The Portuguese port receives sunshine throughout the year, making it the perfect destination for renewable sources of energy. In fact, solar parks and wind turbines generates nearly 70% of Portugal's energy.

Portugal's 70% of power is generated by renewable sources of energy

China’s energy crisis is beginning to hit people where they live, adding the risk of social instability to an economic slowdown and global supply chain disruptions. Watch this report for more details.

China's power crisis moves from factories to homes

The world’s first floating wind farm, which is a 30-megawatt facility run by the Norwegian company Equinor, has been in operation since 2017 but has already broken UK records for energy output.

Located in the stormy waters of the North Sea, 15 miles off the coast of Aberdeenshire, in Scotland, five floating offshore wind turbines stretch 574 feet above the water.

Mostly, offshore wind turbines are anchored to the ocean floor on fixed foundations. This limits them to depths of about 165ft.

However, these enormous structures are assembled on land and pulled out to sea by boats.

The ability to install turbines in deeper waters, where winds tend to be stronger, leads to huge amounts of the ocean to generate renewable wind power.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-offers-covid-19-vaccine-booster-to-ages-12-and-up-409355">Also read |&nbsp;Israel offers COVID-19 vaccine booster to ages 12 and up</a>

This can be close to 80 per cent of potential offshore wind power is found in deeper waters.

Also, positioning the floating turbines much further off the coast helps avoid conflicts.

Floating offshore wind is still in its early stages as only about 80 megawatts of a total of about 32 gigawatts of installed offshore wind capacity is floating.&nbsp;

However, some experts say the relatively new technology could become an important part of the renewables mix if it can overcome hurdles including cost, design and opposition from the fishing industry.

The world’s first floating wind farm, which is a 30-megawatt facility run by the Norwegian company Equinor, has been in operation since 2017 but has already broken UK records for energy output.

The world’s first floating wind farm, which is a 30-megawatt facility run by the Norwegian company Equinor, has been in operation since 2017 but has already broken UK records for energy output. Located in the stormy waters of the North Sea, 15 miles off the coast of Aberdeenshire, in Scotland, five floating offshore wind turbines stretch 574 feet above the water. Mostly, offshore wind turbines are anchored to the ocean floor on fixed foundations. This limits them to depths of about 165ft. However, these enormous structures are assembled on land and pulled out to sea by boats. The ability to install turbines in deeper waters, where winds tend to be stronger, leads to huge amounts of the ocean to generate renewable wind power. Also read | Israel offers COVID-19 vaccine booster to ages 12 and up This can be close to 80 per cent of potential offshore wind power is found in deeper waters. Also, positioning the floating turbines much further off the coast helps avoid conflicts. Floating offshore wind is still in its early stages as only about 80 megawatts of a total of about 32 gigawatts of installed offshore wind capacity is floating. However, some experts say the relatively new technology could become an important part of the renewables mix if it can overcome hurdles including cost, design and opposition from the fishing industry.

Floating wind turbines could create vast ocean tracts for renewable power

Tunisian&nbsp;security&nbsp;forces&nbsp;on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned&nbsp;President&nbsp;Kais&nbsp;Saied's power grab as a "military&nbsp;coup", his party said.

The&nbsp;president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil.

"It is a&nbsp;military&nbsp;coup," independent&nbsp;MP&nbsp;Yassine Ayari said on Facebook after the&nbsp;president&nbsp;last Sunday suspended parliament and sacked the premier.

Ayari, 30, is a vocal critic of authorities who has had many run-ins with the law in past years.

He was sentenced to six months in prison in 2015 for defaming the army and was handed a three-month jail sentence in 2018 for criticising the&nbsp;military.

His party, Hope and Labour, said he was arrested by members of the&nbsp;president's&nbsp;security&nbsp;team who did not provide any&nbsp;arrest&nbsp;warrant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-presidency-sacks-head-of-national-tv-channel-401347">Also read |&nbsp;Tunisian presidency sacks head of national TV channel</a>

Ayari's wife said on Facebook that his detention was "violent".

There was no immediate confirmation from the&nbsp;president's office or prosecutors on the&nbsp;arrest.

His opponents accuse him of having staged a "coup", but&nbsp;Saied&nbsp;has said his actions are justified under the constitution which allows the head of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat".

In a Facebook post, Ayari said the&nbsp;president's actions represented "a reversal of the constitution... with the use of the army".

Saied&nbsp;has also declared a crackdown on corruption, accusing 460 businessmen of embezzlement.&nbsp;

On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis including soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

Tunisian security forces on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned President Kais Saied's power grab as a "military coup", his party said. The president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil.

Tunisian security forces on Friday arrested a member of parliament who condemned President Kais Saied's power grab as a "military coup", his party said. The president's shock move, including a 30-day suspension of parliament, has plunged Tunisia into political turmoil. "It is a military coup," independent MP Yassine Ayari said on Facebook after the president last Sunday suspended parliament and sacked the premier. Ayari, 30, is a vocal critic of authorities who has had many run-ins with the law in past years. He was sentenced to six months in prison in 2015 for defaming the army and was handed a three-month jail sentence in 2018 for criticising the military. His party, Hope and Labour, said he was arrested by members of the president's security team who did not provide any arrest warrant. Also read | Tunisian presidency sacks head of national TV channel Ayari's wife said on Facebook that his detention was "violent". There was no immediate confirmation from the president's office or prosecutors on the arrest. His opponents accuse him of having staged a "coup", but Saied has said his actions are justified under the constitution which allows the head of state to take unspecified exceptional measures in the event of an "imminent threat". In a Facebook post, Ayari said the president's actions represented "a reversal of the constitution... with the use of the army". Saied has also declared a crackdown on corruption, accusing 460 businessmen of embezzlement. On top of the political turmoil, the North African nation is beset by a crippling economic crisis including soaring inflation and high unemployment, as well as surging COVID-19 infections.

Tunisian MP critical of president's power grab arrested: party

Britain will work with the Taliban should they enter the government in Afghanistan, British Defence Minister Ben Wallace told the Daily Telegraph in an interview published on Tuesday. 
 
"Whatever the government of the day is, provided it adheres to certain international norms, the UK government will engage with it," he was quoted as saying in the newspaper. 
 
However, Wallace warned that Britain will review any relationship 'if they behave in a way that is seriously against human rights'.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-take-a-stand-against-them-taliban-warns-turkey-over-involvement-in-kabul-airport-397830">Taliban warns Turkey over involvement in Kabul airport</a>

The Taliban, who ruled Afghanistan with an iron fist from 1996 to 2001, have been fighting for 20 years to topple the Western-backed government in Kabul. 
 
Emboldened by the departure of foreign forces by a September target, the Sunni Muslim insurgent group is making a fresh push to surround cities and gain territory. 
 
In his interview with the newspaper, Wallace recognised that the prospect of the UK working with the Taliban would be controversial. 
 
"What (the Taliban) desperately want is international recognition. They need to unlock financing and support (for) nation building, and you don't do that with a terrorist balaclava on," he said. 
 
"You have to be a partner for peace otherwise you risk isolation. Isolation led them to where they were last time", he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kills-22-afghan-commandos-after-they-try-to-surrender-report-397798">Taliban kills 22 Afghan commandos after they try to surrender: Report&nbsp;</a>

Wallace appealed for the Taliban and Afghanistan's president, Ashraf Ghani, to work together to bring stability to the country after decades of conflict. 
 
Senior Afghan leaders will fly to Doha for talks with the Taliban this week, as the insurgent group takes a hard stance on negotiations, even warning Turkey against plans to keep some troops in Afghanistan to run and guard Kabul's main airport. 
 
Taliban officials said last week the group had taken control of 85% of territory in Afghanistan.

Britain will work with the Taliban should they enter the government in Afghanistan, British Defence Minister Ben Wallace told the Daily Telegraph in an interview published on Tuesday.

Britain will work with the Taliban should they enter the government in Afghanistan, British Defence Minister Ben Wallace told the Daily Telegraph in an interview published on Tuesday. "Whatever the government of the day is, provided it adheres to certain international norms, the UK government will engage with it," he was quoted as saying in the newspaper. However, Wallace warned that Britain will review any relationship 'if they behave in a way that is seriously against human rights'. Also Read | Taliban warns Turkey over involvement in Kabul airport The Taliban, who ruled Afghanistan with an iron fist from 1996 to 2001, have been fighting for 20 years to topple the Western-backed government in Kabul. Emboldened by the departure of foreign forces by a September target, the Sunni Muslim insurgent group is making a fresh push to surround cities and gain territory. In his interview with the newspaper, Wallace recognised that the prospect of the UK working with the Taliban would be controversial. "What (the Taliban) desperately want is international recognition. They need to unlock financing and support (for) nation building, and you don't do that with a terrorist balaclava on," he said. "You have to be a partner for peace otherwise you risk isolation. Isolation led them to where they were last time", he added. Also Read | Taliban kills 22 Afghan commandos after they try to surrender: Report Wallace appealed for the Taliban and Afghanistan's president, Ashraf Ghani, to work together to bring stability to the country after decades of conflict. Senior Afghan leaders will fly to Doha for talks with the Taliban this week, as the insurgent group takes a hard stance on negotiations, even warning Turkey against plans to keep some troops in Afghanistan to run and guard Kabul's main airport. Taliban officials said last week the group had taken control of 85% of territory in Afghanistan.

British defence minister says UK will work with Taliban should they come to power: Report

The United Kingdom will phase out coal-fired power by October 2024, a year ahead of schedule, as part of a campaign to encourage other countries to raise their climate ambitions ahead of a global warming summit it will host in November.&nbsp;

British Energy and Climate Change Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan made this announcement on Wednesday (June 30).

“Coal powered the industrial revolution 200 years ago, but now is the time for radical action to completely eliminate this dirty fuel from our energy system,” Anne-Marie Trevelyan said in a statement.

