<p>Sleep equity refers to the fair distribution of opportunities and resources that enable individuals to obtain adequate and high-quality sleep. It encompasses various factors, including access to safe and comfortable sleeping environments, sufficient time for rest, education about sleep hygiene and disorders, and support for addressing sleep-related issues.</p>

<p>Sleep issues are a pervasive challenge worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. From insomnia and sleep apnea to societal pressures and modern lifestyle habits, various factors contribute to disrupted sleep patterns and diminished sleep quality. However, by understanding the root causes of these issues and implementing effective strategies, we can work towards overcoming them and fostering a world where restful sleep is accessible to all.</p>

<p>World Sleep Day was initiated by the World Association of Sleep Medicine (WASM) in 2008. It aims to raise awareness about sleep disorders and the importance of good sleep for good health.</p>

<p>One of the primary contributors to sleep issues is the prevalence of stress and anxiety in modern society. Pressures from work, relationships, and personal responsibilities can lead to heightened levels of stress, making it difficult for individuals to unwind and achieve restful sleep. To address this, it's essential to prioritise stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises. Creating a bedtime routine that includes calming activities can signal to the body that it's time to wind down, promoting better sleep quality.</p>

<p>Another significant factor contributing to sleep issues is the widespread use of electronic devices, particularly before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. To mitigate this, individuals should establish a "digital curfew" and limit screen time in the hour leading up to bedtime. Additionally, implementing technology-free zones in the bedroom can help create a conducive environment for sleep.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-how-smoking-and-drinking-alcohol-regularly-impact-eye-health-700325">How smoking and drinking alcohol regularly impact eye health</a></p>

<p>Moreover, environmental factors such as noise pollution, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, and irregular sleep schedules can also contribute to sleep disturbances. Addressing these issues may involve investing in soundproofing measures, optimising bedroom temperature and lighting, and establishing consistent sleep routines.</p>

<p>Additionally, advocating for policies that prioritise sleep-friendly urban planning and workplace accommodations can help create environments that support healthy sleep habits.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-is-kate-middleton%E2%80%99s-recent-snap-inside-the-car-doctored-photographer-responds-699972">Is Kate Middleton’s recent snap inside the car doctored? Photographer responds</a></p>

<p>Just like financial equity aims for the fair distribution of wealth and resources, sleep equity emphasises the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographical location, or other factors, have equal opportunities to attain optimal sleep health. This concept recognises that disparities in sleep quality and duration can contribute to health inequalities and impact overall well-being and productivity. Therefore, efforts to promote sleep equity may involve advocating for policies and initiatives that address underlying factors such as work schedules, living conditions, healthcare access, and societal attitudes towards sleep.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Sleep equity refers to the fair distribution of opportunities and resources that enable individuals to obtain adequate and high-quality sleep. It encompasses various factors, including access to safe and comfortable sleeping environments, sufficient time for rest, education about sleep hygiene and disorders, and support for addressing sleep-related issues.

Sleep equity refers to the fair distribution of opportunities and resources that enable individuals to obtain adequate and high-quality sleep. It encompasses various factors, including access to safe and comfortable sleeping environments, sufficient time for rest, education about sleep hygiene and disorders, and support for addressing sleep-related issues. Sleep issues are a pervasive challenge worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. From insomnia and sleep apnea to societal pressures and modern lifestyle habits, various factors contribute to disrupted sleep patterns and diminished sleep quality. However, by understanding the root causes of these issues and implementing effective strategies, we can work towards overcoming them and fostering a world where restful sleep is accessible to all. World Sleep Day was initiated by the World Association of Sleep Medicine (WASM) in 2008. It aims to raise awareness about sleep disorders and the importance of good sleep for good health. One of the primary contributors to sleep issues is the prevalence of stress and anxiety in modern society. Pressures from work, relationships, and personal responsibilities can lead to heightened levels of stress, making it difficult for individuals to unwind and achieve restful sleep. To address this, it's essential to prioritise stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises. Creating a bedtime routine that includes calming activities can signal to the body that it's time to wind down, promoting better sleep quality. Another significant factor contributing to sleep issues is the widespread use of electronic devices, particularly before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. To mitigate this, individuals should establish a "digital curfew" and limit screen time in the hour leading up to bedtime. Additionally, implementing technology-free zones in the bedroom can help create a conducive environment for sleep. Also read | How smoking and drinking alcohol regularly impact eye health Moreover, environmental factors such as noise pollution, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, and irregular sleep schedules can also contribute to sleep disturbances. Addressing these issues may involve investing in soundproofing measures, optimising bedroom temperature and lighting, and establishing consistent sleep routines. Additionally, advocating for policies that prioritise sleep-friendly urban planning and workplace accommodations can help create environments that support healthy sleep habits. Also read | Is Kate Middleton’s recent snap inside the car doctored? Photographer responds Just like financial equity aims for the fair distribution of wealth and resources, sleep equity emphasises the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographical location, or other factors, have equal opportunities to attain optimal sleep health. This concept recognises that disparities in sleep quality and duration can contribute to health inequalities and impact overall well-being and productivity. Therefore, efforts to promote sleep equity may involve advocating for policies and initiatives that address underlying factors such as work schedules, living conditions, healthcare access, and societal attitudes towards sleep. (With inputs from agencies)

World Sleep Day 2024: The importance of sleep equity for better health

<p>An American man is facing jail time after pleading guilty of wildlife crimes. he tried to create gigantic hybrid sheep by using genetic material from endangered animals, to sell them to trophy hunting ranches.</p>

<p>Arthur Schubarth, 80, illegally brought parts of the world's largest sheep species from Kyrgyzstan into the United States.</p>

<p>He then utilised these genetic material to produce cloned embryos.</p>

<p>These embryos were implanted into ewes on his Montana ranch, leading to the birth of Marco Polo argali, a species on the brink of extinction known for its massive size and imposing horns.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-fired-ballistic-missile-toward-uss-laboon-in-the-red-sea-us-says-699607">Yemen's Houthis fired ballistic missile toward USS Laboon in the Red Sea, US says</a></p>

<p>Subsequently, Schubarth employed semen from these specimens to impregnate various sheep breeds aiming to create unprecedented hybrid species to produce even larger sheep.</p>

<p>He envisioned selling these unique animals to hunting ranches where customers pay to hunt captive animals, particularly&nbsp;larger specimens.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshi-cargo-ship-hijacked-in-indian-ocean-vessel-now-bound-for-somalia-reports-699596">Bangladeshi cargo ship 'hijacked' in Indian Ocean now headed for Somalia: Reports</a></p>

<p>Todd Kim, an Assistant Attorney General from the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division who handled the case, described Schubarth's actions as a bold attempt to create colossal hybrid sheep species for trophy hunting.</p>

<p>Schubarth violated international laws and the Lacey Act&nbsp;designed to safeguard the well-being and sustainability of native animal populations.</p>

<p>The Lacey Act prohibits the interstate trade of certain wildlife and is utilised by authorities to combat wildlife trafficking, AFP news agency said in a report.</p>

<p>Schubarth, whose ranch primarily breeds and sells mountain sheep, mountain goats, and other ungulates for game ranches, admitted to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and one count of substantive violation of the Lacey Act.</p>

<p>These felonies could result in a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


An American man is facing jail time after pleading guilty of wildlife crimes. he tried to create gigantic hybrid sheep by using genetic material from endangered animals, to sell them to trophy hunting ranches.

An American man is facing jail time after pleading guilty of wildlife crimes. he tried to create gigantic hybrid sheep by using genetic material from endangered animals, to sell them to trophy hunting ranches. Arthur Schubarth, 80, illegally brought parts of the world's largest sheep species from Kyrgyzstan into the United States. He then utilised these genetic material to produce cloned embryos. These embryos were implanted into ewes on his Montana ranch, leading to the birth of Marco Polo argali, a species on the brink of extinction known for its massive size and imposing horns. Also read | Yemen's Houthis fired ballistic missile toward USS Laboon in the Red Sea, US says Subsequently, Schubarth employed semen from these specimens to impregnate various sheep breeds aiming to create unprecedented hybrid species to produce even larger sheep. He envisioned selling these unique animals to hunting ranches where customers pay to hunt captive animals, particularly larger specimens. Also read | Bangladeshi cargo ship 'hijacked' in Indian Ocean now headed for Somalia: Reports Todd Kim, an Assistant Attorney General from the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division who handled the case, described Schubarth's actions as a bold attempt to create colossal hybrid sheep species for trophy hunting. Schubarth violated international laws and the Lacey Act designed to safeguard the well-being and sustainability of native animal populations. The Lacey Act prohibits the interstate trade of certain wildlife and is utilised by authorities to combat wildlife trafficking, AFP news agency said in a report. Schubarth, whose ranch primarily breeds and sells mountain sheep, mountain goats, and other ungulates for game ranches, admitted to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and one count of substantive violation of the Lacey Act. These felonies could result in a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. (With inputs from agencies)

US man faces jail for attempting to create hybrid sheep from endangered species

<p>As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives. From its initial emergence to the ongoing battle against its variants, COVID-19 has reshaped societies, economies, and healthcare systems worldwide.</p>

<p><strong>Origins and emergence of the pandemic</strong></p>

<p>Four years ago, the world was thrust into uncertainty as reports of a novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China began to emerge. Little did we know then that this virus would rapidly evolve into a pandemic, causing widespread illness, death, and disruption on an unprecedented scale. As the virus spread across borders, governments implemented lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures to contain its spread.</p>

<p><strong>Challenges faced in the initial phase</strong></p>

<p>In the years that followed, the world witnessed remarkable acts of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Healthcare workers emerged as heroes, risking their lives on the front lines to care for the sick and vulnerable. Scientists worked tirelessly to develop vaccines at an unprecedented pace, offering hope for a way out of the crisis. Communities came together to support one another, whether through mutual aid networks, food drives, or simply checking in on neighbours.</p>

<p>However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Disparities in access to healthcare and vaccines widened existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Misinformation and conspiracy theories&nbsp;sowed doubt and confusion hindering efforts in&nbsp;combating the virus effectively. And as new variants continue to emerge, the threat of future waves looms large, reminding us that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-flooded-with-ai-powered-news-sites-that-push-propaganda-false-stories-report-698876">Internet flooded with AI-powered ‘news’ sites that push propaganda, false stories: Report</a></p>

<p><strong>Hope on the horizon: Vaccines and progress</strong></p>

<p>As we reflect on the past four years, it's important to acknowledge both the progress we've made and the work that lies ahead. While vaccines offer hope for a return to normalcy, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus. We must also address the root causes of health inequities and work towards building more resilient and equitable societies.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-to-mobilise-military-public-doctors-to-aid-strike-hit-hospitals-698865">South Korea to mobilise military, public doctors to aid strike-hit hospitals</a></p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our collective resolve in ways we could never have imagined. Yet, amid the darkness there have been moments of solidarity, compassion, and hope that remind us of the strength of the human spirit. As we look towards the future, let us honour the sacrifices made and the lessons learned and let us strive to build a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives.

As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives. From its initial emergence to the ongoing battle against its variants, COVID-19 has reshaped societies, economies, and healthcare systems worldwide. Origins and emergence of the pandemic Four years ago, the world was thrust into uncertainty as reports of a novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China began to emerge. Little did we know then that this virus would rapidly evolve into a pandemic, causing widespread illness, death, and disruption on an unprecedented scale. As the virus spread across borders, governments implemented lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures to contain its spread. Challenges faced in the initial phase In the years that followed, the world witnessed remarkable acts of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Healthcare workers emerged as heroes, risking their lives on the front lines to care for the sick and vulnerable. Scientists worked tirelessly to develop vaccines at an unprecedented pace, offering hope for a way out of the crisis. Communities came together to support one another, whether through mutual aid networks, food drives, or simply checking in on neighbours. However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Disparities in access to healthcare and vaccines widened existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Misinformation and conspiracy theories sowed doubt and confusion hindering efforts in combating the virus effectively. And as new variants continue to emerge, the threat of future waves looms large, reminding us that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. Also read | Internet flooded with AI-powered ‘news’ sites that push propaganda, false stories: Report Hope on the horizon: Vaccines and progress As we reflect on the past four years, it's important to acknowledge both the progress we've made and the work that lies ahead. While vaccines offer hope for a return to normalcy, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus. We must also address the root causes of health inequities and work towards building more resilient and equitable societies. Also read | South Korea to mobilise military, public doctors to aid strike-hit hospitals The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our collective resolve in ways we could never have imagined. Yet, amid the darkness there have been moments of solidarity, compassion, and hope that remind us of the strength of the human spirit. As we look towards the future, let us honour the sacrifices made and the lessons learned and let us strive to build a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come. (With inputs from agencies)

Four Years of COVID-19: A journey of resilience and adaptation

<p>On the occasion of UK Mother's Day, the first photo of Kate Middleton&nbsp;with her kids has been&nbsp;released. This is the Princess of Wales' first picture&nbsp;since her abdominal surgery in January and speculations regarding her health.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On Mother's Day, which is also known as Mothering Sunday, the official social media handles of Kate and Prince William shared a new photo of Catherine happily posing with her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-ex-stripper-threatens-to-leak-nude-picture-of-harry-from-las-vegas-romp-party-698495">Ex-stripper threatens to leak nude picture of Prince Harry from Las Vegas party</a><br />
<br />
Along with the photo, a thank you note for all the well-wishes she has received since her surgery has been&nbsp;released.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In her post, she wrote, ''Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day. C.''</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_IqTNaqU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_IqTNaqU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_IqTNaqU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4U_IqTNaqU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The adorable photo shows Kate sitting on a chair, holding Charlotte and Louis, who are standing beside her. Meanwhile, the eldest George is holding her mother from the back.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The happy picture was clicked a few days ago by Prince William.<br />
<br />
Kate's new photo comes just a few days after she was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kate-middleton-seen-first-time-since-hospitalisation-696616"> spotted </a>for the first time after her abdominal surgery. She was captured with her mother, Carole Middleton near her Windsor estate.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In February, a spate of rumours and conspiracy theories regarding Kate's health started speculating over the place's silence on her health, with several people asking exactly what surgery she had gone through.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-palace-shuts-down-rumors-about-kate-middletons-health-says-shes-doing-well-695327">Palace shuts down rumours about Kate Middleton's health, says she's 'doing well'</a><br />
<br />
However, all the rumours were refuted by a statement released by the Princess' spokesperson, saying that she's ''doing well.''<br />
<br />
"We were very clear from the outset that the Princess of Wales was out until after Easter and Kensington&nbsp;Palace would only be providing updates when something was significant," they said, via People.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In January, the palace announced that the Princess of Wales had undergone abdominal surgery at the London Clinic on Jan 16, and will resume her royal duties after Easter.&nbsp;</p>


On the occasion of UK Mother's Day, the first photo of Kate Middleton with her kids has been released. This is the Princess of Wales' first picture since her abdominal surgery in January and speculations regarding her health.

On the occasion of UK Mother's Day, the first photo of Kate Middleton with her kids has been released. This is the Princess of Wales' first picture since her abdominal surgery in January and speculations regarding her health. On Mother's Day, which is also known as Mothering Sunday, the official social media handles of Kate and Prince William shared a new photo of Catherine happily posing with her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Ex-stripper threatens to leak nude picture of Prince Harry from Las Vegas party Along with the photo, a thank you note for all the well-wishes she has received since her surgery has been released. In her post, she wrote, ''Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day. C.'' View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales) × The adorable photo shows Kate sitting on a chair, holding Charlotte and Louis, who are standing beside her. Meanwhile, the eldest George is holding her mother from the back. The happy picture was clicked a few days ago by Prince William. Kate's new photo comes just a few days after she was spotted for the first time after her abdominal surgery. She was captured with her mother, Carole Middleton near her Windsor estate. In February, a spate of rumours and conspiracy theories regarding Kate's health started speculating over the place's silence on her health, with several people asking exactly what surgery she had gone through. Palace shuts down rumours about Kate Middleton's health, says she's 'doing well' However, all the rumours were refuted by a statement released by the Princess' spokesperson, saying that she's ''doing well.'' "We were very clear from the outset that the Princess of Wales was out until after Easter and Kensington Palace would only be providing updates when something was significant," they said, via People. In January, the palace announced that the Princess of Wales had undergone abdominal surgery at the London Clinic on Jan 16, and will resume her royal duties after Easter.

