Joe Biden used his address at the 77th UN General Assembly to criticize Russia's war on Ukraine. He blamed 'one man' for the 'unprovoked aggression' on Ukraine. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Joe Biden uses UNGA address to attack Putin

Pakistan now faces a new challenge in addition to the ongoing floods that have severely damaged its infrastructure and claimed well over a thousand&nbsp;lives.

Flood-ravaged regions of the nation are reeling under the threat of flood-borne diseases like malaria.&nbsp;As per a tweet by a senior Pakistani journalist, the nation is now considering the import of 71 lakh mosquito nets from its neighbouring nation, India.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan floods death toll nears 1,500

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Senior journalist Ghulam Abbas Shah claims that Pakistan's health ministry is seeking permission for the import.

"After the spread of malaria in #Pakistan, the ministry of health asked the government of Pakistan for permission to buy mosquito nets from #India. There is an urgent need for 71 lakh mosquito nets in 26 districts of Pakistan," tweeted Shah.

He further claimed that in the past two months, two lakh people have contracted malaria in the flood-affected Sindh and Balochistan, with 22 per cent of those cases being of the plasmodium falciparum kind.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-floods-un-expresses-concern-over-34-million-children-in-need-of-lifesaving-support-517484" hreflang="en">Pakistan floods: UN expresses concern over 3.4 million children in need of lifesaving support</a>

This comes amid reports that Pakistani officials had&nbsp;refused relief supplies from India, a neighbour with whom it has a tense relationship, despite the country's ongoing request for international assistance. As per the Indian Narrative, the nation also refused aid from Bangladesh, claiming that the move can negatively impact Pakistan's "global image".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-to-work-with-international-community-to-support-flood-ravaged-pakistan-517482" hreflang="en">IMF to work with international community to support flood-ravaged Pakistan</a>

As per a Reuters report, authorities said on Wednesday that 324 people had died from skin diseases, diarrhoea, and malaria in several of Pakistan's flood-ravaged districts. They also warned that if necessary relief doesn't arrive, the situation might spiral out of control.

The temporary medical facilities and mobile clinics in the flooded areas have treated more than 78,000 patients in the past 24 hours and more than 2 million since July 1, said the southern Sindh provincial government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan now faces a new challenge in addition to the ongoing floods that have severely damaged its infrastructure and claimed well over a thousand lives. Flood-ravaged regions of the nation are reeling under the threat of flood-borne diseases like malaria.

Pakistan now faces a new challenge in addition to the ongoing floods that have severely damaged its infrastructure and claimed well over a thousand lives. Flood-ravaged regions of the nation are reeling under the threat of flood-borne diseases like malaria. As per a tweet by a senior Pakistani journalist, the nation is now considering the import of 71 lakh mosquito nets from its neighbouring nation, India. Watch | Pakistan floods death toll nears 1,500 Senior journalist Ghulam Abbas Shah claims that Pakistan's health ministry is seeking permission for the import. "After the spread of malaria in #Pakistan, the ministry of health asked the government of Pakistan for permission to buy mosquito nets from #India. There is an urgent need for 71 lakh mosquito nets in 26 districts of Pakistan," tweeted Shah. He further claimed that in the past two months, two lakh people have contracted malaria in the flood-affected Sindh and Balochistan, with 22 per cent of those cases being of the plasmodium falciparum kind. Also read | Pakistan floods: UN expresses concern over 3.4 million children in need of lifesaving support This comes amid reports that Pakistani officials had refused relief supplies from India, a neighbour with whom it has a tense relationship, despite the country's ongoing request for international assistance. As per the Indian Narrative, the nation also refused aid from Bangladesh, claiming that the move can negatively impact Pakistan's "global image". Also read | IMF to work with international community to support flood-ravaged Pakistan As per a Reuters report, authorities said on Wednesday that 324 people had died from skin diseases, diarrhoea, and malaria in several of Pakistan's flood-ravaged districts. They also warned that if necessary relief doesn't arrive, the situation might spiral out of control. The temporary medical facilities and mobile clinics in the flooded areas have treated more than 78,000 patients in the past 24 hours and more than 2 million since July 1, said the southern Sindh provincial government. (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.

After declining aid, Pakistan considers importing mosquito nets from India amid malaria outbreak

Following a severe earthquake, a Chinese worker cared for his injured coworkers before being lost in the mountains&nbsp;was found and rescued 17 days later.&nbsp;

The 6.6-magnitude earthquake that devastated the southwest Sichuan province earlier this month resulted in at least 93 fatalities and the need to relocate thousands of people into makeshift camps.&nbsp;

State-run China National Radio (CNR) described the rescue of Gan Yu, a worker at Sichuan's Wandong hydropower facility, as a "miracle of life." Gan Yu was discovered alive but injured on Wednesday by a nearby villager.&nbsp;

On September 5, when the earthquake struck, Gan was on duty alongside his coworker Luo Yong. The two stayed behind to provide first aid to hurt coworkers and prevent floods by releasing water from the dam.

They made an effort to depart the isolated power plant by travelling for around 20 kilometres (12 miles). However, Gan, who has severe short-sightedness, lost his spectacles in the earthquake and found it difficult to get across the steep terrain, according to CNR.&nbsp;

Before the two men parted ways, Luo assisted Gan in making a bed out of moss and bamboo leaves and gave him some wild fruit and bamboo shoots to eat.&nbsp;

Rescuers located Luo on September 8 after he used fire to draw a helicopter's notice, but he had vanished by the time Gan's makeshift shelter was found on September 11.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-two-companies-control-40-of-global-commercial-seed-market-report-518685">Only two companies control 40% of global commercial seed market: Report</a>

Rescuers were concerned that Gan had passed away from hypothermia after finding just abandoned garments and footprints. Local farmer Ni Taigao learned about the search for Gan earlier this week when he returned to his town at the base of the mountain where the power station is situated.&nbsp;

On Wednesday morning, the villager utilised his knowledge of the area and joined the hunt. He had just been hiking for two hours when he heard Gan's weak moans and quickly located him laying beneath some trees.

Gan was evacuated on Wednesday to a neighbouring hospital, where doctors discovered he had sustained many bone fractures, according to official broadcaster CCTV. It took the other rescuers several additional hours to reach Gan. CCTV footage showed a gaunt, shaken-appearing Gan confirming his name and cautiously consuming a snack provided by rescuers.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Following a severe earthquake, a Chinese worker cared for his injured coworkers before being lost in the mountains was found and rescued 17 days later. The 6.6-magnitude earthquake that devastated the southwest Sichuan province earlier this month resulted in at least 93 fatalities and the need to relocate thousands of people into makeshift camps.

