If ever an objective history of South Asia's major strategic events is written, the year 2019 will be remembered as a watershed year. The chain of events that began with the Pulwama suicide bombing (February 2019) and that finally led to the abrogation of Article 370 (August 2019) significantly tipped the strategic balance in India’s favour.&nbsp;

2014 onwards, India left the debris of ‘strategic restraint’ behind and redefined the conflict dynamics in terms of its new National Security Advisor (NSA) Mr Doval’s ‘doctrine of defensive offence.’ It was a significant doctrinal shift which found its first manifestation in Uri surgical strikes (2016). Fed on India’s decades of defensive force posture, Pakistan did not realise it until Balakot happened.&nbsp;

Further, in its more sophisticated form, venturing beyond the strict military domains, the doctrine of ‘defensive offense’ found its finest expression in the abrogation of Article 370, leaving Pakistan and China, the expansionist and revisionist brotherhood of Asia, in a quandary; a state of fix, rendering them not only increasingly clueless about a future course of action but also extremely vulnerable to strategic and tactical blunders.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Quite expectedly, such blunders have flown from Beijing and Rawalpindi in an unrestrained manner, with a desperate intent to reclaim the strategic edge against India. However, they have only exposed and weakened them further in the war of narratives.&nbsp;

Faced with embarrassing disasters in diplomatic assaults against India, bitter internal political turbulence, a worsening economy, and fierce resistance in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pashtun areas, and Baluchistan, Islamabad has openly started alleging India of fomenting terror in Pakistan. However, the fact is that it was the abrogation of Article 370, which took the winds from Pakistan's sails.&nbsp;

What has changed after August 5, 2019?

After the historical embarrassment of 1971 that ripped off a geographical portion from Pakistan, which had been in the forefront of the entire Pakistan movement, masterminds of GHQ Rawalpindi could never come out of the shock and, after that, single-mindedly focussed on disturbing and ultimately occupying Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khans-kashmir-campaign-bombs-at-islamic-meet-346206">Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Kashmir campaign bombs at Islamic meet</a>

Fully understanding the impossibility of defeating India in a conventional war, ISI masterminds began exploring the sub-conventional tactics to gain a strategic edge over India. To that end, the insurgency in Punjab offered a ready ground to destabilize India with a minimum effort and investment.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, gaining a foothold in Afghanistan to secure ‘strategic depth’ against India's advancing armies in the event of a conventional war was undoubtedly a prerequisite for a long-term hybrid and proxy war against India.&nbsp;

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The 1980s brought the much-needed American support for Pakistan in arming and training Mujahideens against the Soviets and facilitated Pakistan with a firm foothold in Afghanistan. The American GIs were leaving Kabul in 1988 after the Soviet withdrawal. for Pakistan, the stage was ripe for diverting the Afghan Jihadis towards Kashmir. Massive petrodollar funding and a decade-long Afghan experience in running proxies came in handy to stir up an armed insurrection in Kashmir.

The ISI-sponsored bloody phase of jihadi terrorism that began in the 1990s continued unabated, costing thousands of innocent lives. Over the last three decades, Pakistan's proxy war increased in intensity and ideological fervor.&nbsp;

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During the last three decades, the militancy in Kashmir, although it had its phases of ups and downs, was strategically planned and executed by masterminds located on the other side of the Indian border. India experimented with a range of counter-terrorism measures, bringing sporadic periods of relief.&nbsp;

However, the broader trajectory was about Pakistan creating and strengthening a supporting constituency thriving in a fertile ecosystem of Islamism, separatism, and terrorism. Adversary's success manifested itself in its complex yet robust capabilities to shake the Indian state during the unrest of 2016, post-Burhan Wani's encounter death. The Kashmir valley was engulfed with massive civil unrest and agitation within a few days, with casualty figures of 42 in the first week itself.

Moreover, something entirely financed and orchestrated by Pakistan's deep-state was projected by Pakistan as gross human rights violations by an occupied force in Kashmir. Burhan Wani, a self-proclaimed supporter of the Islamic Caliphate in Kashmir and Hizbul Mujahideen commander, was portrayed as a young and innocent hero dying for a cause in front of Kashmiris and the world community. Pakistan had not only created a highly radicalized social milieu that made Jihadism a dominant narrative but also excelled in the war of narratives, convincingly selling its lies for years to an array of civil rights activists, governments, and scholars in the west.&nbsp;

However, in one masterstroke of August 2019, India gave a crushing blow to Pakistan's three decades of investment in Kashmir. It was something that Pakistan's intelligence machinery did not anticipate. As a result, they were handicapped from achieving their 'Destabilizing Kashmir project' in the absence of Article 370, which acted as a catalyst till then. Article 370 was an edifice, an overarching umbrella under which Pakistan's proxy jihadists, assets in the media, academic, religious, cultural bodies, mainstream politics, academia, and the administration thrived and flourished.&nbsp;

Though India displayed some clarity about its understanding of how detrimental Article 370 was to safeguarding its key interests in Kashmir, when it denuded the article of much of its teeth in the 60s, over time, Delhi lost the clarity and became increasingly myopic in its understanding. A narrow vision led the focus on eroding Sheikh Abdullah's base and install a pliable government through democratic means, even if that involved pampering radical Islamists and separatists.&nbsp;

In parallel, Pakistan's propaganda machinery and its assets in the mainstream politics of Kashmir had skillfully crafted the narrative of Article 370, being the bedrock of Kashmir's identity. Its proxies instilled the popular consciousness with the imaginary fears of central government populating the state with outsiders in the absence of 370.&nbsp;

On the Indian side, successive political dispensations increasingly became entrapped in the narrative mentioned above sold by Pakistan's proxies. As a result, Delhi could never give serious thought on India's strategic interests in Kashmir. For decades, Article 370 was an untouchable default status that was supposed to be guarded till eternity.&nbsp;

Today, a year after its abrogation, Pakistan has lost the patronizing, protective, and enabling superstructure. The Pakistani proxies in Kashmir face the most significant existential crisis. The ecosystem of Islamist radicalization, separatism, and terrorism carefully created with lies, deceit and violence appears to be collapsing like dominos.

Interestingly, the façade of Article 370 under which Pakistan's proxy movement thrived was in itself fragile. Article 370 was a temporary and transient feature of the Indian Constitution, which could be amended or abrogated within the Indian parliamentary framework.&nbsp;

The autonomy guaranteed to Kashmir under the provisions of the article helped Pakistan in propagating its agenda to sell the fabricated story of Kashmir being a disputed territory.&nbsp;

Further, the militancy and separatist movement, which flourished under the patronage of Article 370, strengthened Pakistan's version of Kashmir as a disputed territory in the eyes of the world community and the local Kashmiris.&nbsp;

However, after its demise, the smokescreens have vanished, and not only the strategic experts but also the ordinary voices of Kashmir have openly started questioning, discussing, and condemning Pakistan's illegal and violent annexation of a part of Kashmir in 1947, the genesis of the Kashmir conflict.&nbsp;

Contrary to the annual condemnation of October 26, 1947, the day when Indian armies entered Kashmir, as a 'black day,' this year, to everyone's surprise, public squares of Srinagar were spattered with hoardings condemning October 22 as a 'black day', the day when Pakistan's Kabailis attacked Kashmir&nbsp;

The post-370 Kashmir has witnessed an intense crackdown on Pakistan-supported radical Islamist organizations like Jamaat-i-Islami and separatist organizations. National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) onslaught on terror financing has cracked the financial backbone of terrorism.&nbsp;

The security forces have neutralized the entire terrorist leadership of the local and foreign terrorist orgaizations. The recruitment of new terrorist cadres has drastically come down. Infiltration has become nearly impossible. The mainstream politicians and separatists like the Hurriyat stand exposed as entities who sustained the widespread resentment against India by indulging in massive corruption and mal-governance on the one hand and squarely putting the blame on Delhi's step-motherly treatment.&nbsp;

NIA's action against many of them in terror-related cases further confirms their dubious loyalties in the popular perception.

In Kashmir, a new political leadership with a nationalist outlook is emerging at the grassroots. Pakistan's desperate attempts to orchestrate terror attacks, civil unrest, and rally the diplomatic community against India on global platforms, have failed miserably. Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) has disappointed Pakistan and refused to bandwagon with it on several occasions.&nbsp;

There are no buyers in the Western World for Pakistan's foul cries over the abrogation of Article 370. The United States and most European states convincingly approved India's Kashmir move as a dire necessity to prevent Jihadist terrorism from taking deeper roots in Kashmir on the pattern of Syria and Iraq. &nbsp;

Except for the backing of Turkey and China, Pakistan stands isolated. Further, the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan have become fiercely vocal against Pakistan's demographic engineering and in its decision to declare the region as its sixth province, in an abject surrender to China's dictators.&nbsp;

Local resistance against the forcible occupation of Gigit-Baltistan and flooding the area with Sunni extremists has not only intensified, but it has also become a subject-matter of serious discussion in the western capitals. In Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), similar fears have given rise to a strong resistance movement.&nbsp;

On the issue of cross-border terrorism, Pakistan knows it well that post-2014, India's approach has changed. &nbsp;Now Delhi responds with surgical strikes and air raids, and one more Pulwama will most certainly be reciprocated with something way bigger than Balakot, which Pakistan cannot afford.&nbsp;

Further, the post-370 Kashmir has also started seriously questioning China's illegal possession over Aksai Chin. Recent India-China stand-off and Pakistan's continuous ceasefire violations have cleared the vestiges of any doubts lasting about the China-Pak duo's collusion and expansionist threat in the near future.&nbsp;

Internally, India’s Kashmir move has led to a massive embarrassment for Imran Khan's government and the Pak army. The Opposition has alleged Imran Khan's government of surrendering to India. Today, in the form of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), Pak army and the 'selected' PM Imran Khan's government face a compelling popular protest movement.&nbsp;

The situation has turned alarming for Pak army because, in addition to the mainstream political parties, it also includes ethical nationalist entities such as Pashtun Tahafuz Movement and Baluchistan National Party, hitherto seen as antithetical to the very idea of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Further, PDM is demanding minimising the role of Pakistani army and intelligence agencies from the political and developmental matters, a direct challenge to the mighty army. Bajwa and Imran, both, are at the lowest ebb of their credibility.&nbsp;

For decades, the Pakistan army used Kashmir to grab a disproportionate share in the national budget and cultivate hyper-nationalism and Islamism. Under the latter as a cover, GHQ Rawalpindi crushed all the religious, cultural, and linguistic minorities.&nbsp;

The ghosts of those massacres in Baluchistan, Pashtun lands, and Sindh are returning to haunt Pakistan. &nbsp;It is a reminder for Pakistan that internal turmoil is rooted in its birth and the fundamental philosophy of its existence, and a redux of 1971, is possible.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, Pakistan's generals refused to learn from the past and continue to publish substandard conspiracy theories blaming India for its internal problems. It appears as though Rawalpindi's is pushed back to the pavilion since the abrogation of Article 370, and Pakistan's grand new strategy is concocting lies of India aiding terrorism on Pakistani soil from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Some Pakistani generals blame India's intelligence brass for reversing the 'paradigm of terror' by inciting Pashtuns, Baluchis, and Sindhis. However, the fact is that the 'paradigm of terror' created by ISI masterminds has boomeranged and backfired, something which was bound to happen.&nbsp;

Despite the turn of events, a frustrated Pakistan openly advocates the revival and strengthening of a terrorist base against India. By doing so, they stand exposed as sponsors of terror in the region.

 
Why everyone missed the elephant in the room?

