The finance ministry on Tuesday said top 50 wilful defaulters including Gitanjali Gems Limited, Era Infra Engineering Limited, REI Agro Limited, and ABG Shipyard Limited owe $105,40 million or Rs 87,295 crore to banks and financial institutions.

Of this, top 10 wilful defaulters owe&nbsp;4,929 million (Rs 40,825) crore to schedule commercial banks (SCBs), Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Karad said in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

SCBs have written off an aggregate amount of Rs 10,57,326 crore during the last five financial years (RBI provisional data for FY 2022-23), he said.

"The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has apprised that the amount owed by top 50 wilful defaulters in SCBs was Rs 87,295 crore as on March 31, 2023," he said.Fugitive Mehul Choksi's Gitanjali Gems is the biggest wilful defaulter owing Rs 8,738 crore to banks. It is followed by Era Infra Engineering Limited owing Rs 5,750 crore, REI Agro Limited Rs 5,148 crore, ABG Shipyard Limited Rs 4,774 crore, and Concast Steel and Power Limited Rs 3,911 crore.

Other wilful defaults are Rotomac Global Private Limited Rs 2,894 crore, Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery Limited Rs 2,846 crore, Frost International Limited Rs 2,518 crore, Shri Lakshmi Cotsyn Limited Rs 2,180 crore and Zoom Developers Private Limited Rs 2,066 crore.

Karad said the provision enabling banks to enter into compromise settlement in respect of borrowers categorised as fraud or wilful defaulter is not a new regulatory instruction and has been the settled regulatory stance for more than fifteen years.

"RBI had advised IBA, vide letter dated May 10, 2007, that, banks may enter into compromise settlement with wilful defaulters/ fraudulent borrowers without prejudice to the criminal proceeding underway against such borrowers and all such cases of compromise settlements should be vetted by Management Committee/Board of banks," he said.

Further, he said, compromise settlement with borrowers classified as wilful defaulters or fraud is also covered in RBI's Master Circular on Wilful Defaulters dated July 1, 2015 and Master Directions on Frauds dated July 1, 2016.

The compromise settlement, however, is not a matter of right for borrower but is a discretion to be exercised by lenders based on their commercial judgements, he said.

As per RBI's circular dated June 8, 2023, he said, regulated entities may undertake compromise settlements or technical write-offs in respect of accounts classified as fraud or wilful defaulter without prejudice to the criminal proceeding underway against such borrowers, and all such proposals need to be approved by the board.

As per inputs received from RBI, he said, the framework prescribes minimum cooling-off period of 12 months as a general prescription for normal cases of compromise settlements, without prejudice to the penal measures applicable in respect of borrowers classified as a wilful defaulter.

"Such penal measures, as per the RBI's Master Circular on Wilful Defaulters dated July 1, 2015, entail, inter alia, that no additional facilities should be granted by any bank/financial institutions to borrowers listed as wilful defaulters, and that such companies (including their entrepreneurs/promoters) get debarred from institutional finance for floating new ventures for a period of five years from the date of removal of their name from the list of wilful defaulters," he said.

Replying to another question, Karad said public at large have benefited from the amalgamation as the amalgamated bank is offering enhanced access to banking services through a stronger and larger network, greater financial inclusion of the underprivileged, wider and customised array of banking and other financial products and services, and improved digital experience through investments in technology.

Employees have benefited through opening up of wider career and geographical opportunities, enhanced depth and breadth of employees' exposure and improved perquisites through harmonisation of benefits on best-across-banks basis, while ensuring that no employee has lost his or her job as a result of the amalgamation, he said.

In a separate reply, Karad said 66,069 frauds were reported in 2022-23 causing a loss of Rs 85.25 crore. In the previous year, 65,893 frauds were reported with financial implication of Rs 115.36 crore.

In order to prevent fraudulent online transactions, he said, RBI has been issuing various instructions to the regulated entities from time to time.

"RBI had issued a comprehensive circular on Cyber Security Framework for Banks in June, 2016 and for Urban Cooperative Banks in October, 2018 respectively. As per these circulars, banks were advised to put in place a board-approved cyber security policy elucidating the strategy containing an appropriate approach to combat cyber threats given the level of complexity of business and acceptable levels of risk," he said.

Further, he said, to enhance the cyber security posture of online transaction and prevent cyber frauds, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities and countermeasures to protect computers and networks on an ongoing basis, tracking and disabling phishing websites and facilitating the investigation of fraudulent activities in coordination with service providers, regulators, and law enforcement agencies.

With regard to complaints received by the JanSamarth Portal, he said, total 23,276 grievances have been received since its launch, out of which 21,250 complaints have been closed in a time-bound manner.

JanSamarth Portal was launched to provide a common platform for availing loan under few credit-linked government schemes to start with.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The finance ministry on Tuesday said top 50 wilful defaulters including Gitanjali Gems Limited, Era Infra Engineering Limited, REI Agro Limited, and ABG Shipyard Limited owe $105,40 million or Rs 87,295 crore to banks and financial institutions.