Following a severe earthquake, a Chinese worker cared for his injured coworkers before being lost in the mountains was found and rescued 17 days later. The 6.6-magnitude earthquake that devastated the southwest Sichuan province earlier this month resulted in at least 93 fatalities and the need to relocate thousands of people into makeshift camps. State-run China National Radio (CNR) described the rescue of Gan Yu, a worker at Sichuan's Wandong hydropower facility, as a "miracle of life." Gan Yu was discovered alive but injured on Wednesday by a nearby villager. On September 5, when the earthquake struck, Gan was on duty alongside his coworker Luo Yong. The two stayed behind to provide first aid to hurt coworkers and prevent floods by releasing water from the dam. They made an effort to depart the isolated power plant by travelling for around 20 kilometres (12 miles). However, Gan, who has severe short-sightedness, lost his spectacles in the earthquake and found it difficult to get across the steep terrain, according to CNR. Before the two men parted ways, Luo assisted Gan in making a bed out of moss and bamboo leaves and gave him some wild fruit and bamboo shoots to eat. Rescuers located Luo on September 8 after he used fire to draw a helicopter's notice, but he had vanished by the time Gan's makeshift shelter was found on September 11. Also Read: Only two companies control 40% of global commercial seed market: Report Rescuers were concerned that Gan had passed away from hypothermia after finding just abandoned garments and footprints. Local farmer Ni Taigao learned about the search for Gan earlier this week when he returned to his town at the base of the mountain where the power station is situated. On Wednesday morning, the villager utilised his knowledge of the area and joined the hunt. He had just been hiking for two hours when he heard Gan's weak moans and quickly located him laying beneath some trees. Gan was evacuated on Wednesday to a neighbouring hospital, where doctors discovered he had sustained many bone fractures, according to official broadcaster CCTV. It took the other rescuers several additional hours to reach Gan. CCTV footage showed a gaunt, shaken-appearing Gan confirming his name and cautiously consuming a snack provided by rescuers. (with inputs from agencies)

In a miraculous rescue, lost Chinese man found 17 days after deadly earthquake

The influence of a small number of large corporations over the global food chain is growing, helped by the burgeoning use of "big data" and artificial intelligence, a new research says.

According to the ETC Group, an organisation dedicated to environmental justice, only two corporations now hold a 40 per cent&nbsp;share of the world's commercial seed industry, down from ten companies 25 years ago.&nbsp;

Following the disruptions brought on by the conflict in Ukraine and the ongoing effects of the Covid epidemic, food prices have increased significantly recently, sending the earnings of important commodity merchants and grain producers soaring.

According to the most recent 141-page study from the ETC Group released on Thursday, Chinese enterprises are also rising to the fore. With revenues of slightly over $100 billion (£89 billion) in 2020, vs $134 billion for Cargill, the Chinese state-owned corporation Cofco is now the second-largest agricultural commodities dealer in the world, behind only Cargill of the US.&nbsp;

The most recent statistics on which the study is based indicate that Archer-Daniels-Midland, the second-largest trader, with revenues of $64 billion in 2020.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-from-special-music-to-royal-burial-queen-elizabeth-iis-state-funeral-explained-518050">&nbsp;In pics| From 'special' music to royal burial: Queen Elizabeth II’s State funeral explained</a>

As reported by The Guardian, Jim Thomas of the ETC Group expressed alarm about the growing market domination of a few businesses, particularly in light of the rising cost of food, the escalating climate problem, and the threat to biodiversity.

Incorporating AI, robotics, drones, and blockchains, the commercial food industry has undergone a significant digital reorganisation, he claimed.&nbsp;

The adoption of such technology, according to food producers, results in considerably more efficiency, allowing them to use less precious resources like water, fertiliser, and pesticides while streamlining processes to lower costs for consumers.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The influence of a small number of large corporations over the global food chain is growing, helped by the burgeoning use of "big data" and artificial intelligence, a new research says.

The influence of a small number of large corporations over the global food chain is growing, helped by the burgeoning use of "big data" and artificial intelligence, a new research says. According to the ETC Group, an organisation dedicated to environmental justice, only two corporations now hold a 40 per cent share of the world's commercial seed industry, down from ten companies 25 years ago. Following the disruptions brought on by the conflict in Ukraine and the ongoing effects of the Covid epidemic, food prices have increased significantly recently, sending the earnings of important commodity merchants and grain producers soaring. According to the most recent 141-page study from the ETC Group released on Thursday, Chinese enterprises are also rising to the fore. With revenues of slightly over $100 billion (£89 billion) in 2020, vs $134 billion for Cargill, the Chinese state-owned corporation Cofco is now the second-largest agricultural commodities dealer in the world, behind only Cargill of the US. The most recent statistics on which the study is based indicate that Archer-Daniels-Midland, the second-largest trader, with revenues of $64 billion in 2020. Also Read: In pics| From 'special' music to royal burial: Queen Elizabeth II’s State funeral explained As reported by The Guardian, Jim Thomas of the ETC Group expressed alarm about the growing market domination of a few businesses, particularly in light of the rising cost of food, the escalating climate problem, and the threat to biodiversity. Incorporating AI, robotics, drones, and blockchains, the commercial food industry has undergone a significant digital reorganisation, he claimed. The adoption of such technology, according to food producers, results in considerably more efficiency, allowing them to use less precious resources like water, fertiliser, and pesticides while streamlining processes to lower costs for consumers. (with inputs from agencies)

Only two companies control 40% of global commercial seed market: Report

In an effort to strengthen the country's energy supplies and security, the UK has formally lifted a ban on fracking for Shale gas which has been in place since 2019.

United Kingdom: Britain lifts ban on shale gas fracking in push for energy independence

Italy goes to the polls this weekend. In the south of the country, poverty levels and unemployment are comparatively high. Ahead of the upcoming elections, many voters feel they've been let down and left behind by the government.

Charity kitchen struggle to meet demand, rising inflation hits poor in southern Italy

The Bank of England raised its key interest rate to 2.25% from 1.75% and said it would continue to "respond forcefully, as necessary" to inflation, despite the country entering recession.

Bank of England raises interest rate to 2.25% from 1.75% , in seventh consecutive hike

Albert Einstein continue to fascinate us with his brilliance. The equality of inertial and gravitational mass central to Einstein’s general theory of relativity has been confirmed at unprecedented sensitivities by the MICROSCOPE satellite.

Albert Einstein's mind-bending theory of relativity proven again

Former Chinese justice minister, Fu Zhenghua, has been sentenced to death with a two-year jail sentence for accepting bribes.

Former Chinese justice minister Fu Zhenghua jailed for life

Pakistan's floods have displaced close to half-a-million people. Many of them have been settled in temporary shelters until the flood waters recede. Residents say the shelters lack drinking water, sanitation and security. Find out what life is like inside these squalid camps.

South Asia Diary: Life inside Pakistan's flood shelters

The New Zealand government is all set to&nbsp;mark&nbsp;a bill which demands that government officials use standard, simple and easily comprehensive language in communication for the public to understand it better.&nbsp;

The use of perplexing government jargon in official talks and paperwork are some internal pain points.

With the Plain Language bill, the government is trying to draw a line. The bill recently passed its second reading last month but still needs a final hearing before becoming a law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com//world/new-zealand-mps-bring-up-colonial-past-while-paying-tribute-to-queen-515987">Also read |&nbsp;New Zealand MPs bring up colonial past while paying tribute to Queen</a>

MP Rachel Boyack, who presented the bill, said that the main motive behind the bill is for people to basically understand what the government is trying to say and what they are entitled to.

Boyack further stated that sometimes it's difficult for people to understand what officials say and that makes them lose trust in the authorities and they are not able to participate in&nbsp; the society.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com//world/charles-iii-officially-proclaimed-as-king-of-new-zealand-and-australia-515138">Also read |&nbsp;King Charles officially proclaimed as head&nbsp;of New Zealand and Australia&nbsp;</a>

MP Sarah Pallet said in the house, "I wandered lonely as a cloud, That floats on high o’er vales and hills When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils." The Guardian reported&nbsp;that the MP further explained the statement and said she was sad so she went for a walk and saw some daffodils there which cheered her up. She further said this flowery language is for literature and not for governmental legislation.