The move is part of the British government's ambitious plan to transition away from fossil fuels and decarbonise the power sector by 2050 in order to reduce climate change contributions.&nbsp;

This decision pushes the deadline for phasing out coal from the UK's energy system forward by a year, highlighting the UK's leadership in reducing emissions and leading by example in combating climate change ahead of hosting the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) summit in Glasgow this November.&nbsp;

According to the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, coal accounted for only 1.8 per cent of the UK's electricity mix last year, with renewable such as wind and solar accounting for around 43 per cent.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom has come a long way since the 1950s when a heavy layer of coal-fuelled smog blanketed London. Coal accounted for about 40% of the country's electricity generation just a decade ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Kingdom will phase out coal-fired power by October 2024, a year ahead of schedule, as part of a campaign to encourage other countries to raise their climate ambitions ahead of a global warming summit it will host in November.

The United Kingdom will phase out coal-fired power by October 2024, a year ahead of schedule, as part of a campaign to encourage other countries to raise their climate ambitions ahead of a global warming summit it will host in November. British Energy and Climate Change Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan made this announcement on Wednesday (June 30). “Coal powered the industrial revolution 200 years ago, but now is the time for radical action to completely eliminate this dirty fuel from our energy system,” Anne-Marie Trevelyan said in a statement. The move is part of the British government's ambitious plan to transition away from fossil fuels and decarbonise the power sector by 2050 in order to reduce climate change contributions. This decision pushes the deadline for phasing out coal from the UK's energy system forward by a year, highlighting the UK's leadership in reducing emissions and leading by example in combating climate change ahead of hosting the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) summit in Glasgow this November. According to the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, coal accounted for only 1.8 per cent of the UK's electricity mix last year, with renewable such as wind and solar accounting for around 43 per cent. The United Kingdom has come a long way since the 1950s when a heavy layer of coal-fuelled smog blanketed London. Coal accounted for about 40% of the country's electricity generation just a decade ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain to stop using coal-fired power in just three years

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday.

At a plenary meeting of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea on Thursday, Kim outlined his strategy for relations with Washington, and the "policy tendency of the newly emerged US administration", the Korean Central News Agency said.

Kim "stressed the need to get prepared for both dialogue and confrontation, especially to get fully prepared for confrontation to protect the dignity of our state" and reliably guarantee a "peaceful environment", KCNA reported. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denuclearisation-is-the-goal-biden-moon-express-willingness-for-dialogue-with-north-korea-386632">'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea</a>

The North Korean leader "called for sharply and promptly reacting to and coping with the fast-changing situation and concentrating efforts on taking stable control of the situation on the Korean peninsula", the agency said.

Pyongyang had already accused Biden of pursuing a "hostile policy" and saying it was a "big blunder" for the veteran Democrat to say he would deal with the threat posed by the North's nuclear programme "through diplomacy as well as stern deterrence". 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-accuses-the-us-of-using-spurious-diplomacy-to-cover-up-hostile-acts-382073">North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts'</a>

In 2019, the North said Biden should be "beaten to death with a stick".

"Calibrated" approach

Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made headlines -- but little diplomatic progress -- with a series of face-to-face meetings with Kim, a policy that Biden says he will not pursue unless the terms change dramatically.

During a visit to Washington last month by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Biden said he "would not meet" Kim unless there was a concrete plan for negotiating on Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal.

And he made a clear criticism of Trump's chummy relationship with Kim, saying he "would not do what had been done in the recent past. I would not give him all he's looking for — international recognition".

The White House says it is now pursuing "a calibrated practical approach" -- diplomatic jargon, it seems, for being realistically low-key, while open-minded.

"We understand where previous efforts in the past had difficulties and we've tried to learn from those," a senior White House official said.

North Korea has carried out six atomic bomb tests since 2006. It is under multiple sets of international sanctions for its banned weapons programmes.

A report from US intelligence experts released in April said North Korea could resume nuclear tests this year as a way to force Biden's administration to return to the negotiating table.

Kim "may take several aggressive and potentially destabilising actions to reshape the regional security environment and drive wedges between the United States and its allies -- up to and including the resumption of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) testing," said the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said his country needs to prepare for "both dialogue and confrontation" with the United States under President Joe Biden, state media reported Friday. At a plenary meeting of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea on Thursday, Kim outlined his strategy for relations with Washington, and the "policy tendency of the newly emerged US administration", the Korean Central News Agency said. Kim "stressed the need to get prepared for both dialogue and confrontation, especially to get fully prepared for confrontation to protect the dignity of our state" and reliably guarantee a "peaceful environment", KCNA reported. Also read | 'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea The North Korean leader "called for sharply and promptly reacting to and coping with the fast-changing situation and concentrating efforts on taking stable control of the situation on the Korean peninsula", the agency said. Pyongyang had already accused Biden of pursuing a "hostile policy" and saying it was a "big blunder" for the veteran Democrat to say he would deal with the threat posed by the North's nuclear programme "through diplomacy as well as stern deterrence". Also read | North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts' In 2019, the North said Biden should be "beaten to death with a stick". "Calibrated" approach Biden's predecessor Donald Trump made headlines -- but little diplomatic progress -- with a series of face-to-face meetings with Kim, a policy that Biden says he will not pursue unless the terms change dramatically. During a visit to Washington last month by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Biden said he "would not meet" Kim unless there was a concrete plan for negotiating on Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal. And he made a clear criticism of Trump's chummy relationship with Kim, saying he "would not do what had been done in the recent past. I would not give him all he's looking for — international recognition". The White House says it is now pursuing "a calibrated practical approach" -- diplomatic jargon, it seems, for being realistically low-key, while open-minded. "We understand where previous efforts in the past had difficulties and we've tried to learn from those," a senior White House official said. North Korea has carried out six atomic bomb tests since 2006. It is under multiple sets of international sanctions for its banned weapons programmes. A report from US intelligence experts released in April said North Korea could resume nuclear tests this year as a way to force Biden's administration to return to the negotiating table. Kim "may take several aggressive and potentially destabilising actions to reshape the regional security environment and drive wedges between the United States and its allies -- up to and including the resumption of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) testing," said the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

North Korea must prepare for 'dialogue and confrontation' with the US: Kim Jong Un

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chaired a Central Military Commission meeting, state media KCNA said on Saturday, where he called for boosting military power, but KCNA did not have details of any military activities planned. 
 
The meeting on Friday called for a 'high-alert posture' against the 'recent fast-changing' situation on the Korean Peninsula, said KCNA, adding that it also addressed organisational issue of dismissing, transferring and newly appointing some military officers. 
 
Kim discussed 'important tasks' to make 'a fresh turn in the overall work of national defence',&nbsp;KCNA said without elaborating on details. 
 
North Korea's plenary meeting of the ruling party's Central Committee is planned for later in June.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chaired a Central Military Commission meeting, state media KCNA said on Saturday, where he called for boosting military power, but KCNA did not have details of any military activities planned.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un chaired a Central Military Commission meeting, state media KCNA said on Saturday, where he called for boosting military power, but KCNA did not have details of any military activities planned. The meeting on Friday called for a 'high-alert posture' against the 'recent fast-changing' situation on the Korean Peninsula, said KCNA, adding that it also addressed organisational issue of dismissing, transferring and newly appointing some military officers. Kim discussed 'important tasks' to make 'a fresh turn in the overall work of national defence', KCNA said without elaborating on details. North Korea's plenary meeting of the ruling party's Central Committee is planned for later in June.

North Korea's Kim calls for boosting military power: KCNA

Syrian President Bashar Assad vowed to defeat his enemies no matter how many battles he faces, saying on Friday, he feels empowered after being re-elected for a fourth seven-year term.&nbsp;

Assad was elected in a predictable landslide on Thursday. The presidential vote was described as illegitimate and a sham by the West and his opponents.&nbsp;

In a nine-minute televised victory speech, Assad said the public had challenged enemies of Syria, and those questioning the election's legitimacy by turning out in large numbers to vote for him, calling it a 'fighting spirit'.&nbsp;

"People choosing me to serve for the next constitutional period is a great honour for me," a bespectacled Assad said. "I am certain that with this fighting spirit, we will be able to defeat all our enemies no matter how many the battles are or how hard the road is."&nbsp;

Syria's parliament speaker, Hammoud Sabbagh, announced the final results late on Thursday, saying Assad garnered 95.1% of the vote. He said turnout stood at 78.6%, in an election that lasted for 17 hours on Wednesday with no independent monitors.&nbsp;

Syria observers said the official number of participants in the vote 'over 14 million' appeared to exceed the number of Syrians living in government-held areas.&nbsp;

In a country ravaged by a 10-year-old conflict, areas controlled by rebels or Kurdish-led troops did not hold the vote. At least 8 million people, mostly displaced, live in those areas in northwest and northeast Syria. Over 5 million refugees 'mostly living in neighbouring countries' have largely refrained from casting their ballots. Syria's pre-war population stood at 23 million.&nbsp;

Assad's victory comes as the country is still devastated by the conflict. Fighting has subsided but the war is not over. An economic crisis is worsening and over 80% of the population lives below the poverty line, while the local currency is in a free fall.&nbsp;

Assad, close associates and government officials are facing widening Western sanctions, added to already existing ones that have escalated as the war unfolded. European and US governments blame Assad and his aides for most of the war's atrocities.&nbsp;

For the third straight day, there were celebrations on Friday in Damascus in rallies that appeared to be organised. They featured demonstrators raising Syrian flags and pictures of Assad, chanting: 'God, Syria, and Bashar only’. They rallied on election day, after the results, and on Friday before Assad's speech.&nbsp;

The election is likely to offer little change to conditions in Syria. While Assad and his allies 'Russia and Iran' may be seeking a new seal of legitimacy for a president in office since 2000, his re-election is likely to deepen the rift with the West, driving him closer to Russian and Iranian backers as well as China. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Syrian President Bashar Assad vowed to defeat his enemies no matter how many battles he faces, saying on Friday, he feels empowered after being re-elected for a fourth seven-year term.