The finance ministry on Tuesday said top 50 wilful defaulters including Gitanjali Gems Limited, Era Infra Engineering Limited, REI Agro Limited, and ABG Shipyard Limited owe $105,40 million or Rs 87,295 crore to banks and financial institutions. Of this, top 10 wilful defaulters owe 4,929 million (Rs 40,825) crore to schedule commercial banks (SCBs), Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Karad said in a written reply in Rajya Sabha. SCBs have written off an aggregate amount of Rs 10,57,326 crore during the last five financial years (RBI provisional data for FY 2022-23), he said. "The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has apprised that the amount owed by top 50 wilful defaulters in SCBs was Rs 87,295 crore as on March 31, 2023," he said.Fugitive Mehul Choksi's Gitanjali Gems is the biggest wilful defaulter owing Rs 8,738 crore to banks. It is followed by Era Infra Engineering Limited owing Rs 5,750 crore, REI Agro Limited Rs 5,148 crore, ABG Shipyard Limited Rs 4,774 crore, and Concast Steel and Power Limited Rs 3,911 crore. Other wilful defaults are Rotomac Global Private Limited Rs 2,894 crore, Winsome Diamonds and Jewellery Limited Rs 2,846 crore, Frost International Limited Rs 2,518 crore, Shri Lakshmi Cotsyn Limited Rs 2,180 crore and Zoom Developers Private Limited Rs 2,066 crore. Karad said the provision enabling banks to enter into compromise settlement in respect of borrowers categorised as fraud or wilful defaulter is not a new regulatory instruction and has been the settled regulatory stance for more than fifteen years. "RBI had advised IBA, vide letter dated May 10, 2007, that, banks may enter into compromise settlement with wilful defaulters/ fraudulent borrowers without prejudice to the criminal proceeding underway against such borrowers and all such cases of compromise settlements should be vetted by Management Committee/Board of banks," he said. Further, he said, compromise settlement with borrowers classified as wilful defaulters or fraud is also covered in RBI's Master Circular on Wilful Defaulters dated July 1, 2015 and Master Directions on Frauds dated July 1, 2016. The compromise settlement, however, is not a matter of right for borrower but is a discretion to be exercised by lenders based on their commercial judgements, he said. As per RBI's circular dated June 8, 2023, he said, regulated entities may undertake compromise settlements or technical write-offs in respect of accounts classified as fraud or wilful defaulter without prejudice to the criminal proceeding underway against such borrowers, and all such proposals need to be approved by the board. As per inputs received from RBI, he said, the framework prescribes minimum cooling-off period of 12 months as a general prescription for normal cases of compromise settlements, without prejudice to the penal measures applicable in respect of borrowers classified as a wilful defaulter. "Such penal measures, as per the RBI's Master Circular on Wilful Defaulters dated July 1, 2015, entail, inter alia, that no additional facilities should be granted by any bank/financial institutions to borrowers listed as wilful defaulters, and that such companies (including their entrepreneurs/promoters) get debarred from institutional finance for floating new ventures for a period of five years from the date of removal of their name from the list of wilful defaulters," he said. Replying to another question, Karad said public at large have benefited from the amalgamation as the amalgamated bank is offering enhanced access to banking services through a stronger and larger network, greater financial inclusion of the underprivileged, wider and customised array of banking and other financial products and services, and improved digital experience through investments in technology. Employees have benefited through opening up of wider career and geographical opportunities, enhanced depth and breadth of employees' exposure and improved perquisites through harmonisation of benefits on best-across-banks basis, while ensuring that no employee has lost his or her job as a result of the amalgamation, he said. In a separate reply, Karad said 66,069 frauds were reported in 2022-23 causing a loss of Rs 85.25 crore. In the previous year, 65,893 frauds were reported with financial implication of Rs 115.36 crore. In order to prevent fraudulent online transactions, he said, RBI has been issuing various instructions to the regulated entities from time to time. "RBI had issued a comprehensive circular on Cyber Security Framework for Banks in June, 2016 and for Urban Cooperative Banks in October, 2018 respectively. As per these circulars, banks were advised to put in place a board-approved cyber security policy elucidating the strategy containing an appropriate approach to combat cyber threats given the level of complexity of business and acceptable levels of risk," he said. Further, he said, to enhance the cyber security posture of online transaction and prevent cyber frauds, Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities and countermeasures to protect computers and networks on an ongoing basis, tracking and disabling phishing websites and facilitating the investigation of fraudulent activities in coordination with service providers, regulators, and law enforcement agencies. With regard to complaints received by the JanSamarth Portal, he said, total 23,276 grievances have been received since its launch, out of which 21,250 complaints have been closed in a time-bound manner. JanSamarth Portal was launched to provide a common platform for availing loan under few credit-linked government schemes to start with. (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.

India: Top 50 wilful defaulters owe $105,40 million to banks

In this segment of the global market roundup, a market wrap of Asia Pacific markets is trading mixed as rising bond yields continue to put pressure on equities in the wake of the US credit downgrade.

Oil markets set for sixth week of gains

It's always said to drink water, it not only keeps us hydrated but also&nbsp;keeps our face glowing. However&nbsp;as it is always said, too much of everything is dangerous. This is what happened with Ashely Summer, 35, an Indiana woman who died due to drinking too much water also known as water toxicity.&nbsp;

The incident occurred back in July during the weekend of the Fourth of July when her family was out at Lake Freeman near Monticello. Summer's family said that she was feeling dehydrated and couldn't drink much water. She was lightheaded and had a headache.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crocodile-fatally-attacks-soccer-player-in-costa-rican-river-swims-away-with-body-later-622378">Crocodile fatally attacks soccer player in Costa Rican river, swims away with body later</a>

Is Water Toxicity a real thing?

Ashley's brother said that he recieved a call from his sister and said that she was a wreck and was not feeling well. He said, "Someone said she drank four bottles of water in 20 minutes. I mean, an average water bottle is like 16 ounces, so that was 64 ounces that she drank in a span of 20 minutes. That’s half a gallon. That’s what you’re supposed to drink in a whole day."

After making it home, Ashley passed out in her garage and was taken to hospital and never regained consciousness. Doctors informed her family that she died from water toxicity. Her family informed that Ashley was able to diagnose her heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, and some of her long bone tissues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/degrading-quality-of-water-due-to-heavy-rains-test-paris-readiness-for-olympics-622407">Degrading quality of water due to heavy rains test Paris' readiness for Olympics</a>

Though it's rare, but is most likely to happen when someone drinks too much water really quickly. People at the most risk are who drink a lot of water and do not have enough sodium in their bodies.&nbsp;

Dr Froberg, a toxicologist said that though it s a rare occurrence, during the summertime or for someone who works out a lot, it's important to have a hydration plan.&nbsp;

Some of the symptoms of water toxicity are feeling unwell, muscle cramps, soreness, nausea and headaches.&nbsp;

"Making sure that you’re drinking things that have electrolytes and sodium and some potassium."

(With inputs from agencies)

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It's always said to drink water, it not only keeps us hydrated but also keeps our face glowing. However as it is always said, too much of everything is dangerous.

It's always said to drink water, it not only keeps us hydrated but also keeps our face glowing. However as it is always said, too much of everything is dangerous. This is what happened with Ashely Summer, 35, an Indiana woman who died due to drinking too much water also known as water toxicity. The incident occurred back in July during the weekend of the Fourth of July when her family was out at Lake Freeman near Monticello. Summer's family said that she was feeling dehydrated and couldn't drink much water. She was lightheaded and had a headache. Also read | Crocodile fatally attacks soccer player in Costa Rican river, swims away with body later Is Water Toxicity a real thing? Ashley's brother said that he recieved a call from his sister and said that she was a wreck and was not feeling well. He said, "Someone said she drank four bottles of water in 20 minutes. I mean, an average water bottle is like 16 ounces, so that was 64 ounces that she drank in a span of 20 minutes. That’s half a gallon. That’s what you’re supposed to drink in a whole day." After making it home, Ashley passed out in her garage and was taken to hospital and never regained consciousness. Doctors informed her family that she died from water toxicity. Her family informed that Ashley was able to diagnose her heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, and some of her long bone tissues. Also read | Degrading quality of water due to heavy rains test Paris' readiness for Olympics Though it's rare, but is most likely to happen when someone drinks too much water really quickly. People at the most risk are who drink a lot of water and do not have enough sodium in their bodies. Dr Froberg, a toxicologist said that though it s a rare occurrence, during the summertime or for someone who works out a lot, it's important to have a hydration plan. Some of the symptoms of water toxicity are feeling unwell, muscle cramps, soreness, nausea and headaches. "Making sure that you’re drinking things that have electrolytes and sodium and some potassium." (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.

Water toxicity: 35-year-old Indiana woman dies after drinking too much water

China has always loved dominance in the south-asian region and train routes have now become a new symbol of power. China's new train line in Yunnan connects to a small mountain town near Myanmar.

Is China using new railway line to extend influence in Myanmar?

Due to escalating expenses, the government of Alberta withdrew support from a bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. The anticipated cost was C$2.7 billion (£1.5 billion; $2 billion), according to Tourism and Sport Minister Joseph Schow, making it "too high for the province to bear."