However, there is no unanimity in favour of the bill. Some of the definitions are lacking as per the opposition. The opposition in New Zealand claims that the plain language monitoring officials will only increase costs and bureaucracy without genuinely enhancing public communications.

Opposition MP Chris Bishop said, "Let me speak with extremely plain language. This bill is the stupidest bill to come before parliament in this term. National will repeal it."

(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>

&nbsp;

The New Zealand government is all set to mark a bill which demands that government officials use standard, simple and easily comprehensive language in communication for the public to understand it better.

The New Zealand government is all set to mark a bill which demands that government officials use standard, simple and easily comprehensive language in communication for the public to understand it better. The use of perplexing government jargon in official talks and paperwork are some internal pain points. With the Plain Language bill, the government is trying to draw a line. The bill recently passed its second reading last month but still needs a final hearing before becoming a law. Also read | New Zealand MPs bring up colonial past while paying tribute to Queen MP Rachel Boyack, who presented the bill, said that the main motive behind the bill is for people to basically understand what the government is trying to say and what they are entitled to. Boyack further stated that sometimes it's difficult for people to understand what officials say and that makes them lose trust in the authorities and they are not able to participate in the society. Also read | King Charles officially proclaimed as head of New Zealand and Australia MP Sarah Pallet said in the house, "I wandered lonely as a cloud, That floats on high o’er vales and hills When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils." The Guardian reported that the MP further explained the statement and said she was sad so she went for a walk and saw some daffodils there which cheered her up. She further said this flowery language is for literature and not for governmental legislation. However, there is no unanimity in favour of the bill. Some of the definitions are lacking as per the opposition. The opposition in New Zealand claims that the plain language monitoring officials will only increase costs and bureaucracy without genuinely enhancing public communications. Opposition MP Chris Bishop said, "Let me speak with extremely plain language. This bill is the stupidest bill to come before parliament in this term. National will repeal it." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand all set to pass a new language bill to enhance 'public communication'

1980 giant Wipro has sacked 300 workers. The employees have been accused of working for their competitors. The practice is called Moonlighting where employees own payroll of a company but work on other projects which are more often for the competitor.

Wipro: No place for people who work for our rivals, workers sacked for moonlighting

Germany is all set to nationalize the energy company Uniper in a bit to try and keep the company running and the energy crunch that the country is facing.

Germany to buy stake held by Finnish firm Fortum, fresh deal comprises infusion of $8 billion cash

This week on World Of Africa with Eric Njoka: The focus is on the unending plague of Vaccine Inequity in the continent with the advent of Monkeypox and previously Covid19.

World of Africa: Unending plague of Vaccine Inequity

As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, Texas is not alone, Florida banned 566 books, Pennsylvania pulled 457 out of classrooms, and Tennessee dealt the blow to 349 books. From June 2021 to July 2022, in total there were 2,532 instances of individual books all over the country;&nbsp;1,648 unique titles were banned across 138 school districts in 32 states.

Watch |&nbsp;The unburnable book to promote book banning in the US

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<h2>Which books were banned?</h2>

As per Pen America's report titled "Banned in the USA: The Growing Movement to Censor Books in Schools", 5,049 schools and a whopping four million students were affected by these bans.&nbsp;

The 1,648 banned books include: 
- 674 that had LGBTQ+ themes, 659 had people of colour as protagonists,&nbsp; 
- 338 dealt with the issue of racism,&nbsp; 
- 357 contained sexual content; like stories of teen pregnancy, sexual assault, abortions, sex, relationships and even "informational books about puberty" 
- 161 had themes of rights and activism 
- Also banned were 141 memoirs, biographies, autobiographies 
- And 64 had religious minority characters.

Of these, around 75 per cent were fiction, 24 per cent non-fiction and the remaining 1 per cent poetry.&nbsp;Even picture books catering to the young audience weren't spared.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queens-crush-disrespectful-prince-harry-more-heart-warming-controversial-moments-from-royal-funeral-518155">Queen's crush, 'disrespectful’ Prince Harry &amp; more: Heart-warming, controversial moments from royal funeral</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>Who's behind these bans?</h2>

According to PEN America, at least 40 per cent of the 1,109 restrictions mentioned in the Index "are connected to either proposed or enacted legislation, or to political pressure exerted by state officials or elected lawmakers to restrict the teaching or presence of certain books or concepts."

The report blames 50 groups (300 if you count the local, and regional chapters) across the country for these bans. It also points out that 73 per cent or 262 of these groups have been formed since 2021.

However, parents and community groups also played a role.

"This movement to ban books is deeply undemocratic, in that it often seeks to impose restrictions on all students and families based on the preferences of those calling for the bans and notwithstanding polls that consistently show that Americans of all political persuasions oppose book bans," remarks the report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/loch-ness-monster-captured-on-a-newly-installed-live-stream-watch-it-here-518029" hreflang="en">Loch Ness monster 'captured' on a newly installed live stream. Watch it here!</a>

It further points out that this movement has a variety of negative impacts: on students who are no longer represented, on teachers whose teachings are now dictated and on authors who have all but lost their right to tell stories their own way.

"We should heed this warning," the report states, noting that attempts to undermine civil liberties and undermine democratic norms continue, and that "the dynamics surrounding school book bans are a canary in the coal mine for the future of American democracy, public education, and free expression".

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour.

As per a new analysis, the past year saw hundreds of books; 801 to be exact, banned in Texas. These books ranged across multiple genres from the so-called "Queer agenda" to those featuring people of colour. Unfortunately, Texas is not alone, Florida banned 566 books, Pennsylvania pulled 457 out of classrooms, and Tennessee dealt the blow to 349 books. From June 2021 to July 2022, in total there were 2,532 instances of individual books all over the country; 1,648 unique titles were banned across 138 school districts in 32 states. Watch | The unburnable book to promote book banning in the US Which books were banned? As per Pen America's report titled "Banned in the USA: The Growing Movement to Censor Books in Schools", 5,049 schools and a whopping four million students were affected by these bans. The 1,648 banned books include: - 674 that had LGBTQ+ themes, 659 had people of colour as protagonists, - 338 dealt with the issue of racism, - 357 contained sexual content; like stories of teen pregnancy, sexual assault, abortions, sex, relationships and even "informational books about puberty" - 161 had themes of rights and activism - Also banned were 141 memoirs, biographies, autobiographies - And 64 had religious minority characters. Of these, around 75 per cent were fiction, 24 per cent non-fiction and the remaining 1 per cent poetry. Even picture books catering to the young audience weren't spared. Also read | Queen's crush, 'disrespectful’ Prince Harry & more: Heart-warming, controversial moments from royal funeral Who's behind these bans? According to PEN America, at least 40 per cent of the 1,109 restrictions mentioned in the Index "are connected to either proposed or enacted legislation, or to political pressure exerted by state officials or elected lawmakers to restrict the teaching or presence of certain books or concepts." The report blames 50 groups (300 if you count the local, and regional chapters) across the country for these bans. It also points out that 73 per cent or 262 of these groups have been formed since 2021. However, parents and community groups also played a role. "This movement to ban books is deeply undemocratic, in that it often seeks to impose restrictions on all students and families based on the preferences of those calling for the bans and notwithstanding polls that consistently show that Americans of all political persuasions oppose book bans," remarks the report. Also read | Loch Ness monster 'captured' on a newly installed live stream. Watch it here! It further points out that this movement has a variety of negative impacts: on students who are no longer represented, on teachers whose teachings are now dictated and on authors who have all but lost their right to tell stories their own way. "We should heed this warning," the report states, noting that attempts to undermine civil liberties and undermine democratic norms continue, and that "the dynamics surrounding school book bans are a canary in the coal mine for the future of American democracy, public education, and free expression". (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.