Kate Middleton shares first photo with kids post surgery, thanks public for support

<p><strong>Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online:&nbsp;</strong>The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years. Initially slated for the United Arab Emirates, this prestigious beauty pageant will now unfold at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai on Saturday, March 9. Sini Shetty, the winner of Femina Miss India 2022 will be representing India at the Miss World 2024 pageant. On this date, the final event will grace the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai</p>

<h2>Miss World 2024</h2>

<p>According to a recent report from Femina, Indian singer Neha Kakkar is scheduled to perform at the grand finale of the 71st Miss World on March 9th. The event will be broadcasted in more than 140 countries and territories, reaching an audience of over 1 billion people.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-arabia-boosts-sovereign-wealth-fund-transfers-8-pc-stake-in-aramco-worth-1636-bn-697926">Saudi Arabia boosts sovereign wealth fund, transfers 8 pc stake in Aramco worth $163.6 bn</a></p>

<h2><b>Miss World 2024 Live Watch&nbsp;Details:</b></h2>

<h2><b>When and where to watch Miss World 2024? Live Streaming</b></h2>

<p>Catch the excitement live! The 71st Miss World can be streamed on Sonyliv on March 9, starting at 7:30 PM (ST), and also on the official website of Miss World that is<i>&nbsp;www.missworld.com</i>.</p>

<h2><b>Who Will Host the Miss World 2024?</b></h2>

<p>Filmmaker Karan Johar, returning to the Miss World stage after his jury role in 2006, will host the event alongside Miss World 2013 Megan Young from the Philippines.</p>

<h2><b>Who will be performing and special guests at the Miss World 2024?</b></h2>

<p>The grand finale, which commenced on February 18 in New Delhi, will feature a performance by Indian singer Neha Kakkar and her brother Tony Kakkar. Miss World 2021 title winner, Polish model Karolina Bielawska, will also be present to crown the next Miss World, adding to the excitement of this truly global spectacle.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online: The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years.

Miss World 2024 Live Streaming Online: The highly anticipated 71st edition of Miss World 2024 promises to captivate audiences, marking a significant return to India after a hiatus of 28 years. Initially slated for the United Arab Emirates, this prestigious beauty pageant will now unfold at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai on Saturday, March 9. Sini Shetty, the winner of Femina Miss India 2022 will be representing India at the Miss World 2024 pageant. On this date, the final event will grace the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai Miss World 2024 According to a recent report from Femina, Indian singer Neha Kakkar is scheduled to perform at the grand finale of the 71st Miss World on March 9th. The event will be broadcasted in more than 140 countries and territories, reaching an audience of over 1 billion people. Also read | Saudi Arabia boosts sovereign wealth fund, transfers 8 pc stake in Aramco worth $163.6 bn Miss World 2024 Live Watch Details: When and where to watch Miss World 2024? Live Streaming Catch the excitement live! The 71st Miss World can be streamed on Sonyliv on March 9, starting at 7:30 PM (ST), and also on the official website of Miss World that is www.missworld.com. Who Will Host the Miss World 2024? Filmmaker Karan Johar, returning to the Miss World stage after his jury role in 2006, will host the event alongside Miss World 2013 Megan Young from the Philippines. Who will be performing and special guests at the Miss World 2024? The grand finale, which commenced on February 18 in New Delhi, will feature a performance by Indian singer Neha Kakkar and her brother Tony Kakkar. Miss World 2021 title winner, Polish model Karolina Bielawska, will also be present to crown the next Miss World, adding to the excitement of this truly global spectacle. (With inputs from agencies)

Miss World 2024: Live Streaming Online Platform, Date and Time; When and where to watch App, TV in India

<p>On Wednesday&nbsp;(March 6),&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the 17-kilometre&nbsp;extension of the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor which stretches from Duhai to Modi Nagar North. Furthermore, PM Modi commenced the inaugural run of the Namo Bharat train along this route, starting from the Muradnagar RRTS station.</p>

<p>The newly added segment stretches over an additional 17 kilometres, connecting Duhai to Modi Nagar North along the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor. This significant development was virtually launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/google-reverses-course-relists-indian-apps-amid-government-criticism-697029">Google reverses course: Relists Indian apps amid government criticism</a></p>

<p>The extended corridor now encompasses three additional stations: Murad Nagar, Modi Nagar South, and Modi Nagar North. With this expansion, the total length of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor now stands at 82 kilometres.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-navy-swiftly-responds-to-rescue-ship-under-drone-attack-in-gulf-of-aden-saves-13-indians-696974">WATCH: Indian Navy 'swiftly responds' to rescue ship under drone attack in Gulf of Aden, saves 13 Indians</a></p>

<p>The anticipated result of the 82-kilometre-long Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor is a substantial reduction in travel time between Delhi and Meerut to less than an hour.</p>

<p>In March 2019, PM Modi initiated the construction of India's inaugural RRTS corridor, linking Delhi to Meerut. Passenger services commenced in October 2023, coinciding with the inauguration of the Namo Bharat RapidX train by Modi, which connects Sahibabad RapidX Station in Ghaziabad to Duhai Depot.</p>

<p>During the inauguration ceremony of the new RRTS section from Duhai to Modi Nagar North, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri praised the quality and progress of the RRTS project, stating, "The work on the RRTS that you have initiated and the standard of its execution are of global standards... Presently, we have an operational metro network covering approximately 906 kilometres. Additionally, about 940 kilometres of metro lines are currently under construction. Upon the completion of the remaining 940 kilometres, we will boast the second-largest metro system globally."</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


On Wednesday (March 6), Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the 17-kilometre extension of the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor which stretches from Duhai to Modi Nagar North.

On Wednesday (March 6), Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the 17-kilometre extension of the Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor which stretches from Duhai to Modi Nagar North. Furthermore, PM Modi commenced the inaugural run of the Namo Bharat train along this route, starting from the Muradnagar RRTS station. The newly added segment stretches over an additional 17 kilometres, connecting Duhai to Modi Nagar North along the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor. This significant development was virtually launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday. Also read | Google reverses course: Relists Indian apps amid government criticism The extended corridor now encompasses three additional stations: Murad Nagar, Modi Nagar South, and Modi Nagar North. With this expansion, the total length of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor now stands at 82 kilometres. Also read | WATCH: Indian Navy 'swiftly responds' to rescue ship under drone attack in Gulf of Aden, saves 13 Indians The anticipated result of the 82-kilometre-long Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor is a substantial reduction in travel time between Delhi and Meerut to less than an hour. In March 2019, PM Modi initiated the construction of India's inaugural RRTS corridor, linking Delhi to Meerut. Passenger services commenced in October 2023, coinciding with the inauguration of the Namo Bharat RapidX train by Modi, which connects Sahibabad RapidX Station in Ghaziabad to Duhai Depot. During the inauguration ceremony of the new RRTS section from Duhai to Modi Nagar North, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri praised the quality and progress of the RRTS project, stating, "The work on the RRTS that you have initiated and the standard of its execution are of global standards... Presently, we have an operational metro network covering approximately 906 kilometres. Additionally, about 940 kilometres of metro lines are currently under construction. Upon the completion of the remaining 940 kilometres, we will boast the second-largest metro system globally." (With inputs from agencies)

India Prime Minister Modi inaugurates 17-kilometre extension of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor

<p>In a few days, the world will witness the Solar Eclipse of 2024, a highly anticipated celestial phenomenon set to unfold on 8th April. Enthusiasts of the night sky eagerly await this captivating event.</p>

<p>A Solar Eclipse occurs when the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth leads to a temporary blockage of the Sun's rays. During this event, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun casting its shadow upon the Earth's surface. This shadow, known as the 'path of totality', will sweep across a vast expanse of the Earth, offering a mesmerising spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it.</p>

<p>Expected to span approximately 115 miles within its path, the Solar Eclipse of 8 April 2024, presents a rare opportunity. According to NASA, the occurrence of a total solar eclipse in a particular location is infrequent, with an average interval of about 375 years between occurrences.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-converts-beauty-of-universe-into-sound-for-visually-impaired-to-experience-695528">NASA converts beauty of universe into sound for visually impaired to experience</a></p>

<p>Mark your calendars for Monday, 8 April 2024 when the total solar eclipse will make its journey across North America, traversing Canada, the United States, and Mexico. NASA predicts that the initial encounter with totality will occur along the Pacific coast of Mexico around 11:07 a.m. PDT. Subsequently, the eclipse's path will progress northeastward, with Texas experiencing totality at 1:27 p.m. CDT, followed by Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, before advancing into the Maritime Provinces of Canada.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-aims-to-put-first-chinese-on-the-moon-before-2030-695498">China aims to put first Chinese on the moon before 2030</a></p>

<p>For those eager to witness this celestial spectacle safely, it's crucial to adhere to safety guidelines. Ensure you have the correct timings and utilise specialised eye protection specifically designed for solar observation. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection is hazardous, except during the brief total phase of the eclipse when the Moon entirely obscures the Sun's face. Certified solar viewing glasses or pinhole projectors are recommended for safe viewing, while solar filters should be used on telescopes or binoculars. Remember, safety is paramount during this extraordinary celestial event, so never gaze directly at the Sun without adequate protection.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a few days, the world will witness the Solar Eclipse of 2024, a highly anticipated celestial phenomenon set to unfold on 8th April. Enthusiasts of the night sky eagerly await this captivating event.

In a few days, the world will witness the Solar Eclipse of 2024, a highly anticipated celestial phenomenon set to unfold on 8th April. Enthusiasts of the night sky eagerly await this captivating event. A Solar Eclipse occurs when the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth leads to a temporary blockage of the Sun's rays. During this event, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun casting its shadow upon the Earth's surface. This shadow, known as the 'path of totality', will sweep across a vast expanse of the Earth, offering a mesmerising spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it. Expected to span approximately 115 miles within its path, the Solar Eclipse of 8 April 2024, presents a rare opportunity. According to NASA, the occurrence of a total solar eclipse in a particular location is infrequent, with an average interval of about 375 years between occurrences. Also read | NASA converts beauty of universe into sound for visually impaired to experience Mark your calendars for Monday, 8 April 2024 when the total solar eclipse will make its journey across North America, traversing Canada, the United States, and Mexico. NASA predicts that the initial encounter with totality will occur along the Pacific coast of Mexico around 11:07 a.m. PDT. Subsequently, the eclipse's path will progress northeastward, with Texas experiencing totality at 1:27 p.m. CDT, followed by Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, before advancing into the Maritime Provinces of Canada. Also read | China aims to put first Chinese on the moon before 2030 For those eager to witness this celestial spectacle safely, it's crucial to adhere to safety guidelines. Ensure you have the correct timings and utilise specialised eye protection specifically designed for solar observation. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection is hazardous, except during the brief total phase of the eclipse when the Moon entirely obscures the Sun's face. Certified solar viewing glasses or pinhole projectors are recommended for safe viewing, while solar filters should be used on telescopes or binoculars. Remember, safety is paramount during this extraordinary celestial event, so never gaze directly at the Sun without adequate protection. (With inputs from agencies)

Solar Eclipse 2024: All you need to know about astronomical event in the US - when and how to watch

<p>Rarely spotted yellow-crested Helmetshrike,&nbsp;cientifically known as Prionops alberti, is a native to the Albertine Rift, a region nestled in the eastern mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its sighting has primarily been scarce due to its remote habitat and the persistent conflicts in the area.</p>

<p>Recently, a team of scientists from the University of Texas at El Paso embarked on a six-week expedition to the Itombwe Massif, a mountain range in eastern Congo, in search of this elusive species. Led by Harvey and Professor of Biological Sciences Eli Greenbaum, the researchers scoured a vast expanse of 75 miles through the rugged terrain, meticulously documenting various bird species and other wildlife inhabiting the remote area.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mystery-genetic-material-in-butterflies-moths-has-not-changed-for-over-250-mn-years-692522">Mystery? Genetic material in butterflies, moths has not changed for over 250mn years</a></p>

<p>Their efforts finally paid off when they stumbled upon the unmistakable sight of the yellow-crested helmetshrike. They were thrilled to discover 18 of these birds scattered across different parts of the mountain range. Described as "noisy and active groups" within the forest, the birds exhibited their distinct bright yellow crests, which served as the key identifying feature for the scientists.</p>

<p>Despite the historical conflict and instability in the Albertine Rift, recent improvements in the region's security allowed the researchers to explore the area. However, the species still faces threats within its forest habitat, underscoring the importance of continued conservation efforts.</p>

<p>“Right now is a golden opportunity to protect these tropical forests so that we don’t lose species like the helmetshrike before they are known and studied,” Professor Harvey pointed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the rediscovery of these birds, researchers are keen to commence conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding the species.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Rarely spotted yellow-crested Helmetshrike, cientifically known as Prionops alberti, is a native to the Albertine Rift, a region nestled in the eastern mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Rarely spotted yellow-crested Helmetshrike, cientifically known as Prionops alberti, is a native to the Albertine Rift, a region nestled in the eastern mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its sighting has primarily been scarce due to its remote habitat and the persistent conflicts in the area. Recently, a team of scientists from the University of Texas at El Paso embarked on a six-week expedition to the Itombwe Massif, a mountain range in eastern Congo, in search of this elusive species. Led by Harvey and Professor of Biological Sciences Eli Greenbaum, the researchers scoured a vast expanse of 75 miles through the rugged terrain, meticulously documenting various bird species and other wildlife inhabiting the remote area. Also read | Mystery? Genetic material in butterflies, moths has not changed for over 250mn years Their efforts finally paid off when they stumbled upon the unmistakable sight of the yellow-crested helmetshrike. They were thrilled to discover 18 of these birds scattered across different parts of the mountain range. Described as "noisy and active groups" within the forest, the birds exhibited their distinct bright yellow crests, which served as the key identifying feature for the scientists. Despite the historical conflict and instability in the Albertine Rift, recent improvements in the region's security allowed the researchers to explore the area. However, the species still faces threats within its forest habitat, underscoring the importance of continued conservation efforts. “Right now is a golden opportunity to protect these tropical forests so that we don’t lose species like the helmetshrike before they are known and studied,” Professor Harvey pointed out. With the rediscovery of these birds, researchers are keen to commence conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding the species. (With inputs from agencies)

Elusive 'Lost Bird' unseen for 20 years, captured on Camera for the first time in Africa

<p>The upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) second edition is scheduled to commence on Friday, 23 February 2024, featuring an inaugural match between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals.</p>

<p>The opening ceremony for WPL 2024 is slated to take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Renowned Bollywood actors such as Shah Rukh Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Shahid Kapoor, Kartik Aaryan, Varun Dhawan, and Tiger Shroff are expected to grace the event with their remarkable performances.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will the first match of the WPL 2024 be held?</strong></h2>

<p>Last year's finalists Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals will be competing in the opening match in Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.</p>

<h2><strong>WPL 2024 Match timings</strong></h2>

<p>The upcoming edition will be hosted by Delhi and Bengaluru. All matches will start at 7:30 pm.</p>

<p><strong>Who will be performing at the opening ceremony of the WPL 2024?</strong></p>

<p>The opening ceremony of the second season of WPL will be a star-studded affair. The official account of the WPL has announced that Actors Tiger Shroff, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, Karthik Aryan are set to perform. As per news agency ANI, from singers to Bollywood actors, who's who of the Indian film industry will be going to add a filmy touch to the inaugural event.</p>

<h2><strong>When will WPL 2024 opening ceremony start?</strong></h2>

<p>The opening ceremony will be held an hour before the match starts. The viewers can watch the performances LIVE at 6.30 pm&nbsp;on 23 February.</p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch the live-streaming of WPL 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>WPL 2024 will be telecasted on Sports 18. The live-streaming of the matches will be available on Jio Cinemas.</p>

<h2><strong>WPL 2024 final teams and players name:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Delhi Capitals:</strong></p>

<p>Alice Capsey, Arundhati Reddy, Jemimah Rodrigues, Jess Jonassen, Laura Harris, Marizanne Kapp, Meg Lanning, Minnu Mani, Poonam Yadav, Radha Yadav, Shefali Verma, Shikha Pandey, Sneha Deepthi, Taniya Bhatia, Titas Sadhu, Annabel Sutherland*, Aparna Mondal, Ashwani Kumari.</p>

<p><strong>Gujarat Giants:</strong></p>

<p>Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Dayalan Hemalatha, Harleen Deol, Laura Wolvaardt, Shabnam Shakil, Sneh Rana, Tanuja Kanwar, Phoebe Litchfield, Meghna Singh, Trisha Poojitha, Sayali Satghare, Priya Mishra, Lauren Cheatle, Kathryn Bryce, Mannat Kashyap, Veda Krishnamurthy, Tarannum Pathan</p>

<p><strong>Mumbai Indians:</strong></p>

<p>Amanjot Kaur, Amelia Kerr, Chloe Tryon, Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Humaira Kazi, Issy Wong, Jintimani Kalita, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Pooja Vastrakar, Priyanka Bala, Saika Ishaque, Yastika Bhatia, Shabnim Ismail, S Sajana, Amandeep Kaur, Fatima Jaffer, Keerthana Balakrishnan</p>

<p><strong>Royal Challengers Bangalore:</strong></p>

<p>Asha Shobana, Disha Kasat, Ellyse Perry, Heather Knight (withdrawn), Indrani Roy, Shraddha Pokarkar, Renuka Singh, Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Smriti Mandhana, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Kate Cross, Ekta Bisht, Shubha Satheesh, S Meghana, Simran Bahadur, Sophie Molineux</p>

<p><strong>UP Warriorz:</strong></p>

<p>Alyssa Healy, Anjali Sarvani, Deepti Sharma, Grace Harris, Kiran Navgire, Lauren Bell (withdrawn, replaced by Chamari Athapaththu), Laxmi Yadav, Parshavi Chopra, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Soppadhandi Yashasri, Shweta Sehrawat, Sophie Ecclestone, Tahlia McGrath, Danni Wyatt, Vrinda Dinesh, Poonam Khemnar, Saima Thakor, Gouher Sultana</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-plays-cricket-with-locals-in-kashmir-shares-heartfelt-video-watch-692653">Sachin Tendulkar plays cricket with locals in Kashmir, shares heartfelt video – WATCH</a></p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


The upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) second edition is scheduled to commence on Friday, 23 February 2024, featuring an inaugural match between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals.

The upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) second edition is scheduled to commence on Friday, 23 February 2024, featuring an inaugural match between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals. The opening ceremony for WPL 2024 is slated to take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Renowned Bollywood actors such as Shah Rukh Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Shahid Kapoor, Kartik Aaryan, Varun Dhawan, and Tiger Shroff are expected to grace the event with their remarkable performances. Where will the first match of the WPL 2024 be held? Last year's finalists Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals will be competing in the opening match in Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. WPL 2024 Match timings The upcoming edition will be hosted by Delhi and Bengaluru. All matches will start at 7:30 pm. Who will be performing at the opening ceremony of the WPL 2024? The opening ceremony of the second season of WPL will be a star-studded affair. The official account of the WPL has announced that Actors Tiger Shroff, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, Karthik Aryan are set to perform. As per news agency ANI, from singers to Bollywood actors, who's who of the Indian film industry will be going to add a filmy touch to the inaugural event. When will WPL 2024 opening ceremony start? The opening ceremony will be held an hour before the match starts. The viewers can watch the performances LIVE at 6.30 pm on 23 February. Where to watch the live-streaming of WPL 2024? WPL 2024 will be telecasted on Sports 18. The live-streaming of the matches will be available on Jio Cinemas. WPL 2024 final teams and players name: Delhi Capitals: Alice Capsey, Arundhati Reddy, Jemimah Rodrigues, Jess Jonassen, Laura Harris, Marizanne Kapp, Meg Lanning, Minnu Mani, Poonam Yadav, Radha Yadav, Shefali Verma, Shikha Pandey, Sneha Deepthi, Taniya Bhatia, Titas Sadhu, Annabel Sutherland*, Aparna Mondal, Ashwani Kumari. Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Dayalan Hemalatha, Harleen Deol, Laura Wolvaardt, Shabnam Shakil, Sneh Rana, Tanuja Kanwar, Phoebe Litchfield, Meghna Singh, Trisha Poojitha, Sayali Satghare, Priya Mishra, Lauren Cheatle, Kathryn Bryce, Mannat Kashyap, Veda Krishnamurthy, Tarannum Pathan Mumbai Indians: Amanjot Kaur, Amelia Kerr, Chloe Tryon, Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Humaira Kazi, Issy Wong, Jintimani Kalita, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Pooja Vastrakar, Priyanka Bala, Saika Ishaque, Yastika Bhatia, Shabnim Ismail, S Sajana, Amandeep Kaur, Fatima Jaffer, Keerthana Balakrishnan Royal Challengers Bangalore: Asha Shobana, Disha Kasat, Ellyse Perry, Heather Knight (withdrawn), Indrani Roy, Shraddha Pokarkar, Renuka Singh, Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Smriti Mandhana, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Kate Cross, Ekta Bisht, Shubha Satheesh, S Meghana, Simran Bahadur, Sophie Molineux UP Warriorz: Alyssa Healy, Anjali Sarvani, Deepti Sharma, Grace Harris, Kiran Navgire, Lauren Bell (withdrawn, replaced by Chamari Athapaththu), Laxmi Yadav, Parshavi Chopra, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Soppadhandi Yashasri, Shweta Sehrawat, Sophie Ecclestone, Tahlia McGrath, Danni Wyatt, Vrinda Dinesh, Poonam Khemnar, Saima Thakor, Gouher Sultana Also read | Sachin Tendulkar plays cricket with locals in Kashmir, shares heartfelt video – WATCH (With inputs from agencies)

WPL 2024 opening ceremony: Where to watch and enjoy the star studded performances of the opening ceremony

<p>A team of Indian scientists has stumbled upon something that has left many in the scientific community baffled and intrigued – a mushroom sprouting from a frog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) describing their discovery in the journal Reptiles and Amphibians said this is the first time that a mushroom has been spotted growing on live animal tissue. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the researchers find?</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian scientists were on a nature walk through the foothills of the Western Ghats when they found the frog, identified as Rao’s Intermediate Golden-backed Frog (<em>Hylarana inter-media</em>).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the species is native to the region, the creature itself was not what surprised the researchers, rather it was the extraordinary feature it was sporting, the mushroom.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whos-the-dad-stingray-pregnant-without-any-male-companion-aquarium-690301">Who’s the dad? Stingray pregnant without any male companion of her species in aquarium</a></strong></p>

<p>Experts have identified the mushroom as a Bonnet Mushroom, which is known to typically grow as a saprotroph on rotting wood. A saprotroph is an organism that feeds on nonliving organic matter.</p>

<p>However, the frog which was among 40 others on a small roadside pond did not seem to be bothered by the unusual appendage, said the researchers, but the same cannot be said for the scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To the best of our knowledge, never has a mushroom sprouting from the flank of a live frog been documented,” the team wrote in their report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the type of mushroom found on the frog’s hind leg thrives on decaying organic matter, which is why scientists were baffled since the amphibian was alive and well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discovery raises a number of questions about ecological dynamics and a possible relationship between amphibians and fungi – which is largely unexplored.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What now?</strong></h2>

<p>Since the frog was not captured for further study, the exact nature of the mushroom growing on the frog and if it is infectious or not harmful to the amphibian remained unclear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-research-suggests-your-chihuahua-or-other-toy-breed-dog-may-have-shark-teeth-heres-what-it-means-690314">New research suggests your Chihuahua or other toy breed dog may have 'shark teeth'. Here's what it means</a></strong></p>

<p>“The frog was not collected, so no prognosis is possible,” the authors wrote.</p>

<p>The research team suspects that the humid and monsoon-fed environment of the Western Ghats may have been ideal for mushroom growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team said that they plan to continue monitoring the area and conduct research into the fascinating discovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A team of Indian scientists has stumbled upon something that has left many in the scientific community baffled and intrigued – a mushroom sprouting from a frog. The researchers affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) describing their discovery in the journal Reptiles and Amphibians said this is the first time that a mushroom has been spotted growing on live animal tissue.

A team of Indian scientists has stumbled upon something that has left many in the scientific community baffled and intrigued – a mushroom sprouting from a frog. The researchers affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) describing their discovery in the journal Reptiles and Amphibians said this is the first time that a mushroom has been spotted growing on live animal tissue. What did the researchers find? The Indian scientists were on a nature walk through the foothills of the Western Ghats when they found the frog, identified as Rao’s Intermediate Golden-backed Frog (Hylarana inter-media). Since the species is native to the region, the creature itself was not what surprised the researchers, rather it was the extraordinary feature it was sporting, the mushroom. Also Read | Who’s the dad? Stingray pregnant without any male companion of her species in aquarium Experts have identified the mushroom as a Bonnet Mushroom, which is known to typically grow as a saprotroph on rotting wood. A saprotroph is an organism that feeds on nonliving organic matter. However, the frog which was among 40 others on a small roadside pond did not seem to be bothered by the unusual appendage, said the researchers, but the same cannot be said for the scientists. “To the best of our knowledge, never has a mushroom sprouting from the flank of a live frog been documented,” the team wrote in their report. Notably, the type of mushroom found on the frog’s hind leg thrives on decaying organic matter, which is why scientists were baffled since the amphibian was alive and well. The discovery raises a number of questions about ecological dynamics and a possible relationship between amphibians and fungi – which is largely unexplored. What now? Since the frog was not captured for further study, the exact nature of the mushroom growing on the frog and if it is infectious or not harmful to the amphibian remained unclear. Also Read | New research suggests your Chihuahua or other toy breed dog may have 'shark teeth'. Here's what it means “The frog was not collected, so no prognosis is possible,” the authors wrote. The research team suspects that the humid and monsoon-fed environment of the Western Ghats may have been ideal for mushroom growth. The team said that they plan to continue monitoring the area and conduct research into the fascinating discovery. (With inputs from agencies)

Mushroom found growing on frog’s side in India’s Western Ghats baffles scientists

<p>When Amit Chansikar, a user of MakeMyTrip, booked an OYO hotel through the platform, he anticipated a comfortable stay. However, upon arriving at the hotel, his expectations were shattered as he discovered the establishment was still under construction. Shocked by the situation, Chansikar took to social media to share his experience, which quickly went viral, garnering numerous reactions.</p>

<p>In his post, Chansikar expressed his frustration, highlighting the inconvenience caused by the unexpected construction work at the hotel. He criticised the lack of transparency and the ridiculous situation and accused the companies, MakeMyTrip and OYO Rooms, of misleading customers. Chansikar's post caught the attention of both MakeMyTrip and OYO Rooms, prompting them to issue apologies to him for the inconvenience he faced.</p>

<p>“@makemytrip &amp; @oyorooms scam alert in Bengaluru. Just came here to find that the hotel I had booked is under renovation. There was not a living soul here. This is tantamount to cheating! After wasting two hours here, they cut money from my refund. Shame on you!” wrote Chansikar in his post.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-making-sustainability-simple-6-easy-ways-to-embrace-a-sustainable-lifestyle-689167">Making sustainability simple: 6 easy ways to embrace a sustainable lifestyle</a></p>

<p>In a subsequent tweet, he further stated, "Representatives from both OYO and MMT have contacted me multiple times via phone calls and email. Although the refund has been supposedly processed, it has not yet been reflected in my account. I will provide an update here once it does."</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-settles-phone-hacking-case-against-british-tabloid-gets-substantial-payout-688703">Prince Harry settles phone-hacking case against British tabloid, gets 'substantial' payout</a></p>

<p>The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the hospitality industry. Customers rely on online booking platforms like MakeMyTrip to provide accurate information about their accommodation. When such information is not provided, it can lead to disappointment and frustration for travellers like Chansikar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


When Amit Chansikar, a user of MakeMyTrip, booked an OYO hotel through the platform, he anticipated a comfortable stay. However, upon arriving at the hotel, his expectations were shattered as he discovered the establishment was still under construction.

When Amit Chansikar, a user of MakeMyTrip, booked an OYO hotel through the platform, he anticipated a comfortable stay. However, upon arriving at the hotel, his expectations were shattered as he discovered the establishment was still under construction. Shocked by the situation, Chansikar took to social media to share his experience, which quickly went viral, garnering numerous reactions. In his post, Chansikar expressed his frustration, highlighting the inconvenience caused by the unexpected construction work at the hotel. He criticised the lack of transparency and the ridiculous situation and accused the companies, MakeMyTrip and OYO Rooms, of misleading customers. Chansikar's post caught the attention of both MakeMyTrip and OYO Rooms, prompting them to issue apologies to him for the inconvenience he faced. “@makemytrip & @oyorooms scam alert in Bengaluru. Just came here to find that the hotel I had booked is under renovation. There was not a living soul here. This is tantamount to cheating! After wasting two hours here, they cut money from my refund. Shame on you!” wrote Chansikar in his post. Also read | Making sustainability simple: 6 easy ways to embrace a sustainable lifestyle In a subsequent tweet, he further stated, "Representatives from both OYO and MMT have contacted me multiple times via phone calls and email. Although the refund has been supposedly processed, it has not yet been reflected in my account. I will provide an update here once it does." Also read | Prince Harry settles phone-hacking case against British tabloid, gets 'substantial' payout The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the hospitality industry. Customers rely on online booking platforms like MakeMyTrip to provide accurate information about their accommodation. When such information is not provided, it can lead to disappointment and frustration for travellers like Chansikar. (With inputs from agencies)

Traveller books accommodation via MakeMyTrip, finds construction going on at site

<p>In today's world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, adopting a sustainable lifestyle has become increasingly important. Fortunately, integrating sustainability into your daily routine doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are six simple ways to embrace a sustainable lifestyle effortlessly:</p>

<h2><b>Reduce, Reuse, Recycle</b></h2>

<p>Reducing, reusing, and recycling are foundational principles of sustainability. By minimising waste and opting for reusable alternatives, such as shopping bags and water bottles, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Sorting your trash for recycling and composting further diverts waste from landfills.</p>

<h2><b>Conserve Energy</b></h2>

<p>Conserving energy is another vital aspect of sustainability. Making small adjustments, such as turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use, can save energy and reduce utility bills. Investing in energy-efficient appliances and adjusting thermostats to conserve heating and cooling energy are additional steps you can take to lower your carbon footprint.</p>

<h2><b>Plant-based Eating</b></h2>

<p>Incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet to reduce your carbon footprint and support animal welfare. Start by participating in ‘Meatless Mondays’ or replacing meat with plant-based alternatives a few times a week. Not only is plant-based eating better for the environment, but it can also improve your health and well-being.</p>

<h2><b>Support Sustainable Brands</b></h2>

<p>Supporting brands committed to sustainability is essential when making purchasing decisions. Look for eco-friendly certifications and opt for products made from renewable or recycled materials. By supporting businesses that prioritise sustainability, you can encourage others to follow suit.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-aromatherapy-choosing-the-right-fragrances-for-each-room-687850">Aromatherapy: Choosing the Right Fragrances for Each Room</a></p>

<h2><b>Spend Time with Nature</b></h2>

<p>Reconnecting with nature can inspire and motivate you to live more sustainably. Spend time outdoors, engage in activities like hiking or gardening, and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. By appreciating and preserving nature, you'll feel more compelled to make sustainable choices in your daily life.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-cycling-enthusiasts-tragic-death-sparks-conversation-on-risks-of-over-exercising-687496">Cycling enthusiast’s tragic death sparks discourse on risks of over-exercising</a></p>

<h2><b>Choose Sustainable Transportation</b></h2>

<p>Opt for eco-friendly transportation options whenever possible. Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transit instead of driving alone. Consider switching to a fuel-efficient or electric vehicle to reduce carbon emissions. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, you can contribute to cleaner air and lower carbon emissions.</p>

<p>Incorporating these six simple strategies into your routine can help you easily embrace a sustainable lifestyle while making a positive impact on the planet. Remember, every small action counts towards creating a more sustainable and resilient future.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In today's world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, adopting a sustainable lifestyle has become increasingly important. Fortunately, integrating sustainability into your daily routine doesn't have to be overwhelming.