Commonwealth Games: Canadian province of Alberta pulls out of its bid to host the 2030 games

The right-wing government of Giorgia Meloni is terminating benefits for thousands of families and individuals who are declared "fit to work." In late July, an SMS alerting them of the sudden termination of the benefits they had been receiving for the previous four years was sent to around 169,000 households throughout Italy.

Italy: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni suspends social welfare programme

President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday, August 3, that France is facing a "immense" issue. Many of the youths charged in connection with the riots this summer were either in foster care or were from single-parent families, which has been criticized as being callous. After Nahel Merzouk, 17, was fatally shot by a traffic police officer while riding in a car in the Paris district of Nanterre in June, violence broke out.

France: President Emmanuel Macron blames single-parents, foster care for French riots

As areas of the nation baked in temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 F), South Korea elevated the hot weather warning to its maximum level, the first time in four years, the interior and safety ministry said on Wednesday. According to local media citing firefighting authorities, the intense heat is believed to have killed 23 people nationwide, more than double the previous record of seven during the same period last year.

South Korea raises heat alert to highest amid sweltering weather

Overnight, there have been reports of explosions close to the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk in Russia. On Friday, video posted to social media claimed to show massive explosions at the port, a significant hub for Russian exports. According to the Russian defense ministry, two sea drones were used to resist a Ukrainian attack on its naval facility there. It said that Russian ships manning the naval base's outer harbour had spotted and destroyed the drones.

Russia-Ukraine War: Sea drone attack reported on Russian Black Sea Port

An allegedly "racist" campaign brochure promoting a new traveler site in his district has led to a police probe into a Cabinet minister. In a flier distributed to households in July, Welsh Secretary David TC Davies expressed his worries about the inadequateness of a council consultation on the property.

UK cabinet minister's alleged 'racist' leaflet

Donald Trump, a former US president, is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday in Washington, DC, to answer to four felony charges relating to his alleged attempts to hold onto power after losing the 2020 presidential election. Trump has now appeared in court to defend himself against four felony accusations.

US: Former President Donald Trump appears in court to face four criminal charges

A federal judge who has emerged as one of the strongest authorities against rioters who took part in the January 6 insurgency at the United States Capitol will shortly meet with her most high-profile defendant: Donald Trump. Tanya Chutkan, a 2014 Obama appointee, was assigned to oversee the case on Tuesday after a federal grand jury indicted the former president on four counts related to his attempt to sabotage the 2020 presidential election, including conspiracy and obstruction of official proceedings.

US: Former President Trump's new judge Tanya Chutkan is a tough January 6 sentencer

Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday.

<h2>Leader has fallen</h2>

In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province.&nbsp;

The spokesperson, as per news agency AFP, also announced Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as al-Qurashi's successor and the Islamic State's new leader.&nbsp; 
 
Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi,&nbsp;will be the group's fifth leader.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-khanun-leaves-two-dead-41-injured-in-japan-622079">Typhoon Khanun leaves 2 dead, 41 injured in Japan; over 220,000 homes sans power</a>

<h2>Previous leadership</h2>

Before, Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the last leader Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as per the group's announcement, died in November of 2022. His predecessor, Abu Ibrahim al-Qurashi was killed in February of the same year, during a US raid in Idlib province. The Islamic State group's first-ever "caliph", Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was also killed in Idlib. He died in October 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-facebook-youtube-pushing-harmful-misogynistic-trends-like-yoni-pearls-to-kenyan-women-622035">Facebook, Google, YouTube pushing harmful 'misogynistic' trends like 'yoni pearls' to Kenyan women</a>

The group saw a meteoric rise in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Back then; it conquered vast swathes of territory. However, the Islamic State soon saw its self-proclaimed "caliphate" collapse under a wave of offensives.

In 2017, it was defeated in Iraq and in 2019; it faced defeat in Syria. However, as per AFP, despite this, the sleeper cells of the group still carry out attacks in both countries. The Sunni Muslim extremist group's austere and terror-ridden rule, as per the France-based news agency, was marked by beheadings and mass shootings.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday. Leader has fallen In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province.

Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the leader of the Islamic State group, has died in clashes in northwestern Syria, announced the group on Thursday. Leader has fallen In a recorded statement on its channels on the Telegram messaging app, the group said that its leader Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi "was killed after direct clashes" with the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Idlib province. The spokesperson, as per news agency AFP, also announced Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as al-Qurashi's successor and the Islamic State's new leader. Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi, will be the group's fifth leader. Also read | Typhoon Khanun leaves 2 dead, 41 injured in Japan; over 220,000 homes sans power Previous leadership Before, Abu al-Hussein al-Husseini al-Qurashi, the last leader Abu Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi as per the group's announcement, died in November of 2022. His predecessor, Abu Ibrahim al-Qurashi was killed in February of the same year, during a US raid in Idlib province. The Islamic State group's first-ever "caliph", Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was also killed in Idlib. He died in October 2019. Also read | Facebook, Google, YouTube pushing harmful 'misogynistic' trends like 'yoni pearls' to Kenyan women The group saw a meteoric rise in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Back then; it conquered vast swathes of territory. However, the Islamic State soon saw its self-proclaimed "caliphate" collapse under a wave of offensives. In 2017, it was defeated in Iraq and in 2019; it faced defeat in Syria. However, as per AFP, despite this, the sleeper cells of the group still carry out attacks in both countries. The Sunni Muslim extremist group's austere and terror-ridden rule, as per the France-based news agency, was marked by beheadings and mass shootings. (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.

Islamic State announces death of its leader 'after direct clashes' in Syria's Idlib, names successor

Over a week after Niger was hit by a military coup, the United States on Wednesday ordered a partial evacuation of its embassy from the fragile West African nation.

Over a week after Niger was hit by a military coup, the United States on Wednesday ordered a partial evacuation of its embassy from the fragile West African nation. The State Department released an advisory stating that even though the mission will remain open and senior leadership will continue from there, the non-emergency staff was being temporarily evacuated. "On August 2, 2023, the Department ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees and eligible family members from Embassy Niamey," an updated US travel advisory for Niger said. "The US Embassy in Niamey has temporarily reduced its personnel, suspended routine services, and is only able to provide emergency assistance to US citizens in Niger," the advisory added. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the US remained committed to their relationship with the people of Niger and to Nigerien democracy and that Washington remained diplomatically engaged. Miller, however, condemned the military coup. "The United States rejects all efforts to overturn Niger's constitutional order, and stands with the people of Niger...in support of democratic governance and respect for the rule of law and human rights." Currently, there are about 1,000 troops stationed in Niger, operating from two bases and helping ousted President Mohamed Bazoum combat against the military. Watch | Who is Niger's new leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani? × France also asked the junta to "fully guarantee" the safety of its embassy in the capital city. The foreign ministry said it had asked the Niger military to ensure that "the security of foreign diplomatic rights of way and diplomatic personnel" are guaranteed. US and its botched evacuations In the recent past, Washington has been criticised for its botched evacuation of embassy staffers and troops from conflict-ridden countries. White House received a lot of flak for its handling of the evacuation of US citizens from Sudan when violence erupted between the military and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group. Similarly, in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took over the country, the US conducted a haphazard final-minute evacuation operation where citizens and embassy staffers just about managed to escape in the nick of time. Also read | Niger coup: Ousted president Bazoum seen for first time since detention, meets Chad's leader × What is happening in Niger? On July 26, Bazoum was overthrown when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency. After the military junta seized power, General Abdourahamane Tiani was made the new head of the state. According to reports, after the coup, the junta started arresting ministers in the cabinet of Bazoum. The erstwhile ruling Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism (PNDS) said Niger's Oil Minister Mahamane Sani Mahamadou, Mining Minister Ousseini Hadizatou as well as the party's head of the national executive committee, Fourmakoye Gado, had also been arrested. Meanwhile, World Bank on Wednesday (August 2) said it had halted disbursements for all operations in the country until further notice. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US orders temporary, partial evacuation of some embassy staff from Niger

Shohini Sinha, an Indian-American woman, has recently been appointed as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and will be in charge of&nbsp;the Salt Lake City Field Office. FBI Director Christopher Wray appointed her to this role.

