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In geography and in culture, the rice paddies of northeastern Thailand are thousands of miles away from the birthplace of hip hop in New York City's Bronx, but for Thai rapper RachYo, the language of hip hop is universal. 
 
A recent video features the 18-year-old artist rapping in a rice field, sitting on an old truck as he laments in Thai about jealousy over a girl. It was viewed 57 million times on YouTube. 
 
"I rap about things that really happened to me," says RachYo, based in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeastern Thailand, whose full name is Rachayothin Pengjunta. He says he mostly sings about girls. 
 
The rising popularity of hip hop in Thailand has created stars that have drawn the attention of music industry players. 
 
Def Jam Recordings, the flagship hip hop label of Vivendi`s Universal Music Group (UMG) that is home to Rihanna, 2 Chainz and Kanye West, last year opened branches in Thailand and Singapore. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rihanna-boyfriend-hassan-jameel-call-it-quits-after-nearly-3-years-of-dating-275044">Also read:&nbsp; Rihanna, boyfriend Hassan Jameel call it quits</a>

One of the first artists it signed was Thai rapper DaBoyWay, who has 1 million Instagram followers and is releasing a new album on Monday. It has also signed five others from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B6QjHxlnv5y/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">new music from @pokmindset featuring @wwwprettyboycom @diamondt_ and yours truly ไปดูกันได้เลยครับ</a>

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Def Jam plans to sign four more Thai artists this year, said Paul Sirisant, who heads UMG and the label`s operations in Bangkok.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vAgYccRP0-c" width="560"></iframe>

Thai artists stand out from others in Southeast Asia because the language innately rhymes in daily speech, lending itself to rap and hip hop, Sirisant said in an interview. It`s also spread to the country`s rural areas, he said. 
 
"Thailand has already tipped in a big way - it`s the paddy fields and hip hop," he said, adding that top-tier rappers can earn around $1.32 million.&nbsp; 
 
Broadcaster Workpoint Entertainment launched a reality TV show in 2018, the Rapper, a contest to find the next rap star. The competition was hugely popular, familiarizing the public with the genre.

&nbsp;<img alt="THAILAND RAPPER" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dfde7657-b971-4203-8e49-4436c49a504c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_5.jpg" /> 
Courtesy: Reuters

"The Rapper - the show - made hip hop a household name. It was big among teenage boys, then it became a household name," Sirisant said. 
 
A group called Rap Against Dictatorship released a song in 2018 that drew millions of views on YouTube with lyrics like "either eat the truth or bullets" calling out the military junta that ruled until last year. 
 
'Klong Toey'&nbsp;by 19Tyger and H3NRI is about life in Bangkok's Klong Toey slum. Maya Piyapan, 23, says his hip hop crew, WARPGVNG, met online and has members from across the country. 
 
The group, which will have a concert on Jan. 31, has music about getting into trouble and problems with friends after finding fame. 
 
''Labels have reached out to me to help with production and content, but not as an artist," said Maya. 
 
Record deals are the dream for many artists, but not for RachYo - whose recent video Nok (the Thai word for bird) clocked 80 million YouTube views, more than Thailand`s population of nearly 70 million.

He says he raps to express himself, but he`s not interested in signing with a label. "I like being home, in the country. I don`t really like to go anywhere," he said.

In geography and in culture, the rice paddies of northeastern Thailand are thousands of miles away from the birthplace of hip hop in New York City's Bronx, but for Thai rapper RachYo, the language of hip hop is universal.

In geography and in culture, the rice paddies of northeastern Thailand are thousands of miles away from the birthplace of hip hop in New York City's Bronx, but for Thai rapper RachYo, the language of hip hop is universal. A recent video features the 18-year-old artist rapping in a rice field, sitting on an old truck as he laments in Thai about jealousy over a girl. It was viewed 57 million times on YouTube. "I rap about things that really happened to me," says RachYo, based in Nakhon Ratchasima province in northeastern Thailand, whose full name is Rachayothin Pengjunta. He says he mostly sings about girls. The rising popularity of hip hop in Thailand has created stars that have drawn the attention of music industry players. Def Jam Recordings, the flagship hip hop label of Vivendi`s Universal Music Group (UMG) that is home to Rihanna, 2 Chainz and Kanye West, last year opened branches in Thailand and Singapore. Also read: Rihanna, boyfriend Hassan Jameel call it quits One of the first artists it signed was Thai rapper DaBoyWay, who has 1 million Instagram followers and is releasing a new album on Monday. It has also signed five others from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. View this post on Instagram new music from @pokmindset featuring @wwwprettyboycom @diamondt_ and yours truly ไปดูกันได้เลยครับ A post shared by DaBoyWay (@daboyway) on Dec 19, 2019 at 7:17am PST × Def Jam plans to sign four more Thai artists this year, said Paul Sirisant, who heads UMG and the label`s operations in Bangkok. Thai artists stand out from others in Southeast Asia because the language innately rhymes in daily speech, lending itself to rap and hip hop, Sirisant said in an interview. It`s also spread to the country`s rural areas, he said. "Thailand has already tipped in a big way - it`s the paddy fields and hip hop," he said, adding that top-tier rappers can earn around $1.32 million. Broadcaster Workpoint Entertainment launched a reality TV show in 2018, the Rapper, a contest to find the next rap star. The competition was hugely popular, familiarizing the public with the genre. Courtesy: Reuters "The Rapper - the show - made hip hop a household name. It was big among teenage boys, then it became a household name," Sirisant said. A group called Rap Against Dictatorship released a song in 2018 that drew millions of views on YouTube with lyrics like "either eat the truth or bullets" calling out the military junta that ruled until last year. 'Klong Toey' by 19Tyger and H3NRI is about life in Bangkok's Klong Toey slum. Maya Piyapan, 23, says his hip hop crew, WARPGVNG, met online and has members from across the country. The group, which will have a concert on Jan. 31, has music about getting into trouble and problems with friends after finding fame. ''Labels have reached out to me to help with production and content, but not as an artist," said Maya. Record deals are the dream for many artists, but not for RachYo - whose recent video Nok (the Thai word for bird) clocked 80 million YouTube views, more than Thailand`s population of nearly 70 million. He says he raps to express himself, but he`s not interested in signing with a label. "I like being home, in the country. I don`t really like to go anywhere," he said.

Rap and rice paddies: Thai hip hop creates unlikely new stars

Thai turtle Goody can once again swim with ease again after she received her prosthetic flipper last week.

Goody was entangled in a fishing net years ago which made her immobile. She lost her flipper in the accident.&nbsp;

Last week, Goody, an endangered olive ridley sea turtle, received Thailand's first prosthetic flipper.&nbsp;

<img alt="Thai turtle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9dddae9-f683-4972-b7c0-01af5db63561" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BxyQjuQO.jpg" />

(Female turtle named Goody tests out the first prosthetic flipper | Photo Credit: Reuters)&nbsp;

"She's swimming much better and she's learning to use the two flippers to turn. You can see the difference," said Nantarika Chansue, a veterinarian who played a part in developing Goody's prosthetic flipper.

<img alt="Thai turtle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590e80d7-5b56-4671-9ab7-e0d9ffa31a8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BFk7AO0i.jpg" />

(Female turtle named Goody tests out the first prosthetic flipper | Photo Credit: Reuters)&nbsp;

Taking cues from Japan and the United States, over the last year, Thai environment officials and researchers at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok have also started developing prostheses for injured sea turtles.&nbsp;

Sea turtles often get killed or injured by human activities, majorly by ingesting plastic or getting caught in fishing nets or lines, which even have the potential to stop their blood circulation.&nbsp;

After the accident, Goody was able to swim only with her right flipper in a limited space with other injured turtles.&nbsp;

Another 10 turtles with similiar injuries could also be benefitted from the project.&nbsp;

The veterinarian said that the prosthetics would not help turtles to become fit enough to return to sea, but they aim that turtles' quality of life gets improved.&nbsp;

"We are trying to develop some of the best ones ever created in the world," Nantarika said.

(with Reuters inputs)

Thai turtle Goody can once again swim with ease again after she received her prosthetic flipper last week. Goody was entangled in a fishing net years ago which made her immobile.

Thai turtle Goody can once again swim with ease again after she received her prosthetic flipper last week. Goody was entangled in a fishing net years ago which made her immobile. She lost her flipper in the accident. Last week, Goody, an endangered olive ridley sea turtle, received Thailand's first prosthetic flipper. (Female turtle named Goody tests out the first prosthetic flipper | Photo Credit: Reuters) "She's swimming much better and she's learning to use the two flippers to turn. You can see the difference," said Nantarika Chansue, a veterinarian who played a part in developing Goody's prosthetic flipper. (Female turtle named Goody tests out the first prosthetic flipper | Photo Credit: Reuters) Taking cues from Japan and the United States, over the last year, Thai environment officials and researchers at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok have also started developing prostheses for injured sea turtles. Sea turtles often get killed or injured by human activities, majorly by ingesting plastic or getting caught in fishing nets or lines, which even have the potential to stop their blood circulation. After the accident, Goody was able to swim only with her right flipper in a limited space with other injured turtles. Another 10 turtles with similiar injuries could also be benefitted from the project. The veterinarian said that the prosthetics would not help turtles to become fit enough to return to sea, but they aim that turtles' quality of life gets improved. "We are trying to develop some of the best ones ever created in the world," Nantarika said. (with Reuters inputs)

Prosthetic flipper helps Thai turtle swim again

As part of the year-end holiday season, Thailand's Jirasartwitthaya School in Ayutthaya cited in North of Bangkok celebrated Christmas with a troupe of elephants dressed as Santa delivering presents and candies to students following the lane of 15-year long-run tradition.

Elephant Santas arrive in Thailand with Christmas presents, candies

Several thousand people took part in Thailand's biggest protest since a 2014 coup on Saturday after authorities moved to ban a party that has rallied opposition to the government of former military ruler Prayuth Chan-ocha.

The demonstration in Bangkok, called just a day earlier by Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, a 41-year-old billionaire, revived memories of the spasms of street protest that have roiled the Thai capital periodically during the past two decades of political turbulence.

