Indians have reportedly lost millions to a new cyber fraud scheme dubbed the "Digital Arrest" scam. Victims receive fraudulent calls claiming they are under investigation and must pay fines to avoid arrest. Scammers exploit fear and urgency, leading individuals to transfer money quickly. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities as they work to combat this growing threat in the digital landscape.

'Digital Arrest' Scam: Indians Lose Millions To Cyber Fraud

In Argentina, thousands of students took to the streets in protest against president Javier Milei’s significant cuts to public university funding. With inflation soaring close to 240 percent and over half of the population living in poverty, these budget reductions have intensified concerns about the future of education in the country.

Argentina: Milei Vetoes University Budget Following Massive Protests

In what comes as a nauseating stat, the report of pervs masturbating in the open in the streets of New York City has soared 51 per cent through June 30 this year, according to a report in the&nbsp;New York Post, citing NYPD data.&nbsp;

Lax laws and a broken mental health system have led to the growing problem with 378 complaints lodged, compared to 251 in the same period in 2023.&nbsp;

The NYPD cops had issued 159 summonses till June 30 to New York residents who were happy to openly whip out their private bits - which is a 396 per cent increase from the 32 tickets issued in 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents&nbsp;voiced their concerns about the deteriorating situation at a meeting for Manhattan's Community Board 1 last month as the cops failed to respond to their complaints.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-at-new-yorks-largest-migrant-shelter-684146">Watch |&nbsp;WION at New York's largest migrant shelter</a>

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<h2>What does the law say?</h2>

According to New York's indecent exposure law, lewdness, which includes exposing a penis to masturbate, is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a $500 fine, and probation.

Public lewdness in the first degree is a class A misdemeanour, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Exposure is a violation, with a maximum sentence of 15 days in jail in addition to fines and community service.&nbsp;

However, police officers are of the view that even if the offenders are busted, they would be cut loose in no time.&nbsp;

“This is a desk appearance ticket and a non-bail eligible offence, so he will be out within two hours,” Captain&nbsp;Joel Rosenthal, commanding officer of the First Precinct was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-mayor-eric-adams-says-migrant-crisis-has-destroyed-new-york-city-calls-out-biden-administration-585078">Also read |&nbsp;Democrat Mayor Eric Adams says migrant crisis has destroyed New York City, calls out Biden administration</a>

For a long time, the city of New&nbsp;York has been pushing against incarceration which makes it difficult for the cops to straighten out the pervs.&nbsp;

Experts have also attributed the migrant crisis as one of the reasons for the law and order problem in the Big Apple. Over 200,000 migrants have entered New York from the southern borders since the spring of 2022.&nbsp;

A report published in June stated that some 16,000 former hotel rooms in New York had been booked to help with the influx of migrants.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a nauseating stat, the report of pervs masturbating in the open in the streets of New York City has soared 51 per cent through June 30 this year, according to a report in the New York Post, citing NYPD data.

In what comes as a nauseating stat, the report of pervs masturbating in the open in the streets of New York City has soared 51 per cent through June 30 this year, according to a report in the New York Post, citing NYPD data. Lax laws and a broken mental health system have led to the growing problem with 378 complaints lodged, compared to 251 in the same period in 2023. The NYPD cops had issued 159 summonses till June 30 to New York residents who were happy to openly whip out their private bits - which is a 396 per cent increase from the 32 tickets issued in 2023. Residents voiced their concerns about the deteriorating situation at a meeting for Manhattan's Community Board 1 last month as the cops failed to respond to their complaints. Watch | WION at New York's largest migrant shelter × What does the law say? According to New York's indecent exposure law, lewdness, which includes exposing a penis to masturbate, is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a $500 fine, and probation. Public lewdness in the first degree is a class A misdemeanour, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Exposure is a violation, with a maximum sentence of 15 days in jail in addition to fines and community service. However, police officers are of the view that even if the offenders are busted, they would be cut loose in no time. “This is a desk appearance ticket and a non-bail eligible offence, so he will be out within two hours,” Captain Joel Rosenthal, commanding officer of the First Precinct was quoted as saying. Also read | Democrat Mayor Eric Adams says migrant crisis has destroyed New York City, calls out Biden administration For a long time, the city of New York has been pushing against incarceration which makes it difficult for the cops to straighten out the pervs. Experts have also attributed the migrant crisis as one of the reasons for the law and order problem in the Big Apple. Over 200,000 migrants have entered New York from the southern borders since the spring of 2022. A report published in June stated that some 16,000 former hotel rooms in New York had been booked to help with the influx of migrants. (With inputs from agencies)

Pervs masturbating in the open in New York City up by 51%: Report

The government of France took the vow to take action to “reassure and protect” the public after a “widespread” rise in bedbugs was reported in Paris. 
 
In recent videos shared by residents of Paris, bedbugs are seen infesting movie theatres, public transportation, and other areas which have led to increasing demands for government action. 
 
Speaking to French news station LCI, Deputy Mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire said that the phenomenon is “widespread.” 
 
"You have to understand that, in reality, no one is safe. Obviously, there are risk factors, but in reality, you can catch bedbugs anywhere and bring them home," he said. 
 
Earlier, French Transport Minister Clement Beaune said that he would “bring together transport operators next week” to “undertake further action” to “reassure and protect” the public from increasing numbers of the blood-sucking insect.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-hints-withholding-financial-aid-if-lebanon-doesnt-resolve-political-deadlock-639935">France hints withholding financial aid if Lebanon doesn't resolve political deadlock</a>

An anti-bedbug campaign was launched by the French government three years ago which includes a dedicated information hotline and website. 
 
However, Gregoire stated that despite that plan, “there are 3.6 million people who come into Paris every day, and bedbugs do not stop on the outskirts of the city.” 
 
France’s national health and sanitary body's expert Johanna Fite said that the problem was “an emerging phenomenon in France and almost everywhere in the world.” 
 
“It’s mainly due to the movement of people, populations travelling, the fact that people stay in short-term accommodation and bring back bedbugs in their suitcases or luggage,” said Johanna Fite, who belongs to Anses Department of Risk Assessment, while speaking to CNN.

<h2>Are bedbugs threatening the 2024 Olympics?</h2>

The Paris deputy mayor, however, warned against “hysteria” over the issue, adding that there was an “increase in Parisians who are referring to the town hall’s information services for information on bedbugs”. 
 
“Professional companies which intervene in residential areas are telling us that currently the proportion of interventions for bedbugs is atypical compared to normal and is increasing rapidly,” he stated.

WATCH |&nbsp;France gears up to drive out bed bugs ahead of 2024 Paris Olympics

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The news of increasing bedbugs has come at a time when Paris is preparing to host the 2024 Olympic Games, however, officials say they are not worried. 
 
“There is no threat to the Olympic Games,” said Gregoire. “Bedbugs existed before and they will exist afterwards,” he added, stating that the games were an “opportunity” for everybody to come together and work on the issue.&nbsp;

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The government of France took the vow to take action to “reassure and protect” the public after a “widespread” rise in bedbugs was reported in Paris. In recent videos shared by residents of Paris, bedbugs are seen infesting movie theatres, public transportation, and other areas which have led to increasing demands for government action.

The government of France took the vow to take action to “reassure and protect” the public after a “widespread” rise in bedbugs was reported in Paris. In recent videos shared by residents of Paris, bedbugs are seen infesting movie theatres, public transportation, and other areas which have led to increasing demands for government action. Speaking to French news station LCI, Deputy Mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire said that the phenomenon is “widespread.” "You have to understand that, in reality, no one is safe. Obviously, there are risk factors, but in reality, you can catch bedbugs anywhere and bring them home," he said. Earlier, French Transport Minister Clement Beaune said that he would “bring together transport operators next week” to “undertake further action” to “reassure and protect” the public from increasing numbers of the blood-sucking insect. ALSO READ | France hints withholding financial aid if Lebanon doesn't resolve political deadlock An anti-bedbug campaign was launched by the French government three years ago which includes a dedicated information hotline and website. However, Gregoire stated that despite that plan, “there are 3.6 million people who come into Paris every day, and bedbugs do not stop on the outskirts of the city.” France’s national health and sanitary body's expert Johanna Fite said that the problem was “an emerging phenomenon in France and almost everywhere in the world.” “It’s mainly due to the movement of people, populations travelling, the fact that people stay in short-term accommodation and bring back bedbugs in their suitcases or luggage,” said Johanna Fite, who belongs to Anses Department of Risk Assessment, while speaking to CNN. Are bedbugs threatening the 2024 Olympics? The Paris deputy mayor, however, warned against “hysteria” over the issue, adding that there was an “increase in Parisians who are referring to the town hall’s information services for information on bedbugs”. “Professional companies which intervene in residential areas are telling us that currently the proportion of interventions for bedbugs is atypical compared to normal and is increasing rapidly,” he stated. WATCH | France gears up to drive out bed bugs ahead of 2024 Paris Olympics The news of increasing bedbugs has come at a time when Paris is preparing to host the 2024 Olympic Games, however, officials say they are not worried. “There is no threat to the Olympic Games,” said Gregoire. “Bedbugs existed before and they will exist afterwards,” he added, stating that the games were an “opportunity” for everybody to come together and work on the issue. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

France battles widespread rise of bedbugs, vows to ‘reassure, protect’ public ahead of Olympics 2024

Two men were hanged in public on Saturday after they were found guilty of carrying out an attack on a shrine in the southern city of Shiraz, Iran in October, in which 13 people&nbsp;were killed, reported state media. 
 
The terrorists were hanged early on Saturday near the scene of the attack, including women and children.

“The death sentences of two of the perpetrators of the Shah Cheragh terrorist attack were carried out in public this morning,” the judiciary’s Mizan Online website said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attempts-to-seize-oil-tankers-in-strait-of-hormuz-prompts-us-navy-response-612454">Iran attempts to seize oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, prompts US Navy response</a>

In March, an Iranian court had sentenced the two men to death after they were convicted for ‘corruption on earth, armed rebellion and acting against national security’.&nbsp;They were also charged with membership of IS and ‘conspiracy against the security of the country’.