Before being&nbsp;a civil servant, Shohini worked as a therapist and later as an administrator for Family Services in the non-profit United Way Agency in Indiana.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FBI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FBI</a> Salt Lake City is thrilled to welcome Shohini Sinha as our new special agent in charge. SAC Sinha most recently served as executive special assistant to the Director at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. <a href="https://t.co/H0xlgIvG9P">https://t.co/H0xlgIvG9P</a> 
 
Welcome to Utah! <a href="https://t.co/REnO4bQMbl">pic.twitter.com/REnO4bQMbl</a>
— FBI Salt Lake City (@FBISaltLakeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBISaltLakeCity/status/1686128064479068160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Her appointment is a significant milestone in her career, as she becomes the 40th individual to undergo the prestigious coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-investigates-critical-compromise-of-air-force-fbi-communications-620750">Also read |&nbsp;Pentagon investigates ‘critical compromise’ of Air Force, FBI communications</a>

Here's everything you need to know about the FBI's new special agent, Shohini Sinha:

<h3>Expertise in Counter-terrorism:</h3>

After completing her education in Psychology and Mental Health Counselling, Sinha joined the FBI as a Special Agent (SA) on 30 December 2001. With over two decades of experience, she began her journey working on counter-terrorism investigations, where she handled crucial security matters internationally. Her postings in London, Baghdad, and Guantanamo Bay exemplified her readiness to take on challenging roles.

In 2009, she was promoted to Supervisory Special Agent (SSA) and handled extraterritorial investigations based in Canada, where she communicated with Washington-based Canadian Liaison Officers. As an SSA, her biggest accomplishment was a joint investigation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that resulted in the arrest of three cell members for plotting attacks in Ottawa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-case-fbi-told-agent-to-decline-to-respond-to-congress-says-report-617341">Also read |&nbsp;Hunter Biden case: FBI told agent to 'decline to respond' to Congress, says report</a>

After being promoted to Assistant Legal Attache (ALAT), her joint investigation with the RCMP led to the arrest of two terrorist cell members for plotting an attack against the commercial rail line between New York City and Toronto. 
As a Field Supervisor (2015) in the Detroit Field Office, Shohini led the squad investigating Hizbollah and other Shia extremist groups.

Sinha has consistently demonstrated remarkable skills in handling both national security and cyber investigation cases, according to the FBI.

 
In 2020, Shohini was elected as the Assistant Special in Charge for National Security matters at the Portland Field Office.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shohini Sinha, an Indian-American woman, has recently been appointed as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and will be in charge of the Salt Lake City Field Office.

Shohini Sinha, an Indian-American woman, has recently been appointed as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and will be in charge of the Salt Lake City Field Office. FBI Director Christopher Wray appointed her to this role. Before being a civil servant, Shohini worked as a therapist and later as an administrator for Family Services in the non-profit United Way Agency in Indiana. #FBI Salt Lake City is thrilled to welcome Shohini Sinha as our new special agent in charge. SAC Sinha most recently served as executive special assistant to the Director at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. https://t.co/H0xlgIvG9P Welcome to Utah! pic.twitter.com/REnO4bQMbl — FBI Salt Lake City (@FBISaltLakeCity) July 31, 2023 × Her appointment is a significant milestone in her career, as she becomes the 40th individual to undergo the prestigious coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Also read | Pentagon investigates ‘critical compromise’ of Air Force, FBI communications Here's everything you need to know about the FBI's new special agent, Shohini Sinha: Expertise in Counter-terrorism: After completing her education in Psychology and Mental Health Counselling, Sinha joined the FBI as a Special Agent (SA) on 30 December 2001. With over two decades of experience, she began her journey working on counter-terrorism investigations, where she handled crucial security matters internationally. Her postings in London, Baghdad, and Guantanamo Bay exemplified her readiness to take on challenging roles. In 2009, she was promoted to Supervisory Special Agent (SSA) and handled extraterritorial investigations based in Canada, where she communicated with Washington-based Canadian Liaison Officers. As an SSA, her biggest accomplishment was a joint investigation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that resulted in the arrest of three cell members for plotting attacks in Ottawa. Also read | Hunter Biden case: FBI told agent to 'decline to respond' to Congress, says report After being promoted to Assistant Legal Attache (ALAT), her joint investigation with the RCMP led to the arrest of two terrorist cell members for plotting an attack against the commercial rail line between New York City and Toronto. As a Field Supervisor (2015) in the Detroit Field Office, Shohini led the squad investigating Hizbollah and other Shia extremist groups. Sinha has consistently demonstrated remarkable skills in handling both national security and cyber investigation cases, according to the FBI. In 2020, Shohini was elected as the Assistant Special in Charge for National Security matters at the Portland Field Office. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Shohini Sinha? Indian-American woman appointed as FBI special agent

Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when&nbsp;it was supposed to be their winter.&nbsp;

A Chilean meteorologist expert Cristobal Torres in conversation with&nbsp;AFP said that the mountain town of Vicuna recorded 37 degrees for the first time in 70 years. Additionally, the capital city Santiago recorded 24 degree&nbsp;Celsius and is likely to register similar temperatures on Thursday and Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-heat-related-deaths-rise-in-japan-and-south-korea-621458">Also read |&nbsp;Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea</a>

One of the most significant impacts of hot temperatures in Chile was on snowpacks in the mountains, a vital water source in the country's capital.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Argentina's Buenos Aires, the temperature exceeded 30 degree&nbsp;Celsius on August 1, the National Meteorological Service reported. The usual temperature in the city at this time varies between 9 degrees&nbsp;and 18 degree&nbsp;Celsius.&nbsp;

Several parts across Uruguay also recorded temperatures near 30 degrees on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Hot weather in Chile: Global warming and El Nino phenomenon

Chile's Environment Minister Miasa Rojas, a climatologist, explained that the sudden change in the climate is due to global warming and the El Nino phenomenon.&nbsp;

"What we are experiencing is the combination of two phenomena: a global warming trend due to climate change plus the El Nino phenomenon." He added that once the El Nino phenomenon ends, the weather should also stop being this extreme.