But there was no sign of any attempt to block the biggest demonstration since Prayuth seized power in 2014 on promises to end such unrest.

"This is just the beginning," Thanathorn told the cheering crowd that spilled across walkways and stairways close to the MBK Centre mall, in the heart of Bangkok's shopping and business district.

Thanathorn has emerged as the most outspoken opponent of the government headed by Prayuth, 65, since an election in March that the opposition said was manipulated to favour the army.

Thailand's election panel has asked the Constitutional Court to dissolve the Future Forward party, accusing it of infringing the laws governing political parties by accepting multi-million dollar loans from Thanathorn.

Last month, the Constitutional Court disqualified Thanathorn as member of parliament for holding shares in a media company on the date his election candidacy was registered. Thanathorn disputed the ruling.

Among Saturday's crowd were some veteran "red shirt" protesters, supporters of ousted populist leader Thaksin Shinawatra, who had once clashed in Bangkok with the "yellow shirt" conservatives - hardline loyalists of the palace and army.

New generation

But the were more younger anti-government protesters, many of whom said it was their first protest.

"It's time," said office worker Pantipa Tiakhome, 30. "They have done everything to hinder democracy from flourishing."

Helped by social media, Thanathorn has struck a chord with younger Thais. Meanwhile, the army has made plain its dislike of a movement it accuses of trying to rally the young against the monarchy and the armed forces.

"Today is a show of strength so that in the future others may join us. We're just here today as a test run. Prayuth, don't be afraid yet. The real thing is next month," Thanathorn told the protest.

A party spokeswoman said more than 10,000 people had joined the demonstration. Authorities did not give an estimate.

Many gave the three-finger salute of resistance to the former junta, a symbol drawn from the film The Hunger Games.

Government opponents are also planning a "Run Against Dictatorship" for Jan. 12.

Thanathorn signed an agreement on Saturday with six parties in an opposition alliance to push for changes to the constitution that was drawn up by the junta before the election.

He also won their support for the protest.

Among those parties was Pheu Thai, linked to Thaksin, who lives in self-exile since he was overthrown in 2006. His sister was ousted as prime minister by Prayuth.

Pheu Thai won the most seats in the 500-member lower house but has adopted a quieter approach to challenging the government than Future Forward, which came third in the election.

Palang Pracharat, the pro-military party formed last year by members of the junta's cabinet, came second. Prayuth told reporters on Friday it was inappropriate to organise a demonstration towards the end of the year.

Several thousand people took part in Thailand's biggest protest since a 2014 coup on Saturday after authorities moved to ban a party that has rallied opposition to the government of former military ruler Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Several thousand people took part in Thailand's biggest protest since a 2014 coup on Saturday after authorities moved to ban a party that has rallied opposition to the government of former military ruler Prayuth Chan-ocha. The demonstration in Bangkok, called just a day earlier by Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, a 41-year-old billionaire, revived memories of the spasms of street protest that have roiled the Thai capital periodically during the past two decades of political turbulence. But there was no sign of any attempt to block the biggest demonstration since Prayuth seized power in 2014 on promises to end such unrest. "This is just the beginning," Thanathorn told the cheering crowd that spilled across walkways and stairways close to the MBK Centre mall, in the heart of Bangkok's shopping and business district. Thanathorn has emerged as the most outspoken opponent of the government headed by Prayuth, 65, since an election in March that the opposition said was manipulated to favour the army. Thailand's election panel has asked the Constitutional Court to dissolve the Future Forward party, accusing it of infringing the laws governing political parties by accepting multi-million dollar loans from Thanathorn. Last month, the Constitutional Court disqualified Thanathorn as member of parliament for holding shares in a media company on the date his election candidacy was registered. Thanathorn disputed the ruling. Among Saturday's crowd were some veteran "red shirt" protesters, supporters of ousted populist leader Thaksin Shinawatra, who had once clashed in Bangkok with the "yellow shirt" conservatives - hardline loyalists of the palace and army. New generation But the were more younger anti-government protesters, many of whom said it was their first protest. "It's time," said office worker Pantipa Tiakhome, 30. "They have done everything to hinder democracy from flourishing." Helped by social media, Thanathorn has struck a chord with younger Thais. Meanwhile, the army has made plain its dislike of a movement it accuses of trying to rally the young against the monarchy and the armed forces. "Today is a show of strength so that in the future others may join us. We're just here today as a test run. Prayuth, don't be afraid yet. The real thing is next month," Thanathorn told the protest. A party spokeswoman said more than 10,000 people had joined the demonstration. Authorities did not give an estimate. Many gave the three-finger salute of resistance to the former junta, a symbol drawn from the film The Hunger Games. Government opponents are also planning a "Run Against Dictatorship" for Jan. 12. Thanathorn signed an agreement on Saturday with six parties in an opposition alliance to push for changes to the constitution that was drawn up by the junta before the election. He also won their support for the protest. Among those parties was Pheu Thai, linked to Thaksin, who lives in self-exile since he was overthrown in 2006. His sister was ousted as prime minister by Prayuth. Pheu Thai won the most seats in the 500-member lower house but has adopted a quieter approach to challenging the government than Future Forward, which came third in the election. Palang Pracharat, the pro-military party formed last year by members of the junta's cabinet, came second. Prayuth told reporters on Friday it was inappropriate to organise a demonstration towards the end of the year.

Thousands join biggest protest for years in Thai capital

A wild deer was found dead after swallowing 7 kilograms (15 pounds) of plastic bags and other trash in Thailand, an official said Tuesday, raising the alarm on waste littering the country's waters and forests.

The Southeast Asian country is one of the world's largest consumers of plastic, with Thais using up to 3,000 single-use plastic bags each per year, whether for wrapping street food, takeaway coffee or packing groceries.

Marine animals like turtles and dugongs have died in its waste-choked waters, and autopsies have found that plastic in the stomach lining contributed to their deaths.

Now the scourge of plastic waste is affecting Thailand's animals on land.

Officials said a 10-year-old deer was found dead in a national park in Nan province, around 630 kilometres (390 miles) north of capital Bangkok.

An autopsy discovered "plastic bags in the stomach, which is one of the causes of his death", said Kriangsak Thanompun, director of the protected region in the Khun Sathan National Park.

The bags contained coffee grounds, instant noodle packaging, garbage bags, towels and also underwear, according to photos provided by the national park.

The discovery of the deer comes months after a sick baby dugong won hearts in Thailand as she fought for recovery, only to pass away from an infection exacerbated by plastic bits lining her stomach.

The demise of Mariam in August was widely mourned on social media, reviving public debate on Thailand's urgent need to tackle its plastic addiction.

The loss of the wild deer is "another tragedy", Kriangsak said.

"It shows we have to take seriously and reduce single-use plastic," he said, calling for "nature-friendly products" to be used instead. 
 
Several major retailers, including the operator of the ubiquitous 7-Eleven convenience stores, have pledged to stop handing out single-use plastic bags by January next year.

A wild deer was found dead after swallowing 7 kilograms (15 pounds) of plastic bags and other trash in Thailand, an official said Tuesday, raising the alarm on waste littering the country's waters and forests.

A wild deer was found dead after swallowing 7 kilograms (15 pounds) of plastic bags and other trash in Thailand, an official said Tuesday, raising the alarm on waste littering the country's waters and forests. The Southeast Asian country is one of the world's largest consumers of plastic, with Thais using up to 3,000 single-use plastic bags each per year, whether for wrapping street food, takeaway coffee or packing groceries. Marine animals like turtles and dugongs have died in its waste-choked waters, and autopsies have found that plastic in the stomach lining contributed to their deaths. Now the scourge of plastic waste is affecting Thailand's animals on land. Officials said a 10-year-old deer was found dead in a national park in Nan province, around 630 kilometres (390 miles) north of capital Bangkok. An autopsy discovered "plastic bags in the stomach, which is one of the causes of his death", said Kriangsak Thanompun, director of the protected region in the Khun Sathan National Park. The bags contained coffee grounds, instant noodle packaging, garbage bags, towels and also underwear, according to photos provided by the national park. The discovery of the deer comes months after a sick baby dugong won hearts in Thailand as she fought for recovery, only to pass away from an infection exacerbated by plastic bits lining her stomach. The demise of Mariam in August was widely mourned on social media, reviving public debate on Thailand's urgent need to tackle its plastic addiction. The loss of the wild deer is "another tragedy", Kriangsak said. "It shows we have to take seriously and reduce single-use plastic," he said, calling for "nature-friendly products" to be used instead. Several major retailers, including the operator of the ubiquitous 7-Eleven convenience stores, have pledged to stop handing out single-use plastic bags by January next year.

Dead deer found in Thailand with 7kg of plastic in stomach

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-departs-thailand-for-japan-bringing-anti-nuclear-message-263984">Pope Francis</a> arrived in Japan on Saturday, where he is expected to deliver a robust anti-nuclear message of peace in the only country to have suffered an atomic bomb attack.

The 82-year-old Argentine is fulfilling a long-cherished ambition to preach in Japan, where years ago he hoped to be a missionary.

He arrived in Tokyo in heavy rain and high winds, the white cape of his papal outfit blowing up around his face as he stepped gingerly down the staircase from the Thai Airways plane that carried him from the first stop of his tour in Thailand.

His four-day trip will begin with visits to Nagasaki and Hiroshima, cities forever associated with the nuclear bombs dropped on them at the end of World War II, killing at least 74,000 people and 140,000 people respectively.

In a video message to the Japanese people before he left the Vatican, Francis railed against the "immoral" use of nuclear weapons.

"Together with you, I pray that the destructive power of nuclear weapons will never be unleashed again in human history," said the head of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics.

Francis <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-urges-respect-for-prostitutes-at-crowded-bangkok-mass-263707">arrives from Thailand</a>, where he preached a message of religious tolerance and peace.

He is expected to do the same in Japan, a country with only approximately 440,000 Catholics out of a population of 126 million.

The majority of Japanese practise a mixture of Shinto and Buddhism, two closely intertwined faiths based on the worship of nature and spirits, but many in Japan also observe Christian festivals such as Christmas.