Today, one feels astounded why even the astute strategic analysts could not foresee the aftershocks of abrogating Article 370

The answer lies in the fact that the overwhelming political posturing surrounding BJP's long-held objective of repealing Article 370 more or less precluded an objective and scholarly analysis of its long-term strategic implications in South Asia and beyond.&nbsp;

India's intelligence czars, diplomats, and mighty bureaucrats of North Block saw it as a political prop, an unrealistic and unattainable dream, finding its best utility in garnering votes during elections. Such a notion was firmly entrenched in their minds when the last Vajpayee-led BJP government refrained from tampering with article 370.&nbsp;

Among India's civil society, security experts, IR scholars, and public intellectuals making even a reference to abrogating Article 370 was shunned and led to condemnation and banishment as a right-wing fascist. For Pakistan, it came handy to believe that Indians would never think of this far-fetched dream given their three-decade-long vulnerabilities to the complex web of false and fictitious narratives projected by their deep-state and doing so quite successfully with the western capitals, activists, scribes, and scholars.&nbsp;

As a result, serious scholarly analyses of scraping Article 370, more or less, remained a taboo in the academic and strategic world. &nbsp;At best, it remained a fanciful dream of Hindu-nationalist groups, and at worst a strategic blunder something which the majority of India's diplomats, spies, scribes scholars, and bureaucrats, trained in the socialist left-overs of cold-war era traditions, would abhor as totally uncharacteristic of India's idealistic approach in strategic affairs. &nbsp;

Such a trend continues even after more than a year has passed since the abrogation of Article 370. In India's strategic and political community, one still comes across a tendency to condemn the move as an ill-thought action resulting from the lack of strategic vision, which will only add to India's security challenges.&nbsp;

Maybe dubious loyalties, ulterior motives, vested political interests, individual biases, ideological barriers, and nonetheless inadequate analytical skills can provide a better explanation for this aversion to engaging in an objective analysis of the strategic implications of Delhi's Kashmir move and give the due credit to those who planned and implemented such a master strategic and diplomatic stroke.&nbsp;

It can be stated with an absolute certainty that post-2014, New Delhi has changed, and the change is firm, decisive and irreversible. &nbsp;Nevertheless, the doctrinal shift in India’s strategic approach is still evolving in its myriad aspects hence; maybe it is too early to define its long-term strategic implications.&nbsp;

However, it is certain that under no circumstances Pak establishment can indulge in Pulwama or Mumbai like adventures anymore. Whether one more Mumbai or Pulwama will cost Pakistan Baluchistan or not, is yet a matter of conjecture and grapewine in the intelligence world. Nevertheless, it is giving sleepless nights to Pakistani generals.

To conclude, Pakistan’s Kashmir Project has lost its steam. In the global arena, it will not be long before General Bajwa's Pakistan is blacklisted. In the future, maybe the situation could turn worse, with Pakistan facing a threat from internal unrest and revolts.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

If ever an objective history of South Asia's major strategic events is written, the year 2019 will be remembered as a watershed year. The chain of events that began with the Pulwama suicide bombing (February 2019) and that finally led to the abrogation of Article 370 (August 2019) significantly tipped the strategic balance in India’s favour.

If ever an objective history of South Asia's major strategic events is written, the year 2019 will be remembered as a watershed year. The chain of events that began with the Pulwama suicide bombing (February 2019) and that finally led to the abrogation of Article 370 (August 2019) significantly tipped the strategic balance in India’s favour. 2014 onwards, India left the debris of ‘strategic restraint’ behind and redefined the conflict dynamics in terms of its new National Security Advisor (NSA) Mr Doval’s ‘doctrine of defensive offence.’ It was a significant doctrinal shift which found its first manifestation in Uri surgical strikes (2016). Fed on India’s decades of defensive force posture, Pakistan did not realise it until Balakot happened. Further, in its more sophisticated form, venturing beyond the strict military domains, the doctrine of ‘defensive offense’ found its finest expression in the abrogation of Article 370, leaving Pakistan and China, the expansionist and revisionist brotherhood of Asia, in a quandary; a state of fix, rendering them not only increasingly clueless about a future course of action but also extremely vulnerable to strategic and tactical blunders. × Quite expectedly, such blunders have flown from Beijing and Rawalpindi in an unrestrained manner, with a desperate intent to reclaim the strategic edge against India. However, they have only exposed and weakened them further in the war of narratives. Faced with embarrassing disasters in diplomatic assaults against India, bitter internal political turbulence, a worsening economy, and fierce resistance in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pashtun areas, and Baluchistan, Islamabad has openly started alleging India of fomenting terror in Pakistan. However, the fact is that it was the abrogation of Article 370, which took the winds from Pakistan's sails. What has changed after August 5, 2019? After the historical embarrassment of 1971 that ripped off a geographical portion from Pakistan, which had been in the forefront of the entire Pakistan movement, masterminds of GHQ Rawalpindi could never come out of the shock and, after that, single-mindedly focussed on disturbing and ultimately occupying Kashmir. Also Read | Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Kashmir campaign bombs at Islamic meet Fully understanding the impossibility of defeating India in a conventional war, ISI masterminds began exploring the sub-conventional tactics to gain a strategic edge over India. To that end, the insurgency in Punjab offered a ready ground to destabilize India with a minimum effort and investment. For Pakistan, gaining a foothold in Afghanistan to secure ‘strategic depth’ against India's advancing armies in the event of a conventional war was undoubtedly a prerequisite for a long-term hybrid and proxy war against India. × The 1980s brought the much-needed American support for Pakistan in arming and training Mujahideens against the Soviets and facilitated Pakistan with a firm foothold in Afghanistan. The American GIs were leaving Kabul in 1988 after the Soviet withdrawal. for Pakistan, the stage was ripe for diverting the Afghan Jihadis towards Kashmir. Massive petrodollar funding and a decade-long Afghan experience in running proxies came in handy to stir up an armed insurrection in Kashmir. The ISI-sponsored bloody phase of jihadi terrorism that began in the 1990s continued unabated, costing thousands of innocent lives. Over the last three decades, Pakistan's proxy war increased in intensity and ideological fervor. × During the last three decades, the militancy in Kashmir, although it had its phases of ups and downs, was strategically planned and executed by masterminds located on the other side of the Indian border. India experimented with a range of counter-terrorism measures, bringing sporadic periods of relief. However, the broader trajectory was about Pakistan creating and strengthening a supporting constituency thriving in a fertile ecosystem of Islamism, separatism, and terrorism. Adversary's success manifested itself in its complex yet robust capabilities to shake the Indian state during the unrest of 2016, post-Burhan Wani's encounter death. The Kashmir valley was engulfed with massive civil unrest and agitation within a few days, with casualty figures of 42 in the first week itself. Moreover, something entirely financed and orchestrated by Pakistan's deep-state was projected by Pakistan as gross human rights violations by an occupied force in Kashmir. Burhan Wani, a self-proclaimed supporter of the Islamic Caliphate in Kashmir and Hizbul Mujahideen commander, was portrayed as a young and innocent hero dying for a cause in front of Kashmiris and the world community. Pakistan had not only created a highly radicalized social milieu that made Jihadism a dominant narrative but also excelled in the war of narratives, convincingly selling its lies for years to an array of civil rights activists, governments, and scholars in the west. However, in one masterstroke of August 2019, India gave a crushing blow to Pakistan's three decades of investment in Kashmir. It was something that Pakistan's intelligence machinery did not anticipate. As a result, they were handicapped from achieving their 'Destabilizing Kashmir project' in the absence of Article 370, which acted as a catalyst till then. Article 370 was an edifice, an overarching umbrella under which Pakistan's proxy jihadists, assets in the media, academic, religious, cultural bodies, mainstream politics, academia, and the administration thrived and flourished. Though India displayed some clarity about its understanding of how detrimental Article 370 was to safeguarding its key interests in Kashmir, when it denuded the article of much of its teeth in the 60s, over time, Delhi lost the clarity and became increasingly myopic in its understanding. A narrow vision led the focus on eroding Sheikh Abdullah's base and install a pliable government through democratic means, even if that involved pampering radical Islamists and separatists. In parallel, Pakistan's propaganda machinery and its assets in the mainstream politics of Kashmir had skillfully crafted the narrative of Article 370, being the bedrock of Kashmir's identity. Its proxies instilled the popular consciousness with the imaginary fears of central government populating the state with outsiders in the absence of 370. On the Indian side, successive political dispensations increasingly became entrapped in the narrative mentioned above sold by Pakistan's proxies. As a result, Delhi could never give serious thought on India's strategic interests in Kashmir. For decades, Article 370 was an untouchable default status that was supposed to be guarded till eternity. Today, a year after its abrogation, Pakistan has lost the patronizing, protective, and enabling superstructure. The Pakistani proxies in Kashmir face the most significant existential crisis. The ecosystem of Islamist radicalization, separatism, and terrorism carefully created with lies, deceit and violence appears to be collapsing like dominos. Interestingly, the façade of Article 370 under which Pakistan's proxy movement thrived was in itself fragile. Article 370 was a temporary and transient feature of the Indian Constitution, which could be amended or abrogated within the Indian parliamentary framework. The autonomy guaranteed to Kashmir under the provisions of the article helped Pakistan in propagating its agenda to sell the fabricated story of Kashmir being a disputed territory. Further, the militancy and separatist movement, which flourished under the patronage of Article 370, strengthened Pakistan's version of Kashmir as a disputed territory in the eyes of the world community and the local Kashmiris. However, after its demise, the smokescreens have vanished, and not only the strategic experts but also the ordinary voices of Kashmir have openly started questioning, discussing, and condemning Pakistan's illegal and violent annexation of a part of Kashmir in 1947, the genesis of the Kashmir conflict. Contrary to the annual condemnation of October 26, 1947, the day when Indian armies entered Kashmir, as a 'black day,' this year, to everyone's surprise, public squares of Srinagar were spattered with hoardings condemning October 22 as a 'black day', the day when Pakistan's Kabailis attacked Kashmir The post-370 Kashmir has witnessed an intense crackdown on Pakistan-supported radical Islamist organizations like Jamaat-i-Islami and separatist organizations. National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) onslaught on terror financing has cracked the financial backbone of terrorism. The security forces have neutralized the entire terrorist leadership of the local and foreign terrorist orgaizations. The recruitment of new terrorist cadres has drastically come down. Infiltration has become nearly impossible. The mainstream politicians and separatists like the Hurriyat stand exposed as entities who sustained the widespread resentment against India by indulging in massive corruption and mal-governance on the one hand and squarely putting the blame on Delhi's step-motherly treatment. NIA's action against many of them in terror-related cases further confirms their dubious loyalties in the popular perception. In Kashmir, a new political leadership with a nationalist outlook is emerging at the grassroots. Pakistan's desperate attempts to orchestrate terror attacks, civil unrest, and rally the diplomatic community against India on global platforms, have failed miserably. Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) has disappointed Pakistan and refused to bandwagon with it on several occasions. There are no buyers in the Western World for Pakistan's foul cries over the abrogation of Article 370. The United States and most European states convincingly approved India's Kashmir move as a dire necessity to prevent Jihadist terrorism from taking deeper roots in Kashmir on the pattern of Syria and Iraq. Except for the backing of Turkey and China, Pakistan stands isolated. Further, the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan have become fiercely vocal against Pakistan's demographic engineering and in its decision to declare the region as its sixth province, in an abject surrender to China's dictators. Local resistance against the forcible occupation of Gigit-Baltistan and flooding the area with Sunni extremists has not only intensified, but it has also become a subject-matter of serious discussion in the western capitals. In Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), similar fears have given rise to a strong resistance movement. On the issue of cross-border terrorism, Pakistan knows it well that post-2014, India's approach has changed. Now Delhi responds with surgical strikes and air raids, and one more Pulwama will most certainly be reciprocated with something way bigger than Balakot, which Pakistan cannot afford. Further, the post-370 Kashmir has also started seriously questioning China's illegal possession over Aksai Chin. Recent India-China stand-off and Pakistan's continuous ceasefire violations have cleared the vestiges of any doubts lasting about the China-Pak duo's collusion and expansionist threat in the near future. Internally, India’s Kashmir move has led to a massive embarrassment for Imran Khan's government and the Pak army. The Opposition has alleged Imran Khan's government of surrendering to India. Today, in the form of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), Pak army and the 'selected' PM Imran Khan's government face a compelling popular protest movement. The situation has turned alarming for Pak army because, in addition to the mainstream political parties, it also includes ethical nationalist entities such as Pashtun Tahafuz Movement and Baluchistan National Party, hitherto seen as antithetical to the very idea of Pakistan. Further, PDM is demanding minimising the role of Pakistani army and intelligence agencies from the political and developmental matters, a direct challenge to the mighty army. Bajwa and Imran, both, are at the lowest ebb of their credibility. For decades, the Pakistan army used Kashmir to grab a disproportionate share in the national budget and cultivate hyper-nationalism and Islamism. Under the latter as a cover, GHQ Rawalpindi crushed all the religious, cultural, and linguistic minorities. The ghosts of those massacres in Baluchistan, Pashtun lands, and Sindh are returning to haunt Pakistan. It is a reminder for Pakistan that internal turmoil is rooted in its birth and the fundamental philosophy of its existence, and a redux of 1971, is possible. Nevertheless, Pakistan's generals refused to learn from the past and continue to publish substandard conspiracy theories blaming India for its internal problems. It appears as though Rawalpindi's is pushed back to the pavilion since the abrogation of Article 370, and Pakistan's grand new strategy is concocting lies of India aiding terrorism on Pakistani soil from Afghanistan. Some Pakistani generals blame India's intelligence brass for reversing the 'paradigm of terror' by inciting Pashtuns, Baluchis, and Sindhis. However, the fact is that the 'paradigm of terror' created by ISI masterminds has boomeranged and backfired, something which was bound to happen. Despite the turn of events, a frustrated Pakistan openly advocates the revival and strengthening of a terrorist base against India. By doing so, they stand exposed as sponsors of terror in the region. Why everyone missed the elephant in the room? Today, one feels astounded why even the astute strategic analysts could not foresee the aftershocks of abrogating Article 370 The answer lies in the fact that the overwhelming political posturing surrounding BJP's long-held objective of repealing Article 370 more or less precluded an objective and scholarly analysis of its long-term strategic implications in South Asia and beyond. India's intelligence czars, diplomats, and mighty bureaucrats of North Block saw it as a political prop, an unrealistic and unattainable dream, finding its best utility in garnering votes during elections. Such a notion was firmly entrenched in their minds when the last Vajpayee-led BJP government refrained from tampering with article 370. Among India's civil society, security experts, IR scholars, and public intellectuals making even a reference to abrogating Article 370 was shunned and led to condemnation and banishment as a right-wing fascist. For Pakistan, it came handy to believe that Indians would never think of this far-fetched dream given their three-decade-long vulnerabilities to the complex web of false and fictitious narratives projected by their deep-state and doing so quite successfully with the western capitals, activists, scribes, and scholars. As a result, serious scholarly analyses of scraping Article 370, more or less, remained a taboo in the academic and strategic world. At best, it remained a fanciful dream of Hindu-nationalist groups, and at worst a strategic blunder something which the majority of India's diplomats, spies, scribes scholars, and bureaucrats, trained in the socialist left-overs of cold-war era traditions, would abhor as totally uncharacteristic of India's idealistic approach in strategic affairs. Such a trend continues even after more than a year has passed since the abrogation of Article 370. In India's strategic and political community, one still comes across a tendency to condemn the move as an ill-thought action resulting from the lack of strategic vision, which will only add to India's security challenges. Maybe dubious loyalties, ulterior motives, vested political interests, individual biases, ideological barriers, and nonetheless inadequate analytical skills can provide a better explanation for this aversion to engaging in an objective analysis of the strategic implications of Delhi's Kashmir move and give the due credit to those who planned and implemented such a master strategic and diplomatic stroke. It can be stated with an absolute certainty that post-2014, New Delhi has changed, and the change is firm, decisive and irreversible. Nevertheless, the doctrinal shift in India’s strategic approach is still evolving in its myriad aspects hence; maybe it is too early to define its long-term strategic implications. However, it is certain that under no circumstances Pak establishment can indulge in Pulwama or Mumbai like adventures anymore. Whether one more Mumbai or Pulwama will cost Pakistan Baluchistan or not, is yet a matter of conjecture and grapewine in the intelligence world. Nevertheless, it is giving sleepless nights to Pakistani generals. To conclude, Pakistan’s Kashmir Project has lost its steam. In the global arena, it will not be long before General Bajwa's Pakistan is blacklisted. In the future, maybe the situation could turn worse, with Pakistan facing a threat from internal unrest and revolts. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Pakistan's lost asymmetric war in Kashmir against Doval’s defensive offence