An El Nino phenomenon is a climate pattern which describes the increased Pacific Ocean temperatures, causing rainfall, floods and avalanches in western South America as well as heatwaves.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-brutal-heatwave-egyptian-pm-announces-planned-power-cuts-other-measures-620065">Also read |&nbsp;Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures</a>

According to AFP temperatures in Santiago, Buenos Aires and Montevideo are expected to return to normal in the coming days, but are expected to experience similar heatwaves in the coming time.&nbsp;

Raul Cordero, a climatologist at the University of Santiago said, "It is very likely that the heat record will be broken this year (in Santiago), and that is extraordinarily abnormal. Ten years ago we had two heat waves a year and now we are talking about nine."

Furthermore, she warned about the effects of heat at the poles.&nbsp;"The ice around the polar areas is at minimum levels. Especially around Antarctica, where at this time of year sea ice grows to reach a maximum in September, it is at a historic minimum," Raul added.&nbsp;

(WIth inputs from agencies)

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Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when it was supposed to be their winter.

Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when it was supposed to be their winter. A Chilean meteorologist expert Cristobal Torres in conversation with AFP said that the mountain town of Vicuna recorded 37 degrees for the first time in 70 years. Additionally, the capital city Santiago recorded 24 degree Celsius and is likely to register similar temperatures on Thursday and Friday. Also read | Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea One of the most significant impacts of hot temperatures in Chile was on snowpacks in the mountains, a vital water source in the country's capital. Meanwhile, in Argentina's Buenos Aires, the temperature exceeded 30 degree Celsius on August 1, the National Meteorological Service reported. The usual temperature in the city at this time varies between 9 degrees and 18 degree Celsius. Several parts across Uruguay also recorded temperatures near 30 degrees on Wednesday. Hot weather in Chile: Global warming and El Nino phenomenon Chile's Environment Minister Miasa Rojas, a climatologist, explained that the sudden change in the climate is due to global warming and the El Nino phenomenon. "What we are experiencing is the combination of two phenomena: a global warming trend due to climate change plus the El Nino phenomenon." He added that once the El Nino phenomenon ends, the weather should also stop being this extreme. An El Nino phenomenon is a climate pattern which describes the increased Pacific Ocean temperatures, causing rainfall, floods and avalanches in western South America as well as heatwaves. Also read | Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures According to AFP temperatures in Santiago, Buenos Aires and Montevideo are expected to return to normal in the coming days, but are expected to experience similar heatwaves in the coming time. Raul Cordero, a climatologist at the University of Santiago said, "It is very likely that the heat record will be broken this year (in Santiago), and that is extraordinarily abnormal. Ten years ago we had two heat waves a year and now we are talking about nine." Furthermore, she warned about the effects of heat at the poles. "The ice around the polar areas is at minimum levels. Especially around Antarctica, where at this time of year sea ice grows to reach a maximum in September, it is at a historic minimum," Raul 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.

Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter

China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began.&nbsp;

"The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," the Beijing Meteorological Service said.&nbsp;

Up until Tuesday (August 1), at least 20 people had died while 27&nbsp;remained missing as heavy rainfall made the job difficult for rescue authorities.

More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri, one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years.

In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-soaks-northern-china-as-typhoon-doksuri-makes-its-way-to-beijing-620672">Watch |&nbsp;Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-soaks-northern-china-as-typhoon-doksuri-makes-its-way-to-beijing-620672/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-11-dead-dozens-missing-as-beijing-gets-battered-by-rainstorms-621252#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

<h2>Battered Beijing&nbsp;</h2>

The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago.

A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district.&nbsp;

According to state media reports, some 125,000 people from high-risk areas in&nbsp;Zhuozhou, southwest of Beijing, have been moved to shelters as well.

Taking stock of the situation, President Xi Jinping issued an order to the local governments, urging them to go "all out" to rescue those trapped and minimise loss of life and property damage.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-11-dead-dozens-missing-as-beijing-gets-battered-by-rainstorms-621252">Also read |&nbsp;Doksuri storm in China: At least 20 dead, 19 missing as Beijing gets battered by rainstorms</a>

Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died,&nbsp;most of them along the Yangtze River.

Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line.

Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began.

China continues to be battered by the torrential rains as capital Beijing drowns in water. On Tuesday, the weather service informed that the city's had received the "heaviest rainfall in 140 years" since record-keeping began. "The maximum value of rainfall recorded during this storm, which was 744.8 millimetres, occurred at the Wangjiayuan Reservoir in Changping," the Beijing Meteorological Service said. Up until Tuesday (August 1), at least 20 people had died while 27 remained missing as heavy rainfall made the job difficult for rescue authorities. More than 52,000 have been evacuated from Beijing alone since the start of the rain, exacerbated by Doksuri, one of the strongest typhoons to hit the mainland in years. In the Fangshan district, power to some 60,000 homes was knocked out. Watch | Rain soaks Northern China as Typhoon Doksuri makes its way to Beijing × Battered Beijing The rivers in the country have swollen to record levels, forcing the authorities to use a flood storage reservoir in Beijing for the first time since it was first built, over 25 years ago. A military unit comprising 26 soldiers and four helicopters was pressed into service on Tuesday to deliver hundreds of food packages and ponchos to people stranded in and around a train station in Beijing's hard-hit Mentougou district. According to state media reports, some 125,000 people from high-risk areas in Zhuozhou, southwest of Beijing, have been moved to shelters as well. Taking stock of the situation, President Xi Jinping issued an order to the local governments, urging them to go "all out" to rescue those trapped and minimise loss of life and property damage. Also read | Doksuri storm in China: At least 20 dead, 19 missing as Beijing gets battered by rainstorms Notably, it was in 1998 that China witnessed the deadliest and most destructive floods when over 4,000 people died, most of them along the Yangtze River. Around 300 died in 2021 when the central province of Henan was flooded. Record rainfall that year also inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line. Chinese forecasters also warned about the approach of another storm named ‘Khanun’, which is expected to rapidly gain strength and strike China’s densely populated coast next week. While Doksuri got downgraded from a typhoon, the Chinese weather agency upgraded Khanun to typhoon from tropical storm status on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Beijing receives heaviest rainfall since records began 140 years ago

Voyager Space, a US space venture company, and Airbus, a renowned aerospace firm, on Wednesday announced that they will be collaborating in the pursuit of constructing a private version of the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;

In&nbsp;their recent announcement, they said Airbus would be the&nbsp;core partner in a newly planned venture responsible for the development, construction, and operation of the orbital research post.&nbsp;

<h2>Europe and space project</h2>

The reason behind this strategic move is to expand Europe's involvement in the ambitious space project.&nbsp;However, Reuters reports that specific details regarding shareholdings and financial arrangements are yet to be disclosed.

Starlab is among the three private concepts designed to replace the ISS, which has served as an orbital laboratory that has housed crews for over two decades.&nbsp;

The original blueprint for Starlab featured an inflatable habitat designed by Lockheed Martin. However, as per Reuters, a subsequent decision to adopt a metallic structure resulted in Airbus superseding Lockheed Martin's role.

Dylan Taylor, the CEO of Voyager Space, clarified that "Lockheed will likely still have a role to play somewhere within the supply chain."