Freedom of expression?: Last year saw 1,648 books censored from US schools, Texas tops with 650+ bans

Emirati firm GAAC has signed a deal with the Taliban to run airports in Kabul, Kandahar and Herat. The company will handle air traffic control and ground services at all three airports. Will international carriers return to Afghanistan? How long will this reboot take?

South Asia Diary: Will International carriers return to Kabul?

Shedding light on the importance of mental health, a US-government-backed medical expert panel has recommended that adults under the age of 65 in the US get routinely screened for anxiety disorders.

Shedding light on the importance of mental health, a US-government-backed medical expert panel has recommended that adults under the age of 65 in the US get routinely screened for anxiety disorders. The recommendation has been given by an influential advisory group called US Preventive Services Task Force which has added that all adults should be checked for prevailing mental ailments such as depression. Reportedly, the guidance, currently in draft form will be finalised in the coming months after receiving comments from the public. Lori Pbert, a member of the panel and professor at the University of Massachusetts stated that the study could not have come at a more critical time. "When you go to your primary care provider, you get screened for many, many preventive conditions, blood pressure, heart rate, all kinds of things. Mental health conditions are just important as other physical conditions, and we really need to be treating mental health conditions with the same urgency that we do other conditions." Read more: Women's mental health deteriorated more in Covid pandemic: Study It is pertinent to note that the findings of the panel are from the pre-pandemic period. After the pandemic, mental health ailments have increased staggeringly across the planet. However, the study cited a report saying that the percentage of adults having symptoms of anxiety or depressive order had increased to 41.4 per cent from 36.4 per cent between August 20 to February 2021. “Covid has taken a tremendous toll on the mental health of Americans. This is a topic prioritised for its public health importance, but clearly, there’s an increased focus on mental health in this country over the past few years,” added Pbert. Earlier, the panel had recommended anxiety screening for children and teenagers aged between eight and 18. While the recommendations of the panel are not binding or mandatory, the influence it wields can certainly change the way doctors practice medicine in the US. Asn reported by WION, the World Health Organisation (WHO) in a report earlier this year said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally. Moreover, there was a 27.6 per cent increase in cases of major depressive disorder in the year 2020. Read more: Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO "In terms of scale, this is a very large increase. It shows that Covid-19 has had a large impact on people's mental health and wellbeing." said an official at WHO's mental health and substance use department. While the screening recommendation is laudable, the reality is that there is a huge dearth of workforce to put emphasis on mental health well-being. Experts believe that until the number of mental health professionals is not increased, there will not be a major change on the ground. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Adults under 65 should get routinely screened for anxiety, recommends a US study panel

A discrimination case alleging McDonald's refuses to advertise on Beck-owned media networks has received a go-ahead signal from a federal judge.&nbsp;

In a complaint first filed in May 2021, black media entrepreneur Byron Allen charged the fast food giant with using a racially biased contradicting method.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pure-happiness-mcdonalds-reopens-in-kyiv-but-for-delivery-only-518179">Also read |&nbsp;'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only</a>

The lawsuit, however, was dismissed by a federal judge in December as the accusations were not adequately supported. The same judge on Friday rejected McDonald's bid to dismiss the case, allowing it to proceed after a protracted legal dispute.&nbsp;

AFP reported that Allen, owner of Entertainment Studios Networks and the Werther group, claimed that McDonald's created a "two-tiered, race-based system and shut plaintiff out of the general market (i.e., white-owned media) tier," AFP reported.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Allen argued that McDonald's has a separate advertising agreement with an agency for "African-American media" with the intention of spending a minimum amount of money compared to its general budget.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mcdonalds-employees-suffer-sexual-harassment-report-517819">Also read |&nbsp;Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report</a>

Allen claimed that his company produced content for diverse viewers, particularly after buying the Weather Channel in 2018 and that McDonald's had run advertisements on similarly positioned white-owned networks.&nbsp;

Loretta Lynch, the current partner at the legal firm, Weiss, defending&nbsp;McDonald, said that Allen's lawsuit is about revenue, not a race. She further claimed, "plaintiffs' groundless allegations ignore both McDonald's legitimate business reasons for not investing more in their channels and the company's long-standing business relationships with many other diverse-owned partners," AFP reported.&nbsp;

The decision in this legal battle is yet to be declared. However, the fast food giant has been reported to be denying the accusations imposed by Allen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A discrimination case alleging McDonald's refuses to advertise on Beck-owned media networks has received a go-ahead signal from a federal judge. In a complaint first filed in May 2021, black media entrepreneur Byron Allen charged the fast food giant with using a racially biased contradicting method.

A discrimination case alleging McDonald's refuses to advertise on Beck-owned media networks has received a go-ahead signal from a federal judge. In a complaint first filed in May 2021, black media entrepreneur Byron Allen charged the fast food giant with using a racially biased contradicting method. Also read | 'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only The lawsuit, however, was dismissed by a federal judge in December as the accusations were not adequately supported. The same judge on Friday rejected McDonald's bid to dismiss the case, allowing it to proceed after a protracted legal dispute. AFP reported that Allen, owner of Entertainment Studios Networks and the Werther group, claimed that McDonald's created a "two-tiered, race-based system and shut plaintiff out of the general market (i.e., white-owned media) tier," AFP reported. Furthermore, Allen argued that McDonald's has a separate advertising agreement with an agency for "African-American media" with the intention of spending a minimum amount of money compared to its general budget. Also read | Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report Allen claimed that his company produced content for diverse viewers, particularly after buying the Weather Channel in 2018 and that McDonald's had run advertisements on similarly positioned white-owned networks. Loretta Lynch, the current partner at the legal firm, Weiss, defending McDonald, said that Allen's lawsuit is about revenue, not a race. She further claimed, "plaintiffs' groundless allegations ignore both McDonald's legitimate business reasons for not investing more in their channels and the company's long-standing business relationships with many other diverse-owned partners," AFP reported. The decision in this legal battle is yet to be declared. However, the fast food giant has been reported to be denying the accusations imposed by Allen. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US judge gives go-ahead for ad discrimination lawsuit against McDonald's 

Imagine the morale of employees who were handed a little extra money as a bonus, only for the company to ask for it back a few weeks later. Well, one does not need to imagine as such an incident has transpired in Ohio, USA, involving a multinational auto giant.