Christians endured centuries of bloody repression in Japan after the religion was introduced to the country by a Spanish Jesuit priest in 1549.

In the 17th century, Japan was closed to the outside world and Christians were persecuted, tortured, crucified and drowned as they were forced to recant their faith.

When Japan reopened to the world in the mid-19th century and the missionaries returned, they were astonished to find an estimated 60,000 who had secretly kept the faith alive and followed a unique version of Catholicism blended with Japanese culture and religious rites.

Francis is expected to pay tribute to these so-called "hidden Christians", or "kakure kirishitan" in Japanese,&nbsp;during his trip on Sunday to Nagasaki, where they were discovered.

Francis will also visit Hiroshima and deliver remarks at the world-famous peace memorial that marks the day on August 6, 1945 when the atomic bomb was dropped.

Father Yoshio Kajiyama, director of the Jesuit social centre in Tokyo, was born in Hiroshima shortly after the war and is eagerly awaiting the pope's anti-nuclear speech.

"My grandfather died the day of the bomb in Hiroshima, I never knew him. Four days later my aunt died when she was 15 years old," said the 64-year-old.

"If you grow up in Hiroshima, you can't forget the bomb."

In Tokyo on Monday, Francis will met victims of the "triple disaster", the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown in 2011 that devastated large swathes of north-eastern Japan.

His trip will also include meetings with the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/symbolic-night-with-goddess-to-wrap-up-japan-emperors-accession-rites-261259">Emperor Naruhito</a> and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as well as delivering a mass in a Tokyo baseball stadium.

On the first leg of his latest Asian tour, Francis spent three nights in Buddhist-majority Thailand, another country where just a sliver of the population is Catholic.

Also watch:&nbsp;Pope Francis on Asian tour

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He met with Thai King Vajiralongkorn and also sat down with the Buddhist Supreme Patriarch,&nbsp;the head of Thailand's Buddhists,&nbsp;readily taking off his shoes during the visit to adhere to local customs.

His cousin Sister Ana Rosa, who has worked as a missionary in Thailand since 1966, was a near constant presence by his side during the visit, serving as his interpreter.

In his final public address in Bangkok, the pontiff expressed gratitude to the small Catholic community for the warm welcome he received.&nbsp;

"I am leaving you with a task: do not forget to pray for me!"

Pope Francis arrived in Japan on Saturday, where he is expected to deliver a robust anti-nuclear message of peace in the only country to have suffered an atomic bomb attack.

Pope Francis arrived in Japan on Saturday, where he is expected to deliver a robust anti-nuclear message of peace in the only country to have suffered an atomic bomb attack. The 82-year-old Argentine is fulfilling a long-cherished ambition to preach in Japan, where years ago he hoped to be a missionary. He arrived in Tokyo in heavy rain and high winds, the white cape of his papal outfit blowing up around his face as he stepped gingerly down the staircase from the Thai Airways plane that carried him from the first stop of his tour in Thailand. His four-day trip will begin with visits to Nagasaki and Hiroshima, cities forever associated with the nuclear bombs dropped on them at the end of World War II, killing at least 74,000 people and 140,000 people respectively. In a video message to the Japanese people before he left the Vatican, Francis railed against the "immoral" use of nuclear weapons. "Together with you, I pray that the destructive power of nuclear weapons will never be unleashed again in human history," said the head of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics. Francis arrives from Thailand, where he preached a message of religious tolerance and peace. He is expected to do the same in Japan, a country with only approximately 440,000 Catholics out of a population of 126 million. The majority of Japanese practise a mixture of Shinto and Buddhism, two closely intertwined faiths based on the worship of nature and spirits, but many in Japan also observe Christian festivals such as Christmas. Christians endured centuries of bloody repression in Japan after the religion was introduced to the country by a Spanish Jesuit priest in 1549. In the 17th century, Japan was closed to the outside world and Christians were persecuted, tortured, crucified and drowned as they were forced to recant their faith. When Japan reopened to the world in the mid-19th century and the missionaries returned, they were astonished to find an estimated 60,000 who had secretly kept the faith alive and followed a unique version of Catholicism blended with Japanese culture and religious rites. Francis is expected to pay tribute to these so-called "hidden Christians", or "kakure kirishitan" in Japanese, during his trip on Sunday to Nagasaki, where they were discovered. Francis will also visit Hiroshima and deliver remarks at the world-famous peace memorial that marks the day on August 6, 1945 when the atomic bomb was dropped. Father Yoshio Kajiyama, director of the Jesuit social centre in Tokyo, was born in Hiroshima shortly after the war and is eagerly awaiting the pope's anti-nuclear speech. "My grandfather died the day of the bomb in Hiroshima, I never knew him. Four days later my aunt died when she was 15 years old," said the 64-year-old. "If you grow up in Hiroshima, you can't forget the bomb." In Tokyo on Monday, Francis will met victims of the "triple disaster", the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown in 2011 that devastated large swathes of north-eastern Japan. His trip will also include meetings with the new Emperor Naruhito and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as well as delivering a mass in a Tokyo baseball stadium. On the first leg of his latest Asian tour, Francis spent three nights in Buddhist-majority Thailand, another country where just a sliver of the population is Catholic. Also watch: Pope Francis on Asian tour × He met with Thai King Vajiralongkorn and also sat down with the Buddhist Supreme Patriarch, the head of Thailand's Buddhists, readily taking off his shoes during the visit to adhere to local customs. His cousin Sister Ana Rosa, who has worked as a missionary in Thailand since 1966, was a near constant presence by his side during the visit, serving as his interpreter. In his final public address in Bangkok, the pontiff expressed gratitude to the small Catholic community for the warm welcome he received. "I am leaving you with a task: do not forget to pray for me!"

Pope Francis arrives in Japan to preach anti-nuclear message

Pope Francis kicks off Asian tour in Thailand before heading to Japan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-visit-hiroshima-nagasaki-on-anti-nuclear-weapon-mission-262797">Pope&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;</a>arrived in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;trip&nbsp;that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan.

The&nbsp;pope's plane touched down outside Bangkok around midday for a visit that coincides with the 350th anniversary of the first papal mission in Siam, the former name of&nbsp;Thailand.

"Dear friends in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;and Japan, before we meet, let us pray together that these days may be rich in grace and joy," read a message on the pontiff's official Twitter account before he left the Vatican.

Catholics are a tiny minority in mostly Buddhist&nbsp;Thailand, accounting for less than 2 per cent of the population.

Pope&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;will meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-king-strips-disloyal-new-royal-consort-of-titles-257474">King Maha Vajiralongkorn,</a> as well as the supreme Buddhist patriarch and Catholic leaders and students before he moves on to Japan on Saturday.

His translator in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;will be his cousin and childhood friend, Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, 77, who has worked in Thai schools for more than 50 years.

Pope Francis arrived in Thailand on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day Asian trip that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan.

Pope Francis arrived in Thailand on Wednesday to meet with the country's small but devoted Catholic minority on a seven-day Asian trip that will include a family reunion in Bangkok and take his anti-nuclear message to Japan. The pope's plane touched down outside Bangkok around midday for a visit that coincides with the 350th anniversary of the first papal mission in Siam, the former name of Thailand. "Dear friends in Thailand and Japan, before we meet, let us pray together that these days may be rich in grace and joy," read a message on the pontiff's official Twitter account before he left the Vatican. Catholics are a tiny minority in mostly Buddhist Thailand, accounting for less than 2 per cent of the population. Pope Francis will meet King Maha Vajiralongkorn, as well as the supreme Buddhist patriarch and Catholic leaders and students before he moves on to Japan on Saturday. His translator in Thailand will be his cousin and childhood friend, Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, 77, who has worked in Thai schools for more than 50 years.

Pope Francis arrives in Thailand at start of Asia trip

Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday disqualified outspoken opposition party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit as a member of parliament after finding him guilty of violating election law.

Thanathorn, 40, the leader of the progressive Future Forward Party, has emerged as one of the most prominent opponents of a government headed by former junta ruler Prayuth Chan-ocha after the new opposition party came a surprise third in an election in March.

The Constitutional Court found Thanathorn guilty of holding shares in a media company after registering his candidacy for the election to formally end five years of military rule.

In its ruling, the court said the evidence against Thanathorn outweighed that in his favour.

Thanathorn had denied the accusation, saying he transferred his shares before beginning the campaign.

Thanathorn has been a fierce critic of the army's involvement in politics and did particularly well among young voters in the election from which the pro-military party was declared the winner after a disputed ballot count.

Ahead of the court ruling Thanathorn thanked supporters at the court and said: "The Future Forward Party is a journey... All of us will continue fighting and keep moving forward.

Future Forward is part of an opposition alliance that disputed the vote count and accused the army of writing the electoral rules to ensure that Prayuth, the former military leader, would remain as prime minister.

The court had earlier suspended Thanathorn from parliament pending the verdict to this case.

Thanathorn’s party won 80 out of 500 available seats in the Lower House of the Thai parliament.

The Future Forward leader also faces two criminal charges, one for computer crime for a speech he posted on Facebook criticising the junta last year, and another for sedition for allegedly aiding anti-junta protesters in 2015.

Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday disqualified outspoken opposition party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit as a member of parliament after finding him guilty of violating election law.

Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday disqualified outspoken opposition party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit as a member of parliament after finding him guilty of violating election law. Thanathorn, 40, the leader of the progressive Future Forward Party, has emerged as one of the most prominent opponents of a government headed by former junta ruler Prayuth Chan-ocha after the new opposition party came a surprise third in an election in March. The Constitutional Court found Thanathorn guilty of holding shares in a media company after registering his candidacy for the election to formally end five years of military rule. In its ruling, the court said the evidence against Thanathorn outweighed that in his favour. Thanathorn had denied the accusation, saying he transferred his shares before beginning the campaign. Thanathorn has been a fierce critic of the army's involvement in politics and did particularly well among young voters in the election from which the pro-military party was declared the winner after a disputed ballot count. Ahead of the court ruling Thanathorn thanked supporters at the court and said: "The Future Forward Party is a journey... All of us will continue fighting and keep moving forward. Future Forward is part of an opposition alliance that disputed the vote count and accused the army of writing the electoral rules to ensure that Prayuth, the former military leader, would remain as prime minister. The court had earlier suspended Thanathorn from parliament pending the verdict to this case. Thanathorn’s party won 80 out of 500 available seats in the Lower House of the Thai parliament. The Future Forward leader also faces two criminal charges, one for computer crime for a speech he posted on Facebook criticising the junta last year, and another for sedition for allegedly aiding anti-junta protesters in 2015.