He also said that Starlab will remain a US-led initiative, and that, "There will be contributions coming from Europe, but there will definitely be an assembly and large contributions coming from the US".&nbsp;

<h2>The International Space Station</h2>

NASA, as per Reuters, has planned to retire the ISS in 2030 and intends to rely on private companies to host scientific research in low-Earth orbit. However, the NASA officials have acknowledged that the ISS's lifespan might need to be extended as a private replacements moves forward.

Voyager Space and Airbus have reportedly stated that Starlab is expected to deploy around 2028.

"It will occur before the ISS decommissioning; we're highly confident of that. Whether it's going to be late 2027, early 2028, or late 2028 we're still working out those details," said Taylor. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Voyager Space, a US space venture company, and Airbus, a renowned aerospace firm, on Wednesday announced that they will be collaborating in the pursuit of constructing a private version of the International Space Station (ISS).

Voyager Space, a US space venture company, and Airbus, a renowned aerospace firm, on Wednesday announced that they will be collaborating in the pursuit of constructing a private version of the International Space Station (ISS). In their recent announcement, they said Airbus would be the core partner in a newly planned venture responsible for the development, construction, and operation of the orbital research post. Europe and space project The reason behind this strategic move is to expand Europe's involvement in the ambitious space project. However, Reuters reports that specific details regarding shareholdings and financial arrangements are yet to be disclosed. Starlab is among the three private concepts designed to replace the ISS, which has served as an orbital laboratory that has housed crews for over two decades. The original blueprint for Starlab featured an inflatable habitat designed by Lockheed Martin. However, as per Reuters, a subsequent decision to adopt a metallic structure resulted in Airbus superseding Lockheed Martin's role. Dylan Taylor, the CEO of Voyager Space, clarified that "Lockheed will likely still have a role to play somewhere within the supply chain." He also said that Starlab will remain a US-led initiative, and that, "There will be contributions coming from Europe, but there will definitely be an assembly and large contributions coming from the US". The International Space Station NASA, as per Reuters, has planned to retire the ISS in 2030 and intends to rely on private companies to host scientific research in low-Earth orbit. However, the NASA officials have acknowledged that the ISS's lifespan might need to be extended as a private replacements moves forward. Voyager Space and Airbus have reportedly stated that Starlab is expected to deploy around 2028. "It will occur before the ISS decommissioning; we're highly confident of that. Whether it's going to be late 2027, early 2028, or late 2028 we're still working out those details," said Taylor. (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.

Race to build ISS successor: Voyager Space and Airbus strengthen partnership

Manvendra Singh Gohil, India's first openly gay prince, revealed recently that his parents attempted to get him brain surgery in an effort to change his sexuality. After he came out as gay, he experienced humiliation while his parents sought medical intervention to "convert him," Gohli recently told Sky News.

Gohil is the heir of the honorary Maharaja of Rajipipla. He is considered the first openly gay prince in the world. He is known for being one of India's foremost LGBT activists.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-ashoka-university-distances-itself-from-disputed-paper-that-questioned-integrity-of-indias-elections-621555">India's Ashoka University distances itself from disputed paper that questioned integrity of India's elections</a>

Parents were finding ways for "brain surgery"

In conversation with Sky News, the Indian prince explained the circumstances that he had to go through.

He revealed how his parents were desperate in finding ways to "perform surgery" on his brain and even took him to electroshock therapy.&nbsp;

However, their efforts went in vain after the doctors in the US firmly refused to perform any medical procedures on him, stating that homosexuality is not a mental disorder.&nbsp;

"It was an absolute case of discrimination and violation of human rights. Whether I'm a prince or not a prince, parents have no right to put their children through [this] kind of torture," he added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-violence-delhi-rajasthan-and-up-on-high-alert-key-meeting-to-be-held-in-manesar-621544">Nuh violence: Delhi, Rajasthan, UP on high alert; key meeting to be held in Manesar</a>

He said that though nothing happened, the pain and humiliation he had to go through because of his parents were due to lack of education and awareness which causes people to be homophobic and bigoted in India.&nbsp;

"It's our duty to educate them and to make them aware about the facts."

According to Sky News, the Indian prince has now launched a legal battle in the Supreme Court to get conversion therapy banned outright by law.&nbsp;

The prince first gained media attention in 2006, when he openly declared his sexuality, which sparked angry protests in his home state. His effigies were burnt by crowds.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Manvendra Singh Gohil, India's first openly gay prince, revealed recently that his parents attempted to get him brain surgery in an effort to change his sexuality.

Manvendra Singh Gohil, India's first openly gay prince, revealed recently that his parents attempted to get him brain surgery in an effort to change his sexuality. After he came out as gay, he experienced humiliation while his parents sought medical intervention to "convert him," Gohli recently told Sky News. Gohil is the heir of the honorary Maharaja of Rajipipla. He is considered the first openly gay prince in the world. He is known for being one of India's foremost LGBT activists. Also read | India's Ashoka University distances itself from disputed paper that questioned integrity of India's elections Parents were finding ways for "brain surgery" In conversation with Sky News, the Indian prince explained the circumstances that he had to go through. He revealed how his parents were desperate in finding ways to "perform surgery" on his brain and even took him to electroshock therapy. However, their efforts went in vain after the doctors in the US firmly refused to perform any medical procedures on him, stating that homosexuality is not a mental disorder. "It was an absolute case of discrimination and violation of human rights. Whether I'm a prince or not a prince, parents have no right to put their children through [this] kind of torture," he added. Also read | Nuh violence: Delhi, Rajasthan, UP on high alert; key meeting to be held in Manesar He said that though nothing happened, the pain and humiliation he had to go through because of his parents were due to lack of education and awareness which causes people to be homophobic and bigoted in India. "It's our duty to educate them and to make them aware about the facts." According to Sky News, the Indian prince has now launched a legal battle in the Supreme Court to get conversion therapy banned outright by law. The prince first gained media attention in 2006, when he openly declared his sexuality, which sparked angry protests in his home state. His effigies were burnt by crowds. (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.

Parents wanted brain surgery, reveals India's first gay prince Gohil on 'forced sexual conversion'

IND vs WI 1st T20I Head to Head: After a successful win in the ODI series, team India is all set to compete with West Indies in the T20I series with 5 T20Is in place. The men in blue won the ODI series 2-1 and now move to the five-match series taking on the West Indies. Out of five, three will be played in West Indies while the remaining two will be played in the United States. The first T201 match is on August 3 in Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad and will begin at 8 pm IST.&nbsp;

The ODI series saw Indian players making a strong impact, especially with Ishan Kishan's consecutive fifties.&nbsp;

West Indies, on the other hand, is all set to take over the series. After getting beaten in the previous Test and ODI series, the two-time T20 winner is eager to spin things around. It last won a T20I series against India in the year 2017 and will be desperate to claim victory now. &nbsp;

<h2>IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Match Details</h2>

Venue: &nbsp;Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad

Date &amp; Time: Thursday, August 3, 08:00 PM IST&nbsp;

<h2>IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Head to Head</h2>

Both teams have played 25 matches out of which India won 17 matches, while West Indies won 7.&nbsp;

Till now, 7 T20 matches have been played in West Indies, out of which India won 4 and West Indies claimed victory in three.&nbsp;

Matches played: 25

Matches won by India: 17

Matches won by West Indies:7

No result: 1

<h2>IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Pitch Report and Prediction</h2>

There had been only one match played at the venue between India and West Indies. Spinners get a great outing in the middle and are likely to enjoy the game.&nbsp;

Prediction:&nbsp;Seeing the overall score and recent performances, India might win the match.