At the time, Fars chief justice Kazem Moussavi said they were directly involved in the "arming, procurement, logistics and guidance" of the main perpetrator. 
 
Three other defendants in the case were sentenced to prison for five, 15 and 25 years for being members of IS, he said. 
 
The initial court verdict against Mohammad Ramez Rashidi and Naeem Hashem Ghotali had been announced on March 16, 2023, but the lawyers of the two had appealed against it. However, the same verdict was confirmed by the Supreme Court of Iran which during its review of the case found that the prosecution had proved the direct role of the two terrorists in designing and supporting the attack. 
 
On October 26, 2022, a shooter had opened fire on the pilgrims at the shrine of Shah Cheragh in Shiraz, the capital city of the southern Iranian province of Fars. Thirteen people were killed in the terrorist attack and 30 more were wounded, said a report of the IRNA news agency. 
 
One of the attackers, identified by media in Iran as Hamed Badakhshan, died of injuries sustained during his arrest, the authorities said.

The Islamic republic claimed In November that 26 'takfiri terrorists'&nbsp;from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan had been arrested in connection with the attack.

WATCH |&nbsp;Iran: SCO expansion in the changing world order | World News | WION

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In Iran, the term 'takfiri' refers to jihadists or proponents of radical Sunni Islam. 
 
The shrine attack came more than a month after protests erupted across Iran over the death in custody of a young Iranian Kurdish woman.

The IRNA report added that the Takfiri terrorist group of Daesh had claimed the responsibility for the terrorist attack that generated a big wave of condemnation at the international and national levels.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two men were hanged in public on Saturday after they were found guilty of carrying out an attack on a shrine in the southern city of Shiraz, Iran in October, in which 13 people were killed, reported state media.

Two men were hanged in public on Saturday after they were found guilty of carrying out an attack on a shrine in the southern city of Shiraz, Iran in October, in which 13 people were killed, reported state media. The terrorists were hanged early on Saturday near the scene of the attack, including women and children. “The death sentences of two of the perpetrators of the Shah Cheragh terrorist attack were carried out in public this morning,” the judiciary’s Mizan Online website said. ALSO READ | Iran attempts to seize oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, prompts US Navy response In March, an Iranian court had sentenced the two men to death after they were convicted for ‘corruption on earth, armed rebellion and acting against national security’. They were also charged with membership of IS and ‘conspiracy against the security of the country’. At the time, Fars chief justice Kazem Moussavi said they were directly involved in the "arming, procurement, logistics and guidance" of the main perpetrator. Three other defendants in the case were sentenced to prison for five, 15 and 25 years for being members of IS, he said. The initial court verdict against Mohammad Ramez Rashidi and Naeem Hashem Ghotali had been announced on March 16, 2023, but the lawyers of the two had appealed against it. However, the same verdict was confirmed by the Supreme Court of Iran which during its review of the case found that the prosecution had proved the direct role of the two terrorists in designing and supporting the attack. On October 26, 2022, a shooter had opened fire on the pilgrims at the shrine of Shah Cheragh in Shiraz, the capital city of the southern Iranian province of Fars. Thirteen people were killed in the terrorist attack and 30 more were wounded, said a report of the IRNA news agency. One of the attackers, identified by media in Iran as Hamed Badakhshan, died of injuries sustained during his arrest, the authorities said. The Islamic republic claimed In November that 26 'takfiri terrorists' from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan had been arrested in connection with the attack. WATCH | Iran: SCO expansion in the changing world order | World News | WION In Iran, the term 'takfiri' refers to jihadists or proponents of radical Sunni Islam. The shrine attack came more than a month after protests erupted across Iran over the death in custody of a young Iranian Kurdish woman. The IRNA report added that the Takfiri terrorist group of Daesh had claimed the responsibility for the terrorist attack that generated a big wave of condemnation at the international and national levels. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Two men hanged in public for attack on shrine in Iran that killed 13 people

In response to a shooting that left over a dozen people dead at a venerated shrine in the southern city of Shiraz last year, Iran hung two men in broad daylight on Saturday, according to the judiciary.

Iran publicly executes two accused in holy shrine attack last year

Adolf Hitler's fake diaries, which sparked outrage when they were published by a German magazine as real accounts 40 years ago, will be put on public display at the national archives in Berlin. &nbsp;

Germany’s Stern magazine published the counterfeit journals and circulated their editions around the world. The fake diaries will now be given to the state for preservation, said Bertelsmann publishing house, which currently owns them.&nbsp;

<h2>Biggest fake news story in Germany's press history</h2>

More than 200 journalists and 27 television crews had gathered on April 25, 1983, at the Gruner &amp; Jahr publishing house in Hamburg to witness what Stern magazine was about to present in front of the world. The editors-in-chief of the magazine arrived at the press conference with 12 black notebooks in their hands, which they claimed to include the personal notes of Adolf Hitler.

Stern's reporter Gerd Heidemann posed with the diaries and the clicked photos were published across the world along with the sensational find of the reports.&nbsp;

Three days later, a special edition was published by Stern with excerpts from the diaries. The circulation of the magazine increased by 400,000. "The history of the Third Reich must be rewritten in large parts," Stern editor-in-chief Peter Koch said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/group-of-neo-nazis-celebrate-hitlers-birthday-raise-their-arms-to-salute-dictator-585327">Group of neo-Nazis celebrates Hitler's birthday, raise their arms to salute dictator</a>

<h2>Forged accounts, years of humiliation&nbsp;</h2>

After the diaries were submitted for forensic analysis, it was discovered that the accounts were forged and that the paper used in these diaries had no existence in the Third Reich but was developed in the 1950s.

A week after publishing the forged diaries of Hitler, Stern had to make a humiliating admission that was fooled by the seller who coaxed them into buying the diaries for 9.3 million&nbsp;Deutschmarks.

The owner of the Sunday Times, Rupert Murdoch, had been personally involved in the bidding war to secure the rights of the diaries and had flown to Zurich to finalise the deal. &nbsp;Speaking at the 2012 Leveson inquiry, Murdoch later said that he would never live down the error. “It was a massive mistake I made and I will have to live with it for the rest of my life," he said.&nbsp;

President of Germany’s federal archives Michael Hollmann described the diaries as “a shameless attempt to give the brutal crimes of National Socialism a human veneer, which struck a chord in 1980’s society.”

WATCH | Adolf Hitler's ancestry in focus, Russia says Hitler had Jewish roots

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<h2>Creator of the forged diaries&nbsp;</h2>

A petty criminal, Konrad Kujau, who was earlier creating fake luncheon vouchers had produced the diaries. He had a successful career as a Nazi memorabilia forger who also claimed to have a few paintings created by Hitler. The diaries were written by Kujau between 1981 and 1983, and he had sold them to the West German journalist Gerd Heidemann, who was famous for his obsession with Nazi artefacts.&nbsp;

It so happened that Kujau, who was faking his identity as an antique dealer, was supplying Nazi artefacts which included artworks and manuscripts, that he claimed to have belonged to Hitler, to a businessman Fritz Stiefel.&nbsp;

Stiefel was the man to whom Kujau first showed the forged Hitler diary. The collector compared the diary with other manuscripts of Hitler and declared it genuine.&nbsp;

Stiefel then took the diary to Stern reporter Heidemann, who had a hunch that the diary will become a sensation.&nbsp;

He believed the version narrated to him that Hitler's diaries were recovered from the crash site of a Nazi plane in East Germany.&nbsp;

To further convince himself, Heidemann visited the site and believed that the diaries were actually found there.&nbsp;

He shared the information about Hitler's diary with some of his colleagues at Stern and reached out to Kujau, who knew that the reporter was now hooked to the diaries he was offering.&nbsp;

The counterfeiter was offered &nbsp;2 million Deutschmarks (about $1.10 million)by Stern for the documents. &nbsp;

<h2>FH stands for "Fuhrer Hitler" ?</h2>

The journalists got the first three diaries immediately checked. Its authenticity was confirmed by Rhineland-Palatinate State Criminal Police Office, experts from the Federal Archives and renowned historians.

Everyone failed to notice that some of the comparative writing samples which were given to the experts were also written by Kujau.&nbsp;

The experts brushed aside the inconsistencies in the diaries, considering that Hitler was a lazy writer.&nbsp;

They believed that an impulsive and impatient man like Hitler would not be able to write neatly and without mistakes.&nbsp;

They were not even alarmed by the basic oddities like the letters "FH" which were written in old-fashioned typography on the covers of the diaries, which they believed were the initials "Fuhrer Hitler."

Eventually, the diary was published and Kujau and&nbsp;Heidemann&nbsp;served jail sentences for the roles they played in creating and circulating fake diary entries and various newspaper editors were fired over the scandal.

English historian Hugh Trevor-Roper, who was an expert in Nazi history, had his reputation tainted after he called the works to be authentic.&nbsp;

The diaries will now be placed on permanent display in Koblenz, in the western part of Germany, and will be made available to the general public academics in accordance with the law.

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Adolf Hitler's fake diaries, which sparked outrage when they were published by a German magazine as real accounts 40 years ago, will be put on public display at the national archives in Berlin.

