 a.m., Brasilia time (1100 GMT), to 5 p.m. The voting is all electronic, so results will come in quickly—probably within a few hours of the polls shutting. If no candidate wins with more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on October 30 between the top two contenders, most likely Bolsonaro and Lula. WHO IS WINNING? Although some polls suggest the former president's margin is significantly greater, all major surveys show him leading by at least 8 percentage points. He was ahead by about 17 points, according to a Monday poll by pollster IPEC. Major surveys, however, are divided on whether Lula has the support necessary to win in the first round with a majority of the vote. The turnout is another problem. Although Bolsonaro has a larger base of supporters than Lula does, there are signs that Bolsonaro's constituency is more fervent. WILL IT BE PEACEFUL? The biggest question regarding the vote is possibly that one. In Brazil, political violence is increasing. Recent months have seen a number of Lula supporters—and at least one Bolsonaro supporter—murdered because of their political beliefs. Bolsonaro has stated numerous times that he might not accept defeat in an election while asserting that the army is on his side. Most observers believe that a military takeover in the event of a Bolsonaro defeat is unlikely, but many worry about an extended period of political unrest and economic hardship. Under Bolsonaro, there has been a sharp increase in gun ownership, and the president is generally supported politically by the rank-and-file police personnel, making for a potentially explosive combination. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: Everything about Brazil's heated presidential election

In Indonesia, at least 125 people have been killed, 180 have been injured after a riot broke out due to a football match in East Java. The casualties include 123 football fans and two police officers.

Indonesia: Violence breaks out after football match, at least 125 killed in riot

The death toll from Hurricane Ian which is one of the strongest and the costliest storms to ever hit the United States of America has risen to 77. Ian which was downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone is expected to weaken farther as it heads towards Virginia after hammering the coast of South Carolina and devastating slates of Florida.

WION Climate Tracker | Florida: Millions without electricity

London is witnessing huge protests against rising energy bills and the cost of living despite the promises of the new UK government. The prices refuse to come down and the anger is now boiling.

UK: Londoners rally against the cost of living crisis, block roads and bridges

Much of what happens in China remains beyond the sight of the rest of the world. However, it comes as no surprise that the Asian power is facing multiple challenges. In the latest, Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned the Communist Party to prepare for great struggles ahead.

China: President Xi Jinping warns of great struggles ahead for the CPC

In Indonesia, at least 129 people have been killed, 180 have bee injured after a riot broke out due to a football match in East Java. The casualties include 125 football fans and two police officers.

Indonesia Riot: Violence breaks out after football match, 129 killed

Amidst the burning debate of data privacy around the world, eight Shangri-La hotels in Asia have been hit by a data breach exposing crucial information about the guests. Names, email addresses, phone numbers have potentially been exposed in the breach.

Unauthorised activities found in Shangri-La hotel's I-T network, eight hotels in Asia affected

Indonesia Deadly Riot | Police: Fired tear gas after fans from losing team invaded pitch

India celebrates Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October every year. This year marks 153rd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. People and institutions all over the country mark the day with great enthusiasm.

India celebrates birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, day marks international day of non-violence

Indonesia Riot Probe: Chair of football association issues apologies to victims' families

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