Imagine the morale of employees who were handed a little extra money as a bonus, only for the company to ask for it back a few weeks later. Well, one does not need to imagine as such an incident has transpired in Ohio, USA, involving a multinational auto giant. Reportedly, Japanese automaker Honda, according to a statement overpaid the bonus to its workers at the Marysville, Ohio plant. 3,900 employees currently work at the plant and it is unclear how many of them received the extra bonus. “Earlier this month Honda provided bonus payments to its associates, some of whom received overpayments," said Chris Abbruzzese, a Honda spokesperson. Honda added it was a sensitive matter and that they were moving quickly to sort the problem, "Issues related to compensation are a sensitive matter...we are working quickly on this item to minimize any potential impact to our associates.” The company, in a memo, addressed to the employees is now asking them to return the bonus, latest by September 22, or have it deducted from future paychecks or future bonuses. According to media reports, some employees have been asked to return as much as eight per cent of their bonus, despite having spent the money on mortgages and groceries already. It is pertinent to note that the particular Ohio factory produces cars such as Accord, CR-V, TLX, NSX, and Integra. If the employees decide to not pay back the money, experts believe that Honda might sue them as there has been a precedent in such cases. Honda overpaying bonus comes in the backdrop of the company facing supply chain, chip shortage, and logistical issues. Last month, Honda announced that it would slash production by up to 40 per cent in Japan in September. WATCH | Japan: Honda to slash output by up to 40% × Moreover, the Japanese car major is mulling discontinuing its diesel cars in India as it cannot make its model work as the Indian government introduces stricter emission norms. “We are now not thinking too much about diesel. It’s very hard to clear RDE with the diesel. Even in Europe, most of the brands could not continue with diesel.” the company said in a statement. Read more: Honda might discontinue its diesel cars in India as new emission norms come in place (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Honda overpaid employee bonuses and now wants it all back

Faced with a steep increase in prices and as they return to work, people across Australia are giving up their "pandemic" pets.&nbsp;

Reuters reports that Australian animal shelters are overcrowded, with individuals waiting on waitlists for as long as eight months to surrender their pets.

Monika Biernacki, founder of Monika's Doggie Rescue a no-kill shelter in Sydney's northern suburbs said that she has never seen something like this in her 20 years of animal rescue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-doctor-chained-dog-to-car-and-dragged-it-along-the-road-in-rajasthan-detained-517713" hreflang="en">Watch: Doctor chained dog to car and dragged it along the road in Rajasthan, detained</a>

"The number of animals in the shelters that are just desperate to get out. The number of calls, emails, texts that we get here of people wanting to surrender their animals and it's just never-ending... It's heartbreaking," she added.

According to Stephen Albin, CEO of the New South Wales Animal Welfare Society, many people who purchased pets as lockdown companions are now realising the responsibilities they bring.

"I think quite a few people just wanted companionship so they went and got a pet, they got a companion, but they didn't quite understand what it takes to keep a pet," he remarked.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-bags-full-of-cats-and-dogs-seen-in-china-as-authorities-kill-pets-of-covid-positive-owners-472239">Watch: Bags full of cats and dogs seen in China as authorities kill pets of COVID positive owners</a>

Talking to Reuters, Holly Medcalf, a high school teacher, said that people have these ideas of how it is to own a pet, but "in reality, it's so much pressure and hard work."

Medcalf purchased her dog Opi during the pandemic and has to date spent around USD 2,700 on vet visits.&nbsp;

In Australia, caring for a pet is getting harder and more expensive. Compared to human food items, prices of pet products saw a 12 per cent rise in the first half of this year.&nbsp;Additionally, pet-friendly housing is also harder to come by.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Faced with a steep increase in prices and as they return to work, people across Australia are giving up their "pandemic" pets. Reuters reports that Australian animal shelters are overcrowded, with individuals waiting on waitlists for as long as eight months to surrender their pets.

Faced with a steep increase in prices and as they return to work, people across Australia are giving up their "pandemic" pets. Reuters reports that Australian animal shelters are overcrowded, with individuals waiting on waitlists for as long as eight months to surrender their pets. Monika Biernacki, founder of Monika's Doggie Rescue a no-kill shelter in Sydney's northern suburbs said that she has never seen something like this in her 20 years of animal rescue. Also read | Watch: Doctor chained dog to car and dragged it along the road in Rajasthan, detained "The number of animals in the shelters that are just desperate to get out. The number of calls, emails, texts that we get here of people wanting to surrender their animals and it's just never-ending... It's heartbreaking," she added. According to Stephen Albin, CEO of the New South Wales Animal Welfare Society, many people who purchased pets as lockdown companions are now realising the responsibilities they bring. "I think quite a few people just wanted companionship so they went and got a pet, they got a companion, but they didn't quite understand what it takes to keep a pet," he remarked. Also read | Watch: Bags full of cats and dogs seen in China as authorities kill pets of COVID positive owners Talking to Reuters, Holly Medcalf, a high school teacher, said that people have these ideas of how it is to own a pet, but "in reality, it's so much pressure and hard work." Medcalf purchased her dog Opi during the pandemic and has to date spent around USD 2,700 on vet visits. In Australia, caring for a pet is getting harder and more expensive. Compared to human food items, prices of pet products saw a 12 per cent rise in the first half of this year. Additionally, pet-friendly housing is also harder to come by. (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.

'It's heartbreaking', Australian animal shelters overflow as people rush to return their 'pandemic pets'

Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. 
&nbsp; 
WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan. Can Pakistan escape debt default?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: We will be able to service all our debt and fulfil all our international obligations. Of course, things have become very tight, but we had good meetings today with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and she has expressed her support for Pakistan. Yesterday we had an excellent meeting with the President of France, who is going to hold an international conference to help Pakistan. We are talking to our bilateral friends, donors, and multilateral agencies and I think Pakistan should be able to overcome this crisis easily. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is Pakistan in a debt trap? And can Pakistan get out of it?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: No, not at all. Yes, we have considerable debt, but if compared with many other countries of the world, it's quite low as a proportion of the GDP. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you think Pakistan should resume trade with India? Both the Prime Ministers at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation endorsed transit and connectivity as important. 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: I think because of floods in Pakistan and thus, shortage of necessary kitchen items like onion and tomato, and perhaps later on if we feel a shortage of cotton, because of our cotton crop in Sindh being washed away, I think it is important for Pakistan to look at all available options to import these things at reasonable prices. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What's the deal with Russia on oil and energy imports? Is Pakistan looking at it to bring supply and prices under control? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: During the previous government, Pakistan wrote a letter to the Russian government requesting oil supply but they were never replied to. But now I see that there is a slight change in the Russian position, and we are going to explore these options of importing LNG and other gas from Russia, including pipeline gas. Although that's a long-term project it is something Russia has expressed an interest in. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How much is political instability a factor in Pakistan's current state of affairs, given that Pakistan has hardly or never seen a full 5 term government? Friendly countries from the gulf also have now begun putting conditions, is that not an uneasy sign of lack of trust? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: Friendly countries from the gulf have helped in getting the IMF programme going and have expressed a lot of sympathies and have also provided material help to fight the floods. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you have a target to bring Pakistan financially on track? Can you quantify in years or months for the people to feel assured? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: The economy will come back on track, but the floods of course have affected it quite negatively, but we'll be okay. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan.

Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan. Can Pakistan escape debt default? Ismail: We will be able to service all our debt and fulfil all our international obligations. Of course, things have become very tight, but we had good meetings today with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and she has expressed her support for Pakistan. Yesterday we had an excellent meeting with the President of France, who is going to hold an international conference to help Pakistan. We are talking to our bilateral friends, donors, and multilateral agencies and I think Pakistan should be able to overcome this crisis easily. WION: Is Pakistan in a debt trap? And can Pakistan get out of it? Ismail: No, not at all. Yes, we have considerable debt, but if compared with many other countries of the world, it's quite low as a proportion of the GDP. WION: Do you think Pakistan should resume trade with India? Both the Prime Ministers at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation endorsed transit and connectivity as important. Ismail: I think because of floods in Pakistan and thus, shortage of necessary kitchen items like onion and tomato, and perhaps later on if we feel a shortage of cotton, because of our cotton crop in Sindh being washed away, I think it is important for Pakistan to look at all available options to import these things at reasonable prices. WION: What's the deal with Russia on oil and energy imports? Is Pakistan looking at it to bring supply and prices under control? Ismail: During the previous government, Pakistan wrote a letter to the Russian government requesting oil supply but they were never replied to. But now I see that there is a slight change in the Russian position, and we are going to explore these options of importing LNG and other gas from Russia, including pipeline gas. Although that's a long-term project it is something Russia has expressed an interest in. WION: How much is political instability a factor in Pakistan's current state of affairs, given that Pakistan has hardly or never seen a full 5 term government? Friendly countries from the gulf also have now begun putting conditions, is that not an uneasy sign of lack of trust? Ismail: Friendly countries from the gulf have helped in getting the IMF programme going and have expressed a lot of sympathies and have also provided material help to fight the floods. WION: Do you have a target to bring Pakistan financially on track? Can you quantify in years or months for the people to feel assured? Ismail: The economy will come back on track, but the floods of course have affected it quite negatively, but we'll be okay.

Exclusive: Pak FM says will look at all available options on resuming trade with India

US President Biden denounced Russian President Vladimir Putin over the ongoing war in Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, stating world leaders that the very basis of the organization's charter is under assault. This is the first in-person UNGA meeting since the Covid-19 pandemic began and also the world leaders are meeting for the first time ever since the Russia-Ukraine war.

Ukraine war raged by just one man: Joe Biden addresses 77th session of UNGA

Six people in India's national capital were mauled in their sleep by a speeding truck in the wee hours of Wednesday. Reportedly, the incident took place in the Seemapuri area of New Delhi which killed four while critically injuring&nbsp;the remaining two.&nbsp;

According to police, the truck driver fled the scene after running over the persons and is yet to be arrested. As per local news reports, the accident took place at 1:51 AM when the truck was crossing the DTC Bus Depot red light and the six persons were sleeping on the road divider.&nbsp;

The visuals of the accident spot show the bodies of the victims lying lifeless near the divider while an electric pole lies toppled over them. The ferocity of the accident can be gauged by the fact that the pole came off the surface.&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-426-die-each-day-in-road-accidents-18-per-hour-513143">:&nbsp;India: 426 die each day in road accidents; 18 per hour</a>

The four deceased persons have been identified as 52-year-old Kareem, 25-year-old Chotte Khans, 38-year-old Shah Alam, and 45-year-old Rahul. 16-year-old Manish and 30-year-old Pradeep are the injured ones.

It is pertinent to note that despite being the country's capital, the majority of daily-wage labourers and street vendors sleep on the road footpaths and dividers of the busy intersections of the city.&nbsp;

Pair such a condition with the negligent driving pattern of Indian drivers and such incidents become a rather common phenomenon.&nbsp;

According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, deaths by road accidents in India have increased by almost 17 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncrb-report-terms-delhi-as-the-most-unsafe-metropolitan-city-for-women-511482">India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women</a>

In 2021, 1.55 lakh people died in accidents on Indian roads, up from 1.33 lakh in 2020, when much of the year saw a nationwide lockdown. Total road accidents reported was 4.03 lakh in 2021, up from 3.54 lakh the year before.

The highest number of road accidents every year is attributed to negligent driving and speeding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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&nbsp;

Six people in India's national capital were mauled in their sleep by a speeding truck in the wee hours of Wednesday. Reportedly, the incident took place in the Seemapuri area of New Delhi which killed four while critically injuring the remaining two.

Six people in India's national capital were mauled in their sleep by a speeding truck in the wee hours of Wednesday. Reportedly, the incident took place in the Seemapuri area of New Delhi which killed four while critically injuring the remaining two. According to police, the truck driver fled the scene after running over the persons and is yet to be arrested. As per local news reports, the accident took place at 1:51 AM when the truck was crossing the DTC Bus Depot red light and the six persons were sleeping on the road divider. The visuals of the accident spot show the bodies of the victims lying lifeless near the divider while an electric pole lies toppled over them. The ferocity of the accident can be gauged by the fact that the pole came off the surface. Read more: India: 426 die each day in road accidents; 18 per hour The four deceased persons have been identified as 52-year-old Kareem, 25-year-old Chotte Khans, 38-year-old Shah Alam, and 45-year-old Rahul. 16-year-old Manish and 30-year-old Pradeep are the injured ones. It is pertinent to note that despite being the country's capital, the majority of daily-wage labourers and street vendors sleep on the road footpaths and dividers of the busy intersections of the city. Pair such a condition with the negligent driving pattern of Indian drivers and such incidents become a rather common phenomenon. According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, deaths by road accidents in India have increased by almost 17 per cent in 2021 compared to 2020. Read more: India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women In 2021, 1.55 lakh people died in accidents on Indian roads, up from 1.33 lakh in 2020, when much of the year saw a nationwide lockdown. Total road accidents reported was 4.03 lakh in 2021, up from 3.54 lakh the year before. The highest number of road accidents every year is attributed to negligent driving and speeding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Speeding truck mauls four people to death in Delhi, two injured

Trump's lawyers have resisted clarifying their stance on whether any documents seized at his residence were declassified at any point. In other news, Kyiv's western allies denounced the referendums that Russia had announced in Ukraine's four regions. Meanwhile, Liz Truss and Fumio Kishida, during their recent meeting, resolved to work together to tackle the strategic threat posed by China. Finally, mega Hollywood star Angelina Jolie arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday (September 20) to support people affected by the devastating floods.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-lawyers-resist-judges-request-to-clarify-declassification-claim-518219">Donald Trump's lawyers resist judge's request to clarify 'declassification' claim</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/12/261644-dt.jpg" />

Judge Raymond Dearie – the special master in charge of reviewing the materials seized by the FBI during their raid on the Mar-a-Lago residence of former United States President Donald Trump – has asked Trump’s lawyers to make it clear if the documents were declassified at any point.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-western-allies-condemn-russian-referendum-plans-for-occupied-regions-518218">Ukraine's Western allies condemn Russian referendum plans for occupied regions</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/21/297521-2022-09-20t221814z2lynxmpei8j16frtroptp4ukraine-crisis-izium.JPG" />

Western allies German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the referendums "sham" votes, while French President Emmanuel Macron described them as a "travesty". The United States said they were "an affront to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" and that Washington would never recognise Russian claims to annexed Ukrainian territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-liz-truss-to-work-with-japans-kishida-to-tackle-china-threat-518212">UK's Liz Truss to work with Japan's Kishida to tackle China threat</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/21/297509-letintzvw5ppli62xldjfr7lee.jpg" />

According to the statement, Truss and Kishida concurred on the significance of democracies cooperating, notably through international organisations like the G7, to reduce the economic and security dangers posed by "authoritarian governments".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/angelina-jolie-visits-pakistan-to-support-people-affected-by-floods-518228">Angelina Jolie visits Pakistan to support people affected by floods</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/04/143264-new-5.jpg" />

&nbsp;Angelina Jolie is visiting to witness and gain an understanding of the situation, and to hear from people affected directly about their needs, and about steps to prevent such suffering in the future," the report said, citing a release of the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

Watch |&nbsp;McDonald's outlets reopen in Kyiv for delivery services only

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Trump's lawyers have resisted clarifying their stance on whether any documents seized at his residence were declassified at any point. In other news, Kyiv's western allies denounced the referendums that Russia had announced in Ukraine's four regions.