Adolf Hitler's fake diaries, which sparked outrage when they were published by a German magazine as real accounts 40 years ago, will be put on public display at the national archives in Berlin. Germany’s Stern magazine published the counterfeit journals and circulated their editions around the world. The fake diaries will now be given to the state for preservation, said Bertelsmann publishing house, which currently owns them. Biggest fake news story in Germany's press history More than 200 journalists and 27 television crews had gathered on April 25, 1983, at the Gruner & Jahr publishing house in Hamburg to witness what Stern magazine was about to present in front of the world. The editors-in-chief of the magazine arrived at the press conference with 12 black notebooks in their hands, which they claimed to include the personal notes of Adolf Hitler. Stern's reporter Gerd Heidemann posed with the diaries and the clicked photos were published across the world along with the sensational find of the reports. Three days later, a special edition was published by Stern with excerpts from the diaries. The circulation of the magazine increased by 400,000. "The history of the Third Reich must be rewritten in large parts," Stern editor-in-chief Peter Koch said. ALSO READ | Group of neo-Nazis celebrates Hitler's birthday, raise their arms to salute dictator Forged accounts, years of humiliation After the diaries were submitted for forensic analysis, it was discovered that the accounts were forged and that the paper used in these diaries had no existence in the Third Reich but was developed in the 1950s. A week after publishing the forged diaries of Hitler, Stern had to make a humiliating admission that was fooled by the seller who coaxed them into buying the diaries for 9.3 million Deutschmarks. The owner of the Sunday Times, Rupert Murdoch, had been personally involved in the bidding war to secure the rights of the diaries and had flown to Zurich to finalise the deal. Speaking at the 2012 Leveson inquiry, Murdoch later said that he would never live down the error. “It was a massive mistake I made and I will have to live with it for the rest of my life," he said. President of Germany’s federal archives Michael Hollmann described the diaries as “a shameless attempt to give the brutal crimes of National Socialism a human veneer, which struck a chord in 1980’s society.” WATCH | Adolf Hitler's ancestry in focus, Russia says Hitler had Jewish roots Creator of the forged diaries A petty criminal, Konrad Kujau, who was earlier creating fake luncheon vouchers had produced the diaries. He had a successful career as a Nazi memorabilia forger who also claimed to have a few paintings created by Hitler. The diaries were written by Kujau between 1981 and 1983, and he had sold them to the West German journalist Gerd Heidemann, who was famous for his obsession with Nazi artefacts. It so happened that Kujau, who was faking his identity as an antique dealer, was supplying Nazi artefacts which included artworks and manuscripts, that he claimed to have belonged to Hitler, to a businessman Fritz Stiefel. Stiefel was the man to whom Kujau first showed the forged Hitler diary. The collector compared the diary with other manuscripts of Hitler and declared it genuine. Stiefel then took the diary to Stern reporter Heidemann, who had a hunch that the diary will become a sensation. He believed the version narrated to him that Hitler's diaries were recovered from the crash site of a Nazi plane in East Germany. To further convince himself, Heidemann visited the site and believed that the diaries were actually found there. He shared the information about Hitler's diary with some of his colleagues at Stern and reached out to Kujau, who knew that the reporter was now hooked to the diaries he was offering. The counterfeiter was offered 2 million Deutschmarks (about $1.10 million)by Stern for the documents. FH stands for "Fuhrer Hitler" ? The journalists got the first three diaries immediately checked. Its authenticity was confirmed by Rhineland-Palatinate State Criminal Police Office, experts from the Federal Archives and renowned historians. Everyone failed to notice that some of the comparative writing samples which were given to the experts were also written by Kujau. The experts brushed aside the inconsistencies in the diaries, considering that Hitler was a lazy writer. They believed that an impulsive and impatient man like Hitler would not be able to write neatly and without mistakes. They were not even alarmed by the basic oddities like the letters "FH" which were written in old-fashioned typography on the covers of the diaries, which they believed were the initials "Fuhrer Hitler." Eventually, the diary was published and Kujau and Heidemann served jail sentences for the roles they played in creating and circulating fake diary entries and various newspaper editors were fired over the scandal. English historian Hugh Trevor-Roper, who was an expert in Nazi history, had his reputation tainted after he called the works to be authentic. The diaries will now be placed on permanent display in Koblenz, in the western part of Germany, and will be made available to the general public academics in accordance with the law. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | How a German magazine fell for Hitler's fake diaries which are set to be made public

Twitter owner Elon Musk on Friday announced that the social media platform will soon make public the long-secret algorithm for recommending tweets.

The code through which recommendations for posts are made to users will become "open source" by the end of March, said Musk in a tweet.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elonland-or-muskville-twitter-ceo-elon-musk-is-building-his-own-utopian-town-heres-all-you-need-to-know-571117">Explained | Twitter CEO Elon Musk is building his own utopian town. Here’s all you need to know</a>

“Twitter will open source all code used to recommend tweets on March 31st,” Musk tweeted.

“Our “algorithm” is overly complex &amp; not fully understood internally. People will discover many silly things, but we’ll patch issues as soon as they’re found! We’re developing a simplified approach to serve more compelling tweets, but it’s still a work in progress. That’ll also be open source,” he added.

“Providing code transparency will be incredibly embarrassing at first, but it should lead to rapid improvement in recommendation quality. Most importantly, we hope to earn your trust,” Musk further stated.

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Making the code open source would mean developers, including aspiring rivals, would be able to put their own spins on the algorithm, according to a foundation for the software ecosystem.

Soon after billionaire Musk took over Twitter in October, the micro-blogging platform suffered multiple outages, went through massive layoffs and saw advertisers end their ties with the company due to doubts on&nbsp;content moderation.

However, so far Twitter's no major alternative has emerged, forcing politicians, global leaders and celebrities to carry out their communication through the platform.

WATCH | WION Speed News: Elon Musk once again the richest man in the world

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Meanwhile, Facebook's parent company Meta recently announced that they are working on a new "text sharing" social media network.

"We're exploring a standalone, decentralised social network for sharing text updates," said Meta in a short email statement.

"We believe there's an opportunity for a separate space where creators and public figures can share timely updates about their interests," the statement further read. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Twitter owner Elon Musk on Friday announced that the social media platform will soon make public the long-secret algorithm for recommending tweets. The code through which recommendations for posts are made to users will become "open source" by the end of March, said Musk in a tweet.

Twitter owner Elon Musk on Friday announced that the social media platform will soon make public the long-secret algorithm for recommending tweets. The code through which recommendations for posts are made to users will become "open source" by the end of March, said Musk in a tweet. ALSO READ | Explained | Twitter CEO Elon Musk is building his own utopian town. Here’s all you need to know “Twitter will open source all code used to recommend tweets on March 31st,” Musk tweeted. “Our “algorithm” is overly complex & not fully understood internally. People will discover many silly things, but we’ll patch issues as soon as they’re found! We’re developing a simplified approach to serve more compelling tweets, but it’s still a work in progress. That’ll also be open source,” he added. “Providing code transparency will be incredibly embarrassing at first, but it should lead to rapid improvement in recommendation quality. Most importantly, we hope to earn your trust,” Musk further stated. Twitter will open source all code used to recommend tweets on March 31st — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 17, 2023 × Making the code open source would mean developers, including aspiring rivals, would be able to put their own spins on the algorithm, according to a foundation for the software ecosystem. Soon after billionaire Musk took over Twitter in October, the micro-blogging platform suffered multiple outages, went through massive layoffs and saw advertisers end their ties with the company due to doubts on content moderation. However, so far Twitter's no major alternative has emerged, forcing politicians, global leaders and celebrities to carry out their communication through the platform. WATCH | WION Speed News: Elon Musk once again the richest man in the world Meanwhile, Facebook's parent company Meta recently announced that they are working on a new "text sharing" social media network. "We're exploring a standalone, decentralised social network for sharing text updates," said Meta in a short email statement. "We believe there's an opportunity for a separate space where creators and public figures can share timely updates about their interests," the statement further read. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Twitter to make its code used for recommending tweets public, says Elon Musk

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

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

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

In just three years of buying Twitter Inc, Elon Musk looks to take the social microblogging site public again, a report said on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter. &nbsp;

There are plans to go for a public offering to return Twitter to the public markets, billionaire Musk has told potential investors, as per Wall Street Journal report. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Elon Musk said on Tuesday that casual users will always be free, but commercial and government users may be charged a small fee. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-free-twitter-coming-to-an-end-musk-indicates-that-commercial-and-government-users-may-be-charged-476198" hreflang="en">Is free Twitter coming to an end? Musk indicates that commercial and government users may be charged</a>

This comes as the billionaire entrepreneur aims to expand Twitter Inc's reach from 'niche' to most Americans. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users," Musk said in a tweet. &nbsp;

Since last month, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has proposed a slew of modifications to Twitter. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;'We have to get rid of the bots and trolls,' Elon Musk referring to Twitter at Met Gala Red Carpet

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Musk said he intended to improve the platform with new features, such as making the algorithms open source to build confidence, combating spam bots, and authenticating all humans, after adding the company to his basket recently. &nbsp;

Musk said at the Met Gala in New York on Monday that he would make Twitter transparent about how tweets are promoted or demoted, and that the company's software will be open to criticism. &nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In just three years of buying Twitter Inc, Elon Musk looks to take the social microblogging site public again, a report said on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.

In just three years of buying Twitter Inc, Elon Musk looks to take the social microblogging site public again, a report said on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter. There are plans to go for a public offering to return Twitter to the public markets, billionaire Musk has told potential investors, as per Wall Street Journal report. Meanwhile, Elon Musk said on Tuesday that casual users will always be free, but commercial and government users may be charged a small fee. Also Read: Is free Twitter coming to an end? Musk indicates that commercial and government users may be charged This comes as the billionaire entrepreneur aims to expand Twitter Inc's reach from 'niche' to most Americans. "Twitter will always be free for casual users, but maybe a slight cost for commercial/government users," Musk said in a tweet. Since last month, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has proposed a slew of modifications to Twitter. Watch: 'We have to get rid of the bots and trolls,' Elon Musk referring to Twitter at Met Gala Red Carpet × Musk said he intended to improve the platform with new features, such as making the algorithms open source to build confidence, combating spam bots, and authenticating all humans, after adding the company to his basket recently. Musk said at the Met Gala in New York on Monday that he would make Twitter transparent about how tweets are promoted or demoted, and that the company's software will be open to criticism. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

In three years, billionaire Elon Musk looks to take Twitter to public markets again, says report

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

European intelligence officials have revealed that Kremlin is planning to stage public executions in captured Ukrainian cities. This will be an attempt at breaking people's morale. Apart from this, Russia has also planned crackdowns on protests and imprisonment of political opponents.