Taking a page out of sci-fi films, scientists have been able to develop “spray-on bandages” to protect wounds, and to care for injuries that require&nbsp;immediate attention in places that don’t have medical facilities.

In a new study, scientists outlined a technique called “electro spinning”, owing to which scientists came up with thin layers of fibres which were sprayed onto damaged skin. Some would say it’s akin to spraying paint on a surface.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/brain-scientists-explore-the-how-of-when-342127" hreflang="en">Brain scientists explore the how of when</a>

According to the author of the study, Lane Huston, this marks the “first demonstration of depositing the drug-delivering fibres directly into a wound site safely”, the Independent reported.

The study was published in the Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B. The author added that this mechanism can be used to cover wounds, and to follow up with treatment thereafter.

The technique in question - electro spinning is widely used among industries to wrap and filter multiple products.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/two-million-year-old-skull-of-human-cousin-unearthed-342100" hreflang="en">Two million-year-old skull of human cousin unearthed</a>

Unfortunately, electricity at a high voltage can damage human skin. But scientists were able to develop a device with a smaller electric field, which sprayed bandages on people’s skin, as per information given in the study.

The device in question, which is still nameless, uses air to deliver fibres on a surface. The research team recently tested their device on pigs, and on a “gloved human hand”, marking the first such experiment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/three-asteroids-over-30-metres-in-diametre-travelling-earths-way-341959" hreflang="en">Three asteroids over 30 metres in diametre travelling Earth’s way</a>

The current valuation of bandage market is around $5.5 billion, which is expected to grow over the next few&nbsp;years. The scientists are hopeful that this could save millions of lives in rural areas. Scientists hope the technology will help doctors and medical personnel working in rural areas.

Taking a page out of sci-fi films, scientists have been able to develop “spray-on bandages” to protect wounds, and to care for injuries that require immediate attention in places that don’t have medical facilities.

Taking a page out of sci-fi films, scientists have been able to develop “spray-on bandages” to protect wounds, and to care for injuries that require immediate attention in places that don’t have medical facilities. In a new study, scientists outlined a technique called “electro spinning”, owing to which scientists came up with thin layers of fibres which were sprayed onto damaged skin. Some would say it’s akin to spraying paint on a surface. Also read: Brain scientists explore the how of when According to the author of the study, Lane Huston, this marks the “first demonstration of depositing the drug-delivering fibres directly into a wound site safely”, the Independent reported. The study was published in the Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B. The author added that this mechanism can be used to cover wounds, and to follow up with treatment thereafter. The technique in question - electro spinning is widely used among industries to wrap and filter multiple products. Also read: Two million-year-old skull of human cousin unearthed Unfortunately, electricity at a high voltage can damage human skin. But scientists were able to develop a device with a smaller electric field, which sprayed bandages on people’s skin, as per information given in the study. The device in question, which is still nameless, uses air to deliver fibres on a surface. The research team recently tested their device on pigs, and on a “gloved human hand”, marking the first such experiment. Also read: Three asteroids over 30 metres in diametre travelling Earth’s way The current valuation of bandage market is around $5.5 billion, which is expected to grow over the next few years. The scientists are hopeful that this could save millions of lives in rural areas. Scientists hope the technology will help doctors and medical personnel working in rural areas.

Scientists just developed spray-on bandages!

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here. Prime minister Abiy Ahmed described it as an act of betrayal...

"The army has been attacked from behind by its own citizens and many have been martyred, wounded and properties destroyed. This force of destruction has been engaged in many counterproductive activities for the past many months," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-civil-war-is-brewing-in-ethiopia-340946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cracks in the union first emerged in September. Tigray held parliamentary elections - without permission from the centre. The vote was declared illegal. It was the first indication of what was in store.&nbsp;

At the heart of this brewing civil war is a battle for influence. Tigray accounts for just 5% of Ethiopia's population. But thanks to a well-trained army.And a strong economy. It has always enjoyed disproportionate power in government.

That changed when Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018. Major Tigrayan officials were either fired or sidelined. It was part of his crackdown on corruption. In response, the Tigray government declared prime minister Abiy as illegitimate.

"The authoritarian unitary government that has illegally usurped power of the federal government is committing treason and injustice by forging alliance with external forces and setting out the country's sovereignty in a bid to subdue people of Tigray," said spokesperson of the Tigray government

The situation is precarious right now. A state of emergency has been declared in Tigray. Federal troops have moved in. Electricity, internet and telephone connections have been cut. Prime minister Abiy has made it clear that he will fight till the end.

The war itself is likely to be devastating. Tigray claims that federal troops in the region have defected. Combined with the region's own forces. They could be a handful for the Ethiopian army.&nbsp;

There is also the risk of the rebellion spreading elsewhere. Ethiopia is home to 80 ethnic groups. Unresolved tensions could resurface - if a civil war breaks out.

Prime minister Abiy is a champion of dialogue. He ended a two-decade conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. And pacified rebel groups.&nbsp;

All without deploying troops. But the attack on Ethiopian soldiers was the red line for him. The question is -- can Africa's oldest union survive his war?

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here.

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here. Prime minister Abiy Ahmed described it as an act of betrayal... "The army has been attacked from behind by its own citizens and many have been martyred, wounded and properties destroyed. This force of destruction has been engaged in many counterproductive activities for the past many months," he said. Watch | Cracks in the union first emerged in September. Tigray held parliamentary elections - without permission from the centre. The vote was declared illegal. It was the first indication of what was in store. At the heart of this brewing civil war is a battle for influence. Tigray accounts for just 5% of Ethiopia's population. But thanks to a well-trained army.And a strong economy. It has always enjoyed disproportionate power in government. That changed when Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018. Major Tigrayan officials were either fired or sidelined. It was part of his crackdown on corruption. In response, the Tigray government declared prime minister Abiy as illegitimate. "The authoritarian unitary government that has illegally usurped power of the federal government is committing treason and injustice by forging alliance with external forces and setting out the country's sovereignty in a bid to subdue people of Tigray," said spokesperson of the Tigray government The situation is precarious right now. A state of emergency has been declared in Tigray. Federal troops have moved in. Electricity, internet and telephone connections have been cut. Prime minister Abiy has made it clear that he will fight till the end. The war itself is likely to be devastating. Tigray claims that federal troops in the region have defected. Combined with the region's own forces. They could be a handful for the Ethiopian army. There is also the risk of the rebellion spreading elsewhere. Ethiopia is home to 80 ethnic groups. Unresolved tensions could resurface - if a civil war breaks out. Prime minister Abiy is a champion of dialogue. He ended a two-decade conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. And pacified rebel groups. All without deploying troops. But the attack on Ethiopian soldiers was the red line for him. The question is -- can Africa's oldest union survive his war?

Can Ethiopia survive a civil war?

Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other on Tuesday of violating a ceasefire agreed three days ago to quell fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, drawing warnings from international groups of a humanitarian crisis in the region.

The Russia-brokered truce is buckling despite mounting calls from world powers to halt the fighting, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the Minsk Group security watchdog among those urging greater commitment to the ceasefire terms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/nagorno-karabakh-truce-frays-russia-appeals-for-peace-334925" hreflang="en">Nagorno-Karabakh truce frays; Russia appeals for peace</a>

A Reuters cameraman witnessed shelling in the town of Martuni in Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountain enclave which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but governed and populated by ethnic Armenians.