Trump's lawyers have resisted clarifying their stance on whether any documents seized at his residence were declassified at any point. In other news, Kyiv's western allies denounced the referendums that Russia had announced in Ukraine's four regions. Meanwhile, Liz Truss and Fumio Kishida, during their recent meeting, resolved to work together to tackle the strategic threat posed by China. Finally, mega Hollywood star Angelina Jolie arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday (September 20) to support people affected by the devastating floods. Click on the headlines to read more: Donald Trump's lawyers resist judge's request to clarify 'declassification' claim Judge Raymond Dearie – the special master in charge of reviewing the materials seized by the FBI during their raid on the Mar-a-Lago residence of former United States President Donald Trump – has asked Trump’s lawyers to make it clear if the documents were declassified at any point. Ukraine's Western allies condemn Russian referendum plans for occupied regions Western allies German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the referendums "sham" votes, while French President Emmanuel Macron described them as a "travesty". The United States said they were "an affront to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" and that Washington would never recognise Russian claims to annexed Ukrainian territory. UK's Liz Truss to work with Japan's Kishida to tackle China threat According to the statement, Truss and Kishida concurred on the significance of democracies cooperating, notably through international organisations like the G7, to reduce the economic and security dangers posed by "authoritarian governments". Angelina Jolie visits Pakistan to support people affected by floods Angelina Jolie is visiting to witness and gain an understanding of the situation, and to hear from people affected directly about their needs, and about steps to prevent such suffering in the future," the report said, citing a release of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). Watch | McDonald's outlets reopen in Kyiv for delivery services only

Morning news brief: Trump's lawyers resist special master's request, Angelina Jolie visits Pakistan, and more

Greece is taking major steps to curb energy consumption. The country's Prime Minister says that consumers who reduce their consumption over the winter months will be rewarded with larger bill subsidies.

Consumers with low energy consumption to get high rebate in Greece

Oxford University's Faculty of Oriental Studies, which was founded in the 19th century, has undergone a name change due to worries that it might be derogatory to racial or ethnic minorities. Its new name will now be the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies.

Scholars pointed out that the word "oriental" had echoes&nbsp;of British colonialism and perpetuates stereotypes, as it was used as a byword for "of the East", reports the Daily Mail.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Colonialism is still taking a toll on your body

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The change comes after a two-year consultation process with staff and students and imitates similar name changes across other universities.&nbsp;Recently, City University's Cass Business School altered its name due to its ties to Sir John Cass, a 17th-century businessman who advocated slavery.&nbsp;The Colony, a Cambridge student residence, was also renamed due to "connotations" of slavery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/environment-emergency-is-legacy-of-colonialism-greenpeace-uk-499483">Environment emergency is legacy of colonialism: Greenpeace UK</a>

Oxford claims to have held "extensive conversations" with students, staff, alumni, and other stakeholders, along with three surveys before the change.

As per the student publication Cherwell, sustained "demands for a more culturally sensitive name" which combats "negative stereotypes and portrayals of Asian people, often through a colonialist lens" triggered the shift.

Despite the fact that theorist Edward Said originally criticised the term "oriental" in 1978, a large portion of the general population is ignorant of its contentious nature.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/how-british-imperialism-gave-some-colonial-lemons-and-democratic-india-made-some-modern-lemonade-517334">How British imperialism gave some colonial lemons and democratic India made some modern lemonade</a>

According to academics, it is reminiscent of a time when Western culture stereotyped Asians as subservient and exotic.

Professor David Rechter, faculty board chairman, said that he is confident that the change is in "the right direction".&nbsp;

"Many considered the word 'oriental' to be inappropriate and, while the change will not affect what the faculty researches and teaches, it does better reflect the breadth and diversity of the academic activity in the faculty," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Oxford University's Faculty of Oriental Studies, which was founded in the 19th century, has undergone a name change due to worries that it might be derogatory to racial or ethnic minorities.

Oxford University's Faculty of Oriental Studies, which was founded in the 19th century, has undergone a name change due to worries that it might be derogatory to racial or ethnic minorities. Its new name will now be the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Scholars pointed out that the word "oriental" had echoes of British colonialism and perpetuates stereotypes, as it was used as a byword for "of the East", reports the Daily Mail. Watch | Gravitas: Colonialism is still taking a toll on your body The change comes after a two-year consultation process with staff and students and imitates similar name changes across other universities. Recently, City University's Cass Business School altered its name due to its ties to Sir John Cass, a 17th-century businessman who advocated slavery. The Colony, a Cambridge student residence, was also renamed due to "connotations" of slavery. Also read | Environment emergency is legacy of colonialism: Greenpeace UK Oxford claims to have held "extensive conversations" with students, staff, alumni, and other stakeholders, along with three surveys before the change. As per the student publication Cherwell, sustained "demands for a more culturally sensitive name" which combats "negative stereotypes and portrayals of Asian people, often through a colonialist lens" triggered the shift. Despite the fact that theorist Edward Said originally criticised the term "oriental" in 1978, a large portion of the general population is ignorant of its contentious nature. Also read | How British imperialism gave some colonial lemons and democratic India made some modern lemonade According to academics, it is reminiscent of a time when Western culture stereotyped Asians as subservient and exotic. Professor David Rechter, faculty board chairman, said that he is confident that the change is in "the right direction". "Many considered the word 'oriental' to be inappropriate and, while the change will not affect what the faculty researches and teaches, it does better reflect the breadth and diversity of the academic activity in the faculty," he added. (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.

'Stinks of colonial past': Oxford University changes name of department to avoid offending anyone

Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards. But what if that wasn't completely true?

A new major study claims that dinosaurs were "already dying" back when they got wiped out by the giant asteroid.&nbsp;

When dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago, their range of species was already drastically shrinking, as per the study done on dinosaur eggs in China.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | US drought uncovers dinosaur tracks | Unexploded bombs found in Po river

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According to Mirror UK, the study, which was conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been published in the scientific journal PNAS.&nbsp;

Using dinosaur eggs found in the country's Shanyang Basin it creates a two million-year chronology toward the end of the Cretaceous period, the last period during which dinosaurs were alive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/home-decor-or-scientific-discovery-experts-express-dismay-as-dinosaur-skeleton-goes-up-for-sale-515827">'Home décor or scientific discovery': Experts express dismay as dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale</a>

The central Chinese basin yielded some 1,000 egg fossils, but upon closer examination, researchers discovered that just three species were actually alive at the time.

It means that the diversity in dinosaur species was ebbing during the Cretaceous period.

“Our results demonstrate low dinosaur biodiversity during the last two million years of the Cretaceous, and those data indicate a decline in dinosaur biodiversity millions of years before the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary," wrote the authors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-discovered-africas-oldest-dinosaur-named-mbiresaurus-raathi-in-zimbabwe-512201">Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe</a>

This may imply that dinosaur populations were already in decline before they were wiped out by an asteroid.

It has been speculated that factors including climate change and volcanic eruptions may have led to the creatures' population collapse.

Events like the Deccan Traps eruption in present-day India would have also severely damaged the food supplies, which could have contributed to dinosaurs perishing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards.