Syrian President Bashar Assad vowed to defeat his enemies no matter how many battles he faces, saying on Friday, he feels empowered after being re-elected for a fourth seven-year term. Assad was elected in a predictable landslide on Thursday. The presidential vote was described as illegitimate and a sham by the West and his opponents. In a nine-minute televised victory speech, Assad said the public had challenged enemies of Syria, and those questioning the election's legitimacy by turning out in large numbers to vote for him, calling it a 'fighting spirit'. "People choosing me to serve for the next constitutional period is a great honour for me," a bespectacled Assad said. "I am certain that with this fighting spirit, we will be able to defeat all our enemies no matter how many the battles are or how hard the road is." Syria's parliament speaker, Hammoud Sabbagh, announced the final results late on Thursday, saying Assad garnered 95.1% of the vote. He said turnout stood at 78.6%, in an election that lasted for 17 hours on Wednesday with no independent monitors. Syria observers said the official number of participants in the vote 'over 14 million' appeared to exceed the number of Syrians living in government-held areas. In a country ravaged by a 10-year-old conflict, areas controlled by rebels or Kurdish-led troops did not hold the vote. At least 8 million people, mostly displaced, live in those areas in northwest and northeast Syria. Over 5 million refugees 'mostly living in neighbouring countries' have largely refrained from casting their ballots. Syria's pre-war population stood at 23 million. Assad's victory comes as the country is still devastated by the conflict. Fighting has subsided but the war is not over. An economic crisis is worsening and over 80% of the population lives below the poverty line, while the local currency is in a free fall. Assad, close associates and government officials are facing widening Western sanctions, added to already existing ones that have escalated as the war unfolded. European and US governments blame Assad and his aides for most of the war's atrocities. For the third straight day, there were celebrations on Friday in Damascus in rallies that appeared to be organised. They featured demonstrators raising Syrian flags and pictures of Assad, chanting: 'God, Syria, and Bashar only’. They rallied on election day, after the results, and on Friday before Assad's speech. The election is likely to offer little change to conditions in Syria. While Assad and his allies 'Russia and Iran' may be seeking a new seal of legitimacy for a president in office since 2000, his re-election is likely to deepen the rift with the West, driving him closer to Russian and Iranian backers as well as China. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria's Assad says reelection empowers him to defeat enemies 

Samoa's Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said on Monday he would remain in office, despite an order by the country's Supreme Court that lawmakers sit to appoint a new leader.&nbsp;

Samoa's Supreme Court last week overruled an attempt by the head of state Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II to void April's election results, which ended Tuilaepa’s grip on power.&nbsp;

Opposition leader Fiame Naomi Mataafa was set to become Samoa's first female prime minister following the election.&nbsp;

Fiame has pledged to cancel a $100 million Chinese-backed port development, calling it excessive for the small Pacific island that is already heavily indebted to China.&nbsp;

China’s growing reach in the South Pacific is unsettling for the United States and its allies, who have been the dominant powers in the Pacific since World War Two.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on the weekend ordered parliament to sit on Monday to appoint a new prime minister, but head of state Tuimalealiifano cancelled the session and Tuilaepa said he would stay in office.&nbsp;

"We remain in this role and operate business as usual," Tuilaepa told reporters in the capital Apia.&nbsp;

"There is one Head of State, he has the power to Convene Parliament, and only him."&nbsp;

Supporters of the opposition parties gathered outside parliament on Monday singing songs from Samoa's independence movement more than 50 years ago, reported local media.&nbsp;

With no sign that the stand-off would end soon, Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne urged calm.&nbsp;

"It is important that all parties respect the rule of law and democratic processes. We have faith in Samoa’s institutions including the judiciary," Payne tweeted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Samoa's Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said on Monday he would remain in office, despite an order by the country's Supreme Court that lawmakers sit to appoint a new leader.

Samoa's Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said on Monday he would remain in office, despite an order by the country's Supreme Court that lawmakers sit to appoint a new leader. Samoa's Supreme Court last week overruled an attempt by the head of state Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II to void April's election results, which ended Tuilaepa’s grip on power. Opposition leader Fiame Naomi Mataafa was set to become Samoa's first female prime minister following the election. Fiame has pledged to cancel a $100 million Chinese-backed port development, calling it excessive for the small Pacific island that is already heavily indebted to China. China’s growing reach in the South Pacific is unsettling for the United States and its allies, who have been the dominant powers in the Pacific since World War Two. The Supreme Court on the weekend ordered parliament to sit on Monday to appoint a new prime minister, but head of state Tuimalealiifano cancelled the session and Tuilaepa said he would stay in office. "We remain in this role and operate business as usual," Tuilaepa told reporters in the capital Apia. "There is one Head of State, he has the power to Convene Parliament, and only him." Supporters of the opposition parties gathered outside parliament on Monday singing songs from Samoa's independence movement more than 50 years ago, reported local media. With no sign that the stand-off would end soon, Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne urged calm. "It is important that all parties respect the rule of law and democratic processes. We have faith in Samoa’s institutions including the judiciary," Payne tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Ousted Samoa PM refuses to cede power, despite election loss 

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he will sign a decree allowing the transfer of presidential power to the security council if he were to become unable to perform his duties, the state Belta news agency reported on Saturday.&nbsp;

"Tell me, if there is no president tomorrow, would you guarantee everything is going to be fine? No," he told reporters during a visit to areas affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in April 1986, according to Belta.&nbsp;

"I will sign a decree about how the power in Belarus will be set up. If the president is shot, the next day the security council will get the power," Lukashenko said.&nbsp;

According to the current procedure, if the president's position becomes vacant, or he is unable to fulfill his duties, his power is transferred to the prime minister until a new president takes oath.&nbsp;

The prime minister would head the security council if the president is absent, Lukashenko added.&nbsp;

Lukashenko, 66, who has ruled Belarus since 1994, has faced street protests following a presidential election in August 2020. He said he would only step down if there was no protests or revolutionary activities in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he will sign a decree allowing the transfer of presidential power to the security council if he were to become unable to perform his duties, the state Belta news agency reported on Saturday.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he will sign a decree allowing the transfer of presidential power to the security council if he were to become unable to perform his duties, the state Belta news agency reported on Saturday. "Tell me, if there is no president tomorrow, would you guarantee everything is going to be fine? No," he told reporters during a visit to areas affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in April 1986, according to Belta. "I will sign a decree about how the power in Belarus will be set up. If the president is shot, the next day the security council will get the power," Lukashenko said. According to the current procedure, if the president's position becomes vacant, or he is unable to fulfill his duties, his power is transferred to the prime minister until a new president takes oath. The prime minister would head the security council if the president is absent, Lukashenko added. Lukashenko, 66, who has ruled Belarus since 1994, has faced street protests following a presidential election in August 2020. He said he would only step down if there was no protests or revolutionary activities in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Lukashenko to amend emergency transfer of presidential power: Report 

India's annual electricity use fell for the first time in at least 35 years during the fiscal year to end-March 2021, a Reuters analysis of government data showed, mainly due to intense lockdowns to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

India's power generation fell 0.2% during the year 2020/21 compared with the previous year, the data showed, mainly due to the imposition of lockdowns that resulted in a decline in electricity production for six straight months ending in August.

Demand for electricity has picked up since, however, and a generation grew 23.3% in March from a year earlier, the seventh consecutive monthly increase and the fastest since March 2010.

India's annual electricity use fell for the first time in at least 35 years during the fiscal year to end-March 2021, a Reuters analysis of government data showed, mainly due to intense lockdowns to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

India's annual electricity use fell for the first time in at least 35 years during the fiscal year to end-March 2021, a Reuters analysis of government data showed, mainly due to intense lockdowns to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. India's power generation fell 0.2% during the year 2020/21 compared with the previous year, the data showed, mainly due to the imposition of lockdowns that resulted in a decline in electricity production for six straight months ending in August. Demand for electricity has picked up since, however, and a generation grew 23.3% in March from a year earlier, the seventh consecutive monthly increase and the fastest since March 2010.

India's annual electricity use down for the first time in at least 35 years

For 60 years, Myanmar has been ruled by the military. Six decades marked by crackdowns and suppression of dissent, the military has been responsible for Myanmar's woes in the past.&nbsp;

Take the Rohingya crisis, for instance, the United Nations has described them as the world's most persecuted minority. More Than 740,000 Rohingya have fled the country since 2017. Their persecutors were the military, the same military that has now grabbed power in Myanmar.&nbsp;

The allegations against them are serious. The Myanmar military burned down villages, massacred thousands and raped hundreds of Rohingya women.&nbsp;

All of this has been recorded in testimonies by survivors. They describe the soldiers as ruthless plunderers. It is easy to blame the foot soldiers for these crimes but it was the senior commanders, who gave the orders. Brigadiers and generals have wanted villages burnt and mass graves dug. The army has sanctioned a genocide. This is the power of the Myanmar army that even the civilian government backed them. Remember, Aung Saan Su Kyi's defence at the international court.&nbsp;

It was her effort to defend the military to earn their goodwill but the army seems unwilling to reciprocate. They have ousted Suu Kyi and charged her with multiple crimes. It is a lesson for leaders around the world, military regimes have their own interests and public interest rarely features in it.&nbsp;

The military transferred power to civilians in 2011 but they never actually gave up their powers. The Myanmar military is the second largest standing army in the region after Vietnam. The constitution grants them seats in the parliament and a quarter of the budget is dedicated to their expenses. &nbsp;

Politically and economically, they're a force to reckon with and we're seeing evidence of it right now. Massive protests and anti-coup demonstrations but the military is unmoved. The protests continue and so does the crackdown. The military's brutal clamp down has triggered another exodus. This time, across the border to India. Protesters are fleeing the ruthless security forces.&nbsp;

They are escaping illegal detention. This includes cops, who are unwilling to carry out the junta's orders. They say, they were asked to beat, arrest and torture the anti-coup protesters. This has put neighbouring countries including India in a spot. They are being forced to welcome refugees in the middle of a pandemic. The world response has been limited to statements and sanctions. Both of which have proven ineffective so far.&nbsp;

The United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions. They are targeting the junta leader and his family but sanctions aren't new for Myanmar's military. Most of their leaders were sanctioned during the Rohingya crackdown. This may have nudged them towards partial reforms but they continued to hold an iron grip over the country. &nbsp;

So, what are the army's motives? Why do they continue to sabotage civilian governments? Here's the first thing you need to know about Myanmar's military. They have strong views on religion, politics and economy.&nbsp;

The army is dominated by Burmese speaking Buddhists. They advocate majoritarian nationalism. This explains the ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims and senior officers double up as businessmen.&nbsp;

They own stakes in lucrative ventures and have used their political power to fill their pockets. A civilian government could possibly investigate these discrepancies. So, the army never let go of control. There's a reason most countries opt for division of powers. There's a reason, they keep armies under civilian control. At the end of the day, it's about culture. &nbsp;

Once the army gets a taste of political and economic power, they refuse to let go. We've seen this in Pakistan over the years, Myanmar is no different. As they say, a thinking soldier is an asset and a plotting soldier is a threat.&nbsp;

For 60 years, Myanmar has been ruled by the military. Six decades marked by crackdowns and suppression of dissent, the military has been responsible for Myanmar's woes in the past.