Thailand court bars rising opposition leader from parliament

Ranong Port of Thailand and port trusts of Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata have inked three Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) to cut down sea travel time by half between the two countries.

The MoUs were signed at the first-ever two-day Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Conclave of Ports, being held at Vishakhapatnam on November 7-8, that aims to provide a platform to strengthen maritime interaction and port-led connectivity initiatives among member countries.

These MOUs will contribute to BIMSTEC`s objective of strengthening connectivity and is a part of India`s Act East Policy, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

"These MOUs will enhance economic partnership by cutting down the sea travel time between India and Thailand from 10 -15 days to 07 days," it read.

India attaches great importance to BIMSTEC which links five countries from South Asia - Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka and two from South-East Asia - Myanmar and Thailand.

The BIMSTEC region brings together 1.67 billion people, equivalent to around 22 per cent of the world population and a combined GDP of USD 3.71 trillion.

Four BIMSTEC summits have been held so far, the last one at Kathmandu in 2018.

The previous summits were held in Bangkok (Thailand) in 2004, New Delhi (India) in 2008, Nay Pyi Taw (Myanmar) in 2014.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Youth Advancement, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh MS Rao, Minister for Industries, Commerce and Information Technology, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh MG&nbsp;Reddy, along with Member of Parliament from Vishakhapatnam MVV&nbsp;Satyanarayana also attended the Conclave.&nbsp;

Ranong Port of Thailand and port trusts of Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata have inked three Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) to cut down sea travel time by half between the two countries.

Ranong Port of Thailand and port trusts of Chennai, Visakhapatnam and Kolkata have inked three Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) to cut down sea travel time by half between the two countries. The MoUs were signed at the first-ever two-day Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Conclave of Ports, being held at Vishakhapatnam on November 7-8, that aims to provide a platform to strengthen maritime interaction and port-led connectivity initiatives among member countries. These MOUs will contribute to BIMSTEC`s objective of strengthening connectivity and is a part of India`s Act East Policy, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. "These MOUs will enhance economic partnership by cutting down the sea travel time between India and Thailand from 10 -15 days to 07 days," it read. India attaches great importance to BIMSTEC which links five countries from South Asia - Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka and two from South-East Asia - Myanmar and Thailand. The BIMSTEC region brings together 1.67 billion people, equivalent to around 22 per cent of the world population and a combined GDP of USD 3.71 trillion. Four BIMSTEC summits have been held so far, the last one at Kathmandu in 2018. The previous summits were held in Bangkok (Thailand) in 2004, New Delhi (India) in 2008, Nay Pyi Taw (Myanmar) in 2014. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Youth Advancement, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh MS Rao, Minister for Industries, Commerce and Information Technology, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh MG Reddy, along with Member of Parliament from Vishakhapatnam MVV Satyanarayana also attended the Conclave.

Indian, Thai ports sign three MoUs to enhance connectivity

Suspected separatist insurgents stormed a security checkpoint in&nbsp;Thailand's&nbsp;Muslim-majority south and&nbsp;killed at least&nbsp;15&nbsp;people, including a police officer and many village defence volunteers, security officials said on Wednesday.

It was the&nbsp;worst&nbsp;single&nbsp;attack&nbsp;in&nbsp;years&nbsp;in a region where a Muslim separatist insurgency has&nbsp;killed thousands.

The&nbsp;attackers, in the province of Yala, also used explosives and scattered nails on roads to delay pursuers late on Tuesday night.

"This is likely the work of the insurgents," Colonel Pramote Prom-in, a regional security spokesman, told Reuters.

"This is one of the biggest&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;in recent times."

There was no immediate claim of responsibility, however, as is common with such&nbsp;attacks.

A decades-old separatist insurgency in predominantly Buddhist&nbsp;Thailand's&nbsp;largely ethnic Malay-Muslim provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat has&nbsp;killed nearly 7,000 people since 2004, says Deep South Watch, a group that monitors the violence.

The population of the provinces, which belonged to an independent Malay Muslim sultanate before Thailand annexed them in 1909, is 80 per cent Muslim, while the rest of the country is overwhelmingly Buddhist.

Some rebel groups in the south have said they are fighting to establish an independent state.

Authorities arrested several suspects from the region in August over a series of small bombs detonated in Bangkok, the capital, although they have not directly blamed any insurgent group.

The main insurgency group, the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), denied responsibility for the Bangkok bombings, which wounded four people.

In August, the group told Reuters it had held a secret preliminary meeting with the government, but any step towards a peace process appeared to wither after the deputy prime minister rejected a key demand for the release of prisoners.

Suspected separatist insurgents stormed a security checkpoint in Thailand's Muslim-majority south and killed at least 15 people, including a police officer and many village defence volunteers, security officials said on Wednesday.

Suspected separatist insurgents stormed a security checkpoint in Thailand's Muslim-majority south and killed at least 15 people, including a police officer and many village defence volunteers, security officials said on Wednesday. It was the worst single attack in years in a region where a Muslim separatist insurgency has killed thousands. The attackers, in the province of Yala, also used explosives and scattered nails on roads to delay pursuers late on Tuesday night. "This is likely the work of the insurgents," Colonel Pramote Prom-in, a regional security spokesman, told Reuters. "This is one of the biggest attacks in recent times." There was no immediate claim of responsibility, however, as is common with such attacks. A decades-old separatist insurgency in predominantly Buddhist Thailand's largely ethnic Malay-Muslim provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat has killed nearly 7,000 people since 2004, says Deep South Watch, a group that monitors the violence. The population of the provinces, which belonged to an independent Malay Muslim sultanate before Thailand annexed them in 1909, is 80 per cent Muslim, while the rest of the country is overwhelmingly Buddhist. Some rebel groups in the south have said they are fighting to establish an independent state. Authorities arrested several suspects from the region in August over a series of small bombs detonated in Bangkok, the capital, although they have not directly blamed any insurgent group. The main insurgency group, the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), denied responsibility for the Bangkok bombings, which wounded four people. In August, the group told Reuters it had held a secret preliminary meeting with the government, but any step towards a peace process appeared to wither after the deputy prime minister rejected a key demand for the release of prisoners.

Gunmen kill 15 in southern Thailand's worst attack in years

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-thailand-share-deep-ties-pm-modi-at-swasdee-modi-event-in-bangkok-259535">Prime Minister Narendra Modi said</a> on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come.

"Our focus is to connect India's northeast with Thailand. northeast is being developed as a gateway to south-east Asia. This initiative will immensely strengthen India's act east policy and Thailand's Act West Policy," Modi said in his address at the 'Sawasdee PM Modi'&nbsp;event.

Recounting his government's achievements in the past 5 years, Modi said that as many as eight crore homes in India were provided free LPG connections in just three years.

"This number is bigger than Thailand's entire population." Modi said that India announced itself open-defecation free on Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, adding that his government is willing to take up challenges which were once considered insurmountable.

"In the last 5 years, we have connected every Indian to a bank account and provided electricity. We are working to provide water to every family. By 2022, when India celebrates 75 years of independence, we are working to ensure a house for every poor person in India," Modi said.

The Prime Minister's reference to the Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution received a standing ovation from the crowd gathered at the event.

"India has taken a massive decision to free itself from separatism and terrorism," the prime minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that the transformation in India is the reason that his government got a bigger mandate in the 2019 general elections.

Talking about the close ties between India and Thailand, the Prime Minister said that no single government can be credited with the strong relationship between the two countries. 
&nbsp;

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come.

Northeast India is being developed as a gateway to Southeast Asia under Central government's Act East Policy (AEP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, and added that the plans are on cards to establish seamless connectivity between Thailand, Myanmar and northeast India in the years to come. "Our focus is to connect India's northeast with Thailand. northeast is being developed as a gateway to south-east Asia. This initiative will immensely strengthen India's act east policy and Thailand's Act West Policy," Modi said in his address at the 'Sawasdee PM Modi' event. Recounting his government's achievements in the past 5 years, Modi said that as many as eight crore homes in India were provided free LPG connections in just three years. "This number is bigger than Thailand's entire population." Modi said that India announced itself open-defecation free on Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, adding that his government is willing to take up challenges which were once considered insurmountable. "In the last 5 years, we have connected every Indian to a bank account and provided electricity. We are working to provide water to every family. By 2022, when India celebrates 75 years of independence, we are working to ensure a house for every poor person in India," Modi said. The Prime Minister's reference to the Centre's move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution received a standing ovation from the crowd gathered at the event. "India has taken a massive decision to free itself from separatism and terrorism," the prime minister said. He said that the transformation in India is the reason that his government got a bigger mandate in the 2019 general elections. Talking about the close ties between India and Thailand, the Prime Minister said that no single government can be credited with the strong relationship between the two countries.

Northeast India will be a gateway to Southeast Asia: PM Modi in Bangkok

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land. "The ambience, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"Can feel India's essence everywhere in Thailand," he said.

Modi said that India and Thailand have deep ties based on culture, faith and friendship. "It isn't just a bond between two governments," he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Thailand: PM Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SawasdeePMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SawasdeePMModi</a> event in Bangkok says, "We (India &amp; Thailand) are very close to each other not only on the basis of language but also the sentiments. You told me 'Sawasdee Modi', this has connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare" <a href="https://t.co/ld5zmZusOC">pic.twitter.com/ld5zmZusOC</a>
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"No single government can be credited for this relation. Every moment shared between the two countries in the past has built and strengthened this relation," PM Modi said.

The prime minister said that he is proud how Indians "assimilate in other countries".