<h2>IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Probable Playing XIs</h2>

<h3>India (IND)</h3>

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (vc), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (c), Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh

<h3>West Indies (WI)</h3>

Johnson Charles, Kyle Mayers (vc), Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph

IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Broadcast &amp; Live Streaming

The India vs West Indies 1st T20I match will be live broadcasted on DD Sports in India. Fans can also watch the match live on FanCode and JioCinema apps and websites.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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IND vs WI 1st T20I Head to Head: After a successful win in the ODI series, team India is all set to compete with West Indies in the T20I series with 5 T20Is in place.

IND vs WI 1st T20I Head to Head: After a successful win in the ODI series, team India is all set to compete with West Indies in the T20I series with 5 T20Is in place. The men in blue won the ODI series 2-1 and now move to the five-match series taking on the West Indies. Out of five, three will be played in West Indies while the remaining two will be played in the United States. The first T201 match is on August 3 in Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad and will begin at 8 pm IST. The ODI series saw Indian players making a strong impact, especially with Ishan Kishan's consecutive fifties. West Indies, on the other hand, is all set to take over the series. After getting beaten in the previous Test and ODI series, the two-time T20 winner is eager to spin things around. It last won a T20I series against India in the year 2017 and will be desperate to claim victory now. IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Match Details Venue: Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad Date & Time: Thursday, August 3, 08:00 PM IST IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Head to Head Both teams have played 25 matches out of which India won 17 matches, while West Indies won 7. Till now, 7 T20 matches have been played in West Indies, out of which India won 4 and West Indies claimed victory in three. Matches played: 25 Matches won by India: 17 Matches won by West Indies:7 No result: 1 IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Pitch Report and Prediction There had been only one match played at the venue between India and West Indies. Spinners get a great outing in the middle and are likely to enjoy the game. Prediction: Seeing the overall score and recent performances, India might win the match. IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Probable Playing XIs India (IND) Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (vc), Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (c), Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh West Indies (WI) Johnson Charles, Kyle Mayers (vc), Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Obed McCoy, Alzarri Joseph IND vs WI 1st T20I: India vs West Indies Broadcast & Live Streaming The India vs West Indies 1st T20I match will be live broadcasted on DD Sports in India. Fans can also watch the match live on FanCode and JioCinema apps and websites. (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.

IND vs WI 1st T20I: Check date, time, venue, probable XIs, live-streaming details & all you need to know

Three background dancers of Hollywood pop star Lizzo on Tuesday (August 1), sued her over sexual harassment and for creating a hostile work environment.&nbsp;

The lawsuit was filed at Los Angeles Superior Court, where the plaintiffs Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez claimed that the 35-year-old Grammy winner pressurised them to engage with nude performers at an Amsterdam club.&nbsp;

Additionally, they accused&nbsp;the singer, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, of body-shaming one of the dancers for gaining weight, before firing her, contrary to her own&nbsp;constant support for&nbsp;"body positivity."

Ron Zambrano, the lawyer representing the trio in a statement said, "The stunning nature of how Lizzo and her management team treated their performers seems to go against everything Lizzo stands for publicly, while privately she weight-shames her dancers and demeans them in ways that are not only illegal but absolutely demoralising."

The trio, through their legal action,&nbsp;aims to seek justice, and address the emotional distress endured and the matter of unpaid wages.

Here's everything you need to know about the plaintiffs who sued Lizzo:

<h2>Arianna Davis</h2>

A talented dancer and social media personality, Arianna rose to fame with her appearance on the reality TV show Out for the Big Grrrls,&nbsp;after which she caught the attention of Lizzo and became one of her backup dancers.&nbsp;

Arianna is not just limited to dancing but has a flair for singing. She has released a song,&nbsp;Dancing With You.&nbsp;

<h2>Crystal Williams</h2>

A former background dancer for Lizzo, Crystal began her dance&nbsp;journey when she was in the fifth grade. With a significant social media presence, she has shared multiple dancing videos. Like Arianna, Crystal was cast in the Emmy-winning TV series Watch Out for Big Grrrls.

Other than dancing, Crystal won the Ms Black and Gold Pageant hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

<h2>Noelle Rodriguez&nbsp;</h2>

Texas native&nbsp;Noelle was hired by Lizzo in 2021 but resigned earlier this year. Unlike Arianna and Crystal, she didn't appear on any show.

Other than Lizzo,&nbsp;Rodriguez has also performed with other celebrities such as Beyonce in 2018 for her Coachella concert,&nbsp;Sam Smith, and Janet Jackson for her Billboard Music Awards Icon performance, also in 2018.&nbsp;

She took offence when Arianna was treated poorly and told the singer that she'll resign. To which Lizzo replied by cracking her knuckles, balling her fists and raising her&nbsp;middle fingers and yelling at her.&nbsp;

So far, Lizzo and her team have not responded to the allegations.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three background dancers of Hollywood pop star Lizzo on Tuesday (August 1), sued her over sexual harassment and for creating a hostile work environment. The lawsuit was filed at Los Angeles Superior Court, where the plaintiffs Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez claimed that the 35-year-old Grammy winner pressurised them to engage with nude performers at an Amsterdam club.

Three background dancers of Hollywood pop star Lizzo on Tuesday (August 1), sued her over sexual harassment and for creating a hostile work environment. The lawsuit was filed at Los Angeles Superior Court, where the plaintiffs Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez claimed that the 35-year-old Grammy winner pressurised them to engage with nude performers at an Amsterdam club. Additionally, they accused the singer, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, of body-shaming one of the dancers for gaining weight, before firing her, contrary to her own constant support for "body positivity." Ron Zambrano, the lawyer representing the trio in a statement said, "The stunning nature of how Lizzo and her management team treated their performers seems to go against everything Lizzo stands for publicly, while privately she weight-shames her dancers and demeans them in ways that are not only illegal but absolutely demoralising." The trio, through their legal action, aims to seek justice, and address the emotional distress endured and the matter of unpaid wages. Here's everything you need to know about the plaintiffs who sued Lizzo: Arianna Davis A talented dancer and social media personality, Arianna rose to fame with her appearance on the reality TV show Out for the Big Grrrls, after which she caught the attention of Lizzo and became one of her backup dancers. Arianna is not just limited to dancing but has a flair for singing. She has released a song, Dancing With You. Crystal Williams A former background dancer for Lizzo, Crystal began her dance journey when she was in the fifth grade. With a significant social media presence, she has shared multiple dancing videos. Like Arianna, Crystal was cast in the Emmy-winning TV series Watch Out for Big Grrrls. Other than dancing, Crystal won the Ms Black and Gold Pageant hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Noelle Rodriguez Texas native Noelle was hired by Lizzo in 2021 but resigned earlier this year. Unlike Arianna and Crystal, she didn't appear on any show. Other than Lizzo, Rodriguez has also performed with other celebrities such as Beyonce in 2018 for her Coachella concert, Sam Smith, and Janet Jackson for her Billboard Music Awards Icon performance, also in 2018. She took offence when Arianna was treated poorly and told the singer that she'll resign. To which Lizzo replied by cracking her knuckles, balling her fists and raising her middle fingers and yelling at her. So far, Lizzo and her team have not responded to the allegations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who are Lizzo's background dancers suing singer for sexual harassment? Here's all you need to know

According to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the foreign minister of Pakistan, if the terrorism problem is not treated seriously, it could result in catastrophe. Zardari stated that Islamabad believes the Afghan interim government will take the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) issue as its own primary concern.

Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto reacts to rising terror threat from Afghanistan

The first European nation to do so, Iceland, announced on Tuesday that it has halted operations at its embassy in Moscow due to "all-time low" levels of business, cultural, and political ties between the two countries.

Iceland suspends embassy operations in Russia

After clashes continued between rival factions at a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, leaving 11 people dead, terror group Hezbollah has called for a halt to the proceedings.&nbsp;

Hassan Nasrallah, head of the group, in a televised address on Tuesday (August 1)&nbsp;urged the factions to keep aside their differences as the camp residents and their lives were being put in danger.&nbsp;

“This fighting must not continue because its repercussions are bad – for the camp’s residents, for the dear Palestinian people...for the south, for all of Lebanon,” said Nasrallah.&nbsp;

The Hezbollah chief added that anyone who&nbsp;could “pressure, say a word, make contact, make an effort” to secure a truce should do so.

<h2>What is happening in the camp?</h2>

Ein al-Hilweh, the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon which houses over 63,000 people has been the ground zero for clashes, ever since the leader of the Fatah faction and four of his bodyguards were killed by another Palestinian group.

Fatah released a statement in the aftermath and said the "abominable and cowardly crime" was aimed at damaging the "security and stability" of the Palestinian camps in Lebanon.

According to multiple reports, Fatah has been going hammer and tongs with&nbsp;the Islamist group, identified as Jund al-Sham. While 11 people were killed, over 40 others including children have been wounded due to the escalation in tensions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-clashes-claim-lives-of-six-in-palestinian-refugee-camp-620873">Also read |&nbsp;Lebanon clashes claim multiple lives in Palestinian refugee camp</a>

<h2>People leaving the camp</h2>

A UN&nbsp;report stated that most of the people in the Ein al-Hilweh camp are Palestinians whose descendants were forced to flee their homes in 1948 after the state of Israel was established. Since then, clashes between rival groups over the administration of the camp have not been an uncommon phenomenon.&nbsp;

However, the clashes that erupted last week have led to at least 2,000 people in the camp leaving the space, according to the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/violence-in-lebanons-largest-refugee-camp-621222">Watch |&nbsp;Violence in Lebanon's largest refugee camp</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/violence-in-lebanons-largest-refugee-camp-621222/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>What is Hezbollah?</h2>

Hezbollah is a Shia terror outfit, majorly operating in southern Lebanon, backed by Iran. The group came into existence during the 15-year Lebanese Civil War and has been waging a war against Israel by supporting Palestinian factions and their cause.&nbsp;

Apart from the UK, Hezbollah has been proscribed in&nbsp;Canada, Germany, Britain, Argentina, Honduras, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After clashes continued between rival factions at a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, leaving 11 people dead, terror group Hezbollah has called for a halt to the proceedings.

After clashes continued between rival factions at a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, leaving 11 people dead, terror group Hezbollah has called for a halt to the proceedings. Hassan Nasrallah, head of the group, in a televised address on Tuesday (August 1) urged the factions to keep aside their differences as the camp residents and their lives were being put in danger. “This fighting must not continue because its repercussions are bad – for the camp’s residents, for the dear Palestinian people...for the south, for all of Lebanon,” said Nasrallah. The Hezbollah chief added that anyone who could “pressure, say a word, make contact, make an effort” to secure a truce should do so. What is happening in the camp? Ein al-Hilweh, the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon which houses over 63,000 people has been the ground zero for clashes, ever since the leader of the Fatah faction and four of his bodyguards were killed by another Palestinian group. Fatah released a statement in the aftermath and said the "abominable and cowardly crime" was aimed at damaging the "security and stability" of the Palestinian camps in Lebanon. According to multiple reports, Fatah has been going hammer and tongs with the Islamist group, identified as Jund al-Sham. While 11 people were killed, over 40 others including children have been wounded due to the escalation in tensions. Also read | Lebanon clashes claim multiple lives in Palestinian refugee camp People leaving the camp A UN report stated that most of the people in the Ein al-Hilweh camp are Palestinians whose descendants were forced to flee their homes in 1948 after the state of Israel was established. Since then, clashes between rival groups over the administration of the camp have not been an uncommon phenomenon. However, the clashes that erupted last week have led to at least 2,000 people in the camp leaving the space, according to the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Watch | Violence in Lebanon's largest refugee camp What is Hezbollah? Hezbollah is a Shia terror outfit, majorly operating in southern Lebanon, backed by Iran. The group came into existence during the 15-year Lebanese Civil War and has been waging a war against Israel by supporting Palestinian factions and their cause. Apart from the UK, Hezbollah has been proscribed in Canada, Germany, Britain, Argentina, Honduras, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hezbollah chief urges for halt to deadly clashes at Palestinian camp in Lebanon

According to a recent poll issued on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden and US President Donald Trump would finish tied in a hypothetical 2024 election. According to the New York Times/Siena College poll, if the 2024 presidential election were held today, both Biden and Trump would garner 43% of the vote.

US: Poll shows Biden and Trump in a neck-to-neck contest for Presidency

Engineers sent a wrong signal to Voyager 2 and now the space probe is on its own at a distance of 20 billion kilometers at a speed of 56 000 kilometers per hour take a look at our next report as it explains the enduring Legacy of Voyager missions which surpass all records surpassing any other space mission in history in fact.

NASA re-connects with space probe after losing communication

Last weekend, in Downtown Seattle, Taylor Swift sang shake it off and her fans delivered. They did shake it off, causing an earthquake, rather a "Swift-quake" of magnitude 2.3.

Gravitas: Taylor swift fans cause earthquake of magnitude 2.3

India has only 2.4% of the world's land area, but it is now home to 75% of the world's tiger population. On the occasion of International Tiger Day, the government of India has released the latest data on the tiger population, showing remarkable growth.

Gravitas: India is now home to 75% of the world's tiger

A new TikTok trend has led to a hospitalisation after a woman drank too much water. Experts say that the fitness challenge is resulting in 'Water Poisoning'. What is the fitness trend all about? What is 'Water Poisoning'?

Gravitas: Tiktok killer trend leads to hospitalisations

Studies show that AI will steal over 12 million jobs in the US by 2030. Some specific job categories are under serious threat, including salespersons and cashiers. Is AI a bane or a boon?

Gravitas: Rise of AI and E-commerce to steal millions of jobs

Countries around the world are recording a rise in Wuhan virus cases. In the US, Wuhan virus hospitalisations are on a rise, so are no. of people testing positive after a visiting to the emergency room. The UK and Japan too have reported rise in cases. Should you be worried? Is your vaccine still effective?

Gravitas: The Wuhan virus is back. What should you do?

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