For 60 years, Myanmar has been ruled by the military. Six decades marked by crackdowns and suppression of dissent, the military has been responsible for Myanmar's woes in the past. Take the Rohingya crisis, for instance, the United Nations has described them as the world's most persecuted minority. More Than 740,000 Rohingya have fled the country since 2017. Their persecutors were the military, the same military that has now grabbed power in Myanmar. The allegations against them are serious. The Myanmar military burned down villages, massacred thousands and raped hundreds of Rohingya women. All of this has been recorded in testimonies by survivors. They describe the soldiers as ruthless plunderers. It is easy to blame the foot soldiers for these crimes but it was the senior commanders, who gave the orders. Brigadiers and generals have wanted villages burnt and mass graves dug. The army has sanctioned a genocide. This is the power of the Myanmar army that even the civilian government backed them. Remember, Aung Saan Su Kyi's defence at the international court. It was her effort to defend the military to earn their goodwill but the army seems unwilling to reciprocate. They have ousted Suu Kyi and charged her with multiple crimes. It is a lesson for leaders around the world, military regimes have their own interests and public interest rarely features in it. The military transferred power to civilians in 2011 but they never actually gave up their powers. The Myanmar military is the second largest standing army in the region after Vietnam. The constitution grants them seats in the parliament and a quarter of the budget is dedicated to their expenses. Politically and economically, they're a force to reckon with and we're seeing evidence of it right now. Massive protests and anti-coup demonstrations but the military is unmoved. The protests continue and so does the crackdown. The military's brutal clamp down has triggered another exodus. This time, across the border to India. Protesters are fleeing the ruthless security forces. They are escaping illegal detention. This includes cops, who are unwilling to carry out the junta's orders. They say, they were asked to beat, arrest and torture the anti-coup protesters. This has put neighbouring countries including India in a spot. They are being forced to welcome refugees in the middle of a pandemic. The world response has been limited to statements and sanctions. Both of which have proven ineffective so far. The United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions. They are targeting the junta leader and his family but sanctions aren't new for Myanmar's military. Most of their leaders were sanctioned during the Rohingya crackdown. This may have nudged them towards partial reforms but they continued to hold an iron grip over the country. So, what are the army's motives? Why do they continue to sabotage civilian governments? Here's the first thing you need to know about Myanmar's military. They have strong views on religion, politics and economy. The army is dominated by Burmese speaking Buddhists. They advocate majoritarian nationalism. This explains the ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims and senior officers double up as businessmen. They own stakes in lucrative ventures and have used their political power to fill their pockets. A civilian government could possibly investigate these discrepancies. So, the army never let go of control. There's a reason most countries opt for division of powers. There's a reason, they keep armies under civilian control. At the end of the day, it's about culture. Once the army gets a taste of political and economic power, they refuse to let go. We've seen this in Pakistan over the years, Myanmar is no different. As they say, a thinking soldier is an asset and a plotting soldier is a threat.

Myanmar military and its love for power 

As NASA aims to land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, the agency is looking to the US universities for lunar-focused research to bring about advancements in onsite resource utilisation and sustainable power solutions.&nbsp;

The US space agency on Monday said that it has selected six project proposals under its first-ever Lunar Surface Technology Research (LuSTR) solicitation.&nbsp;

"Our inaugural LuSTR opportunity targeted two technology areas within NASA's Lunar Surface Innovation Initiative that are essential to the agency's Artemis programme, which will land the first woman and next man on the Moon," Walt Engelund, Deputy Associate Administrator for programmes in NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The systems developed by the US universities could make future exploration more accessible, robust, and exciting."&nbsp;

Through LuSTR, NASA selected three university-led proposals to research innovative ways to identify resources, like water, on the Moon, and inventive designs for extraction and utilisation equipment.&nbsp;

The University of Texas in El Paso will research an advanced thermal mining approach that could release, trap, and transport water vapour found on the Moon, NASA said.&nbsp;

Washington University in St Louis will build a rover-mounted drill to quantify the 3D distribution of water at the Moon's South Pole.&nbsp;

Michigan Technological University in Houghton will adapt a heated percussive cone penetrometer, an engineering instrument regularly used on Earth, to characterise the strength of lunar soil, or regolith.&nbsp;

Understanding a lunar region's regolith strength could inform methods of excavating water and building structures using local materials.&nbsp;

Complementing this research, three other university teams will mature next-generation energy storage and power distribution technologies.&nbsp;

The projects could help power in-situ resource utilisation operations and other robust infrastructure on the Moon.&nbsp;

The University of California in Santa Barbara will research wireless power transfer feasibility from a base station to multiple distant assets on the Moon.&nbsp;

Vanderbilt University in Nashville will look into using silicon carbide power components for lunar surface applications.&nbsp;

The Ohio State University in Columbus will explore flexible energy distribution between multiple, different power grids, that may use solar, radioisotope, and battery sources, that could be deployed on the lunar surface to support the Artemis programme, NASA said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

As NASA aims to land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, the agency is looking to the US universities for lunar-focused research to bring about advancements in onsite resource utilisation and sustainable power solutions.

As NASA aims to land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, the agency is looking to the US universities for lunar-focused research to bring about advancements in onsite resource utilisation and sustainable power solutions. The US space agency on Monday said that it has selected six project proposals under its first-ever Lunar Surface Technology Research (LuSTR) solicitation. "Our inaugural LuSTR opportunity targeted two technology areas within NASA's Lunar Surface Innovation Initiative that are essential to the agency's Artemis programme, which will land the first woman and next man on the Moon," Walt Engelund, Deputy Associate Administrator for programmes in NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) said in a statement. "The systems developed by the US universities could make future exploration more accessible, robust, and exciting." Through LuSTR, NASA selected three university-led proposals to research innovative ways to identify resources, like water, on the Moon, and inventive designs for extraction and utilisation equipment. The University of Texas in El Paso will research an advanced thermal mining approach that could release, trap, and transport water vapour found on the Moon, NASA said. Washington University in St Louis will build a rover-mounted drill to quantify the 3D distribution of water at the Moon's South Pole. Michigan Technological University in Houghton will adapt a heated percussive cone penetrometer, an engineering instrument regularly used on Earth, to characterise the strength of lunar soil, or regolith. Understanding a lunar region's regolith strength could inform methods of excavating water and building structures using local materials. Complementing this research, three other university teams will mature next-generation energy storage and power distribution technologies. The projects could help power in-situ resource utilisation operations and other robust infrastructure on the Moon. The University of California in Santa Barbara will research wireless power transfer feasibility from a base station to multiple distant assets on the Moon. Vanderbilt University in Nashville will look into using silicon carbide power components for lunar surface applications. The Ohio State University in Columbus will explore flexible energy distribution between multiple, different power grids, that may use solar, radioisotope, and battery sources, that could be deployed on the lunar surface to support the Artemis programme, NASA said. (With inputs from agencies)

US varsities to develop lunar power tech for NASA 

The unchecked power of tech giants poses a threat not just to users and governments but also to small businesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A statement by Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that Apple buys a new company every month. While the acquisition strategy is aimed at offering better services, the tech giants are killing competition by making one sale at a time.&nbsp;

The most important question is that is it time to break up the big tech?&nbsp;

Turi Inc was once a promising artificial intelligence startup in Seattle. The company helped create software that uses machine learning. Its technology was so promising that Apple bought the company, paying a record $200 million for it. It's one of the many companies that Apple has acquired over the last few years. Buying companies is not new for tech giants but at the speed at which, they are buying competitors is alarming.&nbsp;

Apple chief Tim Cook revealed that they have acquired over 100 companies in nearly six years. It means they are buying one company every three to four weeks. It includes the $3 billion takeover of headphone maker Beats and $400 million takeover of music recognition app Shazam.&nbsp;

Apple isn't the only one. Remember when Facebook was threatened by Instagram? It ended up acquiring the company in 2012. The story was similar for Whatsapp. It posed a challenge, so Facebook bought it too in 2014.&nbsp;

Big tech giants are on an acquisition spree. Many acquisitions never even make it to the headlines. The idea is simple to eliminate potential rivals, kill innovation and poach talent from smaller companies.&nbsp;

At the centre of this is big tech monopoly. The last two decades have witnessed the rise of five major global tech giants - Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft. Today, these tech giants wield too much power. Each of them is monopolistic in their own domain.&nbsp;

They exercise enormous power over our digital lives, controlling the way we navigate through the web, etc. Some are even trying to manipulate the way democracies are run. Others have taken privacy of users for granted. &nbsp;The way to restore the power balance is to break up big tech. Current US anti-trust laws allow federal regulators to break up mergers, a move that could promote healthy competition in the market for global regulators, breaking up monopolies needs a new legal toolbox. Either way, the idea is to level the playing field and protect the future of the internet.&nbsp;

The unchecked power of tech giants poses a threat not just to users and governments but also to small businesses. A statement by Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that Apple buys a new company every month.

The unchecked power of tech giants poses a threat not just to users and governments but also to small businesses. A statement by Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that Apple buys a new company every month. While the acquisition strategy is aimed at offering better services, the tech giants are killing competition by making one sale at a time. The most important question is that is it time to break up the big tech? Turi Inc was once a promising artificial intelligence startup in Seattle. The company helped create software that uses machine learning. Its technology was so promising that Apple bought the company, paying a record $200 million for it. It's one of the many companies that Apple has acquired over the last few years. Buying companies is not new for tech giants but at the speed at which, they are buying competitors is alarming. Apple chief Tim Cook revealed that they have acquired over 100 companies in nearly six years. It means they are buying one company every three to four weeks. It includes the $3 billion takeover of headphone maker Beats and $400 million takeover of music recognition app Shazam. Apple isn't the only one. Remember when Facebook was threatened by Instagram? It ended up acquiring the company in 2012. The story was similar for Whatsapp. It posed a challenge, so Facebook bought it too in 2014. Big tech giants are on an acquisition spree. Many acquisitions never even make it to the headlines. The idea is simple to eliminate potential rivals, kill innovation and poach talent from smaller companies. At the centre of this is big tech monopoly. The last two decades have witnessed the rise of five major global tech giants - Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft. Today, these tech giants wield too much power. Each of them is monopolistic in their own domain. They exercise enormous power over our digital lives, controlling the way we navigate through the web, etc. Some are even trying to manipulate the way democracies are run. Others have taken privacy of users for granted. The way to restore the power balance is to break up big tech. Current US anti-trust laws allow federal regulators to break up mergers, a move that could promote healthy competition in the market for global regulators, breaking up monopolies needs a new legal toolbox. Either way, the idea is to level the playing field and protect the future of the internet.