In today's world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, adopting a sustainable lifestyle has become increasingly important. Fortunately, integrating sustainability into your daily routine doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are six simple ways to embrace a sustainable lifestyle effortlessly: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Reducing, reusing, and recycling are foundational principles of sustainability. By minimising waste and opting for reusable alternatives, such as shopping bags and water bottles, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Sorting your trash for recycling and composting further diverts waste from landfills. Conserve Energy Conserving energy is another vital aspect of sustainability. Making small adjustments, such as turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use, can save energy and reduce utility bills. Investing in energy-efficient appliances and adjusting thermostats to conserve heating and cooling energy are additional steps you can take to lower your carbon footprint. Plant-based Eating Incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet to reduce your carbon footprint and support animal welfare. Start by participating in ‘Meatless Mondays’ or replacing meat with plant-based alternatives a few times a week. Not only is plant-based eating better for the environment, but it can also improve your health and well-being. Support Sustainable Brands Supporting brands committed to sustainability is essential when making purchasing decisions. Look for eco-friendly certifications and opt for products made from renewable or recycled materials. By supporting businesses that prioritise sustainability, you can encourage others to follow suit. Also read | Aromatherapy: Choosing the Right Fragrances for Each Room Spend Time with Nature Reconnecting with nature can inspire and motivate you to live more sustainably. Spend time outdoors, engage in activities like hiking or gardening, and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. By appreciating and preserving nature, you'll feel more compelled to make sustainable choices in your daily life. Also read | Cycling enthusiast’s tragic death sparks discourse on risks of over-exercising Choose Sustainable Transportation Opt for eco-friendly transportation options whenever possible. Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transit instead of driving alone. Consider switching to a fuel-efficient or electric vehicle to reduce carbon emissions. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, you can contribute to cleaner air and lower carbon emissions. Incorporating these six simple strategies into your routine can help you easily embrace a sustainable lifestyle while making a positive impact on the planet. Remember, every small action counts towards creating a more sustainable and resilient future. (With inputs from agencies)

Making sustainability simple: 6 easy ways to embrace a sustainable lifestyle

<p>Snapchat users in India&nbsp;encountered a brief interruption in service on Friday (Feb 9) as they experienced&nbsp;challenges in sending messages and snaps to their friends. The issue arose shortly after similar problems were reported with the Groww app. However, the issue was swiftly resolved, and Snapchat returned to normal operation by 1:40 pm.</p>

<p>Many users turned to Elon Musk's social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), to share their difficulties in accessing Snapchat. Some users voiced frustration over their inability to send snaps and messages, while others highlighted issues with uploading images.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-russian-officials-inspect-indias-largest-nuclear-power-plant-688541">Indian &amp; Russian officials inspect India's largest nuclear power plant</a></p>

<p>According to Downdetector, there were over 3,800 reports of the platform's outage within the last 24 hours. Approximately 24% of users encountered difficulties uploading snaps, while 3% experienced problems accessing Snapchat's website. The map on Downdetector displayed widespread outage across India, including major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Despite the extensive disruption, Snapchat has not issued an official statement addressing the outage.</p>

<p>As of now, Snapchat has not provided any updates regarding the nationwide outage. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates promptly upon receiving a response from the app.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/military-troops-in-maldives-to-be-replaced-by-indian-technical-personnel-mea-688587">Military troops in Maldives to be replaced by 'Indian technical personnel': MEA</a></p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


Snapchat users in India encountered a brief interruption in service on Friday (Feb 9) as they experienced challenges in sending messages and snaps to their friends.

Snapchat users in India encountered a brief interruption in service on Friday (Feb 9) as they experienced challenges in sending messages and snaps to their friends. The issue arose shortly after similar problems were reported with the Groww app. However, the issue was swiftly resolved, and Snapchat returned to normal operation by 1:40 pm. Many users turned to Elon Musk's social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), to share their difficulties in accessing Snapchat. Some users voiced frustration over their inability to send snaps and messages, while others highlighted issues with uploading images. Also read | Indian & Russian officials inspect India's largest nuclear power plant According to Downdetector, there were over 3,800 reports of the platform's outage within the last 24 hours. Approximately 24% of users encountered difficulties uploading snaps, while 3% experienced problems accessing Snapchat's website. The map on Downdetector displayed widespread outage across India, including major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Despite the extensive disruption, Snapchat has not issued an official statement addressing the outage. As of now, Snapchat has not provided any updates regarding the nationwide outage. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates promptly upon receiving a response from the app. Also read | Military troops in Maldives to be replaced by 'Indian technical personnel': MEA (With inputs from agencies)

Snapchat experiences service disruption in India, users unable to send snaps, messages

<p>A shocking yet daring video going viral on social media shows a fisherman single-handedly&nbsp;battling a monstrous great white shark and emerging victorious at a Florida beach in the USA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shark fishing expert&nbsp;Blaine Kenny and his business partner Dylan Weir were at Navarre Beach, about 40 km east of&nbsp;Pensacola when they managed to catch a 540-kg (1,200-pound), 12-foot great white shark and drag it to the shore.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video posted on their YouTube channel, the duo discussed using the&nbsp;"biggest bait possible" to lure the shark. Eventually, they ended up using the head of a 150-pound swordfish and the&nbsp;head of an 80-pound yellowfin tuna to entice their target.</p>

<p>After laying the bait, the duo felt a tug on the line in the morning with Kenny instantly jumping in and reeling in the fish.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There’s only a few things it can be, a mako, a giant tiger, a white shark or the biggest dusky we’ve ever seen in our lives,” Weir could be heard saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’re just going to play it out, not jump to assumptions, and really does it matter what’s on the other end of that line right now? We have one task at hand and the task is Blaine has to stay locked in. I have to stay locked in," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Kenny struggled, Weir flew a drone overhead to determine what creature his pal Kenny was attempting to reel in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Look at that, that’s a white shark!" said Weir, with Kenny replying:&nbsp;“Oh my gosh, bro."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JA6EFGTXs2o" title="1200+LB Great White Shark From the BEACH!" width="853"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Kenny's one-hour struggle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Footage showed Kenny had to struggle for nearly an hour&nbsp;to tame the beast before finally drawing it out of the water. Upon getting the shark out at the shore, Kenny quickly removed the hook from the mammal and it was released back into the water.</p>

<p>"I’ve said it so many times before, but truly words cannot describe the feeling of this fish right here," said an ecstatic Kenny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, an NGO working for the protection of sharks said Kenny's catch had not been previously identified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Last week, Blaine Kenny posted footage of a white shark he caught off Pensacola, FL. Our research team determined this was a shark not previously identified and it will be added to our White Shark Catalog."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-great-white-sharks-swim-dangerously-close-to-surfers-drone-footage-shows-615434"><strong>WATCH | Great white sharks swim dangerously close to surfers, drone footage shows</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, a recent study by California State University found that sharks swim much closer to humans than previously imagined. The researchers arrived at the conclusion after conducting over 1,500 drone flights spanning two years in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A shocking yet daring video going viral on social media shows a fisherman single-handedly battling a monstrous great white shark and emerging victorious at a Florida beach in the USA.

A shocking yet daring video going viral on social media shows a fisherman single-handedly battling a monstrous great white shark and emerging victorious at a Florida beach in the USA. Shark fishing expert Blaine Kenny and his business partner Dylan Weir were at Navarre Beach, about 40 km east of Pensacola when they managed to catch a 540-kg (1,200-pound), 12-foot great white shark and drag it to the shore. In the video posted on their YouTube channel, the duo discussed using the "biggest bait possible" to lure the shark. Eventually, they ended up using the head of a 150-pound swordfish and the head of an 80-pound yellowfin tuna to entice their target. After laying the bait, the duo felt a tug on the line in the morning with Kenny instantly jumping in and reeling in the fish. “There’s only a few things it can be, a mako, a giant tiger, a white shark or the biggest dusky we’ve ever seen in our lives,” Weir could be heard saying. “We’re just going to play it out, not jump to assumptions, and really does it matter what’s on the other end of that line right now? We have one task at hand and the task is Blaine has to stay locked in. I have to stay locked in," he added. As Kenny struggled, Weir flew a drone overhead to determine what creature his pal Kenny was attempting to reel in. “Look at that, that’s a white shark!" said Weir, with Kenny replying: “Oh my gosh, bro." × Kenny's one-hour struggle Footage showed Kenny had to struggle for nearly an hour to tame the beast before finally drawing it out of the water. Upon getting the shark out at the shore, Kenny quickly removed the hook from the mammal and it was released back into the water. "I’ve said it so many times before, but truly words cannot describe the feeling of this fish right here," said an ecstatic Kenny. Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, an NGO working for the protection of sharks said Kenny's catch had not been previously identified. "Last week, Blaine Kenny posted footage of a white shark he caught off Pensacola, FL. Our research team determined this was a shark not previously identified and it will be added to our White Shark Catalog." WATCH | Great white sharks swim dangerously close to surfers, drone footage shows Notably, a recent study by California State University found that sharks swim much closer to humans than previously imagined. The researchers arrived at the conclusion after conducting over 1,500 drone flights spanning two years in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County. (With inputs from agencies)

US man catches giant 540kg great white shark single-handedly | WATCH

<p><strong>Republic Day Beating Retreat 2024:</strong> The Beating Retreat ceremony is a significant event that marks the culmination of the Republic Day celebrations in India. It takes place on the evening of January 29, three days after Republic Day. The ceremony is held at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi and is a spectacular display of military precision, musical prowess, and cultural diversity.</p>

<p>The Beating Retreat ceremony has its origins in the ancient military tradition of signalling the end of the day's fighting and sounding the retreat. In the context of Republic Day celebrations, it symbolises the official end of the festivities.</p>

<p>The musical performances include a variety of tunes, ranging from patriotic and martial music to popular and folk tunes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also watch |&nbsp;<strong>ASI report on Gyanvapi mosque: 55 Hindu deity sculptures found in mosque</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asi-report-on-gyanvapi-mosque-55-hindu-deity-sculptures-found-in-mosque-684651/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This year's Beating Retreat Ceremony is set to showcase a magnificent fanfare, highlighting 29 tunes inspired by Classical Ragas. The musical renditions will be performed by the bands of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and CAPFs. Dignitaries such as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are expected to attend this grand event.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-one-killed-17-injured-after-stage-collapses-during-event-in-delhis-kalkaji-mandir-684427">India: One killed, 17 injured after stage collapses during event at Delhi's Kalkaji temple</a></p>

<p>The President of India serves as the Chief Guest at the Beating Retreat Ceremony, arriving with the 'President’s Bodyguards.' After their entrance, the unit renders the National Salute, accompanied by the National Anthem and the unfurling of the Indian Flag.</p>

<p>Military bands, pipes and Drums Bands, buglers, and trumpeters from various Army Regiments contribute to the musical spectacle. Originating in the early 1950s, Major Roberts of the Indian Army developed this unique display of massed bands. Notably, this year's ceremony will feature an impressive Drone Show, involving 3,500 indigenous drones lighting up the sky over Raisina Hills.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-political-crisis-nitish-to-step-down-as-cm-form-new-govt-with-bjp-later-today-report-684422">JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar quits Grand Alliance in Bihar: Top points</a></p>

<h2><strong>How to book tickets for the Beating&nbsp;Retreat ceremony?</strong></h2>

<p>Attend the ceremony by booking your tickets on the Ministry of Defence website: https://aamantran.mod.gov.in/login</p>

<h2><br />
<strong>How to watch the live telecast of the Beating Retreat ceremony on Jan 29?</strong></h2>

<p>Visit the Doordarshan National YouTube channel or watch the event on DD News.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Republic Day Beating Retreat 2024: The Beating Retreat ceremony is a significant event that marks the culmination of the Republic Day celebrations in India. It takes place on the evening of January 29, three days after Republic Day.

Republic Day Beating Retreat 2024: The Beating Retreat ceremony is a significant event that marks the culmination of the Republic Day celebrations in India. It takes place on the evening of January 29, three days after Republic Day. The ceremony is held at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi and is a spectacular display of military precision, musical prowess, and cultural diversity. The Beating Retreat ceremony has its origins in the ancient military tradition of signalling the end of the day's fighting and sounding the retreat. In the context of Republic Day celebrations, it symbolises the official end of the festivities. The musical performances include a variety of tunes, ranging from patriotic and martial music to popular and folk tunes. Also watch | ASI report on Gyanvapi mosque: 55 Hindu deity sculptures found in mosque This year's Beating Retreat Ceremony is set to showcase a magnificent fanfare, highlighting 29 tunes inspired by Classical Ragas. The musical renditions will be performed by the bands of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and CAPFs. Dignitaries such as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are expected to attend this grand event. Also read | India: One killed, 17 injured after stage collapses during event at Delhi's Kalkaji temple The President of India serves as the Chief Guest at the Beating Retreat Ceremony, arriving with the 'President’s Bodyguards.' After their entrance, the unit renders the National Salute, accompanied by the National Anthem and the unfurling of the Indian Flag. Military bands, pipes and Drums Bands, buglers, and trumpeters from various Army Regiments contribute to the musical spectacle. Originating in the early 1950s, Major Roberts of the Indian Army developed this unique display of massed bands. Notably, this year's ceremony will feature an impressive Drone Show, involving 3,500 indigenous drones lighting up the sky over Raisina Hills. Also read | JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar quits Grand Alliance in Bihar: Top points How to book tickets for the Beating Retreat ceremony? Attend the ceremony by booking your tickets on the Ministry of Defence website: https://aamantran.mod.gov.in/login How to watch the live telecast of the Beating Retreat ceremony on Jan 29? Visit the Doordarshan National YouTube channel or watch the event on DD News. (With inputs from agencies)

Republic Day Beating Retreat Ceremony 2024: How to watch live stream, book tickets

<p>After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which&nbsp;made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency&nbsp;on Thursday (Jan 25).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ingenuity, which had surpassed expectations time and time again since its lift-off for the red planet on April 19, 2021, sustained mission-ending damage.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, NASA said that the aircraft made an “emergency landing” during its previous flight and that Ingenuity’s team had planned for the helicopter to make a “short vertical flight” on January 18 to pinpoint its location.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As planned, the helicopter achieved a maximum altitude of 40 feet, but while landing, when it was around three feet off the ground, Ingenuity lost contact with the rover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The following day when the imagery and data returned to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, it was found that “one or more of its rotor blades” were damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, while the helicopter remained “upright and in communication with ground controllers,” it was “no longer capable of flight,” said the American space agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-loses-but-regains-contact-with-ingenuity-helicopter-on-mars-682066">NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage</a></strong></p>

<p>Ingenuity’s team is still investigating the cause of the communications dropout and the helicopter’s orientation at the time of touchdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The historic journey of Ingenuity, the first aircraft on another planet, has come to end,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson&nbsp;in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Through missions like Ingenuity, NASA is paving the way for future flight in our solar system and smarter, safer human exploration to Mars and beyond.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Exceeded expectations’</strong></h2>

<p>Ingenuity reached Mars in February 2021, and during its time there, it&nbsp;exceeded expectations time and time again. The helicopter performed 72 flights, flying more than 14 times farther than planned, 33 times longer than expected, operated from 48 different airfields, and logged in more than two hours of flight time.</p>

<p>Over the years, Ingenuity was upgraded with the ability to autonomously choose landing sites on the red planet’s treacherous terrain. It also dealt with a dead sensor, cleaned itself after dust storms, performed three emergency landings, and even made it through the frigid Martian winter.</p>

<p>“That remarkable helicopter flew higher and farther than we ever imagined and helped NASA do what we do best – make the impossible, possible,” said Nelson.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-moon-sniper-switched-off-space-agency-says-data-transmission-completed-682353">Japan's Moon sniper switched off, space agency says data transmission completed</a></strong></p>

<p>Ingenuity initially began as a short technology demonstration to show flight was possible in the ultra-thin Martian atmosphere. However, it went on to become Perseverance rover’s trusty sidekick, by previewing areas of the red planet that might be of interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s humbling Ingenuity not only carries onboard a swatch from the original Wright Flyer, but also this helicopter followed in its footsteps and proved flight is possible on another world,” said Ingenuity’s project manager, Teddy Tzanetos of NASA JPL.</p>

<p>He added, “History’s first Mars helicopter will leave behind an indelible mark on the future of space exploration and will inspire fleets of aircraft on Mars – and other worlds – for decades to come.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency on Thursday (Jan 25).