A Reuters television crew in Terter in Azerbaijan also said the city centre was being shelled earlier on Tuesday.

Azerbaijan accused Armenian forces of "grossly violating the humanitarian truce", which was agreed on Saturday to allow the sides to swap prisoners and bodies of those killed..

Defence ministry spokesman Vagif Dargiahly said Armenia was shelling the Azeri territories of Goranboy and Aghdam, as well as Terter. Azeri forces were not violating the truce, he added.

Armenian defence ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan denied the accusation. She said Azeri forces had resumed military operations after an overnight lull, "supported by active artillery fire in the southern, northern, northeastern and eastern directions".

The fighting which erupted on Sept. 27, is the worst since a 1991-94 war over Nagorno-Karabakh that killed about 30,000.

It is being closely watched abroad, not only due to its proximity to Azeri energy pipelines to Europe but also because of fears that Russia and Turkey could be drawn in.

Russia has a defence pact with Armenia and Turkey is allied with Azerbaijan.

"CATASTROPHIC CONSEQUENCES"

The Minsk Group called on the Armenian and Azeri leaders to immediately implement the ceasefire to prevent "catastrophic consequences for the region".

The 11-member group includes both Russia and Turkey, but the latter is not involved in the Nagorno-Karabakh talks. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu suggested holding talks that would include Turkey.

Ceasefire demands were "reasonable", according to Cavusoglu, but he said the international community should ask Armenia to withdraw from Azeri territory.

"Sadly no such call is being made," he told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/extremely-concerned-over-civilian-casualties-in-nagorno-karabakh-eu-334555" hreflang="en">Extremely concerned over civilian casualties in Nagorno-Karabakh: EU</a>

Influential Turkish politician Devlet Bahceli, whose party supports President Erdogan's AKP in parliament, took a more belligerent note, telling Azerbaijan to secure Nagorno-Karabakh by "hitting Armenia over the head over and over again".

While Turkey denies military involvement in Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian told Germany's Bild newspaper Ankara's behaviour was worrying.

"I worry because, firstly, there is a third party involved. If it were only about Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan, I would be much more hopeful that the conflict can be contained," he said.

DEAD AND WOUNDED

The death toll has risen further, meanwhile. Nagorno-Karabakh officials said 542 servicemen had been killed so far, up 17 from Monday.

Azerbaijan has reported 42 Azeri civilian deaths and 206 wounded since Sept. 27. It has not disclosed military casualties.

Martin Schuepp, Eurasia regional director for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), said his organisation was in "continuous discussions" to facilitate the handover of detainees or bodies of those killed.

But the security situation meant "it has not been possible for us to access all locations that might have been affected," Schuepp said.

The conflict is also worsening the spread of COVID-19, World Health Organisation spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told a United Nations briefing in Geneva.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/azerbaijan-armenia-conflict-the-human-cost-of-war-in-pictures-333182">Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict: The human cost of war in pictures</a>

Armenia's new cases had doubled over the past 14 days as of Monday, while new infections were up approximately 80% over the past week in Azerbaijan, Jasarevic said. He warned of "direct disruption to health care and a further burden on health systems that are already stretched during the COVID pandemic."

With tens of thousands of people potentially needing help in coming months, the ICRC is appealing for another 9.2 million Swiss francs ($10.10 million) to fund its humanitarian efforts in the region, Schuepp said.

Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other on Tuesday of violating a ceasefire agreed three days ago to quell fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, drawing warnings from international groups of a humanitarian crisis in the region.

Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other on Tuesday of violating a ceasefire agreed three days ago to quell fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, drawing warnings from international groups of a humanitarian crisis in the region. The Russia-brokered truce is buckling despite mounting calls from world powers to halt the fighting, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the Minsk Group security watchdog among those urging greater commitment to the ceasefire terms. Also read: Nagorno-Karabakh truce frays; Russia appeals for peace A Reuters cameraman witnessed shelling in the town of Martuni in Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountain enclave which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but governed and populated by ethnic Armenians. A Reuters television crew in Terter in Azerbaijan also said the city centre was being shelled earlier on Tuesday. Azerbaijan accused Armenian forces of "grossly violating the humanitarian truce", which was agreed on Saturday to allow the sides to swap prisoners and bodies of those killed.. Defence ministry spokesman Vagif Dargiahly said Armenia was shelling the Azeri territories of Goranboy and Aghdam, as well as Terter. Azeri forces were not violating the truce, he added. Armenian defence ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan denied the accusation. She said Azeri forces had resumed military operations after an overnight lull, "supported by active artillery fire in the southern, northern, northeastern and eastern directions". The fighting which erupted on Sept. 27, is the worst since a 1991-94 war over Nagorno-Karabakh that killed about 30,000. It is being closely watched abroad, not only due to its proximity to Azeri energy pipelines to Europe but also because of fears that Russia and Turkey could be drawn in. Russia has a defence pact with Armenia and Turkey is allied with Azerbaijan. "CATASTROPHIC CONSEQUENCES" The Minsk Group called on the Armenian and Azeri leaders to immediately implement the ceasefire to prevent "catastrophic consequences for the region". The 11-member group includes both Russia and Turkey, but the latter is not involved in the Nagorno-Karabakh talks. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu suggested holding talks that would include Turkey. Ceasefire demands were "reasonable", according to Cavusoglu, but he said the international community should ask Armenia to withdraw from Azeri territory. "Sadly no such call is being made," he told reporters. Also read: Extremely concerned over civilian casualties in Nagorno-Karabakh: EU Influential Turkish politician Devlet Bahceli, whose party supports President Erdogan's AKP in parliament, took a more belligerent note, telling Azerbaijan to secure Nagorno-Karabakh by "hitting Armenia over the head over and over again". While Turkey denies military involvement in Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian told Germany's Bild newspaper Ankara's behaviour was worrying. "I worry because, firstly, there is a third party involved. If it were only about Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan, I would be much more hopeful that the conflict can be contained," he said. DEAD AND WOUNDED The death toll has risen further, meanwhile. Nagorno-Karabakh officials said 542 servicemen had been killed so far, up 17 from Monday. Azerbaijan has reported 42 Azeri civilian deaths and 206 wounded since Sept. 27. It has not disclosed military casualties. Martin Schuepp, Eurasia regional director for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), said his organisation was in "continuous discussions" to facilitate the handover of detainees or bodies of those killed. But the security situation meant "it has not been possible for us to access all locations that might have been affected," Schuepp said. The conflict is also worsening the spread of COVID-19, World Health Organisation spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told a United Nations briefing in Geneva. In Pics: Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict: The human cost of war in pictures Armenia's new cases had doubled over the past 14 days as of Monday, while new infections were up approximately 80% over the past week in Azerbaijan, Jasarevic said. He warned of "direct disruption to health care and a further burden on health systems that are already stretched during the COVID pandemic." With tens of thousands of people potentially needing help in coming months, the ICRC is appealing for another 9.2 million Swiss francs ($10.10 million) to fund its humanitarian efforts in the region, Schuepp said.

Humanitarian crisis feared as Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire buckles

Azerbaijan and Armenia are fighting over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Even civilian facilities are under attack, and the Moscow-mediated peace deal is on the verge of collapse.&nbsp;

Is a war now inevitable between the two former Soviet Republics?

Nagorno-Karabakh has been laid to waste by the fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia. On paper, the two sides have agreed to a ceasefire, but the reality is far-off, with the fragile truce on the verge of collapsing.

“We believed in the ceasefire. We believed that this will not happen, that is why they returned home. They wouldn't return if a ceasefire was not established. They were scared. Everybody was scared. Who would have wanted this?”, a Ganja resident, Vesile Mehmedova said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/reports-of-new-armenia-azerbaijan-clashes-dent-ceasefire-hopes-334643" hreflang="en">Reports of new Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes dent ceasefire hopes</a>

On Friday, after 11 hours of marathon talks in Moscow - Azerbaijan and Armenia agreed to a humanitarian ceasefire. They were to exchange bodies and prisoners of war. But over the weekend - fighting erupted again.

Armenia called for Nagorno-Karabakh's independence, while Azerbaijan decried the lack of pressure on Armenia.

Both sides are trading accusations of air strikes, shelling, and targeting civilian facilities. Eye-witnesses in Karabakh reported blasts in the regional capital, which were allegedly carried out by Azerbaijan.

Baku has admitted launching air strikes on Armenian troops. But they deny firing the first shot. Armenia is accused of firing missiles at Ganja - the second largest city in Azerbaijan. Reportedly, Armenian missiles hit a residential building, killing 9 civilians and injuring more than 30.

The attack, Azerbaijan claims - shows the true face of Armenia.

“Ganja city is more than 100 kilometres away from the scene of military operations. What was the reason to attack the city? What was the reason to attack Mingechevir city of Azerbaijan? There is no military targets. It doesn't have the necessity, in no way it can be justified from the military necessity. But what we see here is just Armenia's purpose to kill civilians”, Azerbaijan's presidential aide, Hikmet Hajiyev said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/armenia-and-azerbaijan-accuse-each-other-of-violating-fragile-truce-334365" hreflang="en">Armenia and Azerbaijan accuse each other of violating 'fragile' truce</a>

Armenia has rejected these allegations, but the evidence including CCTV footage is stacked up against them.

Nearly 500 lives have been lost in the fight so far, including 60 civilians. The ceasefire was supposed to offer both sides some breathing space. Instead, the fighting has intensified.

So what’s next in Nagorno-Karabakh?

Russia was hailed as the last hope. But the peace effort is teetering.

Turkey is blaming Russia for it, asking Moscow to exert more pressure on Armenia. Increased foreign meddling has only escalated the situation until now. The talks in Moscow offered a brief window of resolution. But in 48 hours, that window has been firmly shut.

Azerbaijan and Armenia are back on the brink of war.

Azerbaijan and Armenia are fighting over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Even civilian facilities are under attack, and the Moscow-mediated peace deal is on the verge of collapse.

Azerbaijan and Armenia are fighting over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Even civilian facilities are under attack, and the Moscow-mediated peace deal is on the verge of collapse. Is a war now inevitable between the two former Soviet Republics? Nagorno-Karabakh has been laid to waste by the fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia. On paper, the two sides have agreed to a ceasefire, but the reality is far-off, with the fragile truce on the verge of collapsing. “We believed in the ceasefire. We believed that this will not happen, that is why they returned home. They wouldn't return if a ceasefire was not established. They were scared. Everybody was scared. Who would have wanted this?”, a Ganja resident, Vesile Mehmedova said. Also read: Reports of new Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes dent ceasefire hopes On Friday, after 11 hours of marathon talks in Moscow - Azerbaijan and Armenia agreed to a humanitarian ceasefire. They were to exchange bodies and prisoners of war. But over the weekend - fighting erupted again. Armenia called for Nagorno-Karabakh's independence, while Azerbaijan decried the lack of pressure on Armenia. Both sides are trading accusations of air strikes, shelling, and targeting civilian facilities. Eye-witnesses in Karabakh reported blasts in the regional capital, which were allegedly carried out by Azerbaijan. Baku has admitted launching air strikes on Armenian troops. But they deny firing the first shot. Armenia is accused of firing missiles at Ganja - the second largest city in Azerbaijan. Reportedly, Armenian missiles hit a residential building, killing 9 civilians and injuring more than 30. The attack, Azerbaijan claims - shows the true face of Armenia. “Ganja city is more than 100 kilometres away from the scene of military operations. What was the reason to attack the city? What was the reason to attack Mingechevir city of Azerbaijan? There is no military targets. It doesn't have the necessity, in no way it can be justified from the military necessity. But what we see here is just Armenia's purpose to kill civilians”, Azerbaijan's presidential aide, Hikmet Hajiyev said. Also read: Armenia and Azerbaijan accuse each other of violating 'fragile' truce Armenia has rejected these allegations, but the evidence including CCTV footage is stacked up against them. Nearly 500 lives have been lost in the fight so far, including 60 civilians. The ceasefire was supposed to offer both sides some breathing space. Instead, the fighting has intensified. So what’s next in Nagorno-Karabakh? Russia was hailed as the last hope. But the peace effort is teetering. Turkey is blaming Russia for it, asking Moscow to exert more pressure on Armenia. Increased foreign meddling has only escalated the situation until now. The talks in Moscow offered a brief window of resolution. But in 48 hours, that window has been firmly shut. Azerbaijan and Armenia are back on the brink of war.