Break up mergers to check tech giants’ growing power  

In older times, small children climbing trees was a popular scene, but it caused no harm to anyone. Turns out, some people like to do that in their adulthood too, but with a twist.

A man in China has been detained by the local police after he was spotted climbing. The difference is this time it as a utility pole.

The unnamed man scaled a utility pole to do sit-ups off the top of it which then led to an interesting scene but an extended power-cut on the outskirts of the city of Chengdu, local media reported.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/party-over-chinese-users-of-clubhouse-app-say-experiencing-internet-access-disruptions-362362" hreflang="en">'Party over': Chinese users of Clubhouse app say experiencing internet access disruptions</a>

A video, published by local media on a social media platform (Weibo) shows the man suspended himself about 10 metres (30 feet) in the air and was busy doing stomach crunches off the top of the pole.

"The local power company initiated an emergency power cut... affecting tens of thousands of households," the People's Daily said.

When the news spread, emergency services and medical personnel were rushed to the scene.

This did not go well with local police who then took the man with them for interrogation about his intentions.

As of now, it is not yet clear that why did the man decide to exercise from the top of a utility pole, but the local authorities have warned people against copying any such acts.

In older times, small children climbing trees was a popular scene, but it caused no harm to anyone. Turns out, some people like to do that in their adulthood too, but with a twist.

In older times, small children climbing trees was a popular scene, but it caused no harm to anyone. Turns out, some people like to do that in their adulthood too, but with a twist. A man in China has been detained by the local police after he was spotted climbing. The difference is this time it as a utility pole. The unnamed man scaled a utility pole to do sit-ups off the top of it which then led to an interesting scene but an extended power-cut on the outskirts of the city of Chengdu, local media reported. Also read| 'Party over': Chinese users of Clubhouse app say experiencing internet access disruptions A video, published by local media on a social media platform (Weibo) shows the man suspended himself about 10 metres (30 feet) in the air and was busy doing stomach crunches off the top of the pole. "The local power company initiated an emergency power cut... affecting tens of thousands of households," the People's Daily said. When the news spread, emergency services and medical personnel were rushed to the scene. This did not go well with local police who then took the man with them for interrogation about his intentions. As of now, it is not yet clear that why did the man decide to exercise from the top of a utility pole, but the local authorities have warned people against copying any such acts.

Chinese man climbs electricity pole; causes power outage

Facebook began 16 years ago from a dorm-room at Harvard to connect college students. It has evolved into the biggest social media network in the world. &nbsp;

Facebook has driven revolutions but it has also fuelled anarchy, unrest and election fraud. And each time, it has gotten away with it. &nbsp;

Let’s explore the reasons why. &nbsp;

It started as a website for poking acquaintances and has now become one of the most powerful engines of communication in the world.&nbsp;

22% of the global population is on Facebook. Out of this, 1.85 billion are daily active users and 2.8 billion are monthly active users. &nbsp;

Facebook is the third-most visited website in the world and the fourth-most valuable brand in the world. It operates in over 190 countries and 111 different languages. &nbsp;

WATCH|

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-who-checks-facebooks-biases-364926/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If Facebook were a country, it would be substantially bigger than China. And this tech giant is by all means more powerful than most countries. &nbsp;

Some biggest revolutions in the world have gained strength because of Facebook. &nbsp;

The Arab spring in West Asia, Euro-maidan revolution in Ukraine and even the ongoing protests in Myanmar, Facebook has also helped politicians seize power. In the 2016 US elections, the Trump campaign sent out 50,000 different messages in a day. Tweaking each one depending on how people reacted. The rest is history. Andrew Bosworth, a close friend of Mark Zuckerberg, once claimed that the company was responsible for Trump getting elected. &nbsp;

The Cambridge Analytica scandal served as a reminder of Facebook's power. The data of at least 87 million Facebook users was harvested without consent and then used to influence their voting behaviour. Now, Facebook has banned news in Australia. &nbsp;

Yet another reminder of its power and monopoly but how does this tech giant get away with such scandals &amp; misuse of power? &nbsp;

Much of it has do to with how the internet works. It is not controlled by anyone. There are not many consequences for the decisions of tech giants. No concrete punitive action in case of blunders, no accountability for their decisions and no system of keeping a check on their political biases. &nbsp;

In the last few years, Facebook along with Twitter and Google has been subjected to several grillings by the US Congress over its unchecked power. Each time, American lawmakers promised to restrict the power of Facebook but there has been little action.&nbsp;

Facebook began 16 years ago from a dorm-room at Harvard to connect college students. It has evolved into the biggest social media network in the world. Facebook has driven revolutions but it has also fuelled anarchy, unrest and election fraud.

Facebook began 16 years ago from a dorm-room at Harvard to connect college students. It has evolved into the biggest social media network in the world. Facebook has driven revolutions but it has also fuelled anarchy, unrest and election fraud. And each time, it has gotten away with it. Let’s explore the reasons why. It started as a website for poking acquaintances and has now become one of the most powerful engines of communication in the world. 22% of the global population is on Facebook. Out of this, 1.85 billion are daily active users and 2.8 billion are monthly active users. Facebook is the third-most visited website in the world and the fourth-most valuable brand in the world. It operates in over 190 countries and 111 different languages. WATCH| If Facebook were a country, it would be substantially bigger than China. And this tech giant is by all means more powerful than most countries. Some biggest revolutions in the world have gained strength because of Facebook. The Arab spring in West Asia, Euro-maidan revolution in Ukraine and even the ongoing protests in Myanmar, Facebook has also helped politicians seize power. In the 2016 US elections, the Trump campaign sent out 50,000 different messages in a day. Tweaking each one depending on how people reacted. The rest is history. Andrew Bosworth, a close friend of Mark Zuckerberg, once claimed that the company was responsible for Trump getting elected. The Cambridge Analytica scandal served as a reminder of Facebook's power. The data of at least 87 million Facebook users was harvested without consent and then used to influence their voting behaviour. Now, Facebook has banned news in Australia. Yet another reminder of its power and monopoly but how does this tech giant get away with such scandals & misuse of power? Much of it has do to with how the internet works. It is not controlled by anyone. There are not many consequences for the decisions of tech giants. No concrete punitive action in case of blunders, no accountability for their decisions and no system of keeping a check on their political biases. In the last few years, Facebook along with Twitter and Google has been subjected to several grillings by the US Congress over its unchecked power. Each time, American lawmakers promised to restrict the power of Facebook but there has been little action.

The real power of Facebook

India`s power ministry proposes letting coal-fired power plants keep selling power after completing their agreements with buyers, a letter seen by Reuters shows, despite national promises to close old plants to curb pollution.

The proposal, if approved, would help old coal plants earn additional revenue, increase liquidity in short-term power markets and help distribution companies in states facing a power deficit access cheaper power, the ministry said in the draft proposal dated Friday.

"It is in the consumer interest to keep the tariff of electricity as low as possible," says the letter sent to power departments of India`s states and the heads of federal government-run utilities such as NTPC Ltd.

Such a move would enable federal-run electricity generators such as NTPC "to sell power in any mode" after distribution companies exit an agreement upon the completion of the tenure, the ministry said.

Power Minister R.K. Singh and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman have previously said they plan to shut old coal-fired power plants. The environment ministry has also pushed for shutting down coal plants, which account for 80% of India`s industrial pollution, if they do not comply with green laws.

The outcome remains unclear. The power ministry has sought comments from the states and the heads of federal government-run power generators. A final decision on the proposal is not imminent.

A senior power ministry official said on Sunday only inefficient plants would be shut down.

"Cost-effective utilities that provide cheap power will still be allowed to operate. Small, inefficient plants will be shut down," the official said.

Distribution companies operated by states such as Punjab, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha want to surrender power allocated by federal government-run utilities after the plants complete 25 years, the power ministry said.

The states cited reasons such as the availability of excess power and high cost of electricity as reasons for surrendering power allotted to them under the agreements.

A list compiled by the power ministry in 2019 shows distribution companies wanted to surrender power generated from utilities with a capacity of 5.75 gigawatts.

India`s power ministry proposes letting coal-fired power plants keep selling power after completing their agreements with buyers, a letter seen by Reuters shows, despite national promises to close old plants to curb pollution.

India`s power ministry proposes letting coal-fired power plants keep selling power after completing their agreements with buyers, a letter seen by Reuters shows, despite national promises to close old plants to curb pollution. The proposal, if approved, would help old coal plants earn additional revenue, increase liquidity in short-term power markets and help distribution companies in states facing a power deficit access cheaper power, the ministry said in the draft proposal dated Friday. "It is in the consumer interest to keep the tariff of electricity as low as possible," says the letter sent to power departments of India`s states and the heads of federal government-run utilities such as NTPC Ltd. Such a move would enable federal-run electricity generators such as NTPC "to sell power in any mode" after distribution companies exit an agreement upon the completion of the tenure, the ministry said. Power Minister R.K. Singh and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman have previously said they plan to shut old coal-fired power plants. The environment ministry has also pushed for shutting down coal plants, which account for 80% of India`s industrial pollution, if they do not comply with green laws. The outcome remains unclear. The power ministry has sought comments from the states and the heads of federal government-run power generators. A final decision on the proposal is not imminent. A senior power ministry official said on Sunday only inefficient plants would be shut down. "Cost-effective utilities that provide cheap power will still be allowed to operate. Small, inefficient plants will be shut down," the official said. Distribution companies operated by states such as Punjab, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha want to surrender power allocated by federal government-run utilities after the plants complete 25 years, the power ministry said. The states cited reasons such as the availability of excess power and high cost of electricity as reasons for surrendering power allotted to them under the agreements. A list compiled by the power ministry in 2019 shows distribution companies wanted to surrender power generated from utilities with a capacity of 5.75 gigawatts.