After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency on Thursday (Jan 25). Ingenuity, which had surpassed expectations time and time again since its lift-off for the red planet on April 19, 2021, sustained mission-ending damage. What happened? In a statement, NASA said that the aircraft made an “emergency landing” during its previous flight and that Ingenuity’s team had planned for the helicopter to make a “short vertical flight” on January 18 to pinpoint its location. As planned, the helicopter achieved a maximum altitude of 40 feet, but while landing, when it was around three feet off the ground, Ingenuity lost contact with the rover. The following day when the imagery and data returned to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, it was found that “one or more of its rotor blades” were damaged. Therefore, while the helicopter remained “upright and in communication with ground controllers,” it was “no longer capable of flight,” said the American space agency. ALSO READ | NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage Ingenuity’s team is still investigating the cause of the communications dropout and the helicopter’s orientation at the time of touchdown. “The historic journey of Ingenuity, the first aircraft on another planet, has come to end,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson in a statement. He added, “Through missions like Ingenuity, NASA is paving the way for future flight in our solar system and smarter, safer human exploration to Mars and beyond.” ‘Exceeded expectations’ Ingenuity reached Mars in February 2021, and during its time there, it exceeded expectations time and time again. The helicopter performed 72 flights, flying more than 14 times farther than planned, 33 times longer than expected, operated from 48 different airfields, and logged in more than two hours of flight time. Over the years, Ingenuity was upgraded with the ability to autonomously choose landing sites on the red planet’s treacherous terrain. It also dealt with a dead sensor, cleaned itself after dust storms, performed three emergency landings, and even made it through the frigid Martian winter. “That remarkable helicopter flew higher and farther than we ever imagined and helped NASA do what we do best – make the impossible, possible,” said Nelson. ALSO READ | Japan's Moon sniper switched off, space agency says data transmission completed Ingenuity initially began as a short technology demonstration to show flight was possible in the ultra-thin Martian atmosphere. However, it went on to become Perseverance rover’s trusty sidekick, by previewing areas of the red planet that might be of interest. “It’s humbling Ingenuity not only carries onboard a swatch from the original Wright Flyer, but also this helicopter followed in its footsteps and proved flight is possible on another world,” said Ingenuity’s project manager, Teddy Tzanetos of NASA JPL. He added, “History’s first Mars helicopter will leave behind an indelible mark on the future of space exploration and will inspire fleets of aircraft on Mars – and other worlds – for decades to come.” (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s historic Ingenuity helicopter mission on Mars ends: Here’s what happened

<p>In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to&nbsp;TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They remained oblivious to each other's presence up until 2014&nbsp;when&nbsp;Amy Khvitia was at her godmother's house near the Black Sea and watching Georgia's Got Talent on TV. During one of the performances, a girl looked exactly like her, so much so that everyone called Amy's mother, asking her why their daughter was dancing using another name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the incident did not lead to anything until seven years later. In 2021,&nbsp;Georgia resident&nbsp;Ano<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Sartania received a TikTok video showing a woman with blue hair, bearing a shocking resemblance to her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ano attempted to trace Amy and after gruelling efforts, she got connected to her long-lost sister on Facebook.</p>

<p>"I have been looking for you for so long!" she messaged. "Me too," replied Ano.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At this stage, both did not know they were sisters but the similarities in face, music, dance, art, food and everything became too impossible to ignore. It was also discovered they had the same genetic disease, a bone disorder called dysplasia.</p>

<p>"Every time I learned something new about Ano, things got stranger," Amy told BBC.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290"><strong>Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Mysteries unravel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After they met in person, the twins decided to confront their families and that is when skeletons started tumbling out of the closet. Their families revealed that they had been adopted separately, a few weeks apart in 2002 after the father illegally sold them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Continuing their investigation, the twins found the details on their official birth certificates, including the date they were born, were forged.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/couple-welcomes-set-of-rare-momo-twins-in-us-566019"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Couple welcomes set of rare 'MoMo' twins in US</strong></a></p>

<p>As the twins unravelled the truth, they realised that akin to them, tens of thousands of other babies in Georgia had also been taken from hospitals and sold over the last few decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to BBC, buying a child was an expensive business back then. It cost about $1,400 for a girl and $2,100 for a boy which is about a year's salary in the European nation. Some of the children ended up in&nbsp;foreign families in the US, Canada, Cyprus, Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families.

In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families. They remained oblivious to each other's presence up until 2014 when Amy Khvitia was at her godmother's house near the Black Sea and watching Georgia's Got Talent on TV. During one of the performances, a girl looked exactly like her, so much so that everyone called Amy's mother, asking her why their daughter was dancing using another name. However, the incident did not lead to anything until seven years later. In 2021, Georgia resident Ano Sartania received a TikTok video showing a woman with blue hair, bearing a shocking resemblance to her. Ano attempted to trace Amy and after gruelling efforts, she got connected to her long-lost sister on Facebook. "I have been looking for you for so long!" she messaged. "Me too," replied Ano. At this stage, both did not know they were sisters but the similarities in face, music, dance, art, food and everything became too impossible to ignore. It was also discovered they had the same genetic disease, a bone disorder called dysplasia. "Every time I learned something new about Ano, things got stranger," Amy told BBC. Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins × Mysteries unravel After they met in person, the twins decided to confront their families and that is when skeletons started tumbling out of the closet. Their families revealed that they had been adopted separately, a few weeks apart in 2002 after the father illegally sold them. Continuing their investigation, the twins found the details on their official birth certificates, including the date they were born, were forged. Also read | Couple welcomes set of rare 'MoMo' twins in US As the twins unravelled the truth, they realised that akin to them, tens of thousands of other babies in Georgia had also been taken from hospitals and sold over the last few decades. According to BBC, buying a child was an expensive business back then. It cost about $1,400 for a girl and $2,100 for a boy which is about a year's salary in the European nation. Some of the children ended up in foreign families in the US, Canada, Cyprus, Russia and Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Twins separated and sold at birth, reunited by TikTok video

<p>A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention.</p>

<p>The baby was discovered at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham by an individual walking its dog at approximately 9:13 pm on Thursday.</p>

<p>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Temple inauguration becomes global phenomenon</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-temple-inauguration-becomes-global-phenomenon-681555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The infant&nbsp;wrapped in a towel within the bag, was confirmed to be in good health and unharmed, as per the police statement. It is noteworthy that the Met Office recorded a temperature as low as -3°C in London at the time of this discovery.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-willing-to-assist-canadas-extortion-probe-if-ottawa-requests-says-envoy-681565">India willing to assist Canada's extortion probe if Ottawa requests, says envoy</a></p>

<p>Chief Superintendent Crick, overseeing law enforcement in Newham expressed gratitude towards individuals from the public who remained at the scene, cooperating with both officers and medical professionals. He acknowledged that their intervention played a pivotal role in preserving the baby's life.</p>

<p>“I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life," said&nbsp;Crick.</p>

<p>Additionally, he emphasised the growing concern within the force for the well-being of the baby's mother, acknowledging the likely traumatic experience she has undergone and the immediate need for medical attention following the childbirth.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mitsuko-tottori-former-flight-attendant-appointed-as-first-female-prez-of-japan-airlines-681570">Who is Mitsuko Tottori? Former flight attendant appointed as first female prez of Japan Airlines</a></p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention.

A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention. The baby was discovered at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham by an individual walking its dog at approximately 9:13 pm on Thursday. Also watch | Ram Temple inauguration becomes global phenomenon The infant wrapped in a towel within the bag, was confirmed to be in good health and unharmed, as per the police statement. It is noteworthy that the Met Office recorded a temperature as low as -3°C in London at the time of this discovery. Also read | India willing to assist Canada's extortion probe if Ottawa requests, says envoy Chief Superintendent Crick, overseeing law enforcement in Newham expressed gratitude towards individuals from the public who remained at the scene, cooperating with both officers and medical professionals. He acknowledged that their intervention played a pivotal role in preserving the baby's life. “I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life," said Crick. Additionally, he emphasised the growing concern within the force for the well-being of the baby's mother, acknowledging the likely traumatic experience she has undergone and the immediate need for medical attention following the childbirth. Also read | Who is Mitsuko Tottori? Former flight attendant appointed as first female prez of Japan Airlines (With inputs from agencies)

Infant found in shopping bag by dog walker in London's Newham area

<h2><strong>Uttarayan 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days. This festival is synonymous with kite-flying, delicious traditional foods, and a sense of unity and joy among people.</p>

<p>The celebration of Uttarayan extends beyond religious rituals and indulging in sweets; it holds special significance for the people of Gujarat who eagerly anticipate exclaiming "Kai Po Che" to the kites soaring through the sky.</p>

<h2><strong>Uttarayan 2024 date&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Uttarayan is observed on the day following Lohri celebrations and coincides with Makar Sankranti. Traditionally celebrated on 14 January, Makar Sankranti, also referred to as Uttarayan festivities, is being observed on 15 January this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;Divya Pahuja murder case: Former model's body found in a canal in Haryana</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/divya-pahuja-murder-case-former-models-body-found-in-a-canal-in-haryana-679795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Uttarayan significance</strong></h2>

<p>Beyond the festivities, Uttarayan holds cultural and religious significance. It marks the movement of the sun into the northern hemisphere, symbolising the end of the winter season and the beginning of longer, warmer days. Many people take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges to cleanse themselves of sins and usher in positivity for the coming year.</p>

<p>The festival is also associated with the worship of the sun god, Surya. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and make charitable donations as a gesture of gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy.</p>

<h2><strong>Traditional Delights and Kite Flying</strong></h2>

<p>Uttarayan is not just about kite flying; it is also a time to savour traditional&nbsp;delicacies. In Gujarat, families prepare special dishes like undhiyu, a mixed vegetable curry cooked with a medley of spices. They also prepare&nbsp;chikkis, sweet treats made from sesame seeds and jaggery. These mouthwatering dishes are shared with neighbours and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congess-to-kick-off-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-to-revive-its-fortunes-679782">India: Congress to kick off 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Rahul Gandhi to revive party fortunes</a></p>

<p>The most distinctive feature of Uttarayan is the spectacular kite flying that takes place across the state. Weeks before the festival, markets buzz with activity as people purchase kites of various shapes, sizes, and colours. The excitement is palpable as families and friends come together on terraces, open fields, and rooftops to engage in friendly kite battles.</p>

<p>Kite enthusiasts engage in duels to cut each other's strings, leaving the defeated kites soaring freely in the vast expanse of the sky that&nbsp;becomes a canvas of vibrant colours, with kites of all shapes and sizes dancing in the air.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As kites soar high in the sky, carrying with them the hopes and dreams of those who fly them, Uttarayan is a testimony to the enduring traditions and values that bind communities together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-milind-deora-resigns-from-congress-ends-familys-55-year-relationship-with-the-party-679767">India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party</a></p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Uttarayan 2024 Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days.

Uttarayan 2024 Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in India. Falling on the 14th or 15th of January every year, Uttarayan marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer, sunnier days. This festival is synonymous with kite-flying, delicious traditional foods, and a sense of unity and joy among people. The celebration of Uttarayan extends beyond religious rituals and indulging in sweets; it holds special significance for the people of Gujarat who eagerly anticipate exclaiming "Kai Po Che" to the kites soaring through the sky. Uttarayan 2024 date Uttarayan is observed on the day following Lohri celebrations and coincides with Makar Sankranti. Traditionally celebrated on 14 January, Makar Sankranti, also referred to as Uttarayan festivities, is being observed on 15 January this year. Watch | Divya Pahuja murder case: Former model's body found in a canal in Haryana Uttarayan significance Beyond the festivities, Uttarayan holds cultural and religious significance. It marks the movement of the sun into the northern hemisphere, symbolising the end of the winter season and the beginning of longer, warmer days. Many people take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges to cleanse themselves of sins and usher in positivity for the coming year. The festival is also associated with the worship of the sun god, Surya. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and make charitable donations as a gesture of gratitude for the sun's life-giving energy. Traditional Delights and Kite Flying Uttarayan is not just about kite flying; it is also a time to savour traditional delicacies. In Gujarat, families prepare special dishes like undhiyu, a mixed vegetable curry cooked with a medley of spices. They also prepare chikkis, sweet treats made from sesame seeds and jaggery. These mouthwatering dishes are shared with neighbours and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Also read | India: Congress to kick off 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' led by Rahul Gandhi to revive party fortunes The most distinctive feature of Uttarayan is the spectacular kite flying that takes place across the state. Weeks before the festival, markets buzz with activity as people purchase kites of various shapes, sizes, and colours. The excitement is palpable as families and friends come together on terraces, open fields, and rooftops to engage in friendly kite battles. Kite enthusiasts engage in duels to cut each other's strings, leaving the defeated kites soaring freely in the vast expanse of the sky that becomes a canvas of vibrant colours, with kites of all shapes and sizes dancing in the air. As kites soar high in the sky, carrying with them the hopes and dreams of those who fly them, Uttarayan is a testimony to the enduring traditions and values that bind communities together. Also read | India: Milind Deora resigns from Congress, ends family's '55-year relationship' with the party (With inputs from agencies)

Uttarayan 2024: History, date, tradition & joyous festival of kite flying 

<p>The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles. Construction materials have been procured from diverse regions of India, such as Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and others.</p>

<p>The inauguration of the Ram temple is scheduled on&nbsp;January 22, and the event is anticipated to witness the presence of key dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. More than 6,000 individuals are expected to participate in the 'Pran Pratistha,' signifying the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ram Temple showcases a fusion of North and South Indian architectural influences. Diverse construction materials were meticulously selected from various states across India. The primary temple structure is crafted with the distinctive pink sandstone of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, while the intricate woodwork features premium teakwood sourced from Maharashtra's lush forests.</p>

<p>Granite elements incorporated in the temple construction originate from the states of Telangana and Karnataka. The flooring, a vital aspect of the temple's aesthetics, is chosen from Madhya Pradesh. The skilled workers engaged in the construction work hail from different states, showcasing a collaborative effort.</p>

<p>Moreover, the artistic elements such as sandstone carving, were entrusted to talented artisans from Odisha. The woodwork is managed by a company based in Andhra Pradesh with labour from Tamil Nadu, which exemplifies the diverse craftsmanship involved.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, the brassware is sourced from Uttar Pradesh and gold detailing from Maharashtra adds intricate details to the temple's grandeur. Notably, 42 bells, essential to the temple's rituals were sourced from Tamil Nadu and transported to Ayodhya, symbolising the harmonious integration of materials and craftsmanship from across India for the Ram Mandir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twelve-charred-to-death-in-indias-madhya-pradesh-as-bus-catches-fire-after-collision-with-dumper-674279">India: 12 charred to death in Madhya Pradesh as bus catches fire after collision with dumper</a></p>

<p><br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles.