Azerbaijan-Armenia: Back on the brink of war

George Clooney who is gearing up for the next space saga ' The Midnight Sky', recently revealed why he had to work again on the movie script after he learned about Felicity Jones pregnancy.&nbsp; 
 
The 59-year-old actor said in an interview, when they were on their early stage of the production and two-three week into shooting,&nbsp;and at that time actress called him to deliver the good news.&nbsp; 
 
''About three or four weeks into shooting, I got a call from Felicity,'' he said. ''We started shooting the Iceland parts in October of last year, and we were going to shoot the space parts in January. She calls me and goes, 'Uhhh, I'm pregnant'. I was like, 'Oh, s**t! You're kidding!''.&nbsp; 
 
''The first thing we tried to do was shoot her and just do the head replacement. Meaning we shoot each scene with her three times: once with her, once with a body double, and once with nothing in it, '' Clooney explained. 
 
George went on, and added, The first thing we tried to do was shoot her and just do the head replacement. Meaning we shoot each scene with her three times: once with her, once with a body double, and once with nothing in it. But we started looking at it and thought, ‘She’s not comfortable in this sort of thing'', &nbsp;he says. 
 
''Then it was simply sitting down and going, 'Okay, so, you know, people have sex! They're going to be in space for a long time and she’s pregnant''. ''I think it ends up adding to the story, in away. It makes it kind of beautiful by the end.'' George added. 
 
A few days back, Clooney released his new look,&nbsp;and some pictures from the movie. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/in-pics-george-clooneys-not-so-70s-look-from-netflix-upcoming-space-saga-the-midnight-sky-330655">You can see the first look pics here!</a> 
 
The movie is based on a novel published in 2016 titled 'Good Morning, Midnight' by Lily Brooks-Dalton. The upcoming movie will be released in December 2020 on Netflix.&nbsp;

George Clooney who is gearing up for the next space saga ' The Midnight Sky', recently revealed why he had to work again on the movie script after he learned about Felicity Jones pregnancy.

George Clooney who is gearing up for the next space saga ' The Midnight Sky', recently revealed why he had to work again on the movie script after he learned about Felicity Jones pregnancy. The 59-year-old actor said in an interview, when they were on their early stage of the production and two-three week into shooting, and at that time actress called him to deliver the good news. ''About three or four weeks into shooting, I got a call from Felicity,'' he said. ''We started shooting the Iceland parts in October of last year, and we were going to shoot the space parts in January. She calls me and goes, 'Uhhh, I'm pregnant'. I was like, 'Oh, s**t! You're kidding!''. ''The first thing we tried to do was shoot her and just do the head replacement. Meaning we shoot each scene with her three times: once with her, once with a body double, and once with nothing in it, '' Clooney explained. George went on, and added, The first thing we tried to do was shoot her and just do the head replacement. Meaning we shoot each scene with her three times: once with her, once with a body double, and once with nothing in it. But we started looking at it and thought, ‘She’s not comfortable in this sort of thing'', he says. ''Then it was simply sitting down and going, 'Okay, so, you know, people have sex! They're going to be in space for a long time and she’s pregnant''. ''I think it ends up adding to the story, in away. It makes it kind of beautiful by the end.'' George added. A few days back, Clooney released his new look, and some pictures from the movie. You can see the first look pics here! The movie is based on a novel published in 2016 titled 'Good Morning, Midnight' by Lily Brooks-Dalton. The upcoming movie will be released in December 2020 on Netflix.

Azerbaijan accuses Armenia of bombing another city, escalating conflict

Armenia has expressed readiness to work with international mediators to establish a ceasefire with Azerbaijan over the breakaway Nagorny-Karabakh region.

Armenia: Ready for peace talks

Armenia and Azerbaijan are on the brink of war. This threatens to disrupt oil and gas supply to Europe. Armenia and Azerbaijan were both part of Soviet Russia and now they are neighbours. They've been fighting over a region called Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan is a country with Muslim majority while Armenia has Christians. The disputed region has ethnic Armenians but it's seen as part of Azerbaijan. Hostilities escalated almost a week ago.

Azerbaijan's army is firing artillery shells at Armenia. Missiles are taking down drones. The pictures ane footages obtained from Agdam area inside the conflict zone give us an idea of how serious the situation is. There is a risk of a major conflict at the crossroads of Asia and Europe.

On Friday, Armenian President Dr Armen Sarkissian told WION that Turkey was the creator of this conflict.

What is Armenia-Azerbaijan clash all about?

Nagorno-Karabakh is a region four times the size of Delhi. It falls in Azerbaijan but Armenia stakes claim on it. Nagorno-Karabach has been part of Azerbaijan's territory since the Soviet era and that's how the world recognises it today.

This region has been under de-facto Armenian control since the early 1990s. The territory itself declared independence from Azerbaijan in 1991. Armenia supported the region politically and militarily. But it hasn't recognised Nagorno-Karabakh as an independent. Both countries have fought over this region for nearly a century now. 30 thousand people died between 1991 and 1994.&nbsp;

In 1994, Russia brokered a ceasefire. It was violated In the years that followed. There was a sporadic exchange of fire.

But the current flare-up is more serious. It began on September 27. Both countries have proclaimed Martial Law.

Reports say, it began when Azerbaijan tried to reclaim some territories that are in Armenian hands. The fighting hasn't stopped and both sides have refused to hold a dialogue to end hostilities.

There are two reasons why this can be dangerous to the world.

One, the conflict can become a proxy battle for Turkey and Russia

Two, This conflict could disrupt crucial oil and gas supplies. The conflict is getting worldwide attention because of Russia and Turkey's involvement. The Russians back Armenia while Turkey supports Azerbaijan.&nbsp;

Turkish President Erdogan is even raising the spectre of war while the world is appealing both nations to ceae hostilities.

Erdogan has called Armenians invaders. He even said that if Azerbaijan wanted to fight, Turkey would support it.

"As a matter of fact, the clashes that began with the attacks on Azerbaijan by Armenians who occupy Nagorno-Karabakh, is a concrete example of this (the potential of a new flare-up in Caucasus). Once again, I would like to reiterate from here that we stand by our Azeri brothers in their fight to liberate their occupied lands and protect their homeland," said Erdogan.

Russia and Turkey have found each other on opposite sides again. Both countries already support rival factions in Syria and Libya.

The fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh could also hit regional oil and gas supplies Two key gas pipelines pass through the conflict zone.

The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan crude pipeline is Azerbaijan's main oil artery to world markets. The South Caucasus gas pipeline supplies to Turkey and European countries. If the fighting continues there could be disruptions. &nbsp;

The conflict between the two countries is often referred to as a 'frozen conflict'. We are witnessing worst fighting in decades. Global concerns are mounting. Risk of a full-blown war now looks real.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are on the brink of war. This threatens to disrupt oil and gas supply to Europe. Armenia and Azerbaijan were both part of Soviet Russia and now they are neighbours.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are on the brink of war. This threatens to disrupt oil and gas supply to Europe. Armenia and Azerbaijan were both part of Soviet Russia and now they are neighbours. They've been fighting over a region called Nagorno-Karabakh. Azerbaijan is a country with Muslim majority while Armenia has Christians. The disputed region has ethnic Armenians but it's seen as part of Azerbaijan. Hostilities escalated almost a week ago. Azerbaijan's army is firing artillery shells at Armenia. Missiles are taking down drones. The pictures ane footages obtained from Agdam area inside the conflict zone give us an idea of how serious the situation is. There is a risk of a major conflict at the crossroads of Asia and Europe. On Friday, Armenian President Dr Armen Sarkissian told WION that Turkey was the creator of this conflict. What is Armenia-Azerbaijan clash all about? Nagorno-Karabakh is a region four times the size of Delhi. It falls in Azerbaijan but Armenia stakes claim on it. Nagorno-Karabach has been part of Azerbaijan's territory since the Soviet era and that's how the world recognises it today. This region has been under de-facto Armenian control since the early 1990s. The territory itself declared independence from Azerbaijan in 1991. Armenia supported the region politically and militarily. But it hasn't recognised Nagorno-Karabakh as an independent. Both countries have fought over this region for nearly a century now. 30 thousand people died between 1991 and 1994. In 1994, Russia brokered a ceasefire. It was violated In the years that followed. There was a sporadic exchange of fire. But the current flare-up is more serious. It began on September 27. Both countries have proclaimed Martial Law. Reports say, it began when Azerbaijan tried to reclaim some territories that are in Armenian hands. The fighting hasn't stopped and both sides have refused to hold a dialogue to end hostilities. There are two reasons why this can be dangerous to the world. One, the conflict can become a proxy battle for Turkey and Russia Two, This conflict could disrupt crucial oil and gas supplies. The conflict is getting worldwide attention because of Russia and Turkey's involvement. The Russians back Armenia while Turkey supports Azerbaijan. Turkish President Erdogan is even raising the spectre of war while the world is appealing both nations to ceae hostilities. Erdogan has called Armenians invaders. He even said that if Azerbaijan wanted to fight, Turkey would support it. "As a matter of fact, the clashes that began with the attacks on Azerbaijan by Armenians who occupy Nagorno-Karabakh, is a concrete example of this (the potential of a new flare-up in Caucasus). Once again, I would like to reiterate from here that we stand by our Azeri brothers in their fight to liberate their occupied lands and protect their homeland," said Erdogan. Russia and Turkey have found each other on opposite sides again. Both countries already support rival factions in Syria and Libya. The fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh could also hit regional oil and gas supplies Two key gas pipelines pass through the conflict zone. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan crude pipeline is Azerbaijan's main oil artery to world markets. The South Caucasus gas pipeline supplies to Turkey and European countries. If the fighting continues there could be disruptions. The conflict between the two countries is often referred to as a 'frozen conflict'. We are witnessing worst fighting in decades. Global concerns are mounting. Risk of a full-blown war now looks real.

Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict can threaten oil supply in the region

In a first for the Russian Navy, an all-female navy crew carried out patrols on the Black Sea on Friday (July 10) in preparation for Russia's Navy Day celebrations later this month.

All-female crew embarks on Black Sea patrol in first for Russian Navy

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

While less than the almost $10 billion sought by U.N. agencies, the pledges were higher than expected, given the economic shock of COVID-19 on many governments and shortfalls in other aid appeals, notably for Yemen this month.

"We recognise that the circumstances are very unusual, it is a difficult moment in every country to find the resources necessary to relieve the suffering of the Syrian people," U.N. aid chief Mark Lowcock said after the virtual donor conference by some 60 governments and non-official agencies.

Pledges came from countries including Qatar, which has promised $100 million, and Germany, which offered 1.58 billion euros ($1.78 billion) in what Berlin said was the single biggest country donation.

"POLITICAL SOLUTION"

The United Nations, which last year raised $7 billion, said this year it needs $3.8 billion for aid inside Syria where 11 million people require help and protection, with more than 9.3 million of them lacking adequate food.

Another $6.04 billion is sought to help the 6.6 million Syrians who have fled, in what is the world's biggest refugee crisis.

U.N. officials will still press for more pledges throughout the year, and have time as the money is split between 2020 and 2021.

Adding to Syrians' hardship, an economic slump and COVID-19 lockdown have pushed food prices more than 200% higher in less than a year, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).

According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, there have only been 269 confirmed coronavirus cases, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the real situation is probably far worse and the number of infections likely to accelerate.