Who doesn't know about the asteroid that killed dinosaurs? We've all pretty much grown up in the information that the otherworldly object was behind the extinction of the mighty lizards. But what if that wasn't completely true? A new major study claims that dinosaurs were "already dying" back when they got wiped out by the giant asteroid. When dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago, their range of species was already drastically shrinking, as per the study done on dinosaur eggs in China. Watch | WION Climate Tracker | US drought uncovers dinosaur tracks | Unexploded bombs found in Po river According to Mirror UK, the study, which was conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been published in the scientific journal PNAS. Using dinosaur eggs found in the country's Shanyang Basin it creates a two million-year chronology toward the end of the Cretaceous period, the last period during which dinosaurs were alive. Also read | 'Home décor or scientific discovery': Experts express dismay as dinosaur skeleton goes up for sale The central Chinese basin yielded some 1,000 egg fossils, but upon closer examination, researchers discovered that just three species were actually alive at the time. It means that the diversity in dinosaur species was ebbing during the Cretaceous period. “Our results demonstrate low dinosaur biodiversity during the last two million years of the Cretaceous, and those data indicate a decline in dinosaur biodiversity millions of years before the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary," wrote the authors. Also read | Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe This may imply that dinosaur populations were already in decline before they were wiped out by an asteroid. It has been speculated that factors including climate change and volcanic eruptions may have led to the creatures' population collapse. Events like the Deccan Traps eruption in present-day India would have also severely damaged the food supplies, which could have contributed to dinosaurs perishing. (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.

Was an asteroid the sole reason dinosaurs went extinct? New study claims they were already 'dying out'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has yet again raked up the Kashmir issue at the ongoing 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.

'India and Pakistan have not established peace,' Turkish Prez Erdogan rakes up Kashmir issue at UNGA

The National Health Service (NHS) has issued a warning that a terrible sickness from the Victorian era called gout is resurfacing in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

<h2>What is Gout?</h2>

Gout is a form of the arthritic disease that affects over 1.5 million individuals across the nation. Unlike other forms of arthritic disease, which typically afflict the elderly, gout can affect anyone; even people in their 20s are vulnerable.

NHS said that a gout episode typically lasts five to seven days before getting better and that if you receive treatment right away, the damage to your joints may not be permanent.

Getting to a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and abstaining from alcohol are all ways to help prevent gout.

<h2>Gout symptoms</h2>

The primary symptoms to watch out for are sudden, acute joint pain (often in the big toe, hands, wrist, elbow, or knees), hot skin, swollen joints, and redness over the affected joint.

<h2>How many people are affected?</h2>

250,000 people were hospitalised for gout between 2021 and 2022, and instances had increased by 20 per cent in the previous three years, according to a report from Mirror UK citing the NHS.

The figure increased by 25 per cent from 338,216 hospital admissions in 2020–21, however, the pandemic caused a decrease.

Daily Mail reported that earlier this year, authorities in Britain warned that the number of Victorian ailments had reached a five-year high.

A record&nbsp;of&nbsp;these diseases was started a few years back, and the number of inpatients with these disorders is now at its highest point since at least 2017–18.

Data from the NHS shows&nbsp;there were 421,370 cases of patients&nbsp;being diagnosed with 13 different&nbsp;Victorian diseases between&nbsp;March 2021-2022, according to an exclusive report by the Mirror.

The 13 diseases include: gout, tuberculosis, malnutrition, whooping cough, measles, scurvy, typhoid, scarlet fever, diphtheria, mumps, rickets, cholera, and vitamin D insufficiency. However, in many cases, these diseases weren't the main reason for their admittance.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The National Health Service (NHS) has issued a warning that a terrible sickness from the Victorian era called gout is resurfacing in the United Kingdom. What is Gout?

The National Health Service (NHS) has issued a warning that a terrible sickness from the Victorian era called gout is resurfacing in the United Kingdom. What is Gout? Gout is a form of the arthritic disease that affects over 1.5 million individuals across the nation. Unlike other forms of arthritic disease, which typically afflict the elderly, gout can affect anyone; even people in their 20s are vulnerable. NHS said that a gout episode typically lasts five to seven days before getting better and that if you receive treatment right away, the damage to your joints may not be permanent. Getting to a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and abstaining from alcohol are all ways to help prevent gout. Gout symptoms The primary symptoms to watch out for are sudden, acute joint pain (often in the big toe, hands, wrist, elbow, or knees), hot skin, swollen joints, and redness over the affected joint. How many people are affected? 250,000 people were hospitalised for gout between 2021 and 2022, and instances had increased by 20 per cent in the previous three years, according to a report from Mirror UK citing the NHS. The figure increased by 25 per cent from 338,216 hospital admissions in 2020–21, however, the pandemic caused a decrease. Daily Mail reported that earlier this year, authorities in Britain warned that the number of Victorian ailments had reached a five-year high. A record of these diseases was started a few years back, and the number of inpatients with these disorders is now at its highest point since at least 2017–18. Data from the NHS shows there were 421,370 cases of patients being diagnosed with 13 different Victorian diseases between March 2021-2022, according to an exclusive report by the Mirror. The 13 diseases include: gout, tuberculosis, malnutrition, whooping cough, measles, scurvy, typhoid, scarlet fever, diphtheria, mumps, rickets, cholera, and vitamin D insufficiency. However, in many cases, these diseases weren't the main reason for their admittance. (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.

A severe Victorian disease is making a comeback in UK, warns NHS. Read all about the symptoms and more

As Brazil gears up for its highly polarised presidential election, incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro has seemingly taken his campaign to a rather bizarre level.

As Brazil gears up for its highly polarised presidential election, incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro has seemingly taken his campaign to a rather bizarre level. Bolsonaro, who was in the UK to attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, shot a video at a fuel pump in London and used it as an opportunity to show how expensive fuel was in the UK compared to Brazil. The far-right leader stood at the fuel pump and pointed at the price board while shooting a video. Bolsonaro stated that the 161.9 pence per litre cost of the fuel was 'practically double the average of many Brazilian states'. Bolsonaro further bragged that fuel in his country was among the cheapest in the world. Reportedly, the video was posted a night before the Queen's state funeral service. É fácil comparar a situação do Brasil com todos os Países do mundo para sabermos se estamos no rumo certo. O problema é que sequestraram a mídia e deixaram de discutir economia para discutir “palavrão”. pic.twitter.com/9FLQYT7pIK — Fábio Faria 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷 (@fabiofaria) September 18, 2022 × Apart from shooting the video, Bolsonaro also gave politically charged statements which included the usual sermons on abortion and gender ideology. “We’re on the right path. We are a country that does not want to discuss the legalisation of drugs, that does not want to discuss the legalisation of abortion and a country that does not accept gender ideology. Our slogan is: God, homeland, family and freedom,” said Bolsonaro at Mayfair home, situated less than four kilometres from Westminster Hall where the Queen was kept in the coffin. Read more: Jair Bolsonaro sign-language interpreter launches own campaign in Brazil The Brazilian leader has come under fire from various quarters for trying to use the Queen's funeral for his political gains with many in the UK and Brazil angered by his antics. As reported extensively by WION, Bolsonaro is facing a stiff competition from leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. According to recent surveys, da Silva has widened his lead over Bolsonaro by over 10 points. Read more: What is driving tensions ahead of Brazil's presidential election? (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jair Bolsonaro's bizarre 'election pitch'. Stands outside a UK pump and shoots a video

Hours from now US President Joe Biden is set to address the 77th session of the UNGA. This is the first in-person UNGA meeting since the Covid-19 pandemic began and also the world leaders are meeting for the first time ever since the Russia-Ukraine war.

WION Dispatch | US President Joe Biden to focus on Russia-Ukraine war in his 77th UNGA speech

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