The ongoing construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya reflects a nationwide appeal as its architectural design is influenced by both northern and southern Indian temple styles. Construction materials have been procured from diverse regions of India, such as Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and others. The inauguration of the Ram temple is scheduled on January 22, and the event is anticipated to witness the presence of key dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. More than 6,000 individuals are expected to participate in the 'Pran Pratistha,' signifying the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir. The Ram Temple showcases a fusion of North and South Indian architectural influences. Diverse construction materials were meticulously selected from various states across India. The primary temple structure is crafted with the distinctive pink sandstone of Bharatpur in Rajasthan, while the intricate woodwork features premium teakwood sourced from Maharashtra's lush forests. Granite elements incorporated in the temple construction originate from the states of Telangana and Karnataka. The flooring, a vital aspect of the temple's aesthetics, is chosen from Madhya Pradesh. The skilled workers engaged in the construction work hail from different states, showcasing a collaborative effort. Moreover, the artistic elements such as sandstone carving, were entrusted to talented artisans from Odisha. The woodwork is managed by a company based in Andhra Pradesh with labour from Tamil Nadu, which exemplifies the diverse craftsmanship involved. Furthermore, the brassware is sourced from Uttar Pradesh and gold detailing from Maharashtra adds intricate details to the temple's grandeur. Notably, 42 bells, essential to the temple's rituals were sourced from Tamil Nadu and transported to Ayodhya, symbolising the harmonious integration of materials and craftsmanship from across India for the Ram Mandir. Also read | India: 12 charred to death in Madhya Pradesh as bus catches fire after collision with dumper (With inputs from agencies)

From Rajasthan to Telangana, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is being constructed with material from all over India

<p>Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The private space mission involved sending&nbsp;two Insta360 X2 cameras to capture incredible 360 views of the stars, the Milky Way, and our home planet and the results speak for themselves.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MZ87HLEQb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MZ87HLEQb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MZ87HLEQb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MZ87HLEQb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MM3pyvtoi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MM3pyvtoi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MM3pyvtoi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0MM3pyvtoi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the mission</strong></h2>

<p>The cameras were attached to a solar-powered satellite and launched 500 kilometres into outer space and, as per the Chinese company, were orbiting the planet, as of October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also noted the obstacles that the scientists and engineers identified and overcame as this was the first fully exposed camera in space and required a lot of preparation to make sure it worked in the harsh conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="896d6160-727d-41dd-93fc-2656db36c1d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-01T112051.461.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>(Photo credit: Insta360)</strong></em></p>

<p>The X2 cameras were made to withstand extreme temperatures as the satellite circles the globe every 90 minutes from the tropics and poles witnessing temperatures ranging between -70 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>Insta360 also made their cameras to be “radiation resistant” since unlike here on Earth they would be exposed to high-energy particles which can quickly burn out electronic components.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lastly, the cameras were made shock and vibration-resistant considering that even in the best conditions rocket launches are anything but a smooth ride, not to mention that once it is launched no one will be able to adjust it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also made shock and vibration-resistant since it was important that the satellite structure did not obstruct the lenses from successfully shooting 360-degree footage with proper stitching, said the China-based company.</p>

<p>The project began in 2021, said the company, and it took 12 months to modify the action cameras out of which half of this time was spent on research and development. The satellite was initially scheduled to launch last year but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>


Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth.

Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth. The private space mission involved sending two Insta360 X2 cameras to capture incredible 360 views of the stars, the Milky Way, and our home planet and the results speak for themselves. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360) × About the mission The cameras were attached to a solar-powered satellite and launched 500 kilometres into outer space and, as per the Chinese company, were orbiting the planet, as of October. It also noted the obstacles that the scientists and engineers identified and overcame as this was the first fully exposed camera in space and required a lot of preparation to make sure it worked in the harsh conditions. (Photo credit: Insta360) The X2 cameras were made to withstand extreme temperatures as the satellite circles the globe every 90 minutes from the tropics and poles witnessing temperatures ranging between -70 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius. Insta360 also made their cameras to be “radiation resistant” since unlike here on Earth they would be exposed to high-energy particles which can quickly burn out electronic components. Lastly, the cameras were made shock and vibration-resistant considering that even in the best conditions rocket launches are anything but a smooth ride, not to mention that once it is launched no one will be able to adjust it. It was also made shock and vibration-resistant since it was important that the satellite structure did not obstruct the lenses from successfully shooting 360-degree footage with proper stitching, said the China-based company. The project began in 2021, said the company, and it took 12 months to modify the action cameras out of which half of this time was spent on research and development. The satellite was initially scheduled to launch last year but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PHOTOS | Earth looks unreal in images captured by first-ever 360-degree camera in space

<p>Mike Johnson, a staunch conservative and vocal Christian who was elected as United States House of Representatives speaker last month, finds himself in a soup. An old video of him accepting the use of an app marketed as a tool to help people 'quit porn' has resurfaced on the internet.</p>

<p>In a year-old video clip, Johnson can be seen discussing his and his son's utilisation of Covenant Eyes, an app designed to track and monitor users' online activity across phones and computers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>17-year-old 'accountability partner'</strong></h2>

<p>In the video, which was reportedly recorded at a "War on Technology" event held by Cypress Baptist church in Louisiana in October 2022, Johnson said: "Covenant Eyes is the software that we’ve been using a long time in our household."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mike-johnson-republicans-fourth-us-house-speaker-nominee-651259">Who is Mike Johnson, Republicans' fourth nominee who finally clinched Speakership?</a></strong></p>

<p>He goes on to describe how the 'subscription-based' app tracks an individual's data and sends an alert to their "accountability partner" whenever an "objectionable" website is accessed.</p>

<p>Johnson goes on to reveal that his 'accountability partner' was his 17-year-old son Jack, who he boasts has a "clean slate".</p>

<p>The pair, he said, gets a report on one another's internet use once a week, and that any objectionable material sends an immediate notification.</p>

<h2><strong>Does Johnson have a porn addiction?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite Johnson's endorsement of the app, there is no indication that he struggles with a pornography addiction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denied-relief-by-home-country-italy-terminally-ill-actress-opts-for-assisted-suicide-in-switzerland-656000">Denied relief in Italy, Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland</a></strong></p>

<p>In the video, shared on Elon Musk's social media platform X by user @receiptmaven, Johnson&nbsp;can instead be heard advising fathers of teenage boys to make use of the software.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">COMPROMISE ALERT: Speaker Mike Johnson uses software Covenant Eyes (learned about at a Promise Keepers retreat) that scans all his electronic devices &amp; gives a weekly report an "accountability partner" his 17 yr old son (so basically don't watch porn or your son/dad will know😬) <a href="https://t.co/SSWpB9IIDB">pic.twitter.com/SSWpB9IIDB</a></p>
— Receipt Maven (@receiptmaven) <a href="https://twitter.com/receiptmaven/status/1719402267537789152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>While he says that he doesn't profit from referring the app and is only endorsing it as a user, the X user, Receipt Maven in a second post&nbsp;alleged that "He (Mike Johnson) made $20/pop for every referral."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mike Johnson is once again SCRUBBING his social media. Now he's removed his 2020 Facebook Post where you provides a "refer-a-friend" link to Covenant Eyes so you, too, can lead a porn free life. He made $20/pop for every referral.<br />
<br />
Like his bank accounts what else is he hiding? <a href="https://t.co/Rpp40WwhFp">pic.twitter.com/Rpp40WwhFp</a></p>
— Receipt Maven (@receiptmaven) <a href="https://twitter.com/receiptmaven/status/1721146482173137139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>What is Covenant Eyes?</h2>

<p>As per the Guardian, the Covenant Eyes app is intended to assist users in "live porn-free with confidence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calling porn a "human problem," the app's website claims "we provide a human solution".</p>

<p>"Covenant Eyes helps you and the ones you love live porn-free through transformative accountability relationships."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mike Johnson, a staunch conservative and vocal Christian who was elected as United States House of Representatives speaker last month, finds himself in a soup. An old video of him accepting the use of an app marketed as a tool to help people 'quit porn' has resurfaced on the internet.

Mike Johnson, a staunch conservative and vocal Christian who was elected as United States House of Representatives speaker last month, finds himself in a soup. An old video of him accepting the use of an app marketed as a tool to help people 'quit porn' has resurfaced on the internet. In a year-old video clip, Johnson can be seen discussing his and his son's utilisation of Covenant Eyes, an app designed to track and monitor users' online activity across phones and computers. 17-year-old 'accountability partner' In the video, which was reportedly recorded at a "War on Technology" event held by Cypress Baptist church in Louisiana in October 2022, Johnson said: "Covenant Eyes is the software that we’ve been using a long time in our household." Also read | Who is Mike Johnson, Republicans' fourth nominee who finally clinched Speakership? He goes on to describe how the 'subscription-based' app tracks an individual's data and sends an alert to their "accountability partner" whenever an "objectionable" website is accessed. Johnson goes on to reveal that his 'accountability partner' was his 17-year-old son Jack, who he boasts has a "clean slate". The pair, he said, gets a report on one another's internet use once a week, and that any objectionable material sends an immediate notification. Does Johnson have a porn addiction? Despite Johnson's endorsement of the app, there is no indication that he struggles with a pornography addiction. Also read | Denied relief in Italy, Roman actress opts for assisted suicide in Switzerland In the video, shared on Elon Musk's social media platform X by user @receiptmaven, Johnson can instead be heard advising fathers of teenage boys to make use of the software. Watch the video here: COMPROMISE ALERT: Speaker Mike Johnson uses software Covenant Eyes (learned about at a Promise Keepers retreat) that scans all his electronic devices & gives a weekly report an "accountability partner" his 17 yr old son (so basically don't watch porn or your son/dad will know😬) pic.twitter.com/SSWpB9IIDB — Receipt Maven (@receiptmaven) October 31, 2023 × While he says that he doesn't profit from referring the app and is only endorsing it as a user, the X user, Receipt Maven in a second post alleged that "He (Mike Johnson) made $20/pop for every referral." Mike Johnson is once again SCRUBBING his social media. Now he's removed his 2020 Facebook Post where you provides a "refer-a-friend" link to Covenant Eyes so you, too, can lead a porn free life. He made $20/pop for every referral. Like his bank accounts what else is he hiding? pic.twitter.com/Rpp40WwhFp — Receipt Maven (@receiptmaven) November 5, 2023 × What is Covenant Eyes? As per the Guardian, the Covenant Eyes app is intended to assist users in "live porn-free with confidence". Calling porn a "human problem," the app's website claims "we provide a human solution". "Covenant Eyes helps you and the ones you love live porn-free through transformative accountability relationships." (With inputs from agencies)

US Speaker battling porn addiction? Old video of Mike Johnson endorsing 'porn de-addiction' app resurfaces

<p>United States President Joe Biden awarded two Indian-American scientists with&nbsp;the country's highest scientific honour at the White House on Tuesday (Oct 24).</p>

<p>The two scientists -&nbsp;Ashok Gadgil and Subra Suresh - were awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovational and the National Medal of Science, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House in a statement said, "Today, President Biden is awarding the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to a number of Americans who have made exemplary achievements in science, technology, and innovation to strengthen our nation's well-being."</p>

<p>"It is bestowed by the President of the United States on individuals deserving of special recognition for their outstanding contributions in biology, computer sciences, education sciences, engineering, geosciences, mathematical and physical sciences, and social, behavioural, and economic sciences, in service to the Nation," it&nbsp;added.</p>

<h3><strong>Subra Suresh:</strong></h3>

<p>Subra was born in 1956 in Mumbai, India. He completed his Bachelor's in India and later went to Iowa State University in 1979 for his Master's degree in Mechanical engineering. He got his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology under the guidance of Robert O Ritchie, specialising in materials science in 1981.</p>

<p>In 2010, he was nominated by former US President Barack Obama to head the National Science Foundation and was unanimously confirmed by the US Senate. He led the NSF from 2010 to 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his tenure he established a number of new initiatives including the Integrated NSF Support Promoting Interdisciplinary Research and Education (INSPIRE); collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); Science Across Virtual Institutes (SAVI)and the NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps).</p>

<p>Suresh received the Padma Shri award, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, bestowed by the President of India in 2011. Other honours include the 2006 Acta Materialia Gold Medal; the 2007 European Materials Medal, the highest honour awarded by the Federation of European Materials Societies; and the 2011 General President's Gold Medal from the Indian National Science Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Ashok Gadgil:</strong></h3>

<p>Also born in Mumbai, India in 1950, Ashok is the Andrew and Virginia Rudd Family Foundation Distinguished Chair and Professor of Safe Water and Sanitation at the University of California, Berkeley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He specialises in heat transfer, fluid dynamics and technology for the development. He led a group of 20 researchers at LBNL, conducting experiments and modelling research in indoor airflow and pollutant transport. Most of the work focused on reducing indoor radon concentrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashok has received several honours including the 2023 "R&amp;D Leader of the Year"; Inaugural Laureate of the Zuckerberg Water Prize in 2022; National Inventors Hall of Fame 2014; &nbsp;15th Annual Heinz Award 2009; Laureate (Health), The Tech Awards, for UVWaterworks 2004.</p>

<p>The National Medal of Science is the US's highest scientific honour, established by the US Congress in 1959.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


United States President Joe Biden awarded two Indian-American scientists with the country's highest scientific honour at the White House on Tuesday (Oct 24). The two scientists - Ashok Gadgil and Subra Suresh - were awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovational and the National Medal of Science, respectively.

United States President Joe Biden awarded two Indian-American scientists with the country's highest scientific honour at the White House on Tuesday (Oct 24). The two scientists - Ashok Gadgil and Subra Suresh - were awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovational and the National Medal of Science, respectively. The White House in a statement said, "Today, President Biden is awarding the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to a number of Americans who have made exemplary achievements in science, technology, and innovation to strengthen our nation's well-being." "It is bestowed by the President of the United States on individuals deserving of special recognition for their outstanding contributions in biology, computer sciences, education sciences, engineering, geosciences, mathematical and physical sciences, and social, behavioural, and economic sciences, in service to the Nation," it added. Subra Suresh: Subra was born in 1956 in Mumbai, India. He completed his Bachelor's in India and later went to Iowa State University in 1979 for his Master's degree in Mechanical engineering. He got his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology under the guidance of Robert O Ritchie, specialising in materials science in 1981. In 2010, he was nominated by former US President Barack Obama to head the National Science Foundation and was unanimously confirmed by the US Senate. He led the NSF from 2010 to 2013. During his tenure he established a number of new initiatives including the Integrated NSF Support Promoting Interdisciplinary Research and Education (INSPIRE); collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); Science Across Virtual Institutes (SAVI)and the NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps). Suresh received the Padma Shri award, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, bestowed by the President of India in 2011. Other honours include the 2006 Acta Materialia Gold Medal; the 2007 European Materials Medal, the highest honour awarded by the Federation of European Materials Societies; and the 2011 General President's Gold Medal from the Indian National Science Congress. Ashok Gadgil: Also born in Mumbai, India in 1950, Ashok is the Andrew and Virginia Rudd Family Foundation Distinguished Chair and Professor of Safe Water and Sanitation at the University of California, Berkeley. He specialises in heat transfer, fluid dynamics and technology for the development. He led a group of 20 researchers at LBNL, conducting experiments and modelling research in indoor airflow and pollutant transport. Most of the work focused on reducing indoor radon concentrations. Ashok has received several honours including the 2023 "R&D Leader of the Year"; Inaugural Laureate of the Zuckerberg Water Prize in 2022; National Inventors Hall of Fame 2014; 15th Annual Heinz Award 2009; Laureate (Health), The Tech Awards, for UVWaterworks 2004. The National Medal of Science is the US's highest scientific honour, established by the US Congress in 1959. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Meet Subra Suresh and Ashok Gadgil, Indian-Americans who received highest scientific award

<p><strong>International Day of the Girl Child 2023</strong>: Every year on October 11, the global community observes the International Day of Girl Child&nbsp;2023. The day aims to focus on the importance of&nbsp;"girls' education, their rights and promoting gender equality." The day urges global communities to make changes that could empower girls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Women are breaking boundaries, barriers and&nbsp;stereotypes, but many continue to suffer in silence. From maternal health care to parenting support for adolescent mothers, to digital and life skills training; comprehensive sexuality education and violence prevention programmes; there is an urgent need for increased attention and resourcing for girls to enable their rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Date and Theme:</strong></p>

<p>International Day of the Girl Child&nbsp;is observed on October 11. This year it falls on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The theme of International Day of the Girl 2023 according to the UNICEF website is, "Invest in Girls' Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being." The theme focuses on taking action to curtail girls' and women's rights and gain progress on gender equality.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>History and Significance:</strong></p>

<p>In 1995, countries at the World Conference on Women in Beijing unanimously adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the most progressive blueprint ever for advancing rights of the females.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Years later, on 19 December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a Resolution 66/170 to declare 'October 11' as the International Day of the Girl Child,&nbsp;to recognise their rights and the challenges they face.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Challenges:</strong></p>

<p>According to data by UNICEF, nearly 1 in 5 girls are still not able to complete lower-secondary education. Furthermore, 4 in 10 girls are not completing upper-secondary education.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In low-income countries, almost 90 per cent of adolescent girls and young women do not know how to use the internet, while their male peers are twice as likely to be online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Globally, girls aged 5-14 spend 160 million more hours every day on unpaid care and domestic work than boys of the same age.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three in four&nbsp;adolescent girls continue to account for new HIV infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 1 in 4 adolescent girls married at the age of 15-19 have experienced sexual or physical violence by their partners at least once in their life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


International Day of the Girl Child 2023: Every year on October 11, the global community observes the International Day of Girl Child 2023. The day aims to focus on the importance of "girls' education, their rights and promoting gender equality.