Rebuilding destroyed cities will take billions of dollars more and cannot start until powers involved back a peaceful transition away from the rule of President Bashar al-Assad, EU governments say.

"We finally need a political solution to the conflict," said German Development Minister Gerd Muller.

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis.

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis. While less than the almost $10 billion sought by U.N. agencies, the pledges were higher than expected, given the economic shock of COVID-19 on many governments and shortfalls in other aid appeals, notably for Yemen this month. "We recognise that the circumstances are very unusual, it is a difficult moment in every country to find the resources necessary to relieve the suffering of the Syrian people," U.N. aid chief Mark Lowcock said after the virtual donor conference by some 60 governments and non-official agencies. Pledges came from countries including Qatar, which has promised $100 million, and Germany, which offered 1.58 billion euros ($1.78 billion) in what Berlin said was the single biggest country donation. "POLITICAL SOLUTION" The United Nations, which last year raised $7 billion, said this year it needs $3.8 billion for aid inside Syria where 11 million people require help and protection, with more than 9.3 million of them lacking adequate food. Another $6.04 billion is sought to help the 6.6 million Syrians who have fled, in what is the world's biggest refugee crisis. U.N. officials will still press for more pledges throughout the year, and have time as the money is split between 2020 and 2021. Adding to Syrians' hardship, an economic slump and COVID-19 lockdown have pushed food prices more than 200% higher in less than a year, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, there have only been 269 confirmed coronavirus cases, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the real situation is probably far worse and the number of infections likely to accelerate. Rebuilding destroyed cities will take billions of dollars more and cannot start until powers involved back a peaceful transition away from the rule of President Bashar al-Assad, EU governments say. "We finally need a political solution to the conflict," said German Development Minister Gerd Muller.

UN raises $7.7 billion for Syrians beset by war and COVID-19

Indian state Maharashtra’s cyber department published a report and issued a warning alongside it on June 23 claiming that threats of cyber attacks originating in China loomed large.

Additionally, it said that over the last week, over 40,000 attacks targetted sites that hoard sensitive information in the state. These include government records of infrastructure, and bank details.

However, the state body added that none of these infiltrations were successful. The police said urged users on the internet to exercise caution and to audit their systems regularly, given the strenuous relationship between China and India in the aftermath of the Galwan valley violence which killed 20 Indian soldiers in action.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/strong-dissatisfaction-at-us-smearing-china-on-alleged-coronavirus-vaccine-hacking-298645" hreflang="en">Strong dissatisfaction at US smearing: China on alleged coronavirus vaccine hacking</a>

Yet, the state officials added that the hackers have in their possession a database of over 20 lakh Indian email IDs.

Given the severity of the border conflict, a warning was issued by the central government. A report from June 18 revealed that China is hosting multiple DDOS (distributed denial of service) attacks against Indian information websites, and payment gateways, which could jeopardise a lot of data.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-edit-date-theft-hacking-what-are-the-solutions-258899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the Maharashtra Cyber Department, exactly 40,300 cyber attacks were initiated over the last week.

As part of these coordinated attacks, hackers attempted to trespass protective measures to prevent data leakage. The targets were major government websites, banking systems, and ATMs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/whatsapp-sues-israeli-firm-over-deep-involvement-in-hacking-phones-295571" hreflang="en">WhatsApp sues Israeli firm over 'deep involvement' in hacking phones</a>

When the cyber department tracked these attacks, it led them to Chengdu, a city in Central China. The imperative detail here is that China’s People’s Liberation Army’s Unit 61398 is stationed in the city, and is known for its cyber warfare tactics.

India is one of many&nbsp;victims of such Chinese aggression. Reportedly, Australia also reported a major attack on its administrative services and political organisations last month. This came in the backdrop of Australia seeking an international review of China’s role in the spread of coronavirus, and its alleged negligence. Following this, China imposed tariffs on Australian exports of beef and barley.

Earlier, Indian agencies put out a warning stating an attack could take place, posing as “free coronavirus tests”.

Indian state Maharashtra’s cyber department published a report and issued a warning alongside it on June 23 claiming that threats of cyber attacks originating in China loomed large.

Indian state Maharashtra’s cyber department published a report and issued a warning alongside it on June 23 claiming that threats of cyber attacks originating in China loomed large. Additionally, it said that over the last week, over 40,000 attacks targetted sites that hoard sensitive information in the state. These include government records of infrastructure, and bank details. However, the state body added that none of these infiltrations were successful. The police said urged users on the internet to exercise caution and to audit their systems regularly, given the strenuous relationship between China and India in the aftermath of the Galwan valley violence which killed 20 Indian soldiers in action. Also read: Strong dissatisfaction at US smearing: China on alleged coronavirus vaccine hacking Yet, the state officials added that the hackers have in their possession a database of over 20 lakh Indian email IDs. Given the severity of the border conflict, a warning was issued by the central government. A report from June 18 revealed that China is hosting multiple DDOS (distributed denial of service) attacks against Indian information websites, and payment gateways, which could jeopardise a lot of data. According to the Maharashtra Cyber Department, exactly 40,300 cyber attacks were initiated over the last week. As part of these coordinated attacks, hackers attempted to trespass protective measures to prevent data leakage. The targets were major government websites, banking systems, and ATMs. Also read: WhatsApp sues Israeli firm over 'deep involvement' in hacking phones When the cyber department tracked these attacks, it led them to Chengdu, a city in Central China. The imperative detail here is that China’s People’s Liberation Army’s Unit 61398 is stationed in the city, and is known for its cyber warfare tactics. India is one of many victims of such Chinese aggression. Reportedly, Australia also reported a major attack on its administrative services and political organisations last month. This came in the backdrop of Australia seeking an international review of China’s role in the spread of coronavirus, and its alleged negligence. Following this, China imposed tariffs on Australian exports of beef and barley. Earlier, Indian agencies put out a warning stating an attack could take place, posing as “free coronavirus tests”.

Maharashtra reports over 40,000 cyber attacks originating in China over the last week

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents.&nbsp;

The Taliban, fighting to reintroduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government.

“Recent attacks by terrorist groups and the Taliban have hurt the peace process and it is condemnable," Afghan Presidential Palace spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told a news conference.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-killed-291-afghan-security-personnel-in-past-week-307669" hreflang="en">Taliban killed 291 Afghan security personnel in past week</a>

There was a sharp reduction in violence following the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr last month, which officials hoped would pave the way for talks.

However, the past week has been alarming for Afghan officials with more than 400 Taliban attacks nationwide killing 291 security force members, Javid Faisal, spokesman for the government’s National Security Council, said on Monday.

“The Taliban's actions are inconsistent with their rhetoric on peace,” he said.

The main hurdle remaining for the launch of peace talks is disagreement over the release of few hundred Taliban prisoners involved in high-profile attacks against civilians.&nbsp;

Afghan officials say they believe the upsurge in violence is because the Taliban want to push the government to release those prisoners and have the upper hand in future talks.

The Taliban deny that they have stepped up attacks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-releases-14-hostages-amid-prisoner-release-agreement-307671" hreflang="en">Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement</a>

A senior government official said talks which could have started this month were likely to be delayed once again because of the spike in attacks.&nbsp;

The northeastern province of Takhar had been hit particularly hard by violence in the last few days, with attacks on security checkpoints and an explosion at a religious school in which seven students died.

Nevertheless, peacemaking efforts were continuing. The U.N. Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Deborah Lyons, met in recent days with the Taliban’s deputy leader Mullah Baradar in the Qatari capital Doha.

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents.

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents. The Taliban, fighting to reintroduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government. “Recent attacks by terrorist groups and the Taliban have hurt the peace process and it is condemnable," Afghan Presidential Palace spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told a news conference. Also read: Taliban killed 291 Afghan security personnel in past week There was a sharp reduction in violence following the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr last month, which officials hoped would pave the way for talks. However, the past week has been alarming for Afghan officials with more than 400 Taliban attacks nationwide killing 291 security force members, Javid Faisal, spokesman for the government’s National Security Council, said on Monday. “The Taliban's actions are inconsistent with their rhetoric on peace,” he said. The main hurdle remaining for the launch of peace talks is disagreement over the release of few hundred Taliban prisoners involved in high-profile attacks against civilians. Afghan officials say they believe the upsurge in violence is because the Taliban want to push the government to release those prisoners and have the upper hand in future talks. The Taliban deny that they have stepped up attacks. Also read: Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement A senior government official said talks which could have started this month were likely to be delayed once again because of the spike in attacks. The northeastern province of Takhar had been hit particularly hard by violence in the last few days, with attacks on security checkpoints and an explosion at a religious school in which seven students died. Nevertheless, peacemaking efforts were continuing. The U.N. Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Deborah Lyons, met in recent days with the Taliban’s deputy leader Mullah Baradar in the Qatari capital Doha.

Hundreds killed in further Taliban attacks with peace talks ahead

After the altercation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between China and India which caused casualties on both the sides, India needs to come up with strategic ways to counter China’s aggression.

Increased counter-activity

India could increase its operations in the Strait of Malacca and the region around Indian Ocean.&nbsp;The Strait of Malacca is a narrow waterway between the Malay peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It accounts for nearly 80 per cent of Chinese oil imports.

Experts say an increase in Indian activities in this region could disturb Chinese moves on the LAC.&nbsp;However, India will require the support of countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Calling out abuses

India has the second-largest population of Muslims in the world.But China in collusion with Pakistan has constantly questioned India’s secular credentials.&nbsp;The country has made Kashmir a flashpoint at global platforms constantly, and has historically sided with Pakistan.

All this while China commits human rights crimes in its own territories. India must stand up resolutely against human rights violations of the Uighur Muslims.

Xinjiang is the most policed area in China, where the country is running concentration camps in the garb of re-education centres.

Go local!

Additionally, the calls to go local could reap benefits. But boycotting Chinese companies may not be the immediate solution. However, India can take small steps for large-term gains.

A Chinese mobile company, Vivo has retained the rights for the upcoming seasons of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;It won a bid of over $310 million to sponsor the IPL till 2022. The BCCI should take the lead and look for sponsors other than the Chinese.

India could capitalise on the Chinese regime’s weakness, including the backlash it faced for its handling of the COVID-19 crisis.

In the aftermath, a number of companies are shifting base from China. India could attract investments from such companies.&nbsp;Both the countries have similar things to offer, lots of land and a trained, low-cost labour force.

India, additionally, could revive the issue of Tibet by reviewing the Dalai Lama's official status and treating him at par with other heads of states.

After the altercation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between China and India which caused casualties on both the sides, India needs to come up with strategic ways to counter China’s aggression.

After the altercation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between China and India which caused casualties on both the sides, India needs to come up with strategic ways to counter China’s aggression. Increased counter-activity India could increase its operations in the Strait of Malacca and the region around Indian Ocean. The Strait of Malacca is a narrow waterway between the Malay peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It accounts for nearly 80 per cent of Chinese oil imports. Experts say an increase in Indian activities in this region could disturb Chinese moves on the LAC. However, India will require the support of countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Calling out abuses India has the second-largest population of Muslims in the world.But China in collusion with Pakistan has constantly questioned India’s secular credentials. The country has made Kashmir a flashpoint at global platforms constantly, and has historically sided with Pakistan. All this while China commits human rights crimes in its own territories. India must stand up resolutely against human rights violations of the Uighur Muslims. Xinjiang is the most policed area in China, where the country is running concentration camps in the garb of re-education centres. Go local! Additionally, the calls to go local could reap benefits. But boycotting Chinese companies may not be the immediate solution. However, India can take small steps for large-term gains. A Chinese mobile company, Vivo has retained the rights for the upcoming seasons of the Indian Premier League. It won a bid of over $310 million to sponsor the IPL till 2022. The BCCI should take the lead and look for sponsors other than the Chinese. India could capitalise on the Chinese regime’s weakness, including the backlash it faced for its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. In the aftermath, a number of companies are shifting base from China. India could attract investments from such companies. Both the countries have similar things to offer, lots of land and a trained, low-cost labour force. India, additionally, could revive the issue of Tibet by reviewing the Dalai Lama's official status and treating him at par with other heads of states.