India plans to allow relinquished coal-fired plants to sell power

India is ramping up infrastructure along Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. The efforts are on to improve facilities to tackle the menace of cross-border infiltration and terrorism. Some of the areas like Machil did not have electricity at all after independence. But now, government has made arrangements for 24 electricty. Soon, all villages in Machil Sector will get electricity.

Machil Sector falls under Kupwara District and has become the second sector after Keran to get round-thge-clock electricity for the first time after independence.

ALSO READ: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/jammu-and-kashmirs-biggest-yoga-centre-to-come-up-in-udhampur-322509">Jammu and Kashmir's biggest Yoga centre to come up in Udhampur</a>

Currently, 9 villages in Machil Sector have been provided electricty. But the government aims to cover all 20 villages in less than a month.

Prior to government's initiative, 20 villages in Machil Sector used to get electricity through diesel generators. But now the sector is being connected to electricity grid.

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The Himalayan terrain is understandably difficult for any construction activity. It is even a challenge to erect electricity poles. However, the government is taking all measures to ensure that the necessary structures are erected and electricity is made available to people.

Kupwada District Collector Anshul Garg decribed this as second milestone in a month.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Grid connected power for Macchil area on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LOC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LOC</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AspirationalDistrict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AspirationalDistrict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kupwara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kupwara</a> for first time ever; 2nd milestone in a month after Keran area; New era of development begins for over 25,000 people in 9 Panchayats that received only 3 hour power daily through DG sets; <a href="https://twitter.com/NITIAayog?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NITIAayog</a> <a href="https://t.co/se1WdVyPWs">pic.twitter.com/se1WdVyPWs</a>
— Anshul Garg (@hello_anshul) <a href="https://twitter.com/hello_anshul/status/1298623678649733121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Principal Secretary (Power) Rohit Kansal made a tweet in this regard as well

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thejourneycontinues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thejourneycontinues</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Promisefulfilled?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Promisefulfilled</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GridpowertoLoC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GridpowertoLoC</a> 
25,000 people in 9 panchayats of Machhil area in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AspirationalDistrict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AspirationalDistrict</a> Kupwara on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LoC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LoC</a> to now get grid power for the first time. Were earlier supplied limited power through DG sets@hello_anshul@manojsinha_@OfficeOfRKSingh <a href="https://t.co/eRoLVi0qBy">https://t.co/eRoLVi0qBy</a>
— Rohit Kansal (@kansalrohit69) <a href="https://twitter.com/kansalrohit69/status/1298669814957965315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

India is ramping up infrastructure along Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. The efforts are on to improve facilities to tackle the menace of cross-border infiltration and terrorism.

India is ramping up infrastructure along Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. The efforts are on to improve facilities to tackle the menace of cross-border infiltration and terrorism. Some of the areas like Machil did not have electricity at all after independence. But now, government has made arrangements for 24 electricty. Soon, all villages in Machil Sector will get electricity. Machil Sector falls under Kupwara District and has become the second sector after Keran to get round-thge-clock electricity for the first time after independence. ALSO READ: Jammu and Kashmir's biggest Yoga centre to come up in Udhampur Currently, 9 villages in Machil Sector have been provided electricty. But the government aims to cover all 20 villages in less than a month. Prior to government's initiative, 20 villages in Machil Sector used to get electricity through diesel generators. But now the sector is being connected to electricity grid. × The Himalayan terrain is understandably difficult for any construction activity. It is even a challenge to erect electricity poles. However, the government is taking all measures to ensure that the necessary structures are erected and electricity is made available to people. Kupwada District Collector Anshul Garg decribed this as second milestone in a month. Grid connected power for Macchil area on #LOC in #AspirationalDistrict #kupwara for first time ever; 2nd milestone in a month after Keran area; New era of development begins for over 25,000 people in 9 Panchayats that received only 3 hour power daily through DG sets; @NITIAayog pic.twitter.com/se1WdVyPWs — Anshul Garg (@hello_anshul) August 26, 2020 × Principal Secretary (Power) Rohit Kansal made a tweet in this regard as well #Thejourneycontinues#Promisefulfilled#GridpowertoLoC 25,000 people in 9 panchayats of Machhil area in #AspirationalDistrict Kupwara on the #LoC to now get grid power for the first time. Were earlier supplied limited power through DG sets@hello_anshul@manojsinha_@OfficeOfRKSingh https://t.co/eRoLVi0qBy — Rohit Kansal (@kansalrohit69) August 26, 2020 ×

Jammu and Kashmir: Machil Sector in Kupwara gets electricity 74 years after independence

Pakistan is planning to set up a commission to investigate suspected contract violations by independent power producers which may have cost the national exchequer billions of dollars.

Pakistan has a transmission power generation capacity of around 26,000MW, more than half of which comes from independent producers.

Successive Pakistani governments have pursued private sector investment in power production, offering lucrative returns backed by sovereign guarantees. But the current government of Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to look into the contracts after he was presented with a 278-page report by a government committee which outlined a number of alleged transgressions.

There are about 40 independent power producers and the report did not mention any by name. Company representatives have consistently rejected allegations of wrongdoing but did not immediately comment on the report.

Imran Khan ordered the report, which alleges that some independent power producers made billions of dollars in questionable deals, to be made public. Some of the private sector deals date back as far as 1994. Previous governments said the incentives were necessary to attract investors unwilling to put money into an uncertain Pakistani economy.

Pakistan's energy ministry held a meeting with independent power producers last week after some of the report's contents were leaked to the media, and a statement which followed said it was held to seek "their contribution in rationalization of tariffs".

Pakistan is planning to set up a commission to investigate suspected contract violations by independent power producers which may have cost the national exchequer billions of dollars.

Pakistan is planning to set up a commission to investigate suspected contract violations by independent power producers which may have cost the national exchequer billions of dollars. Pakistan has a transmission power generation capacity of around 26,000MW, more than half of which comes from independent producers. Successive Pakistani governments have pursued private sector investment in power production, offering lucrative returns backed by sovereign guarantees. But the current government of Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to look into the contracts after he was presented with a 278-page report by a government committee which outlined a number of alleged transgressions. There are about 40 independent power producers and the report did not mention any by name. Company representatives have consistently rejected allegations of wrongdoing but did not immediately comment on the report. Imran Khan ordered the report, which alleges that some independent power producers made billions of dollars in questionable deals, to be made public. Some of the private sector deals date back as far as 1994. Previous governments said the incentives were necessary to attract investors unwilling to put money into an uncertain Pakistani economy. Pakistan's energy ministry held a meeting with independent power producers last week after some of the report's contents were leaked to the media, and a statement which followed said it was held to seek "their contribution in rationalization of tariffs".

Pakistan to probe private power sector after allegations of wrongdoing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to switch off lights on April 5 at 9 PM IST created panic due to fear of failure in power grid nationwide. The power secretary has assured that there will be no blackouts, all appliances will run usual.

India: Power secretary assures 9-minute blackout will not harm power grid

"With great power comes great responsibility": a proverb popularised by the fictional superhero character Peter Parker who doubles as Spider-Man, takes on a twist in Indonesia by a 36-year-old citizen who is harnessing its "power" to encourage his countrymen to take responsibility for his city's problem with waste.

With great power comes great responsibility: Indonesian 'Spiderman' clears rubbish

Imran Khan Is Hiding Behind the Constitution As Calls Asking For His Resignation Get Louder.

Gravitas: Imran Khan Adamant At Staying In Power

In the search for clean electricity, power companies in Finland are going green by way of brown, and have set their sights on a previously untapped energy source: animal dung.&nbsp;

During this month's FEI World Cup showjumping qualifier at Helsinki International Horse Show, 100 tonnes of manure was loaded up and wheelbarrowed into two large containers before being carted away for incineration at the Järvenpää power plant.&nbsp;

The 150 megawatts of energy generated is enough to power the whole four-day show, with some left over to heat homes in the Finnish capital, according to energy company Fortum which launched its "Horse Power" initiative five years ago.&nbsp;

"There are so many horses in Finland and of course many more around the world, so it would be amazing if we could turn all that poo into energy," Fortum's Krista Hellgren told AFP.&nbsp;

The company claims that the manure produced daily by two horses can generate heat for a single family home for a year.&nbsp;

And just 200 millilitres' worth is enough to charge a phone.

Meanwhile, another power company has called for the public to send them their pets' doings.&nbsp;

Vantaan Energia's sticker and online campaign implores dog owners to "give poo a new life" by simply throwing it in the bin, from where it follows everyday refuse to a huge waste-to-energy incineration plant.&nbsp;

"It's not nice to step on it, it's much nicer to burn it and use it as a fuel for electricity and heat," the firm's production director Kalle Patomeri told AFP.

Though dog poo is still a tiny fraction of the 1,000 tonnes of household rubbish burnt every day, Patomeri says it helps produce efficient energy with limited emissions and leftover waste products.

As a result, Vantaan Energia hopes to be coal-free within just over two years.

The dung-to-energy drive has been welcomed by dog trainer Marianne Mayer who actively supports the cause. She says the 50 dogs on her client list produce "quite a lot" of poo every week, which may otherwise have been left on the forest floor or thrown into bio waste.

"Finally someone's doing something concrete about it, so you know it's going to be energy," she told AFP. "Since we need to have other energy than fossils, it's going to be really positive."

In the search for clean electricity, power companies in Finland are going green by way of brown, and have set their sights on a previously untapped energy source: animal dung.