International Day of the Girl Child 2023: Every year on October 11, the global community observes the International Day of Girl Child 2023. The day aims to focus on the importance of "girls' education, their rights and promoting gender equality." The day urges global communities to make changes that could empower girls. Women are breaking boundaries, barriers and stereotypes, but many continue to suffer in silence. From maternal health care to parenting support for adolescent mothers, to digital and life skills training; comprehensive sexuality education and violence prevention programmes; there is an urgent need for increased attention and resourcing for girls to enable their rights. Date and Theme: International Day of the Girl Child is observed on October 11. This year it falls on Wednesday. The theme of International Day of the Girl 2023 according to the UNICEF website is, "Invest in Girls' Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being." The theme focuses on taking action to curtail girls' and women's rights and gain progress on gender equality. History and Significance: In 1995, countries at the World Conference on Women in Beijing unanimously adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the most progressive blueprint ever for advancing rights of the females. Years later, on 19 December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a Resolution 66/170 to declare 'October 11' as the International Day of the Girl Child, to recognise their rights and the challenges they face. Challenges: According to data by UNICEF, nearly 1 in 5 girls are still not able to complete lower-secondary education. Furthermore, 4 in 10 girls are not completing upper-secondary education. In low-income countries, almost 90 per cent of adolescent girls and young women do not know how to use the internet, while their male peers are twice as likely to be online. Globally, girls aged 5-14 spend 160 million more hours every day on unpaid care and domestic work than boys of the same age. Three in four adolescent girls continue to account for new HIV infections. Nearly 1 in 4 adolescent girls married at the age of 15-19 have experienced sexual or physical violence by their partners at least once in their life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

International Day of the Girl Child 2023: Check date, history, theme, significance and challenges

<p>A 40-year-old woman in California was forced to have all her limbs amputated after eating an undercooked tilapia fish that was contaminated with a lethal strain of bacteria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Laura Barajas, spent over a month in the hospital fighting the infection of "Vibrio vulnificus bacteria," before having all of her limbs removed from the lifesaving surgery.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-found-largest-fossil-of-trapdoor-spider-in-australia-take-a-look-639329">Scientists have found largest fossil of trapdoor spider in Australia. Take a look!</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'She almost lost her life'</strong></h2>

<p>Anna Messina, Barajas' friend said, "It's just been really heavy on all of us. It's terrible. This could've happened to any of us." She added that Laura became sick after eating the&nbsp;fish she cooked that she bought from a local market in San Jose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"She almost lost her life. She was on a respirator. They put her into a medically induced coma. Her fingers were black, her feet were black, and her bottom lip was black. She had complete sepsis, and her kidneys were failing."</p>

<p>Dr Natasha Spottiswoode, a disease expert told KRON, "The ways you can get infected with this bacteria are, one, you can eat something that's contaminated with it [and] the other way is by having a cut or tattoo exposed to water in which this bug lives."</p>

<p>The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in early September issued a health advisory and warning related to the increase in Vibrio vulnificus bacterial infection in the US due to increasing water temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The health organisation said people can develop this illness due to infected or uncooked seafood.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Global heating causing some fish species to shrink in size</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-heating-causing-some-fish-species-to-shrink-in-size-636203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>What is Vibrio vulnificus?</strong></h2>

<p>It is a potentially dead bacterium that is commonly found in raw seafood and seawater. It leads to severe health risks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the CDC, this bacteria thrives in warmer sea bodies. It is known to cause some 80,000 illnesses each year in the States.</p>

<p>Some symptoms of this bacteria include watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Women can display redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discolouration, and discharge as the symptoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To avoid exposure to the Vibrio bacteria, the CDC recommends washing hands with water and soap after handling raw shellfish and cooking oysters or other shellfish before eating them.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A 40-year-old woman in California was forced to have all her limbs amputated after eating an undercooked tilapia fish that was contaminated with a lethal strain of bacteria.

A 40-year-old woman in California was forced to have all her limbs amputated after eating an undercooked tilapia fish that was contaminated with a lethal strain of bacteria. Laura Barajas, spent over a month in the hospital fighting the infection of "Vibrio vulnificus bacteria," before having all of her limbs removed from the lifesaving surgery. Also read | Scientists have found largest fossil of trapdoor spider in Australia. Take a look! 'She almost lost her life' Anna Messina, Barajas' friend said, "It's just been really heavy on all of us. It's terrible. This could've happened to any of us." She added that Laura became sick after eating the fish she cooked that she bought from a local market in San Jose. "She almost lost her life. She was on a respirator. They put her into a medically induced coma. Her fingers were black, her feet were black, and her bottom lip was black. She had complete sepsis, and her kidneys were failing." Dr Natasha Spottiswoode, a disease expert told KRON, "The ways you can get infected with this bacteria are, one, you can eat something that's contaminated with it [and] the other way is by having a cut or tattoo exposed to water in which this bug lives." The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in early September issued a health advisory and warning related to the increase in Vibrio vulnificus bacterial infection in the US due to increasing water temperatures. The health organisation said people can develop this illness due to infected or uncooked seafood. Watch | Global heating causing some fish species to shrink in size What is Vibrio vulnificus? It is a potentially dead bacterium that is commonly found in raw seafood and seawater. It leads to severe health risks. According to the CDC, this bacteria thrives in warmer sea bodies. It is known to cause some 80,000 illnesses each year in the States. Some symptoms of this bacteria include watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Women can display redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discolouration, and discharge as the symptoms. To avoid exposure to the Vibrio bacteria, the CDC recommends washing hands with water and soap after handling raw shellfish and cooking oysters or other shellfish before eating them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Undercooked fish laced with lethal bacteria leads California woman to lose her limbs

<p>The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon. This comes a day after the group was warned against doing so.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Images and videos on social media show climate activists from the Last Generation climate action group, known for spectacular stunts to raise awareness, spraying orange paint onto the track within sight of the start two minutes before the go-ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-climate-protesters-spray-paint-on-berlins-iconic-brandenburg-gate-636897">Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate</a></strong></p>

<p>Subsequently, some of them were seen being detained by the German police and volunteers at the event, in which 45,000 runners took part, minutes before the start of the race in the German capital.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P1LSheKsX9Y?si=DwmvJ_qzpNSlRFG4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Climate activists from 'The Last Generation' disrupt Berlin marathon, splashing orange paint and obstructing the course as 45,000 runners participate. 🏃‍♂️🌍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateAction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateAction</a><a href="https://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p">https://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p</a></p>
— Iris (@Iris_i_Life) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iris_i_Life/status/1705898177273201147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The group had been warned</strong></h2>

<p>The latest stunt by the group comes after its members who said they would protest at the Berlin Marathon, were warned by organisers of the Berlin Marathon to not disrupt this weekend’s race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We hope nothing untoward happens in terms of a demonstration but we have plans for such eventualities,” Juergen Lock, managing director of SCC events which organised the marathon in the German capital, told reporters, on Friday (Sept 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-activists-in-germany-accused-of-580-offences-after-crackdown-603137">Climate activists in Germany accused of 580 offences</a></strong></p>

<p>He added that his team was working closely with police “to make sure the race goes on smoothly”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are looking forward to an enjoyable and peaceful weekend of sport,” said Lock. He added, “We ask anyone who is planning to demonstrate not to interfere with the events themselves.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the members of the Letzte Generation, whose tactics have divided public opinion, in a statement said, “Because there seems to be confusion: yes we will interrupt the Berlin marathon.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We can't run away from the climate catastrophe.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Climate activists from the Letzte Generation, on Sunday (September 17) morning, sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate. Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-or-business-climate-activist-group-last-generation-speaks-to-wion-after-police-crackdown-596920">Climate or business climate? Activist group Last Generation speaks to WION after police crackdown</a></strong></p>

<p>The climate activist group has been demanding the government move away from coal and fossil fuels by 2030 and while Germany aims to be climate-neutral by 2045, it has reportedly missed its targets for the last two years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon.

The German police were seen detaining multiple members of the Letzte Generation (Last Generation) climate action group, on Sunday (September 24) when they tried to disrupt the Berlin Marathon. This comes a day after the group was warned against doing so. What happened? Images and videos on social media show climate activists from the Last Generation climate action group, known for spectacular stunts to raise awareness, spraying orange paint onto the track within sight of the start two minutes before the go-ahead. ALSO READ | Climate protesters spray paint on Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate Subsequently, some of them were seen being detained by the German police and volunteers at the event, in which 45,000 runners took part, minutes before the start of the race in the German capital. × Climate activists from 'The Last Generation' disrupt Berlin marathon, splashing orange paint and obstructing the course as 45,000 runners participate. 🏃‍♂️🌍 #ClimateActionhttps://t.co/DmwoBpAw0p — Iris (@Iris_i_Life) September 24, 2023 × The group had been warned The latest stunt by the group comes after its members who said they would protest at the Berlin Marathon, were warned by organisers of the Berlin Marathon to not disrupt this weekend’s race. “We hope nothing untoward happens in terms of a demonstration but we have plans for such eventualities,” Juergen Lock, managing director of SCC events which organised the marathon in the German capital, told reporters, on Friday (Sept 22). ALSO READ | Climate activists in Germany accused of 580 offences He added that his team was working closely with police “to make sure the race goes on smoothly”. “We are looking forward to an enjoyable and peaceful weekend of sport,” said Lock. He added, “We ask anyone who is planning to demonstrate not to interfere with the events themselves.” This comes after the members of the Letzte Generation, whose tactics have divided public opinion, in a statement said, “Because there seems to be confusion: yes we will interrupt the Berlin marathon.” It added, “We can't run away from the climate catastrophe.” Climate activists from the Letzte Generation, on Sunday (September 17) morning, sprayed orange and yellow paint onto Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate. Local reports said that more than 10 activists carried out the protest in the German capital using paint sprayed from fire extinguishers. ALSO READ | Climate or business climate? Activist group Last Generation speaks to WION after police crackdown The climate activist group has been demanding the government move away from coal and fossil fuels by 2030 and while Germany aims to be climate-neutral by 2045, it has reportedly missed its targets for the last two years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Climate activists attempt to disrupt Berlin marathon

<p>An extremely rare, well-preserved dinosaur skeleton will be sold at an auction in Paris next month.&nbsp;The reptile, dated to be 150 million-year-old is a camptosaurus,&nbsp;going by the nickname 'Barry'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barry, standing tall at 2.1 metres and five&nbsp;metres wide, was first discovered in&nbsp;Wyoming in the 1990s. It was initially restored in 2000 by palaeontologist Barry James, from whom it got its name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Barry is with the Italian laboratory Zoic which acquired the precious skeleton last year and has done additional restoration work on the body.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alexandre Giquello, representative of the Paris auction house Drouot, where the sale will take place, said Barry "is an extremely well-preserved specimen, which is quite rare".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The skull is complete at 90 per cent&nbsp;and the rest of the dinosaur is complete at 80 per cent," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/64yearold-trex-skeleton-sold-for-61-million-1681895181869"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;64-year-old T-Rex Skeleton sold for $6.1 million</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the auction house, the skeleton, which will be presented to the public in mid-October, is currently valued above $1.28 million. Experts, however, believe that the figure is rather conservative and it may go up as the auction date (October 20) approaches.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>T-Rex skeleton fetches record amount</strong></h2>

<p>Dinosaur skeletons and other specimens belonging to the majestic reptile that once roamed the face of the Earth remain highly sought after by collectors. No more than a couple of sales take place in a year worldwide which attracts enormous attention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, in April, a 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus-Rex skeleton named 'Trinity' was auctioned in Switzerland. It was the first time that an entire T-Rex skeleton had gone under the hammer and fetched a record sum of $6.1 million at the Koller auction house.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-shark-toothed-dinosaur-gave-tough-competition-to-t-rex-411826" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: This 'shark-toothed' dinosaur gave tough competition to T-Rex</strong></a></p>

<p>Trinity had been composed using the bone material of three T-Rex specimens. They were excavated between 2008-2013 in the US states of Montana and Wyoming. The Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations in the respective states are well-known for the discoveries of two other T-Rex skeletons that have gone under the hammer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sale was rare as only 32 skeletons of adult T-Rex&nbsp;- one of the largest apex predators to have ever lived - have been discovered worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


An extremely rare, well-preserved dinosaur skeleton will be sold at an auction in Paris next month. The reptile, dated to be 150 million-year-old is a camptosaurus, going by the nickname 'Barry'.

An extremely rare, well-preserved dinosaur skeleton will be sold at an auction in Paris next month. The reptile, dated to be 150 million-year-old is a camptosaurus, going by the nickname 'Barry'. Barry, standing tall at 2.1 metres and five metres wide, was first discovered in Wyoming in the 1990s. It was initially restored in 2000 by palaeontologist Barry James, from whom it got its name. Currently, Barry is with the Italian laboratory Zoic which acquired the precious skeleton last year and has done additional restoration work on the body. Alexandre Giquello, representative of the Paris auction house Drouot, where the sale will take place, said Barry "is an extremely well-preserved specimen, which is quite rare". "The skull is complete at 90 per cent and the rest of the dinosaur is complete at 80 per cent," he said. Watch | 64-year-old T-Rex Skeleton sold for $6.1 million According to the auction house, the skeleton, which will be presented to the public in mid-October, is currently valued above $1.28 million. Experts, however, believe that the figure is rather conservative and it may go up as the auction date (October 20) approaches. T-Rex skeleton fetches record amount Dinosaur skeletons and other specimens belonging to the majestic reptile that once roamed the face of the Earth remain highly sought after by collectors. No more than a couple of sales take place in a year worldwide which attracts enormous attention. Notably, in April, a 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus-Rex skeleton named 'Trinity' was auctioned in Switzerland. It was the first time that an entire T-Rex skeleton had gone under the hammer and fetched a record sum of $6.1 million at the Koller auction house. Read more: This 'shark-toothed' dinosaur gave tough competition to T-Rex Trinity had been composed using the bone material of three T-Rex specimens. They were excavated between 2008-2013 in the US states of Montana and Wyoming. The Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations in the respective states are well-known for the discoveries of two other T-Rex skeletons that have gone under the hammer. The sale was rare as only 32 skeletons of adult T-Rex - one of the largest apex predators to have ever lived - have been discovered worldwide. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Barry, a 150-million-year-old rare dinosaur to be auctioned in Europe

<p>As young children in Sweden went back to school&nbsp;last month, they were met with teachers pushing them to use printed books and engage in quiet reading time as well as handwriting practice, while asking them to devote less time to their tablets, independent online research and keyboarding skills, according to a report&nbsp;by the Associated Press. What changed?</p>

<h2><strong>What prompted this switch?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Swedish minister for schools, Lotta Edholm, the move has been long overdue, since lawmakers and experts in the country have questioned if their hyper-digitalised approach to education has proven detrimental to children and led to a decline in basic skills.</p>

<p>Edholm, a part of the centre-right coalition government, who took office nearly a year ago has long been critical of this all-out embrace of technology. He announced last month that the government has sought to reverse the national agency for education’s decision to make digital devices mandatory in preschools.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sweden’s students need more textbooks,” said the Swedish minister back in March. However, he has planned to take one step forward and end digital learning for children under age six, the ministry has told the AP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rapid adoption of digital learning tools also drew concerns from UNESCO which called for an “urgent call for appropriate use of technology in education”. The United Nations agency said that countries should speed up internet connections at schools but warned them to use it in a way that never replaces in-person and teacher-led instruction.</p>

<h2><strong>PIRLS report</strong></h2>

<p>A report by the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS)&nbsp;also highlighted that while Swedish students score above the European average for reading ability, it was the international assessment of fourth-grade reading levels that showed a decline among the country’s children between 2016 and 2021.</p>

<p>While multiple factors have affected this decline including the COVID-19 pandemic and a growing number of immigrant students who don’t speak Swedish as their first language, experts noted, the overuse of screens during school might have caused students to fall behind in core subjects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There’s clear scientific evidence that digital tools impair rather than enhance student learning,” Sweden’s Karolinska Institute said in a statement, last month addressing the country’s national digitalisation strategy in education.</p>

<p>It added, “We believe the focus should return to acquiring knowledge through printed textbooks and teacher expertise, rather than acquiring knowledge primarily from freely available digital sources that have not been vetted for accuracy.”</p>

<p>Catarina Branelius, a teacher at Stockholm’s Djurgardsskolan elementary school said that even before the issue went national she would only allow students to use technology for certain parts of the lessons. “I use tablets in math and we are doing some apps, but I don’t use tablets for writing text,” Branelius told AP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Students under age 10 “need time and practice and exercise in handwriting…before you introduce them to write on a tablet,” said the teacher.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is it just about helping children?</strong></h2>

<p>Liveon Palmer, a third grader and one of Branelius’ students told the news agency, “I like writing more in school, like on paper, because it just feels better, you know.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the issue remains hotly debated, not everyone is convinced that the shift is being made exclusively for the students as criticising the effects of technology is “a popular move with conservative politicians,” said Neil Selwyn, a professor of education at Monash University.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The Swedish government does have a valid point when saying that there is no evidence for technology improving learning, but I think that’s because there is no straightforward evidence of what works with technology.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


As young children in Sweden went back to school last month, they were met with teachers pushing them to use printed books and engage in quiet reading time as well as handwriting practice, while asking them to devote less time to their tablets, independent online research and keyboarding skills, according to a report by the Associated Press.