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PM Narendra Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SawasdeePMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SawasdeePMModi</a> event in Bangkok, Thailand: To address the Indian community at this event, I am in Thailand, among you all today. But I don't feel that I am in a foreign land. The ambiance, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home. <a href="https://t.co/Rkd6GGjef1">pic.twitter.com/Rkd6GGjef1</a>
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"The affinity the royal family of Thailand has for India symbolizes our deep friendly and historical relations. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is an expert in Sanskrit language and has a deep interest in Indian the culture," he said.

PM Modi said that India and Thailand are very close to each not just on the basis of language but also because of the sentiments.&nbsp;

"The term 'Sawasdee Modi' has a connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare," he said.&nbsp;

PM Modi also released a commemorative coin on 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji.&nbsp;

PM Modi embarked on a three-day visit to Thailand on Saturday morning to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summits.&nbsp;This is his first official visit to the country.&nbsp;

On November 3, Modi will co-chair the 16th ASEAN-India summit with Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, on whose invitation he is visiting the country.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok. The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora in the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok. The prime minister said that he didn't feel as if he is in a foreign land. "The ambience, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home," PM Modi said. "Can feel India's essence everywhere in Thailand," he said. Modi said that India and Thailand have deep ties based on culture, faith and friendship. "It isn't just a bond between two governments," he said. #WATCH Thailand: PM Modi at #SawasdeePMModi event in Bangkok says, "We (India & Thailand) are very close to each other not only on the basis of language but also the sentiments. You told me 'Sawasdee Modi', this has connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare" pic.twitter.com/ld5zmZusOC — ANI (@ANI) November 2, 2019 × "No single government can be credited for this relation. Every moment shared between the two countries in the past has built and strengthened this relation," PM Modi said. The prime minister said that he is proud how Indians "assimilate in other countries". PM Narendra Modi at #SawasdeePMModi event in Bangkok, Thailand: To address the Indian community at this event, I am in Thailand, among you all today. But I don't feel that I am in a foreign land. The ambiance, the attire, everything here makes me feel at home. pic.twitter.com/Rkd6GGjef1 — ANI (@ANI) November 2, 2019 × "The affinity the royal family of Thailand has for India symbolizes our deep friendly and historical relations. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn is an expert in Sanskrit language and has a deep interest in Indian the culture," he said. PM Modi said that India and Thailand are very close to each not just on the basis of language but also because of the sentiments. "The term 'Sawasdee Modi' has a connection with the Sanskrit word 'Swasti' which means welfare," he said. PM Modi also released a commemorative coin on 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji. PM Modi embarked on a three-day visit to Thailand on Saturday morning to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summits. This is his first official visit to the country. On November 3, Modi will co-chair the 16th ASEAN-India summit with Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, on whose invitation he is visiting the country.

India, Thailand share deep ties: PM Modi at 'Swasdee Modi' event in Bangkok

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has stripped his newly named royal consort of her titles and military ranks for being "disloyal" and conducting a rivalry with Queen Suthida, the palace said late on Monday.

It made the extraordinary announcement just months after the king, who was officially crowned in May, made <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-a-first-thai-kings-wife-turns-pilot-takes-part-in-military-drills-246023#thai-kings-newly-anointed-royal-consort-246012">Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi</a> a royal noble consort - the first such appointment in almost a century.

Sineenat, 34, had breached a code of conduct for courtiers and was disloyal, a two-page palace statement said.

"Royal Noble Consort Sineenat is ungrateful and behaves in ways unbecoming of her title. She is also not content with the title bestowed upon her, doing everything to rise to the level of the queen," the statement said.

The royal family had been scheduled to participate in the Royal Barge Procession on Thursday, one of the last ceremonies in the king's year-long coronation celebrations, but last week the event was postponed until later in the year, with officials citing weather conditions.

King Vajiralongkorn was crowned as constitutional monarch in May after first taking the throne following the 2016 death of his father, who reigned for 70 years.

Days before his coronation ceremonies, the king married the deputy head of his personal bodyguard, Suthida Tidjai, 41, giving her the title of Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana.

Before July's of Sineenat's elevation, the title of royal noble consort had not been used since before the end of Thailand's absolute monarchy in 1932.

The following month, the palace released a set of unusually candid pictures of Sineenat, along with her official biography on its website.

Some of the pictures were in the usual royal tradition, with Sineenat wearing Thai dress and sitting at the king's feet. She was also pictured in the cockpit of a fighter jet and wearing a gray camouflage pattern crop-top at the controls of a light aircraft.

The page appeared to have been taken down on Monday.

As recently as last week, Sineenat was featured in official photographs released by the palace doing volunteer works in Bangkok.

Monday's statement described vivid details of Sineenat's behaviour, saying she had opposed Suthida's appointment because she had hoped to be named queen herself.

It also called her "ambitious" in trying to obtain royal titles and "self-promoting" in exercising her royal activities.

"She lacks the understanding of the good traditions of the royal court. She displays disobedience against the king and the queen," the statement said.

During his reign so far, King Vajiralongkorn, also known by the title King Rama X, has moved to consolidate the authority of the monarchy, including taking more direct control of the crown's vast wealth and transferring two military units to his personal control.

He also reintroduced the "Ratchasawat," a basic code of conduct for those in royal service rooted in the old absolutist court, and has punished royal staff who have breached this code in the past.

Public criticism of the king or his family is illegal under Thailand's strict lese majeste laws, with insults to the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

King Vajiralongkorn, 67, was previously married three times when he was the Crown Prince before ascending the throne.

In 2014, he divorced his third wife, former lady-in-waiting Srirasmi Suwadee, after the arrest of several of her relatives in an investigation into people making false claims of having links to the monarchy for financial gain.

Her uncle, parents and three brothers were later convicted of lese majeste and remain in prison. Srirasmi, who was never charged herself, lives outside Bangkok and has rarely been seen in public since the divorce.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has stripped his newly named royal consort of her titles and military ranks for being "disloyal" and conducting a rivalry with Queen Suthida, the palace said late on Monday.

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn has stripped his newly named royal consort of her titles and military ranks for being "disloyal" and conducting a rivalry with Queen Suthida, the palace said late on Monday. It made the extraordinary announcement just months after the king, who was officially crowned in May, made Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi a royal noble consort - the first such appointment in almost a century. Sineenat, 34, had breached a code of conduct for courtiers and was disloyal, a two-page palace statement said. "Royal Noble Consort Sineenat is ungrateful and behaves in ways unbecoming of her title. She is also not content with the title bestowed upon her, doing everything to rise to the level of the queen," the statement said. The royal family had been scheduled to participate in the Royal Barge Procession on Thursday, one of the last ceremonies in the king's year-long coronation celebrations, but last week the event was postponed until later in the year, with officials citing weather conditions. King Vajiralongkorn was crowned as constitutional monarch in May after first taking the throne following the 2016 death of his father, who reigned for 70 years. Days before his coronation ceremonies, the king married the deputy head of his personal bodyguard, Suthida Tidjai, 41, giving her the title of Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana. Before July's of Sineenat's elevation, the title of royal noble consort had not been used since before the end of Thailand's absolute monarchy in 1932. The following month, the palace released a set of unusually candid pictures of Sineenat, along with her official biography on its website. Some of the pictures were in the usual royal tradition, with Sineenat wearing Thai dress and sitting at the king's feet. She was also pictured in the cockpit of a fighter jet and wearing a gray camouflage pattern crop-top at the controls of a light aircraft. The page appeared to have been taken down on Monday. As recently as last week, Sineenat was featured in official photographs released by the palace doing volunteer works in Bangkok. Monday's statement described vivid details of Sineenat's behaviour, saying she had opposed Suthida's appointment because she had hoped to be named queen herself. It also called her "ambitious" in trying to obtain royal titles and "self-promoting" in exercising her royal activities. "She lacks the understanding of the good traditions of the royal court. She displays disobedience against the king and the queen," the statement said. During his reign so far, King Vajiralongkorn, also known by the title King Rama X, has moved to consolidate the authority of the monarchy, including taking more direct control of the crown's vast wealth and transferring two military units to his personal control. He also reintroduced the "Ratchasawat," a basic code of conduct for those in royal service rooted in the old absolutist court, and has punished royal staff who have breached this code in the past. Public criticism of the king or his family is illegal under Thailand's strict lese majeste laws, with insults to the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison. King Vajiralongkorn, 67, was previously married three times when he was the Crown Prince before ascending the throne. In 2014, he divorced his third wife, former lady-in-waiting Srirasmi Suwadee, after the arrest of several of her relatives in an investigation into people making false claims of having links to the monarchy for financial gain. Her uncle, parents and three brothers were later convicted of lese majeste and remain in prison. Srirasmi, who was never charged herself, lives outside Bangkok and has rarely been seen in public since the divorce.

Thailand King strips 'disloyal' new royal consort of titles

Opposition&nbsp;members of&nbsp;Thailand's parliament objected on Thursday to an&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;decree&nbsp;transferring two army units to the command of&nbsp;King&nbsp;Maha Vajiralongkorn, with one politician saying it does not follow the laws of the constitutional monarchy.

The disagreement heightened tensions in the Southeast Asian country's transition from military rule, in which pro-army and royalist parties have portrayed their opponents as a threat to the monarchy.

This is the first time that lawmakers publicly challenged a legal procedure related to royal affairs.

King&nbsp;Vajiralongkorn was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/newly-crowned-thai-king-carried-through-bangkok-in-royal-procession-216181"> crowned in May </a>as&nbsp;Thailand's fourth constitutional monarch after taking&nbsp;the throne after the death of his revered father in 2016.

A leader of the&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;Future Forward Party said the royal&nbsp;troop&nbsp;decree, which took effect on October&nbsp;1, inappropriately used an&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;provision of the constitution to bypass parliament, although it was confirmed by a majority of lawmakers on Thursday.

The decree&nbsp;transferred command of the Bangkok-based first and 11th Infantry Regiments from the military chain of command to the&nbsp;king's Royal Security Command.

Future Forward's secretary-general, Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, said there was no immediate&nbsp;emergency&nbsp;that justified the decree.

He accused Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha of continuing to act like a military junta leader.