In the search for clean electricity, power companies in Finland are going green by way of brown, and have set their sights on a previously untapped energy source: animal dung. During this month's FEI World Cup showjumping qualifier at Helsinki International Horse Show, 100 tonnes of manure was loaded up and wheelbarrowed into two large containers before being carted away for incineration at the Järvenpää power plant. The 150 megawatts of energy generated is enough to power the whole four-day show, with some left over to heat homes in the Finnish capital, according to energy company Fortum which launched its "Horse Power" initiative five years ago. "There are so many horses in Finland and of course many more around the world, so it would be amazing if we could turn all that poo into energy," Fortum's Krista Hellgren told AFP. The company claims that the manure produced daily by two horses can generate heat for a single family home for a year. And just 200 millilitres' worth is enough to charge a phone. Meanwhile, another power company has called for the public to send them their pets' doings. Vantaan Energia's sticker and online campaign implores dog owners to "give poo a new life" by simply throwing it in the bin, from where it follows everyday refuse to a huge waste-to-energy incineration plant. "It's not nice to step on it, it's much nicer to burn it and use it as a fuel for electricity and heat," the firm's production director Kalle Patomeri told AFP. Though dog poo is still a tiny fraction of the 1,000 tonnes of household rubbish burnt every day, Patomeri says it helps produce efficient energy with limited emissions and leftover waste products. As a result, Vantaan Energia hopes to be coal-free within just over two years. The dung-to-energy drive has been welcomed by dog trainer Marianne Mayer who actively supports the cause. She says the 50 dogs on her client list produce "quite a lot" of poo every week, which may otherwise have been left on the forest floor or thrown into bio waste. "Finally someone's doing something concrete about it, so you know it's going to be energy," she told AFP. "Since we need to have other energy than fossils, it's going to be really positive."

Energy companies turn to animal poo for clean power

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeaus-liberals-take-early-lead-after-first-canadian-polls-close-257389">Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau</a> held on to his job in Monday's election, securing his spot as one of the world's few high-profile progressive leaders, but tarnished by scandal and with his power diminished.

The man former US&nbsp;President Barack Obama privately anointed as a successor in global diplomacy survived a blackface scandal and the disclosure that he sought to interfere with a federal corruption prosecution, but just barely.

Trudeau's Liberals, who won power four years ago with a strong parliamentary majority, were projected by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp to form a minority government after a tight election battle with the Conservative Party led by Andrew Scheer. That would leave Trudeau needing the support of smaller opposition parties to govern.

"The hype was so great when he ran before, it would be hard to match that," said Jonathan Rose, a political science professor at Queen's University. "The burden of governing both wore him down and wore voters down."

Alternately charming and awkward, the former teacher and snowboard instructor swept to power in 2015 at the age of 43. Born on Christmas Day in 1971 to a sitting Canadian prime minister, Pierre Trudeau, the younger Trudeau grew up in the spotlight.

On taking over as prime minister, Trudeau said he would tackle climate change, overhaul the electoral system, legalize marijuana and have Canada take in 25,000 Syrian refugees. He proclaimed himself a feminist and unveiled a gender-balanced Cabinet. Mobbed for selfies, Trudeau brought style to an office that is usually dour, and broadcast much of it on social media.

But before long, key allies turned hard to the right,&nbsp;the UK voted to leave the European Union, and the United States elected Republican Donald Trump as president.

In time, Trudeau concentrated power in the prime minister's office and abandoned electoral reform. His government bought the troubled Trans Mountain oil pipeline, infuriating environmentalists, even as it moved to put a price on carbon, alienating the energy industry.

The run-up to the campaign was marked by high-profile Cabinet defections, and a watchdog report that found Trudeau and his team tried to undermine a federal prosecutor's decision to put construction firm SNC-Lavalin Group Inc on trial for corruption.

Then, as the campaign began, a 2001 photograph emerged that showed Trudeau, then 29, at a party, his face covered in dark makeup. More photographs of him in blackface quickly followed, as Trudeau apologised. The images, which briefly dented the Liberals' popularity, ran counter to a carefully managed public persona.

Trudeau also promised "reconciliation" with Canada's indigenous peoples, who make up about 5 per cent of the country.

Ahead of Monday's election, the indigenous political group Assembly of First Nations (AFN) said there had been "concrete action and investments" but "we have considerable ground to make up to ensure First Nations and Canadians share an equal quality of life." 
 
'Voice to be needed more'

On the eve of the election, the race looked close. Trudeau had a shot at a dispiriting honour: the first prime minister since 1935 to lose power in the next election after winning the first-term majority.

"It was inevitable that some of that shine was going to come off, and I think we've seen that," said Andrew MacDougall, who was a spokesman for former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, whose Conservative government was ousted by Trudeau's Liberals in 2015. "But he's not that far away from where he was when he was elected."

The friendship Trudeau forged with Obama in another era seems to endure. The two were spotted dining together in Ottawa earlier this year, and the former president tweeted his endorsement last Wednesday of Trudeau's re-election.

In a recent book, former Obama adviser Ben Rhodes described a 2016 meeting between the two leaders.

"Justin, your voice is going to be needed more," Obama said, according to Rhodes. "You're going to have to speak out when certain values are threatened."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held on to his job in Monday's election, securing his spot as one of the world's few high-profile progressive leaders, but tarnished by scandal and with his power diminished.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held on to his job in Monday's election, securing his spot as one of the world's few high-profile progressive leaders, but tarnished by scandal and with his power diminished. The man former US President Barack Obama privately anointed as a successor in global diplomacy survived a blackface scandal and the disclosure that he sought to interfere with a federal corruption prosecution, but just barely. Trudeau's Liberals, who won power four years ago with a strong parliamentary majority, were projected by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp to form a minority government after a tight election battle with the Conservative Party led by Andrew Scheer. That would leave Trudeau needing the support of smaller opposition parties to govern. "The hype was so great when he ran before, it would be hard to match that," said Jonathan Rose, a political science professor at Queen's University. "The burden of governing both wore him down and wore voters down." Alternately charming and awkward, the former teacher and snowboard instructor swept to power in 2015 at the age of 43. Born on Christmas Day in 1971 to a sitting Canadian prime minister, Pierre Trudeau, the younger Trudeau grew up in the spotlight. On taking over as prime minister, Trudeau said he would tackle climate change, overhaul the electoral system, legalize marijuana and have Canada take in 25,000 Syrian refugees. He proclaimed himself a feminist and unveiled a gender-balanced Cabinet. Mobbed for selfies, Trudeau brought style to an office that is usually dour, and broadcast much of it on social media. But before long, key allies turned hard to the right, the UK voted to leave the European Union, and the United States elected Republican Donald Trump as president. In time, Trudeau concentrated power in the prime minister's office and abandoned electoral reform. His government bought the troubled Trans Mountain oil pipeline, infuriating environmentalists, even as it moved to put a price on carbon, alienating the energy industry. The run-up to the campaign was marked by high-profile Cabinet defections, and a watchdog report that found Trudeau and his team tried to undermine a federal prosecutor's decision to put construction firm SNC-Lavalin Group Inc on trial for corruption. Then, as the campaign began, a 2001 photograph emerged that showed Trudeau, then 29, at a party, his face covered in dark makeup. More photographs of him in blackface quickly followed, as Trudeau apologised. The images, which briefly dented the Liberals' popularity, ran counter to a carefully managed public persona. Trudeau also promised "reconciliation" with Canada's indigenous peoples, who make up about 5 per cent of the country. Ahead of Monday's election, the indigenous political group Assembly of First Nations (AFN) said there had been "concrete action and investments" but "we have considerable ground to make up to ensure First Nations and Canadians share an equal quality of life." 'Voice to be needed more' On the eve of the election, the race looked close. Trudeau had a shot at a dispiriting honour: the first prime minister since 1935 to lose power in the next election after winning the first-term majority. "It was inevitable that some of that shine was going to come off, and I think we've seen that," said Andrew MacDougall, who was a spokesman for former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, whose Conservative government was ousted by Trudeau's Liberals in 2015. "But he's not that far away from where he was when he was elected." The friendship Trudeau forged with Obama in another era seems to endure. The two were spotted dining together in Ottawa earlier this year, and the former president tweeted his endorsement last Wednesday of Trudeau's re-election. In a recent book, former Obama adviser Ben Rhodes described a 2016 meeting between the two leaders. "Justin, your voice is going to be needed more," Obama said, according to Rhodes. "You're going to have to speak out when certain values are threatened."

Canada's Trudeau clings to power, but loses some of his lustre

Know about the role, power, and contributions of Indian-Americans in the strengthening India-US relations.

Howdy Modi event: Importance of Indian-American community in strengthening India-US relations

All of the power was restored late Saturday (July 13) night after a wide swath of New York's Manhattan borough was plunged into darkness after a transformer explosion knocked out power to subways, stores and Broadway theaters.

Power is restored in New York after partial blackout

Known for his corporate network developed during his days as an investment banker, BJP's go-to man Piyush Goyal has been given the charge of Railways, Commerce and Industry ministries in Modi's new cabinet. Goyal first made his mark in BJP as a treasurer and held portfolios in coal, power, railways and finance.

Piyush Goyal takes charge, Retains as Railways and Commerce Minister

India has again missed the chance to become an electricity-surplus nation by a whisker as its peak power deficit stood at 0.8 per cent and the overall energy deficit remained 0.6 per cent in 2018-19.

In its load generation balancing report (LGBR) for 2018-19, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) had pegged overall energy and peak power surpluses at 4.6 per cent and 2.5 per cent, respectively, indicating that India would be a power-surplus country in the financial year.

In 2017 also, the CEA in its LGBR had projected that India would become a power-surplus nation in 2017-18. But, the peak power deficit was 2.1 per cent, while overall electricity deficit was 0.7 per cent across the country in that financial year.

According to the latest CEA data, during peak hours, as much as 175.52 gigawatt (GW) was supplied against demand of 177.02 GW leaving a deficit of 1.49 GW or 0.8 per cent in 2018-19.

The data showed that as much as 1,267.29 billion units (BUs) of electricity was supplied against the demand of 1,274.56 BUs leaving an overall electricity or energy deficit of 7.35 BUs or 0.6 per cent during 2018-19.

A power sector expert said, "The deficit is primarily due to discoms not being able to buy power. Their total outstanding due was Rs 40,698 crore toward power generators till January this year."

He added that India can be a power-surplus state as its installed power generation capacity is around 356 GW against the peak demand of about 177 GW.

The power generation can be doubled provided distribution companies (discoms) pay their dues promptly.

During March 2019, the overall energy deficit was 0.4 per cent. As much as 108.19 BUs of electricity was supplied against the demand of 108.66 BUs in March. The peak power deficit in the month was 0.4 per cent as 168.74 GW power was supplied against the demand of 169.46 GW.