Strategies India could undertake to counter Chinese aggressions

Australian officials and leading universities on Wednesday rejected China's claims students should be "cautious" in choosing to study Down Under because of concerns over racist incidents during the coronavirus pandemic.

China had&nbsp;urged its citizens currently studying or planning to study abroad to exercise caution while considering Australia as their destination.

The advisory was the latest in an escalating dispute between Beijing and Canberra that was deepened by&nbsp;Australia's call for an independent inquiry into the origin and handling of the coronavirus in central China last year.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-citizens-against-studying-in-racist-australia-304516">China warns citizens against studying in 'racist' Australia</a>

To make its point, China referred to a series of racist incidents that targeted Asians in Australia, especially in the backdrop of COVID-19.

Australian Education Minister Dan Tehan hit back Wednesday, saying the country was a multicultural society that welcomed international visitors.

"Our success at flattening the curve means we are one of the safest countries in the world for international students to be based in right now," he said in a statement.

"We reject China's assertion that&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;is an unsafe destination for international students."

Racism toward Asians has reportedly increased during the pandemic, with the New South Wales anti-discrimination commission saying instances included people being bullied for wearing a face mask, spat at and harassed in public, and racist language written across cars and private property.

Australian universities are already facing massive losses as an indefinite coronavirus border closure locks out the foreign students who pump billions of dollars a year into the sector.

Beijing's travel advice was largely symbolic but could interfere with a proposal to create a "secure corridor" for overseas students to return to&nbsp;Australia.

Education is&nbsp;Australia's fourth-largest export -- behind iron ore, coal and natural gas --&nbsp;with more than 500,000 international students enrolled last year, bringing about Aus$37 billion into the economy.

Australian officials and leading universities on Wednesday rejected China's claims students should be "cautious" in choosing to study Down Under because of concerns over racist incidents during the coronavirus pandemic.

Australian officials and leading universities on Wednesday rejected China's claims students should be "cautious" in choosing to study Down Under because of concerns over racist incidents during the coronavirus pandemic. China had urged its citizens currently studying or planning to study abroad to exercise caution while considering Australia as their destination. The advisory was the latest in an escalating dispute between Beijing and Canberra that was deepened by Australia's call for an independent inquiry into the origin and handling of the coronavirus in central China last year. Also read: China warns citizens against studying in 'racist' Australia To make its point, China referred to a series of racist incidents that targeted Asians in Australia, especially in the backdrop of COVID-19. Australian Education Minister Dan Tehan hit back Wednesday, saying the country was a multicultural society that welcomed international visitors. "Our success at flattening the curve means we are one of the safest countries in the world for international students to be based in right now," he said in a statement. "We reject China's assertion that Australia is an unsafe destination for international students." Racism toward Asians has reportedly increased during the pandemic, with the New South Wales anti-discrimination commission saying instances included people being bullied for wearing a face mask, spat at and harassed in public, and racist language written across cars and private property. Australian universities are already facing massive losses as an indefinite coronavirus border closure locks out the foreign students who pump billions of dollars a year into the sector. Beijing's travel advice was largely symbolic but could interfere with a proposal to create a "secure corridor" for overseas students to return to Australia. Education is Australia's fourth-largest export -- behind iron ore, coal and natural gas -- with more than 500,000 international students enrolled last year, bringing about Aus$37 billion into the economy.

Australia rejects China's racism warning to students, assures safety

A force to reckon with or a paper dragon? A question aimed at understanding the so-called might of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Tonight, this army is retreating from the border in Ladakh.

A force to reckon with or a paper dragon? A question aimed at understanding the so-called might of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Tonight, this army is retreating from the border in Ladakh. And the question becomes all the more significant. Does the PLA live up to the eulogizing reports by the Chinese state media? Is their ground enough for the hyperbole and hubris around its capabilities? It is the largest military force in the world. It has the second-largest defence budget in the world and it's under the absolute control of the Chinese communist party. The People's Liberation Army has grown more assertive during this pandemic. It is militarizing disputed islands in the South China sea, it is intensifying pressure on Taiwan and is attempting to grab territories at the India-China border. But lost in the hyperbole of its might and technological prowess is a sense of perspective. The PLA continues to be plagued by enduring weaknesses. The conscription challenge Technically the military service is mandatory for all Chinese citizens. The practice of conscription is held high even in the Chinese constitution. But the conscription cycle comes with its own set of challenges. The PLA is said to rely on approximately 800,000 conscripts that have to serve for a period of two years. Each conscript is trained for 90 days along with 15 days of political indoctrination. Due to this policy, the forces lose 20 to 35 per cent of their combat power for a period of three to four months annually. It recruits heavily but fails to retain professionals. Professionalism of recruits The second big challenge is recruiting and retaining qualified personnel. China's army recruits a higher number of poor youth from rural backgrounds. They join for the perks. The educated city dwellers tend to leave. Experts blame the one-child policy for this. A policy which is said to produce pampered children who cannot withstand military discipline. When in the army, they're dissatisfied the post-service perks are few. This weakens the force by depriving it of high-quality professionals. Civilian oversight The PLA is characterized by extremely weak civilian control. There's an almost total absence of civilian oversight. The only civilian in the military's chain of command is said to be the chairman of China's Central Military Commission President Xi Jinping himself. This leads to rampant corruption and allows the PLA to demand and spend its budget without accountability. There is no discussion or debate over the levels of allocations funding or PLA strategies in the National People's Congress. Operational initiative The CCP doesn't allow decision making at lower levels. It's the same with the PLA. This prevents the front-line commanders from taking initiative. It hinders soldiers from responding quickly to developments. The result is confusion and frustration at lower levels as troops await decisions from above. Insufficient training The videos don't tell the real story, they gloss over the fact that China's soldiers undergo insufficient training in conditions that are not challenging enough. Military exercises are not seen as a chance to identify problems. The aim is to always succeed. This reduces military training into opportunities to impress superiors. A few headlines give a preview to what it is. The military's orienteering team was disqualified for cheating at the military world games held in China last year and in 2015, Chinese troops as part of a UN peacekeeping force in Sudan are said to have fled the battlefield rather than engage in combat. This is the People's Liberation Army, burdened with organizational problems and riddled with inefficiencies. Neither perfect nor invincible.

Reasons why China's People's Liberation Army is not invincible

Chinese fighter jets briefly entered Taiwan's airspace on Tuesday, forcing the island to scramble its fighters, the same day Taipei announced plans for its largest annual live-fire military drill. 
 
The Taiwanese defence ministry said it broadcast warnings and "took active responses to dispel" multiple Chinese Su-30 fighters to the southwest of the island. 
 
The incursion came as the ministry announced that the "Han Kuang" live-fire drill would be held next month, including computer simulations and an exercise to defend against forces landing on the island.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-says-financial-hub-cannot-afford-any-more-chaos-304427" hreflang="en">Hong Kong leader says financial hub cannot afford any more 'chaos'</a> 
 
China has ramped up fighter flights and warship crossings near Taiwan or through the Taiwan Strait since President Tsai Ing-wen was first elected in 2016, as she has refused to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China". 
 
Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. 
 
On February 10, a Chinese military jet briefly crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait separating the two sides in the first major incursion since Tsai's landslide re-election in January. 
 
Tsai has lashed out at Beijing for "meaningless and unnecessary" moves. 
 
In March last year, two Chinese J-11 fighter jets crossed over the line for the first time in years, prompting Taipei to accuse Beijing of violating a long-held tacit agreement in a "reckless and provocative" move.

Chinese fighter jets briefly entered Taiwan's airspace on Tuesday, forcing the island to scramble its fighters, the same day Taipei announced plans for its largest annual live-fire military drill.

Chinese fighter jets briefly entered Taiwan's airspace on Tuesday, forcing the island to scramble its fighters, the same day Taipei announced plans for its largest annual live-fire military drill. The Taiwanese defence ministry said it broadcast warnings and "took active responses to dispel" multiple Chinese Su-30 fighters to the southwest of the island. The incursion came as the ministry announced that the "Han Kuang" live-fire drill would be held next month, including computer simulations and an exercise to defend against forces landing on the island. Also read: Hong Kong leader says financial hub cannot afford any more 'chaos' China has ramped up fighter flights and warship crossings near Taiwan or through the Taiwan Strait since President Tsai Ing-wen was first elected in 2016, as she has refused to acknowledge that the island is part of "one China". Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. On February 10, a Chinese military jet briefly crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait separating the two sides in the first major incursion since Tsai's landslide re-election in January. Tsai has lashed out at Beijing for "meaningless and unnecessary" moves. In March last year, two Chinese J-11 fighter jets crossed over the line for the first time in years, prompting Taipei to accuse Beijing of violating a long-held tacit agreement in a "reckless and provocative" move.

Chinese fighters briefly enter Taiwan airspace: Taipei

The northern segment of the Great Wall of China was built not to block invading armies but rather to monitor civilian movement, an Israeli archaeologist said Tuesday. 
 
When researchers fully mapped the Great Wall's 740-kilometre (460-mile) Northern Line for the first time, their findings challenged previous assumptions. 
 
"Prior to our research, most people thought the wall's purpose was to stop Genghis Khan's army," said Gideon Shelach-Lavi from Jerusalem's Hebrew University, who led the two-year study.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/chinas-traditional-medicine-coronavirus-cure-or-yet-another-propaganda-304322" hreflang="en">China's traditional medicine: Coronavirus cure or yet another propaganda?</a> 
 
But the Northern Line, lying mostly in Mongolia, winds through valleys, is relatively low in height and close to paths, pointing to non-military functions. 
 
"Our conclusion is that it was more about monitoring or blocking the movement of people and livestock, maybe to tax them," Shelach-Lavi said. 
 
He suggested people may have been seeking warmer southern pastures during a medieval cold spell.&nbsp; 
 
Construction of the Great Wall, which is split into sections that in total stretch for thousands of kilometres, first began in the third century BC and continued for centuries.&nbsp; 
 
The Northern Line, also known as "Genghis Khan's Wall" in reference to the legendary Mongolian conqueror, was built between the 11th and 13th centuries with pounded earth and dotted with 72 structures in small clusters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-unleashes-information-war-using-state-media-amid-india-china-border-crisis-304349" hreflang="en">China unleashes information war using state media amid India-China border crisis</a> 
 
Shelach-Lavi and his team of Israeli, Mongolian and American researchers used drones, high-resolution satellite images and traditional archaeological tools to map out the wall and find artefacts that helped pin down dates. 
 
According to Shelach-Lavi, whose findings from the ongoing study were published in the journal Antiquity, the Northern Line has been largely overlooked by contemporary scientists.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The northern segment of the Great Wall of China was built not to block invading armies but rather to monitor civilian movement, an Israeli archaeologist said Tuesday.

The northern segment of the Great Wall of China was built not to block invading armies but rather to monitor civilian movement, an Israeli archaeologist said Tuesday. When researchers fully mapped the Great Wall's 740-kilometre (460-mile) Northern Line for the first time, their findings challenged previous assumptions. "Prior to our research, most people thought the wall's purpose was to stop Genghis Khan's army," said Gideon Shelach-Lavi from Jerusalem's Hebrew University, who led the two-year study. Also read: China's traditional medicine: Coronavirus cure or yet another propaganda? But the Northern Line, lying mostly in Mongolia, winds through valleys, is relatively low in height and close to paths, pointing to non-military functions. "Our conclusion is that it was more about monitoring or blocking the movement of people and livestock, maybe to tax them," Shelach-Lavi said. He suggested people may have been seeking warmer southern pastures during a medieval cold spell. Construction of the Great Wall, which is split into sections that in total stretch for thousands of kilometres, first began in the third century BC and continued for centuries. The Northern Line, also known as "Genghis Khan's Wall" in reference to the legendary Mongolian conqueror, was built between the 11th and 13th centuries with pounded earth and dotted with 72 structures in small clusters. Also read: China unleashes information war using state media amid India-China border crisis Shelach-Lavi and his team of Israeli, Mongolian and American researchers used drones, high-resolution satellite images and traditional archaeological tools to map out the wall and find artefacts that helped pin down dates. According to Shelach-Lavi, whose findings from the ongoing study were published in the journal Antiquity, the Northern Line has been largely overlooked by contemporary scientists.