The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity. However, he claims that he has seen documents from Russia's intelligence agency, the Federal Security Service.

Bloomberg's political editor Kitty Donaldson, in a report was quoted as saying, "The agency is also planning violent crowd control and repressive detention of protest organisers in order to break Ukrainian morale."

The revelation comes in as it has been over a week since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started. The forces have seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine's southeast.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-forces-seize-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-as-ukrainians-put-out-fire-458825">Also read |&nbsp;Russian forces seize Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant as Ukrainians put out fire</a>

It is the Europe's largest nuclear power plant.

"Operational personnel are monitoring the condition of power units," it said on social media, while quoting the Ukrainian nuclear inspectorate.

Efforts are being made to ensure the operations were in line with safety requirements, it said.

A fire, which had broken out in a training building in the plant, has been extinguished, Ukraine's state emergency service had earlier said on Friday.&nbsp;

On Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), while citing the country's regulatory authorities, said that essential equipment at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was unaffected in the incident and there was no change in radiation levels. &nbsp;

Ukraine had said that the plant in its southeast was shelled overnight, the IAEA added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. European intelligence officials have revealed that Kremlin is planning to stage public executions in captured Ukrainian cities. This will be an attempt at breaking people's morale. Apart from this, Russia has also planned crackdowns on protests and imprisonment of political opponents. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity. However, he claims that he has seen documents from Russia's intelligence agency, the Federal Security Service. Bloomberg's political editor Kitty Donaldson, in a report was quoted as saying, "The agency is also planning violent crowd control and repressive detention of protest organisers in order to break Ukrainian morale." The revelation comes in as it has been over a week since Russia's invasion of Ukraine started. The forces have seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine's southeast. Also read | Russian forces seize Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant as Ukrainians put out fire It is the Europe's largest nuclear power plant. "Operational personnel are monitoring the condition of power units," it said on social media, while quoting the Ukrainian nuclear inspectorate. Efforts are being made to ensure the operations were in line with safety requirements, it said. A fire, which had broken out in a training building in the plant, has been extinguished, Ukraine's state emergency service had earlier said on Friday. On Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), while citing the country's regulatory authorities, said that essential equipment at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was unaffected in the incident and there was no change in radiation levels. Ukraine had said that the plant in its southeast was shelled overnight, the IAEA added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia to stage public executions in Ukraine; crackdowns and detaining opponents also a part of plan

Announcing that it is going public, social media platform Reddit said that it has confidentially filed for the proposed initial pubic offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

The company neither revealed the number of shares that it will be offering, nor it has disclosed the price range for the stock.

"The initial public offering is expected to occur after the SEC completes its review process, subject to market and other conditions," the company,&nbsp;which did not make the registration form public, said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/how-gamestop-missed-out-on-capitalising-on-the-reddit-rally-362984">How GameStop missed out on capitalising on the Reddit rally</a>

Reddit, which was founded in 2005, had around 52 million daily users as of August this year.

In August, the company said it had raised $700 million in new funding, valuing it at more than $10 billion, according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/reddit-buys-tiktoks-competitor-dubsmash-promises-diversity-349746">Reddit buys TikTok's competitor Dubsmash; promises diversity</a>

Co-founder and chief executive Steve Huffman told the New York Times in the same month that Reddit was “still planning on going public” but didn’t have a firm timeline, adding, “All good companies should go public when they can.”

Reddit had become the talk of the town in January this year, when an army of small-time stock traders, communicating on its pages, rocked Wall Street by betting against the stocks that had gone viral like those of the video game store chain GameStop.

Information shared by the investors on the network led to a sudden surge in the value of shares of GameStop, AMC and other companies.

Reddit's biggest financial backers include Chinese technology Tencent, Fidelity Investments and venture capital firm Sequoia Capital.

(With inputs from agencies)

Announcing that it is going public, social media platform Reddit said that it has confidentially filed for the proposed initial pubic offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Announcing that it is going public, social media platform Reddit said that it has confidentially filed for the proposed initial pubic offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The company neither revealed the number of shares that it will be offering, nor it has disclosed the price range for the stock. "The initial public offering is expected to occur after the SEC completes its review process, subject to market and other conditions," the company, which did not make the registration form public, said in a statement. Also read | How GameStop missed out on capitalising on the Reddit rally Reddit, which was founded in 2005, had around 52 million daily users as of August this year. In August, the company said it had raised $700 million in new funding, valuing it at more than $10 billion, according to Reuters. Also read | Reddit buys TikTok's competitor Dubsmash; promises diversity Co-founder and chief executive Steve Huffman told the New York Times in the same month that Reddit was “still planning on going public” but didn’t have a firm timeline, adding, “All good companies should go public when they can.” Reddit had become the talk of the town in January this year, when an army of small-time stock traders, communicating on its pages, rocked Wall Street by betting against the stocks that had gone viral like those of the video game store chain GameStop. Information shared by the investors on the network led to a sudden surge in the value of shares of GameStop, AMC and other companies. Reddit's biggest financial backers include Chinese technology Tencent, Fidelity Investments and venture capital firm Sequoia Capital. (With inputs from agencies)

Social media platform Reddit to go public, files confidential IPO

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-covid-variant-emerges-indian-pm-modi-chairs-vital-meeting-to-assess-situation-432294" hreflang="en">As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation</a>

The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. &nbsp;

"Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reserve-bank-of-india-rejects-proposal-on-corporate-ownership-of-banks-432276" hreflang="en">Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks</a>

"It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country.

In a stern advisory, Indian government has told public on Friday that don’t subscribe to the satellite-based internet services of Starlink till it gets a licence in the country. Starlink, which is a satellite broadband arm of Elon Musk-led SpaceX, is advertising about its services. Starlink has been directed by the Department of Telecom to follow the regulatory framework for offering satellite-based services. It has also been told to refrain from booking or rendering the services in India "with immediate effect". Also Read: As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation The government, in a statement, said that it has taken notice of Starlink starting pre-selling or booking of the satellite-based services in the country. The Department of Telecom also observed that it is also evident from Starlink’s website, which says internet services can be booked by users in India. "Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India has pointed out that 'Starlink Internet Services' is not licensed to offer satellite-based internet services in India being advertised to the public," the statement said. Also Read: Reserve Bank of India rejects proposal on corporate ownership of banks "It is hereby informed to the public at large that the said company has not obtained any license/authorisation for rendering satellite-based internet services that are being booked on their website," it said. The official statement said that as Starlink is not a licensee, "the public is advised not to subscribe to Starlink services being advertised." (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t subscribe Elon Musk-backed Starlink services till it gets licence, Indian government tells public

An American city is taking the bold move to address the global issue of period poverty.

Ann Arbor in Michigan will soon require by law the providing of menstrual products in public restrooms. The city council has voted unanimously to pass an ordinance that requires all public restrooms to offer pads and tampons for free, as well as toilet paper and soap.

"City Council finds that soap, toilet paper, and menstrual products are all instrumental to the general health and welfare of the public. City Council also finds that ensuring that such products are readily available in public restrooms will help prevent the spread of germs, reduce the transmission of bloodborne pathogens, and improve the general public welfare," stated the authorities.&nbsp;

The ordinance will go into effect from January 1, 2022. Any sort of violation can result in a $100 fine.&nbsp;

Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor said, "It is a necessity and a long time coming." He added, "Access to these items is a matter of personal dignity, a human necessity and a health care right."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-can-become-first-nation-to-offer-free-sanitary-napkins-and-tampons-283352">Also read |&nbsp;Scotland can become first nation to offer free sanitary napkins and tampons</a>

Taylor explained that the inspiration for this measure came after a young resident came to him with the idea. "A high school student came to me to express her concern that persons without established residences had difficulty obtaining menstrual products," he said.&nbsp;

He further explained how this got him into thinking over time. "And I asked staff to look and see whether we could obligate at all public restrooms in Ann Arbor provide the supplies because they're basic and fundamental for people," Taylor said.

"We can and we did," local media quoted him as saying.

Various other cities have similar measures. However, they just apply to municipal buildings or in schools.

Meanwhile, in February this year, the Scottish parliament advanced legislation that would ensure free universal access to tampons, pads and other menstrual products, in a huge stride for the global movement against period poverty.

(With inputs from agencies)

An American city is taking the bold move to address the global issue of period poverty. Ann Arbor in Michigan will soon require by law the providing of menstrual products in public restrooms.

An American city is taking the bold move to address the global issue of period poverty. Ann Arbor in Michigan will soon require by law the providing of menstrual products in public restrooms. The city council has voted unanimously to pass an ordinance that requires all public restrooms to offer pads and tampons for free, as well as toilet paper and soap. "City Council finds that soap, toilet paper, and menstrual products are all instrumental to the general health and welfare of the public. City Council also finds that ensuring that such products are readily available in public restrooms will help prevent the spread of germs, reduce the transmission of bloodborne pathogens, and improve the general public welfare," stated the authorities. The ordinance will go into effect from January 1, 2022. Any sort of violation can result in a $100 fine. Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor said, "It is a necessity and a long time coming." He added, "Access to these items is a matter of personal dignity, a human necessity and a health care right." Also read | Scotland can become first nation to offer free sanitary napkins and tampons Taylor explained that the inspiration for this measure came after a young resident came to him with the idea. "A high school student came to me to express her concern that persons without established residences had difficulty obtaining menstrual products," he said. He further explained how this got him into thinking over time. "And I asked staff to look and see whether we could obligate at all public restrooms in Ann Arbor provide the supplies because they're basic and fundamental for people," Taylor said. "We can and we did," local media quoted him as saying. Various other cities have similar measures. However, they just apply to municipal buildings or in schools. Meanwhile, in February this year, the Scottish parliament advanced legislation that would ensure free universal access to tampons, pads and other menstrual products, in a huge stride for the global movement against period poverty. (With inputs from agencies)

'We can and we did': Ann Arbor becomes first US city to offer free menstrual products in public bathrooms

In 1921, a sergeant walked into a small, dark chapel in Châlons-sur-Marne in eastern France, not far from where French and English troops had pushed back against advancing Germans a few years before.