Prayuth, who as army chief overthrew an elected government in 2014, took office as a civilian Prime Minister in July after his pro-army party won disputed elections that the&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;says were structured to ensure continued army dominance.

Future Forward, which came in third in the March elections, said the government must follow the constitution.

"Thailand is a&nbsp;kingdom with the&nbsp;king&nbsp;as a head of state, the people have the power and the&nbsp;king&nbsp;exercises that sovereignty through parliament, cabinet, and courts as specified by the constitution," Piyabutr said.

A lawmaker from the pro-establishment Democrat Party, however, defended the decree.

"Thailand is a unique&nbsp;kingdom," said Peerapan Saleerattavipak.

"The monarchy is a representation of national security so in the&nbsp;Kingdom of&nbsp;Thailand, we could not separate national security from the monarchy," he said.

A vote later confirmed the decree by 376 votes to 70 with two abstentions, according to the final tally read out by the speaker. Screens in parliament had initially given the vote tally as 366-70. All the votes against it were from Future Forward.

King&nbsp;Vajiralongkorn has moved to consolidate his personal authority since taking&nbsp;the throne in 2016.

In July 2017, the military-appointed legislative assembly amended a 1936 law to give the&nbsp;king&nbsp;full control of the Crown Property Bureau, which manages the crown's multi-billion dollar holdings.

Public criticism of the&nbsp;king&nbsp;or his family is illegal in&nbsp;Thailand, with insults to the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Opposition members of Thailand's parliament objected on Thursday to an emergency decree transferring two army units to the command of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, with one politician saying it does not follow the laws of the constitutional monarchy.

Opposition members of Thailand's parliament objected on Thursday to an emergency decree transferring two army units to the command of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, with one politician saying it does not follow the laws of the constitutional monarchy. The disagreement heightened tensions in the Southeast Asian country's transition from military rule, in which pro-army and royalist parties have portrayed their opponents as a threat to the monarchy. This is the first time that lawmakers publicly challenged a legal procedure related to royal affairs. King Vajiralongkorn was crowned in May as Thailand's fourth constitutional monarch after taking the throne after the death of his revered father in 2016. A leader of the opposition Future Forward Party said the royal troop decree, which took effect on October 1, inappropriately used an emergency provision of the constitution to bypass parliament, although it was confirmed by a majority of lawmakers on Thursday. The decree transferred command of the Bangkok-based first and 11th Infantry Regiments from the military chain of command to the king's Royal Security Command. Future Forward's secretary-general, Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, said there was no immediate emergency that justified the decree. He accused Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha of continuing to act like a military junta leader. Prayuth, who as army chief overthrew an elected government in 2014, took office as a civilian Prime Minister in July after his pro-army party won disputed elections that the opposition says were structured to ensure continued army dominance. Future Forward, which came in third in the March elections, said the government must follow the constitution. "Thailand is a kingdom with the king as a head of state, the people have the power and the king exercises that sovereignty through parliament, cabinet, and courts as specified by the constitution," Piyabutr said. A lawmaker from the pro-establishment Democrat Party, however, defended the decree. "Thailand is a unique kingdom," said Peerapan Saleerattavipak. "The monarchy is a representation of national security so in the Kingdom of Thailand, we could not separate national security from the monarchy," he said. A vote later confirmed the decree by 376 votes to 70 with two abstentions, according to the final tally read out by the speaker. Screens in parliament had initially given the vote tally as 366-70. All the votes against it were from Future Forward. King Vajiralongkorn has moved to consolidate his personal authority since taking the throne in 2016. In July 2017, the military-appointed legislative assembly amended a 1936 law to give the king full control of the Crown Property Bureau, which manages the crown's multi-billion dollar holdings. Public criticism of the king or his family is illegal in Thailand, with insults to the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Thai opposition protests emergency troop transfer to King

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held a meeting with his Thai counterpart, Don Pramudwinai at Hyderabad House today to intensify bilateral ties between the two South Asian countries.

The Thai Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi yesterday on a three-day visit to India with an aim to boost bilateral relations.

Pramudwinai will also participate in the eighth Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) between India and Thailand, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The signing of agreements is scheduled to take place at around 12 pm.

Pramudwinai will emplane for Thailand on Friday morning.

Last month, troops of India and Thailand participated in the annual joint military exercise 'Maitree'.

The Indian Army and the Royal Thailand Army troops participated in the field exercise of joint planning, helicopter insertion, and joint counter-terrorism operations under the joint military drill.

The exercise was aimed at the training of troops in counter-terrorism operations in both jungle terrain and urban scenario.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held a meeting with his Thai counterpart, Don Pramudwinai at Hyderabad House today to intensify bilateral ties between the two South Asian countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held a meeting with his Thai counterpart, Don Pramudwinai at Hyderabad House today to intensify bilateral ties between the two South Asian countries. The Thai Foreign Minister arrived in New Delhi yesterday on a three-day visit to India with an aim to boost bilateral relations. Pramudwinai will also participate in the eighth Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) between India and Thailand, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The signing of agreements is scheduled to take place at around 12 pm. Pramudwinai will emplane for Thailand on Friday morning. Last month, troops of India and Thailand participated in the annual joint military exercise 'Maitree'. The Indian Army and the Royal Thailand Army troops participated in the field exercise of joint planning, helicopter insertion, and joint counter-terrorism operations under the joint military drill. The exercise was aimed at the training of troops in counter-terrorism operations in both jungle terrain and urban scenario.

Jaishankar holds talks with Thai counterpart to intensify bilateral ties

Five more wild elephants in Thailand died in a plunge from the top of a waterfall, drone footage released on Tuesday showed, bringing the death toll to 11, including a three-year-old calf.

Only two elephants in the herd are known to have survived the fall at the 200-metre&nbsp;high Haew Narok Waterfall in a national park in Thailand's mountainous northeast, officials said.

The accident on Saturday is a setback to wildlife conservation in Thailand and happened at the same spot in Khao Yai National Park as a similar accident in 1992 that killed eight elephants.

The elephants were trying to cross the river at the top of the cliff on Saturday when a strong current swept them over the edge of the waterfalls, officials at the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation said.

Wildlife officials sent small drones into the area to investigate because the terrain is too rough for hiking, Nattapong Sirichanam, governor of Nakhorn Nayok province adjacent to the mountains, told reporters on Tuesday.

"We flew drones at a height of 15 metres above the ground as we can't walk in to confirm the deaths," Nattapong said.

Analysis of the footage identified the bodies of five more elephants in addition to the six originally reported after the accident.

"We assume that there were 13 elephants in this herd and two of them survived. We are 100 per cent&nbsp;confident that two of them are alive as the officials saw them going out for food around the area of Haew Narok falls," Nattapong said.

Thailand has only about 3,500 to 3,700 wild elephants left nationwide, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

The 2,000 square km Kao Yai National Park is believed to have around 300 wild elephants as well as other wildlife. Now that two major accidents have occurred there, Nattapong said conservation officials are talking about building walkways over the falls or other solutions.

"We will try to find a way to prevent this kind of tragedy from happening again," he said.

Five more wild elephants in Thailand died in a plunge from the top of a waterfall, drone footage released on Tuesday showed, bringing the death toll to 11, including a three-year-old calf.

Five more wild elephants in Thailand died in a plunge from the top of a waterfall, drone footage released on Tuesday showed, bringing the death toll to 11, including a three-year-old calf. Only two elephants in the herd are known to have survived the fall at the 200-metre high Haew Narok Waterfall in a national park in Thailand's mountainous northeast, officials said. The accident on Saturday is a setback to wildlife conservation in Thailand and happened at the same spot in Khao Yai National Park as a similar accident in 1992 that killed eight elephants. The elephants were trying to cross the river at the top of the cliff on Saturday when a strong current swept them over the edge of the waterfalls, officials at the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation said. Wildlife officials sent small drones into the area to investigate because the terrain is too rough for hiking, Nattapong Sirichanam, governor of Nakhorn Nayok province adjacent to the mountains, told reporters on Tuesday. "We flew drones at a height of 15 metres above the ground as we can't walk in to confirm the deaths," Nattapong said. Analysis of the footage identified the bodies of five more elephants in addition to the six originally reported after the accident. "We assume that there were 13 elephants in this herd and two of them survived. We are 100 per cent confident that two of them are alive as the officials saw them going out for food around the area of Haew Narok falls," Nattapong said. Thailand has only about 3,500 to 3,700 wild elephants left nationwide, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The 2,000 square km Kao Yai National Park is believed to have around 300 wild elephants as well as other wildlife. Now that two major accidents have occurred there, Nattapong said conservation officials are talking about building walkways over the falls or other solutions. "We will try to find a way to prevent this kind of tragedy from happening again," he said.

Five more Thai elephants died in waterfall plunge, drone footage shows

A Thai judge shot himself in the chest in front of a packed court after acquitting several murder suspects and decrying the kingdom's judicial system in an impassioned speech broadcast on Facebook Live.

Critics say <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-troops-from-india-thailand-participate-in-annual-joint-military-exercise-maitree-252506">Thailand's</a> courts often work in favour of the rich and powerful while delivering swift and harsh sentences on ordinary people for minor offences.&nbsp;

But it is virtually unheard of for judges to criticise the system.

Kanakorn Pianchana, a judge at Yala court in the heart of the insurgency-battered Thai south, was delivering the verdict for five Muslim suspects in a gun murder case on Friday afternoon.

He acquitted the group, delivered a courtroom plea for a cleaner justice system, before pulling out a handgun and shooting himself in the chest.&nbsp;

"You need clear and credible evidence to punish someone. So if you're not sure, don't punish them," the judge said addressing the court and broadcasting his words on his phone on Facebook live.

"I'm not saying that the five defendants didn't commit the crimes, they might have done so... But the judicial process needs to be transparent and credible... punishing wrong people makes them scapegoats."

The Facebook feed then cut, but witnesses said Kanakorn recited a legal oath in front of the former Thai king's portrait, before shooting himself in the chest.

"He is being treated by the doctors and is out of danger," Suriyan Hongvilai, the spokesman of the Office of the Judiciary, told AFP on Saturday.

"He shot himself because of 'personal stress'. But the cause behind the stress is not clear and will be investigated," he said.