India has again missed the chance to become an electricity-surplus nation by a whisker as its peak power deficit stood at 0.8 per cent and the overall energy deficit remained 0.

India has again missed the chance to become an electricity-surplus nation by a whisker as its peak power deficit stood at 0.8 per cent and the overall energy deficit remained 0.6 per cent in 2018-19. In its load generation balancing report (LGBR) for 2018-19, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) had pegged overall energy and peak power surpluses at 4.6 per cent and 2.5 per cent, respectively, indicating that India would be a power-surplus country in the financial year. In 2017 also, the CEA in its LGBR had projected that India would become a power-surplus nation in 2017-18. But, the peak power deficit was 2.1 per cent, while overall electricity deficit was 0.7 per cent across the country in that financial year. According to the latest CEA data, during peak hours, as much as 175.52 gigawatt (GW) was supplied against demand of 177.02 GW leaving a deficit of 1.49 GW or 0.8 per cent in 2018-19. The data showed that as much as 1,267.29 billion units (BUs) of electricity was supplied against the demand of 1,274.56 BUs leaving an overall electricity or energy deficit of 7.35 BUs or 0.6 per cent during 2018-19. A power sector expert said, "The deficit is primarily due to discoms not being able to buy power. Their total outstanding due was Rs 40,698 crore toward power generators till January this year." He added that India can be a power-surplus state as its installed power generation capacity is around 356 GW against the peak demand of about 177 GW. The power generation can be doubled provided distribution companies (discoms) pay their dues promptly. During March 2019, the overall energy deficit was 0.4 per cent. As much as 108.19 BUs of electricity was supplied against the demand of 108.66 BUs in March. The peak power deficit in the month was 0.4 per cent as 168.74 GW power was supplied against the demand of 169.46 GW.

India still not power-surplus nation, says Central Electricity Authority data

India, which is successfully pushing its aggressive policy of adding renewable energy to its energy profile, is projected to be on track to achieve its target set under the historic Paris climate change agreement, a top US energy expert has said.

Testifying before a Congressional Committee on Paris Climate Agreement Commitment, energy expert from the World Resource Institute and George Mason University, Andrew Light said that India's aggressive policy on renewable energy is primarily driven by its domestic incentives to keep its greenhouse gas emissions in check.

The most important is that India's air pollution levels have become a domestic crisis. Air pollution caused roughly 1.24 million deaths in India in 2017 alone.&nbsp;

"The WHO estimates that 11 of the 12 cities with the highest levels of particulate matter pollution in the world are in India. India is also seeking to provide electricity to over 30 million homes that are still without power, and ensuring that energy access is reliable for all its citizens," he said.

It also stands to benefit economically from being a leader in the solar energy industry and will achieve greater energy security in the process.&nbsp;

"Because of India pushing forward with this transition, it is projected to be on track to achieve part of its Paris target of 40 per cent non-fossil-based power capacity by 2030," Light told the members of the Environment and Climate Change subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

He said, India is an example of a large developing country that is still industrialising, but increasingly making strides to do so sustainably.

While its total emissions climbed an estimated 6.3 per cent in 2018, most of this growth was in order to provide electricity to people who had previously lacked access to reliable power, Light told the lawmakers.

"India's total emissions remain much lower than those of the US (India makes up 7 per cent of global emissions, while the US accounts for 15 per cent) and its per capita emissions are still very low, at only 2.5 tCO2e per person as of 2014," he said.

The main approach in India for reducing emissions is by pursuing very ambitious targets for the deployment of renewable energy, especially solar power, he said.&nbsp;

For its Paris commitment, India set a goal of 40 per cent electricity generation from non- fossil fuel sources by the year 2030, as well as a reduction in its economy's carbon intensity of 33-35 per cent by 2030, he added.

Light said that even prior to setting their target under Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi established an ambitious target to install 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy, 60 GW of wind power, and an additional 15 GW of biomass and small hydro by the year 2022, creating an estimated 330,000 new jobs in the process.

"The solar target alone is the largest single-sector target of its kind in the world. India energy watchers in the US were skeptical of the feasibility of these targets when they were originally announced, but now India is making excellent progress on delivering these targets, Light said.

Asserting that India's growth in renewable energy over just the last five years has been staggering, he said the costs of renewable energy in India have fallen 50 per cent in the past two years.

Its solar energy capacity increased eightfold from 2014 to 2018 (2.63 GW to 22 GW), and its wind power capacity increased from 21 GW to 34 GW over the same period. This brings its total renewable energy capacity to 70 GW.

"India is performing so well that it is now aiming to reach 227 GW of renewable capacity by 2022 by also adding floating solar and off-shore wind to the package. For context, this is nearly double current US levels of wind and solar capacity. Meanwhile, the number of planned coal plants has plummeted, shrinking by a quarter in the first half of 2018," Light said.

India, which is successfully pushing its aggressive policy of adding renewable energy to its energy profile, is projected to be on track to achieve its target set under the historic Paris climate change agreement, a top US energy expert has said.

India, which is successfully pushing its aggressive policy of adding renewable energy to its energy profile, is projected to be on track to achieve its target set under the historic Paris climate change agreement, a top US energy expert has said. Testifying before a Congressional Committee on Paris Climate Agreement Commitment, energy expert from the World Resource Institute and George Mason University, Andrew Light said that India's aggressive policy on renewable energy is primarily driven by its domestic incentives to keep its greenhouse gas emissions in check. The most important is that India's air pollution levels have become a domestic crisis. Air pollution caused roughly 1.24 million deaths in India in 2017 alone. "The WHO estimates that 11 of the 12 cities with the highest levels of particulate matter pollution in the world are in India. India is also seeking to provide electricity to over 30 million homes that are still without power, and ensuring that energy access is reliable for all its citizens," he said. It also stands to benefit economically from being a leader in the solar energy industry and will achieve greater energy security in the process. "Because of India pushing forward with this transition, it is projected to be on track to achieve part of its Paris target of 40 per cent non-fossil-based power capacity by 2030," Light told the members of the Environment and Climate Change subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. He said, India is an example of a large developing country that is still industrialising, but increasingly making strides to do so sustainably. While its total emissions climbed an estimated 6.3 per cent in 2018, most of this growth was in order to provide electricity to people who had previously lacked access to reliable power, Light told the lawmakers. "India's total emissions remain much lower than those of the US (India makes up 7 per cent of global emissions, while the US accounts for 15 per cent) and its per capita emissions are still very low, at only 2.5 tCO2e per person as of 2014," he said. The main approach in India for reducing emissions is by pursuing very ambitious targets for the deployment of renewable energy, especially solar power, he said. For its Paris commitment, India set a goal of 40 per cent electricity generation from non- fossil fuel sources by the year 2030, as well as a reduction in its economy's carbon intensity of 33-35 per cent by 2030, he added. Light said that even prior to setting their target under Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi established an ambitious target to install 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy, 60 GW of wind power, and an additional 15 GW of biomass and small hydro by the year 2022, creating an estimated 330,000 new jobs in the process. "The solar target alone is the largest single-sector target of its kind in the world. India energy watchers in the US were skeptical of the feasibility of these targets when they were originally announced, but now India is making excellent progress on delivering these targets, Light said. Asserting that India's growth in renewable energy over just the last five years has been staggering, he said the costs of renewable energy in India have fallen 50 per cent in the past two years. Its solar energy capacity increased eightfold from 2014 to 2018 (2.63 GW to 22 GW), and its wind power capacity increased from 21 GW to 34 GW over the same period. This brings its total renewable energy capacity to 70 GW. "India is performing so well that it is now aiming to reach 227 GW of renewable capacity by 2022 by also adding floating solar and off-shore wind to the package. For context, this is nearly double current US levels of wind and solar capacity. Meanwhile, the number of planned coal plants has plummeted, shrinking by a quarter in the first half of 2018," Light said.

India projected on track to achieve Paris climate change agreement target: US expert 

Maharashtra Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule Friday said the state government has directed the MERC to look into the issue of 'increased' electricity bills of Adani Electricity's consumers in Mumbai.

He was speaking to reporters outside the city airport.

"The government has asked the Maharashtra Electricity Regulation (MERC) to sou moto look into the issue raised by BJP leader Ashish Shelar about complaints on high electricity bills based on average energy consumption instead of actual metering in Mumbai," he said.

"Accordingly, the MERC has taken cognisance and given directions to check the complaints and correct the bills," the minister added.

Local MLA Ashish Shelar had met Chief Minister Devendra last Fadnavis Saturday to convey people's concerns over sudden and steep increase in power bills in suburban Mumbai, where Adani Electricity is the electricity distributor.

Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited is a subsidiary of Adani Transmission, formed after acquisition of Reliance Infrastructure's generation, transmission and distribution utilities in Mumbai.

The MERC has appointed a two-member fact-finding committee to look into consumer complaints to ascertain the reasons for the sudden upsurge in consumption as well as bills of Adani Electricity's consumers in the megapolis.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule Friday said the state government has directed the MERC to look into the issue of 'increased' electricity bills of Adani Electricity's consumers in Mumbai.

Maharashtra Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule Friday said the state government has directed the MERC to look into the issue of 'increased' electricity bills of Adani Electricity's consumers in Mumbai. He was speaking to reporters outside the city airport. "The government has asked the Maharashtra Electricity Regulation (MERC) to sou moto look into the issue raised by BJP leader Ashish Shelar about complaints on high electricity bills based on average energy consumption instead of actual metering in Mumbai," he said. "Accordingly, the MERC has taken cognisance and given directions to check the complaints and correct the bills," the minister added. Local MLA Ashish Shelar had met Chief Minister Devendra last Fadnavis Saturday to convey people's concerns over sudden and steep increase in power bills in suburban Mumbai, where Adani Electricity is the electricity distributor. Adani Electricity Mumbai Limited is a subsidiary of Adani Transmission, formed after acquisition of Reliance Infrastructure's generation, transmission and distribution utilities in Mumbai. The MERC has appointed a two-member fact-finding committee to look into consumer complaints to ascertain the reasons for the sudden upsurge in consumption as well as bills of Adani Electricity's consumers in the megapolis.

MERC asked to look into Adani power bills issue: Minister

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