Clutching a bouquet of red and white roses, the sergeant, Edward F. Younger of Chicago, 23, circled four caskets that held the remains of US&nbsp;soldiers who died during World War I.

A colonel had ordered him to choose one coffin, which would be placed inside a marble tomb at Arlington National Cemetery and represent all the Us&nbsp;soldiers killed during the war.

“I couldn’t bring myself to make a hasty choice,” he told The Decatur Daily in Alabama in 1935. Younger stopped at the coffin third from his right, placed the bouquet on it, saluted and left the room.

“Something seemed to stop me each time I passed that third one’s coffin,” he said, describing the selection he made on Oct. 24, 1921. “Something seemed to say, ‘Pick this one.’”

A few weeks later, the remains were entombed overlooking Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where today 4,723 unknown soldiers who died in battles dating to the Civil War are buried, along with more than 400,000 other war veterans.

Since 1948, a 24-hour military guard has kept the public from getting near the white marble sarcophagus. But on Tuesday and Wednesday, people will be allowed to walk close to the tomb again and place flowers to commemorate 100 years since its dedication.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-bishops-say-church-bore-institutional-responsibility-for-child-abuse-426994">Also read |&nbsp;French bishops say church bore 'institutional responsibility' for child abuse</a>

Many are expected to visit the monument, which has become a sacred site for veterans as well as visitors who watch the changing of the guard.

The tomb, however, was not always treated with such reverence.

From hallowed ground to picnic spot

On Nov. 11, 1921, thousands of people marched to Arlington National Cemetery to watch as the coffin Younger had picked was lowered into a marble tomb. In a speech, President Warren G. Harding described how the soldier “might have come from any one of millions of American homes.”

“Hundreds of mothers are wondering today, finding a touch of solace in the possibility that the nation bows in grief over the body of one she bore to live and die, if need be, for the Republic,” he said.

Chief Plenty Coups, the leader of Crow Nation who was invited to attend the ceremony, laid a war bonnet and a rod known as a coup stick across the coffin.

At first, there were no restrictions on the public’s access to the tomb, which visitors could touch and kneel at, said Allison Finkelstein, senior historian at Arlington National Cemetery.

But as the years passed, the hallowed place became more of a public park.

People picnicked around the tomb and even used it as a table for their food. Photographers would linger, offering to shoot photos of visitors, who would sit on it and pose.

At night, couples were discovered “getting excessively romantic on top of the tomb,” said Beth Bailey, a professor of history at the University of Kansas.

Such behavior was not unusual at the time, she said.

“Remember that, during the Civil War, people went out on picnics to watch battles,” Bailey said.

Guarding of the Tomb as a sacred ritual

The decision to make one unknown soldier a symbol for those killed and lost in World War I was born in part out of a deep concern that US&nbsp;service members were being left in cemeteries overseas, said Micki McElya, a professor of history at the University of Connecticut and the author of “The Politics of Mourning: Death and Honor in Arlington National Cemetery.”

In 1918, Newton Baker, the secretary of war, promised that the dead would be returned home, but the logistics of bringing back thousands of bodies from Europe were overwhelming and threatened to disrupt relations with England and France, whose leaders did not want to shoulder the responsibility of transporting dead US&nbsp;soldiers, she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-likely-to-reopen-consulates-shut-in-2020-says-report-426931">Also read |&nbsp;US-China likely to reopen consulates shut in 2020, says report</a>

Some military leaders in the United States also felt that “soldiers should rest where they fell,” McElya said.

Honoring one unknown soldier helped answer the question of what to do about the lost dead.

But as the tomb became more of a tourist destination and visitors grew unruly, veterans became incensed and demanded protections around it, McElya said.

Initially, a picket fence was placed. Then, a chain-link fence.

It was not until 1948 that the 3rd US&nbsp;Infantry Regiment, the Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit, was assigned to guard the tomb at all hours and keep visitors away, except for official ceremonies.

The whole site around the tomb came to be “understood as a sacred place deserving of reverential treatment, not meant to be trod on by visitors,” Finkelstein said.

This became especially important in 1958, when crypts holding the remains of unknown World War II and Korean War soldiers were placed at the tomb, she said. The tomb also includes an empty crypt that once held the remains of an Air Force pilot who was killed in the Vietnam War but was identified in 1998 through DNA.

In recognition of that, the name Tomb of the Unknowns came into common public usage. But the cemetery still uses the original name, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. “The name has not changed,” said Tim Frank, a historian for the cemetery.

A somber ceremony beginning with crow prayer

On Tuesday the first people to place flowers at the tomb will be the members of Crow Nation. Their leaders will also recite a prayer that some historical accounts say Chief Plenty Coups gave 100 years ago, according to a spokesperson for Arlington National Cemetery.

When Chief Plenty Coups and other Native Americans were invited to attend the ceremony, it was meant to be an acknowledgment by the federal government of “the significant role of American Indians in the military during World War I and the possibility that the Unknown Soldier could have been an American Indian,” Finkelstein said.

Between 8,000 and 15,000 Native Americans served in the war, she said.

The presence of Chief Plenty Coups was probably the first time that Native Americans were on a national political stage and broadcast to white Americans other than in Wild West shows, said Aaron Brien, the tribal historic preservation officer for the Crow Tribe.

His presence also represented “this weird duality that we’re not being treated fairly at all at the time,” Brien said. “He’s showing the generosity and kindness of Native people, Native people who weren’t even citizens of the country and were living in a time of abject poverty.”

McElya said many Americans assumed the unknown soldier was a white, heterosexual male. But the mystery of his identity has turned the soldier into a potent political symbol. In 1980, for example, gay and lesbian veterans began laying a wreath at the tomb in a ceremony to honor service members who died in battle.

The tomb helped “Arlington become a site that every single American can claim a relationship to,” McElya said. “The unknown is theirs.”

In 1921, a sergeant walked into a small, dark chapel in Châlons-sur-Marne in eastern France, not far from where French and English troops had pushed back against advancing Germans a few years before.

In 1921, a sergeant walked into a small, dark chapel in Châlons-sur-Marne in eastern France, not far from where French and English troops had pushed back against advancing Germans a few years before. Clutching a bouquet of red and white roses, the sergeant, Edward F. Younger of Chicago, 23, circled four caskets that held the remains of US soldiers who died during World War I. A colonel had ordered him to choose one coffin, which would be placed inside a marble tomb at Arlington National Cemetery and represent all the Us soldiers killed during the war. “I couldn’t bring myself to make a hasty choice,” he told The Decatur Daily in Alabama in 1935. Younger stopped at the coffin third from his right, placed the bouquet on it, saluted and left the room. “Something seemed to stop me each time I passed that third one’s coffin,” he said, describing the selection he made on Oct. 24, 1921. “Something seemed to say, ‘Pick this one.’” A few weeks later, the remains were entombed overlooking Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where today 4,723 unknown soldiers who died in battles dating to the Civil War are buried, along with more than 400,000 other war veterans. Since 1948, a 24-hour military guard has kept the public from getting near the white marble sarcophagus. But on Tuesday and Wednesday, people will be allowed to walk close to the tomb again and place flowers to commemorate 100 years since its dedication. Also read | French bishops say church bore 'institutional responsibility' for child abuse Many are expected to visit the monument, which has become a sacred site for veterans as well as visitors who watch the changing of the guard. The tomb, however, was not always treated with such reverence. From hallowed ground to picnic spot On Nov. 11, 1921, thousands of people marched to Arlington National Cemetery to watch as the coffin Younger had picked was lowered into a marble tomb. In a speech, President Warren G. Harding described how the soldier “might have come from any one of millions of American homes.” “Hundreds of mothers are wondering today, finding a touch of solace in the possibility that the nation bows in grief over the body of one she bore to live and die, if need be, for the Republic,” he said. Chief Plenty Coups, the leader of Crow Nation who was invited to attend the ceremony, laid a war bonnet and a rod known as a coup stick across the coffin. At first, there were no restrictions on the public’s access to the tomb, which visitors could touch and kneel at, said Allison Finkelstein, senior historian at Arlington National Cemetery. But as the years passed, the hallowed place became more of a public park. People picnicked around the tomb and even used it as a table for their food. Photographers would linger, offering to shoot photos of visitors, who would sit on it and pose. At night, couples were discovered “getting excessively romantic on top of the tomb,” said Beth Bailey, a professor of history at the University of Kansas. Such behavior was not unusual at the time, she said. “Remember that, during the Civil War, people went out on picnics to watch battles,” Bailey said. Guarding of the Tomb as a sacred ritual The decision to make one unknown soldier a symbol for those killed and lost in World War I was born in part out of a deep concern that US service members were being left in cemeteries overseas, said Micki McElya, a professor of history at the University of Connecticut and the author of “The Politics of Mourning: Death and Honor in Arlington National Cemetery.” In 1918, Newton Baker, the secretary of war, promised that the dead would be returned home, but the logistics of bringing back thousands of bodies from Europe were overwhelming and threatened to disrupt relations with England and France, whose leaders did not want to shoulder the responsibility of transporting dead US soldiers, she said. Also read | US-China likely to reopen consulates shut in 2020, says report Some military leaders in the United States also felt that “soldiers should rest where they fell,” McElya said. Honoring one unknown soldier helped answer the question of what to do about the lost dead. But as the tomb became more of a tourist destination and visitors grew unruly, veterans became incensed and demanded protections around it, McElya said. Initially, a picket fence was placed. Then, a chain-link fence. It was not until 1948 that the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, the Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit, was assigned to guard the tomb at all hours and keep visitors away, except for official ceremonies. The whole site around the tomb came to be “understood as a sacred place deserving of reverential treatment, not meant to be trod on by visitors,” Finkelstein said. This became especially important in 1958, when crypts holding the remains of unknown World War II and Korean War soldiers were placed at the tomb, she said. The tomb also includes an empty crypt that once held the remains of an Air Force pilot who was killed in the Vietnam War but was identified in 1998 through DNA. In recognition of that, the name Tomb of the Unknowns came into common public usage. But the cemetery still uses the original name, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. “The name has not changed,” said Tim Frank, a historian for the cemetery. A somber ceremony beginning with crow prayer On Tuesday the first people to place flowers at the tomb will be the members of Crow Nation. Their leaders will also recite a prayer that some historical accounts say Chief Plenty Coups gave 100 years ago, according to a spokesperson for Arlington National Cemetery. When Chief Plenty Coups and other Native Americans were invited to attend the ceremony, it was meant to be an acknowledgment by the federal government of “the significant role of American Indians in the military during World War I and the possibility that the Unknown Soldier could have been an American Indian,” Finkelstein said. Between 8,000 and 15,000 Native Americans served in the war, she said. The presence of Chief Plenty Coups was probably the first time that Native Americans were on a national political stage and broadcast to white Americans other than in Wild West shows, said Aaron Brien, the tribal historic preservation officer for the Crow Tribe. His presence also represented “this weird duality that we’re not being treated fairly at all at the time,” Brien said. “He’s showing the generosity and kindness of Native people, Native people who weren’t even citizens of the country and were living in a time of abject poverty.” McElya said many Americans assumed the unknown soldier was a white, heterosexual male. But the mystery of his identity has turned the soldier into a potent political symbol. In 1980, for example, gay and lesbian veterans began laying a wreath at the tomb in a ceremony to honor service members who died in battle. The tomb helped “Arlington become a site that every single American can claim a relationship to,” McElya said. “The unknown is theirs.”