''No Thai judge has ever breached protocol by making similar statements on the wider justice system'', he added.

A lawyer working with the suspects said Judge Kanakorn had ruled the prosecutor's evidence was insufficient to convict.&nbsp;

"Right now the five are still being detained and are waiting to see if the state prosecutor appeals their acquittal," Abdulloh Hayee-abu, of the Muslim Attorney Centre in Yala told AFP.&nbsp;

Over 7,000 people have died in 15 years of conflict in the Malay-Muslim majority southern region.&nbsp;

Thousands of suspects have been jailed for acts linked to the insurgency, many under emergency laws imposed on the restive region.

Advocacy groups in the Thai south have long accused security forces of trumping up charges against Muslim suspects and using emergency laws to drive cases through the courts.

A Thai judge shot himself in the chest in front of a packed court after acquitting several murder suspects and decrying the kingdom's judicial system in an impassioned speech broadcast on Facebook Live.

A Thai judge shot himself in the chest in front of a packed court after acquitting several murder suspects and decrying the kingdom's judicial system in an impassioned speech broadcast on Facebook Live. Critics say Thailand's courts often work in favour of the rich and powerful while delivering swift and harsh sentences on ordinary people for minor offences. But it is virtually unheard of for judges to criticise the system. Kanakorn Pianchana, a judge at Yala court in the heart of the insurgency-battered Thai south, was delivering the verdict for five Muslim suspects in a gun murder case on Friday afternoon. He acquitted the group, delivered a courtroom plea for a cleaner justice system, before pulling out a handgun and shooting himself in the chest. "You need clear and credible evidence to punish someone. So if you're not sure, don't punish them," the judge said addressing the court and broadcasting his words on his phone on Facebook live. "I'm not saying that the five defendants didn't commit the crimes, they might have done so... But the judicial process needs to be transparent and credible... punishing wrong people makes them scapegoats." The Facebook feed then cut, but witnesses said Kanakorn recited a legal oath in front of the former Thai king's portrait, before shooting himself in the chest. "He is being treated by the doctors and is out of danger," Suriyan Hongvilai, the spokesman of the Office of the Judiciary, told AFP on Saturday. "He shot himself because of 'personal stress'. But the cause behind the stress is not clear and will be investigated," he said. ''No Thai judge has ever breached protocol by making similar statements on the wider justice system'', he added. A lawyer working with the suspects said Judge Kanakorn had ruled the prosecutor's evidence was insufficient to convict. "Right now the five are still being detained and are waiting to see if the state prosecutor appeals their acquittal," Abdulloh Hayee-abu, of the Muslim Attorney Centre in Yala told AFP. Over 7,000 people have died in 15 years of conflict in the Malay-Muslim majority southern region. Thousands of suspects have been jailed for acts linked to the insurgency, many under emergency laws imposed on the restive region. Advocacy groups in the Thai south have long accused security forces of trumping up charges against Muslim suspects and using emergency laws to drive cases through the courts.

Thai judge shoots himself in court after railing at justice system

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-nrc-final-list-published-opposition-fears-many-indian-citizens-left-out-246920">Assam</a> Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

The first flight which took off from LGBI Airport witnessed the traditional water saluting.

Industry and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Chief Ministers Media Adviser Hrishikesh Goswami, MLA Bimal Bora and a host of other dignitaries were present at the occasion.

Nok Air, which will be flying its sortie between Guwahati and Bangkok, has carefully drafted its sorties to enable passengers to reach the destination at Don Mueang near Bangkok in less than three hours, offering a convenient connection to both business and leisure travellers twice in a week.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Sonowal viewed that the introduction of the flight is not just an extension of the airline route but more importantly a futuristic gesture, which will go a long way in reinforcing the cultural and economic ties between Assam and Thailand and strengthening the bilateral relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-cm-sarbananda-sonowal-calls-for-implementation-of-nrc-across-all-states-in-india-165006">Sonowal</a> observed that connectivity has always remained a major bottleneck in the optimum realisation of the growth prospects of the region. Keeping this in view, the Central Government has taken up steps to connect six Southeast Asian destinations from Guwahati under UDAN scheme.&nbsp;

On July 1st this year, the first Guwahati-Dhaka flight by Spicejet under International Air Connectivity Scheme was flagged off. The flight marked the roll-out of UDAN-International, pioneered by Assam Government with viability gap funding of Rs 100 crore. In the next few months, flights connecting to Kathmandu, Yangon, Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur will also commence.

Last year DrukAir - Royal Bhutan Airlines introduced a Paro-Guwahati-Singapore flight. The Central government has also taken a historic decision to bring 19 destinations in the Northeast including five cities in Assam under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN-2. This initiative would significantly facilitate regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable for the masses.

The Union Government aims to turn LGBI Airport into an International airport, connecting Southeast Asia. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport has undergone numerous expansions and renovations since its establishment in 1958. It handled more than 3.7 million passengers in 2017, an increase of 36 per cent from 2016. It has witnessed an annual traffic increase of over 23 per cent in 2018-19 with a total footfall of 5.7 million passengers and 55,066 aircraft movements in the same period.

The existing terminal building at the airport has a maximum handling capacity of 850 arrivals per departure passengers an hour. The work on a new terminal has already made significant progress. This will further boost the growth narrative of the entire region.

The new terminal will be the first sustainable terminal of the North East having sewage treatment plant, solar power, rainwater harvesting, solid waste disposal system and energy-efficient lighting. Once completed, this would generate around 3000 direct employment and approximately 20,000 indirect employments.

Boosting the State government's efforts, Bangladesh and Bhutan governments have already set up their embassies in Guwahati. The 10 ASEAN nations are also expected to set up their embassies in Guwahati soon. The Act East Policy of the Government of India gives new hope for the growth of the region. The newly found confidence of the people in the state can be witnessed in all spheres of socio-cultural and economic life.&nbsp;

As an offshoot of the efforts of the State government, farmers of Assam for the first time could successfully export their agricultural produce to London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other foreign countries.

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport. The first flight which took off from LGBI Airport witnessed the traditional water saluting. Industry and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Chief Ministers Media Adviser Hrishikesh Goswami, MLA Bimal Bora and a host of other dignitaries were present at the occasion. Nok Air, which will be flying its sortie between Guwahati and Bangkok, has carefully drafted its sorties to enable passengers to reach the destination at Don Mueang near Bangkok in less than three hours, offering a convenient connection to both business and leisure travellers twice in a week. Chief Minister Sonowal viewed that the introduction of the flight is not just an extension of the airline route but more importantly a futuristic gesture, which will go a long way in reinforcing the cultural and economic ties between Assam and Thailand and strengthening the bilateral relations. Sonowal observed that connectivity has always remained a major bottleneck in the optimum realisation of the growth prospects of the region. Keeping this in view, the Central Government has taken up steps to connect six Southeast Asian destinations from Guwahati under UDAN scheme. On July 1st this year, the first Guwahati-Dhaka flight by Spicejet under International Air Connectivity Scheme was flagged off. The flight marked the roll-out of UDAN-International, pioneered by Assam Government with viability gap funding of Rs 100 crore. In the next few months, flights connecting to Kathmandu, Yangon, Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur will also commence. Last year DrukAir - Royal Bhutan Airlines introduced a Paro-Guwahati-Singapore flight. The Central government has also taken a historic decision to bring 19 destinations in the Northeast including five cities in Assam under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN-2. This initiative would significantly facilitate regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable for the masses. The Union Government aims to turn LGBI Airport into an International airport, connecting Southeast Asia. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport has undergone numerous expansions and renovations since its establishment in 1958. It handled more than 3.7 million passengers in 2017, an increase of 36 per cent from 2016. It has witnessed an annual traffic increase of over 23 per cent in 2018-19 with a total footfall of 5.7 million passengers and 55,066 aircraft movements in the same period. The existing terminal building at the airport has a maximum handling capacity of 850 arrivals per departure passengers an hour. The work on a new terminal has already made significant progress. This will further boost the growth narrative of the entire region. The new terminal will be the first sustainable terminal of the North East having sewage treatment plant, solar power, rainwater harvesting, solid waste disposal system and energy-efficient lighting. Once completed, this would generate around 3000 direct employment and approximately 20,000 indirect employments. Boosting the State government's efforts, Bangladesh and Bhutan governments have already set up their embassies in Guwahati. The 10 ASEAN nations are also expected to set up their embassies in Guwahati soon. The Act East Policy of the Government of India gives new hope for the growth of the region. The newly found confidence of the people in the state can be witnessed in all spheres of socio-cultural and economic life. As an offshoot of the efforts of the State government, farmers of Assam for the first time could successfully export their agricultural produce to London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other foreign countries.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flags off first Guwahati-Bangkok flight

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Pradhan said that while Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight to only Bangkok, more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of United Arab Emirates (UAE) are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha.

"At present Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight, to only one destination i.e. Bangkok, Thailand. Three has been a long pending request from various quarters for introducing a direct flight from Bhubaneswar to Dubai, UAE," read the letter.

"I am made to understand that there are more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of UAE who are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. I also understand the Odia society of UAE had a meeting with GM Air India Middle-east and Africa regarding the viability of a direct Air India flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai based on a favourable traffic data between these two destinations," Pradhan stated in his letter.

"Keeping in mind the welfare of commuters to and from Bhubaneswar-Dubai and larger potential for the development of Odisha. I request your personal intervention in launching a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest," requested Pradhan.