As young children in Sweden went back to school last month, they were met with teachers pushing them to use printed books and engage in quiet reading time as well as handwriting practice, while asking them to devote less time to their tablets, independent online research and keyboarding skills, according to a report by the Associated Press. What changed? What prompted this switch? According to the Swedish minister for schools, Lotta Edholm, the move has been long overdue, since lawmakers and experts in the country have questioned if their hyper-digitalised approach to education has proven detrimental to children and led to a decline in basic skills. Edholm, a part of the centre-right coalition government, who took office nearly a year ago has long been critical of this all-out embrace of technology. He announced last month that the government has sought to reverse the national agency for education’s decision to make digital devices mandatory in preschools. “Sweden’s students need more textbooks,” said the Swedish minister back in March. However, he has planned to take one step forward and end digital learning for children under age six, the ministry has told the AP. The rapid adoption of digital learning tools also drew concerns from UNESCO which called for an “urgent call for appropriate use of technology in education”. The United Nations agency said that countries should speed up internet connections at schools but warned them to use it in a way that never replaces in-person and teacher-led instruction. PIRLS report A report by the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) also highlighted that while Swedish students score above the European average for reading ability, it was the international assessment of fourth-grade reading levels that showed a decline among the country’s children between 2016 and 2021. While multiple factors have affected this decline including the COVID-19 pandemic and a growing number of immigrant students who don’t speak Swedish as their first language, experts noted, the overuse of screens during school might have caused students to fall behind in core subjects. “There’s clear scientific evidence that digital tools impair rather than enhance student learning,” Sweden’s Karolinska Institute said in a statement, last month addressing the country’s national digitalisation strategy in education. It added, “We believe the focus should return to acquiring knowledge through printed textbooks and teacher expertise, rather than acquiring knowledge primarily from freely available digital sources that have not been vetted for accuracy.” Catarina Branelius, a teacher at Stockholm’s Djurgardsskolan elementary school said that even before the issue went national she would only allow students to use technology for certain parts of the lessons. “I use tablets in math and we are doing some apps, but I don’t use tablets for writing text,” Branelius told AP. Students under age 10 “need time and practice and exercise in handwriting…before you introduce them to write on a tablet,” said the teacher. Is it just about helping children? Liveon Palmer, a third grader and one of Branelius’ students told the news agency, “I like writing more in school, like on paper, because it just feels better, you know.” While the issue remains hotly debated, not everyone is convinced that the shift is being made exclusively for the students as criticising the effects of technology is “a popular move with conservative politicians,” said Neil Selwyn, a professor of education at Monash University. He added, “The Swedish government does have a valid point when saying that there is no evidence for technology improving learning, but I think that’s because there is no straightforward evidence of what works with technology. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Back to basics’: Sweden brings back books, pens to its ‘hyper-digitalised’ schools. Here’s why

<p><strong>Krishna Janmashtami 2023:</strong> Janmashtami is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals of all time. The festival holds great significance in Hindu mythology for all Lord Krishna devotees. The festival is celebrated for two consecutive days, this year on September 6 and 7. The festival is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the 5250th birth anniversary of Vasudeva Krishna. He was born on Asthami Tithi (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha (waning moon). Here's all you need to know about Krishna Janmashtami:</p>

<p><strong>Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Date and Time</strong></p>

<p>Ashtami Tithi Begins- 06 September 2023,&nbsp;03:37 PM</p>

<p>Ashtami Tithi Ends- 07 September 2023,&nbsp;04:14 PM</p>

<p><strong>What's the significance of Janmashtami?</strong></p>

<p>The festival of Janmashtami holds great significance for Hindus across the world. On this day, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu was born. He was the eighth incarnation.</p>

<p>Devotees of Lord Krishna are excited for this day and decorate all temples and places with colourful lights and flowers. People prepare various types of sweets and bhog prasad.&nbsp;The devotees also purchase beautiful dresses and jewellery for Krishna.</p>

<p>The festival is majorly celebrated in Mathura and Vrindavan. On this day, a large number of devotees visit the places where Lord Krishna had spent his childhood. &nbsp;The several temples dedicated to him include Banke Bihari temple, Radha Raman temple, Govind Dev, Radha Vallab and many others.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Krishna Janmashtami 2023 Wishes and Greetings:</strong></p>

<p>May the Natkhat Nand Lal bless you and your family with happiness, health, and prosperity. A very Happy Krishna Janmashtami to you!</p>

<p>I hope Lord Krishna fills your life with love, joy and tranquillity. Have a joyous Krishna Janmashtami.</p>

<p>May Lord Krishna always show you the right path as he did to Arjuna in the battle of Mahabharata at Kurukshetra. Happy Krishna Janmashtami.</p>

<p>On this sacred occasion of Janmashtami, may the Lord’s divine grace be with you and your family. Have a very Happy Janmashtami!</p>

<p>Let’s celebrate the birth of the Lord Krishna with great enthusiasm, who teaches us the true meaning of love. Wishing you a very happy Krishna Janmashtami to all the devotees of the Lord.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Janmashtami is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals of all time. The festival holds great significance in Hindu mythology for all Lord Krishna devotees.

Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Janmashtami is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals of all time. The festival holds great significance in Hindu mythology for all Lord Krishna devotees. The festival is celebrated for two consecutive days, this year on September 6 and 7. The festival is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna. This is the 5250th birth anniversary of Vasudeva Krishna. He was born on Asthami Tithi (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha (waning moon). Here's all you need to know about Krishna Janmashtami: Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Date and Time Ashtami Tithi Begins- 06 September 2023, 03:37 PM Ashtami Tithi Ends- 07 September 2023, 04:14 PM What's the significance of Janmashtami? The festival of Janmashtami holds great significance for Hindus across the world. On this day, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu was born. He was the eighth incarnation. Devotees of Lord Krishna are excited for this day and decorate all temples and places with colourful lights and flowers. People prepare various types of sweets and bhog prasad. The devotees also purchase beautiful dresses and jewellery for Krishna. The festival is majorly celebrated in Mathura and Vrindavan. On this day, a large number of devotees visit the places where Lord Krishna had spent his childhood. The several temples dedicated to him include Banke Bihari temple, Radha Raman temple, Govind Dev, Radha Vallab and many others. Krishna Janmashtami 2023 Wishes and Greetings: May the Natkhat Nand Lal bless you and your family with happiness, health, and prosperity. A very Happy Krishna Janmashtami to you! I hope Lord Krishna fills your life with love, joy and tranquillity. Have a joyous Krishna Janmashtami. May Lord Krishna always show you the right path as he did to Arjuna in the battle of Mahabharata at Kurukshetra. Happy Krishna Janmashtami. On this sacred occasion of Janmashtami, may the Lord’s divine grace be with you and your family. Have a very Happy Janmashtami! Let’s celebrate the birth of the Lord Krishna with great enthusiasm, who teaches us the true meaning of love. Wishing you a very happy Krishna Janmashtami to all the devotees of the Lord. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Krishna Janmashtami 2023: Check day, date, time, quotes and wishes to send to your loved ones

<p>Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement. According to the police, all three students were 15 years old and were charged in separate incidents since the school year began earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the students do?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the New York Post, the teenagers made bomb threats in three separate instances at the Oldham County High School to their teachers since August 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incidents that occurred on August 14, 15, and 17 were related to the TikTok challenge which encourages students to record a video of themselves telling a teacher there was a bomb or gun in their backpack as a “joke,” said the county police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two of the three 15-year-olds have been charged with terroristic threatening in the second degree while one of them is charged with terroristic threatening in the third degree, said the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the students are minors the officials did not release their names and any further identifying details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a similar incident, a fourth 15-year-old student at nearby South Oldham High School was also charged with harassing communications after supposedly being inspired by the challenge, reported the Post.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Officials warn parents about TikTok challenges</strong></h2>

<p>All four teens have since been suspended and must complete a mental health evaluation before returning to school, district officials have reportedly said in a message to the parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As previously communicated in a letter to families regarding terroristic threatening, students who participate in this type of behavior face serious consequences In addition to school-level discipline, students are prosecuted to the greatest extent of the law for making a threat to a public school,” said the district officials, in a message, as quoted by local media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities have also warned parents and children about the numerous TikTok challenges in the past years including the ones encouraging and involving pranksters who kick in doors, and car thefts.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
These challenges have also prompted authorities at the district, state and federal levels of the US government to ban or limit the use of TikTok. Earlier this year, Montana became the first state to ban the app over perceived security concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement.

Three teenagers in the United States’ Kentucky were charged with terroristic threatening after participating in a new TikTok challenge, said the Oldham County Police, in a statement. According to the police, all three students were 15 years old and were charged in separate incidents since the school year began earlier this month. What did the students do? As per the New York Post, the teenagers made bomb threats in three separate instances at the Oldham County High School to their teachers since August 9. The incidents that occurred on August 14, 15, and 17 were related to the TikTok challenge which encourages students to record a video of themselves telling a teacher there was a bomb or gun in their backpack as a “joke,” said the county police. Two of the three 15-year-olds have been charged with terroristic threatening in the second degree while one of them is charged with terroristic threatening in the third degree, said the police. Since the students are minors the officials did not release their names and any further identifying details. In a similar incident, a fourth 15-year-old student at nearby South Oldham High School was also charged with harassing communications after supposedly being inspired by the challenge, reported the Post. Officials warn parents about TikTok challenges All four teens have since been suspended and must complete a mental health evaluation before returning to school, district officials have reportedly said in a message to the parents. “As previously communicated in a letter to families regarding terroristic threatening, students who participate in this type of behavior face serious consequences In addition to school-level discipline, students are prosecuted to the greatest extent of the law for making a threat to a public school,” said the district officials, in a message, as quoted by local media reports. Authorities have also warned parents and children about the numerous TikTok challenges in the past years including the ones encouraging and involving pranksters who kick in doors, and car thefts. These challenges have also prompted authorities at the district, state and federal levels of the US government to ban or limit the use of TikTok. Earlier this year, Montana became the first state to ban the app over perceived security concerns. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Teens in Kentucky high school charged with ‘terroristic threats’ over TikTok challenge

<p><strong>World Photography Day 2023:</strong> Every year on August 19, the world celebrates World Photography Day, commemorating the process of capturing moments and emotions. The day aims to bridge the gap between photographers and photo lovers worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The day traces back to its origin in 1837 when Frenchmen Louis Dagueere and Joseph Nicephore Niepce created the Daguerreotype, the earliest photography technique.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The website of World Photography Day said, "On World Photography Day this year, feel free to share the best photos you've taken of landscapes and don't forget to tag &nbsp;#WorldPhotographyDay and #WorldPhotographyDay2023 on the social media platform of your choice."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/through-the-lens-of-retd-naval-officer-celebrating-kaleidoscope-of-human-experiences-at-sea-and-beyond-it-626904"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Through the lens of Retd Naval officer: Celebrating 'kaleidoscope of human experiences' at sea and beyond it</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>World Photography Day 2023: History&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>World Photography Day originated on 19 August 1839, when the French Academy of Sciences made the announcement of the daguerreotype process to the public. It was one of the earliest methods of capturing a permanent photo on a light-sensitive surface.&nbsp;<br />
As mentioned above the daguerreotype process was invented by Daguerre and Niepece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French government purchased the patent for the invention and gave it as a gift "free to the world."</p>

<p>However, it is to be noted that the first picture was captured in 1861 and the speculation about the digital photograph was invented in 1957, just 20 years before the invention of the first digital camera.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World Photography Day 2023: Theme&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to the World Photography Day website, the theme this year is "LANDSCAPES."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/it-makes-no-sense-musk-declares-block-feature-will-soon-disappear-from-x-626861">‘It makes no sense,’ Musk declares ‘Block’ feature will soon disappear from X</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>World Photography Day 2023: Significance&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>World Photography Day highlights the legitimate form of art and science encouraging photographers to experiment with different techniques, compositions and styles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The day discusses the technical aspects of photography, advancements in equipment and the evolution of the techniques when photographers and enthusiasts often share their photos.</p>

<h2><strong>World Photography Day 2023: Quotes&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"<em>Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.</em>" - <strong>Henri Cartier-Bresson</strong></p>

<p><em><strong>"</strong>Photography is the story I fail to put into words</em>."-<strong> Destin Sparks</strong></p>

<p>"<em>When I photograph I make love.</em>" – <strong>Alfred Stieglitz</strong></p>

<p>"<em>When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence</em>." – <strong>Ansel Adams</strong></p>

<p>"<em>Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be.</em>"– <strong>Duane Michals</strong></p>

<p><em>"Taking pictures is like tiptoeing into the kitchen late at night and stealing Oreo cookies."</em>– <strong>Diane Arbus</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


World Photography Day 2023: Every year on August 19, the world celebrates World Photography Day, commemorating the process of capturing moments and emotions. The day aims to bridge the gap between photographers and photo lovers worldwide.

World Photography Day 2023: Every year on August 19, the world celebrates World Photography Day, commemorating the process of capturing moments and emotions. The day aims to bridge the gap between photographers and photo lovers worldwide. The day traces back to its origin in 1837 when Frenchmen Louis Dagueere and Joseph Nicephore Niepce created the Daguerreotype, the earliest photography technique. The website of World Photography Day said, "On World Photography Day this year, feel free to share the best photos you've taken of landscapes and don't forget to tag #WorldPhotographyDay and #WorldPhotographyDay2023 on the social media platform of your choice." Also read | Through the lens of Retd Naval officer: Celebrating 'kaleidoscope of human experiences' at sea and beyond it World Photography Day 2023: History World Photography Day originated on 19 August 1839, when the French Academy of Sciences made the announcement of the daguerreotype process to the public. It was one of the earliest methods of capturing a permanent photo on a light-sensitive surface. As mentioned above the daguerreotype process was invented by Daguerre and Niepece. The French government purchased the patent for the invention and gave it as a gift "free to the world." However, it is to be noted that the first picture was captured in 1861 and the speculation about the digital photograph was invented in 1957, just 20 years before the invention of the first digital camera. World Photography Day 2023: Theme According to the World Photography Day website, the theme this year is "LANDSCAPES." Also read | ‘It makes no sense,’ Musk declares ‘Block’ feature will soon disappear from X World Photography Day 2023: Significance World Photography Day highlights the legitimate form of art and science encouraging photographers to experiment with different techniques, compositions and styles. The day discusses the technical aspects of photography, advancements in equipment and the evolution of the techniques when photographers and enthusiasts often share their photos. World Photography Day 2023: Quotes "Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst." - Henri Cartier-Bresson "Photography is the story I fail to put into words."- Destin Sparks "When I photograph I make love." – Alfred Stieglitz "When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence." – Ansel Adams "Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be."– Duane Michals "Taking pictures is like tiptoeing into the kitchen late at night and stealing Oreo cookies."– Diane Arbus WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Photography Day 2023: Check history, theme, significance and all you need to know

trending-news-2

Trending News, News on Trending News, stories on Trending News, articles on Trending News, Trending News stories at Wion, Trending News news, Trending News latest news

trending news-2