Tomb of the unknowns welcomes the public for first time in 73 years

Public street harassment will be criminalised under plans being drawn up by the government as part of its strategy to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) for England and Wales.

Along with this, the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of sexual harassment and abuse in higher education settings could also be banned after a review.

Home secretary Priti Patel would look to introduce a new street harassment law – called for by campaigners and the government’s adviser.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-now-launches-a-health-pass-here-is-what-you-should-know-399371">Also read |&nbsp;France now launches a 'health pass'. Here is what you should know</a>

Patel was quoted by The Guardian as saying that she was “determined to give the police the powers they need to crack down on perpetrators and carry out their duties to protect the public whilst providing victims with the care and support they deserve”.

A £5 million “safety of women at night” fund will concentrate on “innovative” projects. Also, a new national police chief with overall responsibility for tackling violence against women and girls will be introduced.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Justice will commission a 24/7 rape and sexual assault helpline.

Public street harassment will be criminalised under plans being drawn up by the government as part of its strategy to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) for England and Wales.

Public street harassment will be criminalised under plans being drawn up by the government as part of its strategy to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) for England and Wales. Along with this, the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of sexual harassment and abuse in higher education settings could also be banned after a review. Home secretary Priti Patel would look to introduce a new street harassment law – called for by campaigners and the government’s adviser. Also read | France now launches a 'health pass'. Here is what you should know Patel was quoted by The Guardian as saying that she was “determined to give the police the powers they need to crack down on perpetrators and carry out their duties to protect the public whilst providing victims with the care and support they deserve”. A £5 million “safety of women at night” fund will concentrate on “innovative” projects. Also, a new national police chief with overall responsibility for tackling violence against women and girls will be introduced. The Ministry of Justice will commission a 24/7 rape and sexual assault helpline.

Public street harassment to be made illegal in England and Wales

Scores of visitors in Goa, which is considered to be the country`s most popular tourist destination, hailed the decision taken by the state assembly recently to ban drinking and cooking in the open on beaches.

Speaking to ANI, Subhash Kapoor, a resident of Mumbai, opined that this ban was much needed to keep the beaches in the state clean."In my view, the law banning drinking, cooking in public should not only be implemented here but all across the country.&nbsp;

This was needed a few years ago too. I feel by this move, beaches and the city will be cleaned," he said.

A couple from London also echoed a similar opinion and said: "We are happy with the new decision taken by the assembly.&nbsp;

People who actually want to consume alcohol can do it personally in their hotel rooms. Earlier, people use to dump their beer cans, bottles on the beach as there were no dustbins around.&nbsp;

I am happy that now the beaches will look clean."However, Amit Tomar, a local, was of the view that this move might affect tourism in the state.&nbsp;

"Instead of banning liquor consumption in public places, the government should have tightened the laws for breaking bottles after drinking on the beach or indulging in violence in an inebriated state," he opined.

On January 31, the Goa Assembly amended the state tourism law and made cooking and drinking alcohol in public places, including beaches and breaking of glass bottles in public, a criminal offence with fines of Rs 2,000.

According to an amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, individual offenders will be from now onwards fined Rs. 2,000 for offences and if the offences are committed by more than one person, the group will have to pay Rs. 10,000.

Scores of visitors in Goa, which is considered to be the country`s most popular tourist destination, hailed the decision taken by the state assembly recently to ban drinking and cooking in the open on beaches.

Scores of visitors in Goa, which is considered to be the country`s most popular tourist destination, hailed the decision taken by the state assembly recently to ban drinking and cooking in the open on beaches. Speaking to ANI, Subhash Kapoor, a resident of Mumbai, opined that this ban was much needed to keep the beaches in the state clean."In my view, the law banning drinking, cooking in public should not only be implemented here but all across the country. This was needed a few years ago too. I feel by this move, beaches and the city will be cleaned," he said. A couple from London also echoed a similar opinion and said: "We are happy with the new decision taken by the assembly. People who actually want to consume alcohol can do it personally in their hotel rooms. Earlier, people use to dump their beer cans, bottles on the beach as there were no dustbins around. I am happy that now the beaches will look clean."However, Amit Tomar, a local, was of the view that this move might affect tourism in the state. "Instead of banning liquor consumption in public places, the government should have tightened the laws for breaking bottles after drinking on the beach or indulging in violence in an inebriated state," he opined. On January 31, the Goa Assembly amended the state tourism law and made cooking and drinking alcohol in public places, including beaches and breaking of glass bottles in public, a criminal offence with fines of Rs 2,000. According to an amendment to the Goa Tourist Places (Protection and Maintenance) Act, 2001, individual offenders will be from now onwards fined Rs. 2,000 for offences and if the offences are committed by more than one person, the group will have to pay Rs. 10,000.

Goa: Tourists give thumbs-up to law banning drinking, cooking in public

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/two-koreas-connect-dmz-road-across-border-seoul-178776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjg_NndpojgAhVKrI8KHaCrAfwQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3mtwVWlnzcVce4alaYPBWj">Seoul</a> on Friday sent aircraft over the Yellow Sea to carry out cloud-seeding experiments in an effort to tackle<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/in-china-air-pollution-is-driving-happiness-levels-down-191887&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiTr_7vpojgAhWab30KHecgDjwQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw04v-EfX_rqmAHHhxeYjKJC"> air pollution </a>many South Koreans blame on China.

Air quality in South Korea is generally better than in its giant neighbour, the world's biggest polluter, which is periodically affected by choking bouts of filthy air and according to the International Energy Agency uses coal to generate around three-quarters of its energy.

Beijing has been seeking to tackle the scourge, which causes widespread public anger, and a recent study found urban levels of PM2.5 — the tiny airborne particles considered most harmful to health — had been cut by almost a third on average over four years.

But they remain far above World Health Organization norms, and pollution levels in Korea sometimes spike as the prevailing winds blow PM2.5 particulates — referred to as "fine dust" in the South — across the sea between the two countries.

Many South Koreans accused China when pollution surged for three days earlier this month, and on Friday the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) sent an aircraft to disperse silver iodide, a compound believed to cause rain to fall, over the waters, known as the West Sea in Korea.

"The experiment is to see whether the technology works and is effective in washing away fine dust," a spokeswoman told AFP, adding it was the first of 15 such tests planned for this year.

She said Seoul had "no evidence that fine dust on the West Sea is entirely from China".

Last year, South Korea shut down five ageing coal-fired power plants in a bid to improve its air quality.

But ruling party lawmaker Shin Ching-Hyun pointed out that when pollution levels rose two weeks ago, they were highest on Baengnyeongdo island, 200 kilometres west of Seoul and the closest South Korean land to China.

"China's claim — that it is not entirely to blame for South Korea's air pollution problem — violates the rights of South Koreans to a healthy environment," he said in a statement.

Earlier this month, Thailand also deployed rain-making planes to try to combat its own air pollution.

Seoul on Friday sent aircraft over the Yellow Sea to carry out cloud-seeding experiments in an effort to tackle air pollution many South Koreans blame on China. Air quality in South Korea is generally better than in its giant neighbour, the world's biggest polluter, which is periodically affected by choking bouts of filthy air and according to the International Energy Agency uses coal to generate around three-quarters of its energy.