Underlining the importance of a direct flight, Pradhan mentioned that Bhubaneswar is an educational, healthcare, cultural and tourist hub with rich potential for medical tourism, cultural tourism, and educational exchange programmes.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has requested Minister of Civil Aviation Hardeep Singh Puri to start a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Pradhan said that while Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight to only Bangkok, more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of United Arab Emirates (UAE) are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. "At present Bhubaneswar is connected internationally, via direct flight, to only one destination i.e. Bangkok, Thailand. Three has been a long pending request from various quarters for introducing a direct flight from Bhubaneswar to Dubai, UAE," read the letter. "I am made to understand that there are more than 15,000 Odia people residing in different parts of UAE who are forced to undertake an indirect route for travelling to Odisha. I also understand the Odia society of UAE had a meeting with GM Air India Middle-east and Africa regarding the viability of a direct Air India flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai based on a favourable traffic data between these two destinations," Pradhan stated in his letter. "Keeping in mind the welfare of commuters to and from Bhubaneswar-Dubai and larger potential for the development of Odisha. I request your personal intervention in launching a direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Dubai at the earliest," requested Pradhan. Underlining the importance of a direct flight, Pradhan mentioned that Bhubaneswar is an educational, healthcare, cultural and tourist hub with rich potential for medical tourism, cultural tourism, and educational exchange programmes.

Dharmendra Pradhan requests for a direct flight connecting Bhubaneswar to Dubai

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-parliament-votes-for-coup-leader-to-stay-on-as-prime-minister-225013">Prayut Chan-O-Cha</a> resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy.

The mastermind of a 2014 coup, Prayut headed the junta regime for five years before a disputed March election tilted to the military formally ushered him in as a civilian premier.

But the new government has struggled to maintain a foothold as it is dogged by scandals from a cabinet member being accused of serving time in jail for drug-dealing in Australia to Thais angered by a slow response to floods in the rice bowl northeast.

Questions over his administration's legitimacy have also been raised after it was revealed Prayut and his cabinet had pledged loyalty to the king but failed to recite allegiance to the constitution when he was sworn in as civilian premiere in July.

The Constitutional Court last week had declined to deliberate on his omission.

But in parliament Wednesday, opposition lawmakers called for his resignation, saying the incomplete oath showed his "ignorance of the constitution", and questioned whether he can be trusted to uphold the rule of law.

It has "destroyed public confidence as well as his credibility", Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, secretary-general of the youth-driven Future Forward Party, said.

"Prayut's incomplete oath-taking makes the public doubt whether he will uphold and comply with the constitution," he said.

The omission could also mean that the ex-junta chief "may have thought of staging another coup", said Thai Liberal Party leader Sereepisuth Temeeyaves.

Prayut was present for part of the parliament session, held only for one day without a vote before MPs go for recess on Thursday.

Speaking briefly after listening to MPs hammer him for several hours, Prayut proclaimed "respect for all the principles in the constitution".

Coups and street protests have plagued Thailand's politics for almost two decades, with the putsch-happy army pressing the reset button on previous administrations.

But political divisions remain deep as Thais in the latest March election have shown a weariness towards a conservative arch-royalist elite, choosing instead to vote in MPs vowing to remove the military from politics. 
&nbsp;

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy.

Thai opposition MPs demanded Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha resign following weeks of the uproar over the ex-junta head's omission of a vow to uphold the constitution during his inauguration, raising questions of his legitimacy. The mastermind of a 2014 coup, Prayut headed the junta regime for five years before a disputed March election tilted to the military formally ushered him in as a civilian premier. But the new government has struggled to maintain a foothold as it is dogged by scandals from a cabinet member being accused of serving time in jail for drug-dealing in Australia to Thais angered by a slow response to floods in the rice bowl northeast. Questions over his administration's legitimacy have also been raised after it was revealed Prayut and his cabinet had pledged loyalty to the king but failed to recite allegiance to the constitution when he was sworn in as civilian premiere in July. The Constitutional Court last week had declined to deliberate on his omission. But in parliament Wednesday, opposition lawmakers called for his resignation, saying the incomplete oath showed his "ignorance of the constitution", and questioned whether he can be trusted to uphold the rule of law. It has "destroyed public confidence as well as his credibility", Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, secretary-general of the youth-driven Future Forward Party, said. "Prayut's incomplete oath-taking makes the public doubt whether he will uphold and comply with the constitution," he said. The omission could also mean that the ex-junta chief "may have thought of staging another coup", said Thai Liberal Party leader Sereepisuth Temeeyaves. Prayut was present for part of the parliament session, held only for one day without a vote before MPs go for recess on Thursday. Speaking briefly after listening to MPs hammer him for several hours, Prayut proclaimed "respect for all the principles in the constitution". Coups and street protests have plagued Thailand's politics for almost two decades, with the putsch-happy army pressing the reset button on previous administrations. But political divisions remain deep as Thais in the latest March election have shown a weariness towards a conservative arch-royalist elite, choosing instead to vote in MPs vowing to remove the military from politics.

Thai MPs call for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to resign following oath omission

Thailand rolled out plain cigarette packaging on Tuesday, the first country in Asia to introduce what activists say is an effective way to reduce the appeal of smoking.

In 2012 Australia became the first country to require tobacco products to be sold without colourful brand logos. Since then a host of mostly European countries have followed suit, including France, Hungary, and the UK.

Thailand agreed last year to comply with the World Health Organisation guidelines, and packs officially showed up in stores Tuesday.

Businesses have until December 8 to phase out stocks before facing fines of up to 40,000 baht ($1,300).

The standardised packaging includes a graphic picture of tobacco's effects on the body and the logo-free brand name written in plain font.

Keeping a uniform typeface below graphic depictions of smoking-related illnesses will make the products less attractive to buyers, said Prakit Vathesatogkit, vice-chair of the NGO Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance.

"For non-smokers, for kids, they are less likely to start," Prakit, who was involved in advocacy efforts, told AFP.

There are more than 246 million cigarette smokers in Southeast Asia, where campaigners say low prices help make it one of the largest tobacco-consuming regions in the world.

In Thailand, the health impact is huge and smoking-related illnesses are a leading cause of death.

Singapore is set to implement similar restrictions on packaging next year.

Thailand rolled out plain cigarette packaging on Tuesday, the first country in Asia to introduce what activists say is an effective way to reduce the appeal of smoking.

Thailand rolled out plain cigarette packaging on Tuesday, the first country in Asia to introduce what activists say is an effective way to reduce the appeal of smoking. In 2012 Australia became the first country to require tobacco products to be sold without colourful brand logos. Since then a host of mostly European countries have followed suit, including France, Hungary, and the UK. Thailand agreed last year to comply with the World Health Organisation guidelines, and packs officially showed up in stores Tuesday. Businesses have until December 8 to phase out stocks before facing fines of up to 40,000 baht ($1,300). The standardised packaging includes a graphic picture of tobacco's effects on the body and the logo-free brand name written in plain font. Keeping a uniform typeface below graphic depictions of smoking-related illnesses will make the products less attractive to buyers, said Prakit Vathesatogkit, vice-chair of the NGO Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance. "For non-smokers, for kids, they are less likely to start," Prakit, who was involved in advocacy efforts, told AFP. There are more than 246 million cigarette smokers in Southeast Asia, where campaigners say low prices help make it one of the largest tobacco-consuming regions in the world. In Thailand, the health impact is huge and smoking-related illnesses are a leading cause of death. Singapore is set to implement similar restrictions on packaging next year.

Thailand first in Asia to roll out plain cigarette packaging

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia.

Pro-democracy campaigner Od Sayavong was last seen nearly two weeks ago in Bangkok, where he had been living as he sought resettlement to a third country by the UN refugee agency, rights groups said.&nbsp;

He had been registered as a "person of concern" by the UNHCR in 2017 because of activism focused on Laos, a one-party communist state with little tolerance for dissent.

Od had campaigned for democracy and lobbied for the right of migrant workers from Laos, according to a joint statement from the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR).

The statement suggested Thai authorities may have handed Od back to Laos, sparking fears he could be "the latest casualty of increased cooperation between the government of Thailand and its regional counterparts".

Thailand and its neighbours have been accused of swapping exiled dissidents in recent years as tolerance for political activism shrivels across Southeast Asia.

The UNHCR did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Od's case, while an officer at the police station near his home said no migrants had been arrested there in the past month.

His disappearance follows a spate of similar cases in recent years.

Five Thai activists have disappeared from their homes in Laos since 2016, and in December two of their corpses were found in the Mekong river in Thailand.

Their stomachs had been stuffed with concrete.

Rights groups believe three others have been deported from Vietnam to Thailand although both governments deny any knowledge of their whereabouts.

A Thai activist folk band who went into hiding in Laos also fled to France to apply for asylum.

And a Vietnamese political blogger who vanished in Thailand earlier this year turned up in a Hanoi jail in March.

Defence ministry spokesperson Kongcheep Tantravanich denied knowledge of Od's case and said Thailand does not have a policy to "suppress political refugees" from other countries.

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia.

A Laos activist is feared to miss in Thailand, rights groups said Friday, calling for an urgent investigation into his whereabouts after a rash of similar disappearances of dissidents in Southeast Asia. Pro-democracy campaigner Od Sayavong was last seen nearly two weeks ago in Bangkok, where he had been living as he sought resettlement to a third country by the UN refugee agency, rights groups said. He had been registered as a "person of concern" by the UNHCR in 2017 because of activism focused on Laos, a one-party communist state with little tolerance for dissent. Od had campaigned for democracy and lobbied for the right of migrant workers from Laos, according to a joint statement from the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Lao Movement for Human Rights (LMHR). The statement suggested Thai authorities may have handed Od back to Laos, sparking fears he could be "the latest casualty of increased cooperation between the government of Thailand and its regional counterparts". Thailand and its neighbours have been accused of swapping exiled dissidents in recent years as tolerance for political activism shrivels across Southeast Asia. The UNHCR did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Od's case, while an officer at the police station near his home said no migrants had been arrested there in the past month. His disappearance follows a spate of similar cases in recent years. Five Thai activists have disappeared from their homes in Laos since 2016, and in December two of their corpses were found in the Mekong river in Thailand. Their stomachs had been stuffed with concrete. Rights groups believe three others have been deported from Vietnam to Thailand although both governments deny any knowledge of their whereabouts. A Thai activist folk band who went into hiding in Laos also fled to France to apply for asylum. And a Vietnamese political blogger who vanished in Thailand earlier this year turned up in a Hanoi jail in March. Defence ministry spokesperson Kongcheep Tantravanich denied knowledge of Od's case and said Thailand does not have a policy to "suppress political refugees" from other countries.

Laos activist feared missing in Thailand: Rights groups

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