Seoul on Friday sent aircraft over the Yellow Sea to carry out cloud-seeding experiments in an effort to tackle air pollution many South Koreans blame on China. Air quality in South Korea is generally better than in its giant neighbour, the world's biggest polluter, which is periodically affected by choking bouts of filthy air and according to the International Energy Agency uses coal to generate around three-quarters of its energy. Beijing has been seeking to tackle the scourge, which causes widespread public anger, and a recent study found urban levels of PM2.5 — the tiny airborne particles considered most harmful to health — had been cut by almost a third on average over four years. But they remain far above World Health Organization norms, and pollution levels in Korea sometimes spike as the prevailing winds blow PM2.5 particulates — referred to as "fine dust" in the South — across the sea between the two countries. Many South Koreans accused China when pollution surged for three days earlier this month, and on Friday the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) sent an aircraft to disperse silver iodide, a compound believed to cause rain to fall, over the waters, known as the West Sea in Korea. "The experiment is to see whether the technology works and is effective in washing away fine dust," a spokeswoman told AFP, adding it was the first of 15 such tests planned for this year. She said Seoul had "no evidence that fine dust on the West Sea is entirely from China". Last year, South Korea shut down five ageing coal-fired power plants in a bid to improve its air quality. But ruling party lawmaker Shin Ching-Hyun pointed out that when pollution levels rose two weeks ago, they were highest on Baengnyeongdo island, 200 kilometres west of Seoul and the closest South Korean land to China. "China's claim — that it is not entirely to blame for South Korea's air pollution problem — violates the rights of South Koreans to a healthy environment," he said in a statement. Earlier this month, Thailand also deployed rain-making planes to try to combat its own air pollution.

South Korea in airborne fight against 'Chinese' pollution

Currency with the public has amounted to a record high of over Rs 18.5 lakh crore - more than double of Rs 7.8 lakh crore it had right after demonetisation in 2016, data by RBI revealed.&nbsp;

As per reports, the total currency put in circulation by the RBI has also doubled, reaching ti Rs 19.3 lakh crore from Rs 8.9 lakh crore after demonetisation.&nbsp;

This high level of currency available with the public is in contrast to the reported cash crunch in various parts of the country a few months ago.&nbsp;

The figures for both 'currency with the public' and 'currency in circulation' have also exceeded the levels seen before the government's demonetisation decision on November 8, 2016, that saw nearly 86 per cent of the currency in circulation at that time being invalidated overnight by scrapping the then Rs. 500/1,000 banknotes.

The public was given time to deposit the invalidated notes in banks, which saw nearly 99 per cent of banned notes coming back into the system.

As per the RBI's latest disclosure in this regard, people had returned Rs. 15.28 lakh crore as on June 30, 2017, of the Rs. 15.44 lakh crore banned currency, or 98.96 per cent, of the scrapped notes to the banking system.

Since then, the RBI has introduced new denominations of Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 200, among others, besides a new Rs. 500 note. After the recent cash crunch, the government had announced that printing of Rs. 500 notes would be stepped up.

While the RBI is yet to announce its final word on processing and verification of all the returned notes, the latest 'money supply' data from the central bank puts the "currency with the public" at over Rs. 18.5 lakh crore as on May 25, 2018 -- up more than 31 per cent from year-ago level.

This is an over two-fold jump from Rs. 7.8 lakh crore as on December 9, 2016 -- the lowest level it had seen after the announcement of the demonetisation decision as people rushed to deposit the scrapped notes with banks and the RBI.

Prior to demonetisation, the currency with the public stood at about Rs. 17 lakh crore.

The total money supply, described as M3 by the RBI, now stands at over Rs. 140 lakh crore -- nearly 11 per cent higher than the year-ago level. It stood at about Rs. 120 lakh crore during the demonetisation period and was below Rs. 100 lakh crore level before the Modi government came to power.

The M3 includes currency with the public, deposit money of the public (demand deposits with the banking system plus 'other' deposits with the RBI) and the time deposits with the banking system.

This figure is equivalent to the net bank credit to the government, plus the bank credit to the commercial sector, plus net foreign exchange assets of the banking sector, plus government's currency liabilities to the public, minus the net non-monetary liabilities of the banking sector.

The government's currency liabilities to the public comprise rupee coins and small coins.

The total currency put in circulation by the RBI has also doubled, reaching ti Rs 19.3 lakh crore from Rs 8.9 lakh crore after demonetisation.

Currency with the public has amounted to a record high of over Rs 18.5 lakh crore - more than double of Rs 7.8 lakh crore it had right after demonetisation in 2016, data by RBI revealed. As per reports, the total currency put in circulation by the RBI has also doubled, reaching ti Rs 19.3 lakh crore from Rs 8.9 lakh crore after demonetisation. This high level of currency available with the public is in contrast to the reported cash crunch in various parts of the country a few months ago. The figures for both 'currency with the public' and 'currency in circulation' have also exceeded the levels seen before the government's demonetisation decision on November 8, 2016, that saw nearly 86 per cent of the currency in circulation at that time being invalidated overnight by scrapping the then Rs. 500/1,000 banknotes. The public was given time to deposit the invalidated notes in banks, which saw nearly 99 per cent of banned notes coming back into the system. As per the RBI's latest disclosure in this regard, people had returned Rs. 15.28 lakh crore as on June 30, 2017, of the Rs. 15.44 lakh crore banned currency, or 98.96 per cent, of the scrapped notes to the banking system. Since then, the RBI has introduced new denominations of Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 200, among others, besides a new Rs. 500 note. After the recent cash crunch, the government had announced that printing of Rs. 500 notes would be stepped up. While the RBI is yet to announce its final word on processing and verification of all the returned notes, the latest 'money supply' data from the central bank puts the "currency with the public" at over Rs. 18.5 lakh crore as on May 25, 2018 -- up more than 31 per cent from year-ago level. This is an over two-fold jump from Rs. 7.8 lakh crore as on December 9, 2016 -- the lowest level it had seen after the announcement of the demonetisation decision as people rushed to deposit the scrapped notes with banks and the RBI. Prior to demonetisation, the currency with the public stood at about Rs. 17 lakh crore. The total money supply, described as M3 by the RBI, now stands at over Rs. 140 lakh crore -- nearly 11 per cent higher than the year-ago level. It stood at about Rs. 120 lakh crore during the demonetisation period and was below Rs. 100 lakh crore level before the Modi government came to power. The M3 includes currency with the public, deposit money of the public (demand deposits with the banking system plus 'other' deposits with the RBI) and the time deposits with the banking system. This figure is equivalent to the net bank credit to the government, plus the bank credit to the commercial sector, plus net foreign exchange assets of the banking sector, plus government's currency liabilities to the public, minus the net non-monetary liabilities of the banking sector. The government's currency liabilities to the public comprise rupee coins and small coins.

Currency with public reaches record high of Rs 18.5 lakh crore: RBI data

Denmark&nbsphas banned the wearing of face veils in public, joining France and other parts of Europe in outlawing the burqa and the niqab worn by some Muslim women.

Parliament voted on Thursday for the law proposed by the centre-right government which said face veils were contrary to Danish values. Opponents say the ban, that comes into effect on August, 1 infringes women's right to dress as they choose.

Justice Minister Soren Pape Poulsen said police would not order offenders to remove their veils, but would fine them and tell them to go home.

Fines will range from 1,000 Danish crowns ($160) for a first offence to 10,000 crowns for the fourth violation.

France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bulgaria and the German state of Bavaria have all imposed some restrictions on full-face veils in public places.

Justice Minister Pape Poulsen, head of the conservative party in a government backed by the nationalist Danish People's Party, said when the bill was proposed in February: "It is incompatible with the values of the Danish society or the respect for the community to keep the face hidden when meeting each other in the public space."

Zainab Ibn Hssain, who lives in Copenhagen and has been wearing the niqab for the last year, told Reuters: "It's not nice. It will mean that I won't be able to go to school, go to work or go out with my family.

"But I won't take my niqab off so I have to find another solution," the 20 year-old added.

Human rights group Amnesty International called the ban "a discriminatory violation of women's rights".

"All women should be free to dress as they please and to wear clothing that expresses their identity or beliefs," it said.

Parliament voted on Thursday for the law proposed by the centre-right government which said face veils were contrary to Danish values. Opponents say the ban, that comes into effect on Aug, 1 infringes women's right to dress as they choose

Denmark&nbsphas banned the wearing of face veils in public, joining France and other parts of Europe in outlawing the burqa and the niqab worn by some Muslim women. Parliament voted on Thursday for the law proposed by the centre-right government which said face veils were contrary to Danish values. Opponents say the ban, that comes into effect on August, 1 infringes women's right to dress as they choose. Justice Minister Soren Pape Poulsen said police would not order offenders to remove their veils, but would fine them and tell them to go home. Fines will range from 1,000 Danish crowns ($160) for a first offence to 10,000 crowns for the fourth violation. France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bulgaria and the German state of Bavaria have all imposed some restrictions on full-face veils in public places. Justice Minister Pape Poulsen, head of the conservative party in a government backed by the nationalist Danish People's Party, said when the bill was proposed in February: "It is incompatible with the values of the Danish society or the respect for the community to keep the face hidden when meeting each other in the public space." Zainab Ibn Hssain, who lives in Copenhagen and has been wearing the niqab for the last year, told Reuters: "It's not nice. It will mean that I won't be able to go to school, go to work or go out with my family. "But I won't take my niqab off so I have to find another solution," the 20 year-old added. Human rights group Amnesty International called the ban "a discriminatory violation of women's rights". "All women should be free to dress as they please and to wear clothing that expresses their identity or beliefs," it said.

Denmark bans the wearing of face veils in public

Uttar Pradesh government today said that both public sector undertakings and private sector have promised to invest in the state.

On the first day of the UP Investors Summit, public sector undertakings and private sector evinced their interest to invest in the state.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPInvestorsSummit2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPInvestorsSummit2018</a> : आईटी सेक्टर की कंपनियों के साथ चल रहे सेशन में केंद्रीय मंत्री <a href="https://twitter.com/rsprasad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rsprasad</a> और डिप्टी सीएम <a href="https://twitter.com/drdineshbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@drdineshbjp</a> हुए शामिल. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InvestorsSummit2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InvestorsSummit2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/InvestInUp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InvestInUp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Satishmahanaup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Satishmahanaup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SureshKKhanna?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SureshKKhanna</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SureshRanaBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SureshRanaBJP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/navneetsehgal3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@navneetsehgal3</a> <a href="https://t.co/IuLnVtOfoJ">pic.twitter.com/IuLnVtOfoJ</a>
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An UP government spokesperson today said, &quot;Among some of the top MoUs signed with the private sectors are: Adani (Rs 35,000 crore), Birla (Rs 25,000 crore), Essel (Zee Group Rs 18,000 crore), Reliance Jio Infocomm (Rs 10,000 crore) and Hinduja (Rs 10,000 crore),&quot; he added.

Among the public sector undertakings, THDCIL (Rs 12,000 crore), BHEL (Rs 12,000 crore), Mathura Refinery-Expansion (Rs 8,700 crore), DMIC DC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (Rs 5,000 crore), IOCL (Rs 1,500 crore) and GAIL (Rs 1,200 crore).&nbsp;

&#39;UP Investors Summit&#39; is in line with the summits held by states like Gujarat (Vibrant Gujarat) and Maharashtra (Magnetic Maharashtra Summit) to attract potential investors.&nbsp;

The UP Investors Summit is the first such event to be held by the Yogi government. Over 5,000 delegates are expected to attend the event while over 100 speakers will address the gathering.

The summit will bring together various stakeholders to find better investment opportunities in the state.

Apart from government and major business heads, representatives from Mauritius, Japan, the Netherlands, Finland, Czech Republic, Thailand and Slovakia will take part.

(With inputs from PTI)

Among the public sector undertakings, THDCIL (Rs 12,000 cr), BHEL (Rs 12,000 cr), Mathura Refinery-Expansion (Rs 8,700 cr), DMIC DC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (Rs 5,000 cr), IOCL (Rs 1,500 cr) and GAIL (Rs 1,200 cr)

Uttar Pradesh government today said that both public sector undertakings and private sector have promised to invest in the state. On the first day of the UP Investors Summit, public sector undertakings and private sector evinced their interest to invest in the state. #UPInvestorsSummit2018 : आईटी सेक्टर की कंपनियों के साथ चल रहे सेशन में केंद्रीय मंत्री @rsprasad और डिप्टी सीएम @drdineshbjp हुए शामिल. #InvestorsSummit2018 @InvestInUp @Satishmahanaup @SureshKKhanna @SureshRanaBJP @navneetsehgal3 pic.twitter.com/IuLnVtOfoJ — UttarPradesh . Org (@WeUttarPradesh) February 22, 2018 × An UP government spokesperson today said, "Among some of the top MoUs signed with the private sectors are: Adani (Rs 35,000 crore), Birla (Rs 25,000 crore), Essel (Zee Group Rs 18,000 crore), Reliance Jio Infocomm (Rs 10,000 crore) and Hinduja (Rs 10,000 crore)," he added. Among the public sector undertakings, THDCIL (Rs 12,000 crore), BHEL (Rs 12,000 crore), Mathura Refinery-Expansion (Rs 8,700 crore), DMIC DC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (Rs 5,000 crore), IOCL (Rs 1,500 crore) and GAIL (Rs 1,200 crore). 'UP Investors Summit' is in line with the summits held by states like Gujarat (Vibrant Gujarat) and Maharashtra (Magnetic Maharashtra Summit) to attract potential investors. The UP Investors Summit is the first such event to be held by the Yogi government. Over 5,000 delegates are expected to attend the event while over 100 speakers will address the gathering. The summit will bring together various stakeholders to find better investment opportunities in the state. Apart from government and major business heads, representatives from Mauritius, Japan, the Netherlands, Finland, Czech Republic, Thailand and Slovakia will take part. (With inputs from PTI)

UP investors' summit: State govt says inked investment pacts with both public, private firms

The Jammu and Kashmir Police today appealed to the public to avoid thronging the Sunjwan Army camp area where an encounter between the Army and terrorists was underway.

Six persons, including five armymen and the father of a jawan, died while five others were injured in an attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists. At least three JeM terrorists have also been gunned down.

&quot;I appeal to the public here not to throng the encounter sites. Several people had gathered here,&quot; Superintendent of Police, Jammu (South), Sandeep Chaudhary said while speaking to reporters here.

He said the gathering of people at the site created problems for the security personnel engaged in the encounter. It had to be ensured that people are not harmed and kept away, he said.

Please avoid coming to encounter sites, he said.

Chaudhary also appealed to people to maintain communal harmony. &quot;If some miscreants are engaged in creating communal tension, they will be taken to task,&quot; he said.

Five armymen including two JCOs and the father of an army-man died and at least three militants of the JeM were killed in the gun-battle following the attack by a group of heavily armed men on the Army camp in Sunjwan in Jammu city.&nbsp;

'I appeal to the public here not to throng the encounter sites. Several people had gathered here,' Superintendent of Police, Jammu (South), Sandeep Chaudhary said

The Jammu and Kashmir Police today appealed to the public to avoid thronging the Sunjwan Army camp area where an encounter between the Army and terrorists was underway. Six persons, including five armymen and the father of a jawan, died while five others were injured in an attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists. At least three JeM terrorists have also been gunned down. "I appeal to the public here not to throng the encounter sites. Several people had gathered here," Superintendent of Police, Jammu (South), Sandeep Chaudhary said while speaking to reporters here. He said the gathering of people at the site created problems for the security personnel engaged in the encounter. It had to be ensured that people are not harmed and kept away, he said. Please avoid coming to encounter sites, he said. Chaudhary also appealed to people to maintain communal harmony. "If some miscreants are engaged in creating communal tension, they will be taken to task," he said. Five armymen including two JCOs and the father of an army-man died and at least three militants of the JeM were killed in the gun-battle following the attack by a group of heavily armed men on the Army camp in Sunjwan in Jammu city.

Don't throng encounter site, maintain communal harmony: Jammu Police to public

The Australian Federal Police arrested a 59-year-old Korean man from Sydney for allegedly working as an economic agent for North Korea, reports said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Chan Han Choi was the first person in Australia charged with working as a black-market agent, brokering sales and discussing the supply of weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;

He had reportedly been getting income from the North Korean government for sale of ballistic missile technology to foreign entities, reports further claimed.&nbsp;

Choi has broken the UN and Australian sanctions and has also been charged with attempts to brokering the sale of coal from North Korea to groups in Indonesia and Vietnam, media reports say.&nbsp;

The 59-year-old has been charged under the 1995 Weapons of Mass Destruction (Prevention of Proliferation) Act for being in touch with top officials from North Korea.&nbsp;

The arrested man is facing six charges in connection with the acts.

There was no threat to Australians and that the man was not considered a &quot;spy&quot;, AFP assistant commissioner Neil Gaughan told the media in Sydney on Sunday.

&quot;This man was acting as a loyal agent for North Korea who believed he was acting to serve some higher patriotic purpose,&quot; he said.

&quot;At the end of the day, he would sell whatever he could to make money for the North Korean government&quot; and is believed to have endeavored to sell gemstones and other product as well.

The man who has been identified as Choi Han Chan, a 59-year-old from Sydney's Eastwood, allegedly breached United Nation's sanctions and Australian federal law, and has been charged with brokering sales and discussing the supply of weapons of mass destruction

The Australian Federal Police arrested a 59-year-old Korean man from Sydney for allegedly working as an economic agent for North Korea, reports said on Sunday. Chan Han Choi was the first person in Australia charged with working as a black-market agent, brokering sales and discussing the supply of weapons of mass destruction. He had reportedly been getting income from the North Korean government for sale of ballistic missile technology to foreign entities, reports further claimed. Choi has broken the UN and Australian sanctions and has also been charged with attempts to brokering the sale of coal from North Korea to groups in Indonesia and Vietnam, media reports say. The 59-year-old has been charged under the 1995 Weapons of Mass Destruction (Prevention of Proliferation) Act for being in touch with top officials from North Korea. The arrested man is facing six charges in connection with the acts. There was no threat to Australians and that the man was not considered a "spy", AFP assistant commissioner Neil Gaughan told the media in Sydney on Sunday. "This man was acting as a loyal agent for North Korea who believed he was acting to serve some higher patriotic purpose," he said. "At the end of the day, he would sell whatever he could to make money for the North Korean government" and is believed to have endeavored to sell gemstones and other product as well.

Sydney man charged with acting as agent for North Korea

New York&rsquo;s&nbsp;Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is home to a rather unique exhibit - a toilet made of pure gold. The 18-karat golden toilet is named &Aacute;merica. It is a reflection of the&nbsp;country&#39;s&nbsp;increasing&nbsp;obsession with wealth and everything glamorous. The toilet has been&nbsp;designed by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan and is currently estimated to be worth anywhere between&nbsp;$1 million and $1.7 million.&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J2cIR-UucmQ?list=PLmWa9ZZLlCjt0Jlg7kN3JBNX4LH1sRsGh" width="970"></iframe>

Unlike other such priceless items in the world, this toilet is actually open for public use.&nbsp;The gold toilet&nbsp;requires cleaning crews to use medical wipes instead of industrial strength chemicals. According to officials, the toilet is cleaned each time it is used and is also be periodically steamed and polished to ensure that it retains its sparkle.

This is the world's most expensive toilet, and it is open to the public

New York’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is home to a rather unique exhibit - a toilet made of pure gold. The 18-karat golden toilet is named Ámerica. It is a reflection of the country's increasing obsession with wealth and everything glamorous. The toilet has been designed by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan and is currently estimated to be worth anywhere between $1 million and $1.7 million. Unlike other such priceless items in the world, this toilet is actually open for public use. The gold toilet requires cleaning crews to use medical wipes instead of industrial strength chemicals. According to officials, the toilet is cleaned each time it is used and is also be periodically steamed and polished to ensure that it retains its sparkle.

Video: A toilet made of gold, literally

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