Part of China's Great Wall not built for war: Study

China has urged its citizens currently studying or planning to study abroad to exercise caution while considering Australia as their destination.

This statement comes in the middle of the spat between two countries, which has resulted in trade tensions.

To make its point, China referred to a series of racist incidents that targeted Asians in Australia, especially in the backdrop of COVID-19.

The statement was given by China’s Ministry of Education. Earlier, the country’s tourism ministry had warned citizens against travelling to Australia citing racial discrimination again, and suggesting that violence may be possible.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/australia-says-china-unresponsive-to-its-pleas-to-ease-tensions-304131" hreflang="en">Australia says China unresponsive to its pleas to ease tensions</a>

The education ministry called upon “overseas students to conduct a good risk assessment and be cautious about choosing to go to Australia or return to Australia to study."

The Sydney Morning Herald, an Australian newspaper conducted a survey to map out racist attacks in the country and found that 386 racially charged incidents had taken place in the country since April 2.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-australia-join-hands-to-counter-china-303728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

These incidents included physical abuse, spitting, and intimidation.

Australia was one of the first countries to formally suggest an enquiry into the pandemic which originated in Wuhan, China. After this, China has been attempting to sideline Australia in terms of trade and international visibility.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/india-news/amid-dispute-with-china-india-australia-strengthen-ties-303674" hreflang="en">Amid dispute with China, India &amp; Australia strengthen ties</a>

Since then, China has imposed tariffs on imports of Australian barley, and has also stalled beef imports from the country. However, China denies that these decisions have anything to do with Australia’s calls for an international enquiry into China’s mishandling of the pandemic.

Australian administration has vocally criticised China for its handling of the virus, which has now spread across the globe, and also called out China for attempting to enforce security laws in Hong Kong, which it claims is intended to undermine the freedom of the democratic city.

New information suggests that coronavirus may have started spreading in China as early as August 2019. It was only in December of 2019 that public attention was brought to COVID-19, which has now spread across the globe.

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,113,366 people have had the virus, while 406,413 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

China has urged its citizens currently studying or planning to study abroad to exercise caution while considering Australia as their destination. This statement comes in the middle of the spat between two countries, which has resulted in trade tensions.

China has urged its citizens currently studying or planning to study abroad to exercise caution while considering Australia as their destination. This statement comes in the middle of the spat between two countries, which has resulted in trade tensions. To make its point, China referred to a series of racist incidents that targeted Asians in Australia, especially in the backdrop of COVID-19. The statement was given by China’s Ministry of Education. Earlier, the country’s tourism ministry had warned citizens against travelling to Australia citing racial discrimination again, and suggesting that violence may be possible. Also read: Australia says China unresponsive to its pleas to ease tensions The education ministry called upon “overseas students to conduct a good risk assessment and be cautious about choosing to go to Australia or return to Australia to study." The Sydney Morning Herald, an Australian newspaper conducted a survey to map out racist attacks in the country and found that 386 racially charged incidents had taken place in the country since April 2. These incidents included physical abuse, spitting, and intimidation. Australia was one of the first countries to formally suggest an enquiry into the pandemic which originated in Wuhan, China. After this, China has been attempting to sideline Australia in terms of trade and international visibility. Also read: Amid dispute with China, India & Australia strengthen ties Since then, China has imposed tariffs on imports of Australian barley, and has also stalled beef imports from the country. However, China denies that these decisions have anything to do with Australia’s calls for an international enquiry into China’s mishandling of the pandemic. Australian administration has vocally criticised China for its handling of the virus, which has now spread across the globe, and also called out China for attempting to enforce security laws in Hong Kong, which it claims is intended to undermine the freedom of the democratic city. New information suggests that coronavirus may have started spreading in China as early as August 2019. It was only in December of 2019 that public attention was brought to COVID-19, which has now spread across the globe. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,113,366 people have had the virus, while 406,413 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

China warns citizens against studying in 'racist' Australia

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country.

As part of this, Yemen will receive lesser food supplies from the body’s various programmes. Additionally, health services will be impact in 189 out of the 369 hospitals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-is-a-threat-to-warn-torn-yemen-un-refugee-agency-299595" hreflang="en">COVID-19 is a threat to warn-torn Yemen: UN Refugee Agency</a>

Yemen has been seen witnessing fund cuts due to the war-like conditions in the country.&nbsp; Currently, the capital of the country Sanna is under the control of Houthi rebels, who receive support from Iran as opposed to the Saudi-UAE coalition.

Earlier, the biggest donor to Yemen, United States cut its funding to the country, attributing it to the Houthis.

Yemen is the economically poorest Arab country and has been witnessing war since 2014 since Houthis gained control of the capital city and overthrew the president Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

<h6><img alt="j" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e06f256e-2e05-41a6-902c-f0dd70e3e2b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_10.jpg" /> 
Smoke billows amid clashes between fighters loyal to Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) and Saudi-backed government forces for control of Zinjibar, the capital of the southern Abyan province, in the Sheikh Salim area on May 23, 2020 | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

The war, with Iran and Saudi Arabia as the two major playing has killed over 100,000 people, triggering shortages of important food and medical supplies.

The United Nations has referred to the crisis as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/who-suspends-staff-activity-in-yemens-houthi-held-areas-297843" hreflang="en">WHO suspends staff activity in Yemen's Houthi-held areas</a>

Last year, the UN received international donations worth $3.6 billion. However, it fell short of its $4.2 billion goal. In terms of its goals this year, the organisation has received only 15 per cent of the envisioned $3.5 billion.

The country is country dealing with the coronavirus crisis. Many reports have claim that the virus is spreading through the country, which could have grave consequences considering the socio-economic status of the country, alongside a very poor healthcare system. Coronavirus spreads quickly through contact with the infected, and has killed over 100,000 in the United States alone. In a war-torn situation, it could prove to be much fatal.

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country.

United Nations’ programmes have been very helpful in providing assistance, especially in terms of health and food supplies in the war-torn Yemen. However, starting now, almost 75 per cent of UN services are ending or halting their operations in the country. As part of this, Yemen will receive lesser food supplies from the body’s various programmes. Additionally, health services will be impact in 189 out of the 369 hospitals. Also read: COVID-19 is a threat to warn-torn Yemen: UN Refugee Agency Yemen has been seen witnessing fund cuts due to the war-like conditions in the country. Currently, the capital of the country Sanna is under the control of Houthi rebels, who receive support from Iran as opposed to the Saudi-UAE coalition. Earlier, the biggest donor to Yemen, United States cut its funding to the country, attributing it to the Houthis. Yemen is the economically poorest Arab country and has been witnessing war since 2014 since Houthis gained control of the capital city and overthrew the president Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. Smoke billows amid clashes between fighters loyal to Yemen's separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) and Saudi-backed government forces for control of Zinjibar, the capital of the southern Abyan province, in the Sheikh Salim area on May 23, 2020 | AFP The war, with Iran and Saudi Arabia as the two major playing has killed over 100,000 people, triggering shortages of important food and medical supplies. The United Nations has referred to the crisis as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Also read: WHO suspends staff activity in Yemen's Houthi-held areas Last year, the UN received international donations worth $3.6 billion. However, it fell short of its $4.2 billion goal. In terms of its goals this year, the organisation has received only 15 per cent of the envisioned $3.5 billion. The country is country dealing with the coronavirus crisis. Many reports have claim that the virus is spreading through the country, which could have grave consequences considering the socio-economic status of the country, alongside a very poor healthcare system. Coronavirus spreads quickly through contact with the infected, and has killed over 100,000 in the United States alone. In a war-torn situation, it could prove to be much fatal.

United Nations cuts assistance to Yemen, over 75% services affected

Military thinkers, strategists and philosophers have grappled with the issue of war and peace since perhaps time immemorial. One major strand that has emerged from this is the ‘theory of just war’. Based on two major criteria-right to go to war (jus ad bellum) and right conduct in war( jus in Bello)-that apparently render war morally justifiable, just war theory, whose earliest proponent was Saint Augustine, holds that war is not always the worst option. The claim embedded in the just war theory is a bold one. But, is it right? Can war ever be justified and just? Is there something morally and practically wrong with the just war? Last but the least, does the just war theory hold in or under conditions of post-modernity?

There is something fundamentally wrong in positing that war can be just. The reasons, in the main, pertain to the fluidity of conditions in war and combat which is essentially in the nature of a zero-sum, Hobbesian struggle where it's you or me thinking or rationalizations dominate. In this, ‘if I don’t kill you first, you will kill me’ thinking, morality, ethical and humanitarian considerations naturally fly out of the window. But assuming there is something to the just war theory, who decides to go war? Who has the right to wage war? In the law of the jungle, that is the world of states, it is strong that determine issues of war and peace; the weak are at the sufferance of the strong. Yes, in modern times, there are notable and laudable institutions that are designed to maintain peace and prevent war, but as the Second Gulf War demonstrated, the ‘Parliament of Man’ can be superseded if a powerful state is determined to go to war.

Moreover, in modern conditions, where nuclear weapons, by and large, act as a deterrent to war, generally speaking, wars assume the shape of sub-conventional wars: that is, militarised conflicts that do not necessarily constitute conventional war but are wars nonetheless. There are also intra state conflicts that grew in salience during the cold war and even after. There then is a grey area of war. But does this make wars any just? No is the answer. War is war, a deplorable, inhumane and inhuman activity that depraves and debases both combatants and statesmen who order it and makes whole populations suffer.

What about the theory that a quick, short war made possible by technology or Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) can be a decisive one leading to peace thereafter? This theory that gained traction in the initial days of the second Gulf War met its Waterloo in Iraq , so to speak where a raging insurgency ensued and military planners and strategists had to go back to ‘old school’ counterinsurgency theories and practice. There is also the issue of an exit strategy here. Once begun wars are notoriously difficult to end even if there is an initial exit plan because of the very nature of war and the contingency it implies.

But there is another aspect to the saga. In conditions of post-modernity, where overt wars are not easy to wage (unless a state is a major power), and there are institutional and nuclear checks to war, the notion of hybrid war has emerged. Hybrid warfare incorporates elements of the political, unconventional war, economic war, cyber-attacks plus psychological dimensions like fake news, planted news and so one made eminently possible now by social media. (An example of this would be Russia’s meddling in the 2016 US elections). Hybrid war makes a mockery of the just war theory and renders it almost meaningless. But, are hybrid wars if an amendment or allowance is made to just war theory, justified? No. They are not.

If no war is ever justified, but given that war has been a feature of the human condition, how can it be prevented? This is a million-dollar question that lends itself to no easy answers. But, the answer, if there is any lies in the domain of the institutional, the political and the economic. Institutionally, the Parliament of Man, that is, the United Nations must be strengthened and multilateralism ( not as a fetter but as an ideal) be rendered the operative dynamic of interstate relations and diplomacy. Politically, a discursive attempt must be made too discredit war and diplomacy held to be the option of choice in dealing with conflict. These two approaches can be complemented by developing and crystallizing trading relationships between states in a way that, if breached, hurts all sides. These options cannot be on a stand-alone basis. 
 
There are clear interrelationships between these. There then must be an integrated approach that links these elements together and makes war unjustifiable and relegated to the dust bin or history. Is this a realist approach? No. It is not. I plead guilty to the charge of idealism here but, in the final analysis, it is ideals, not ‘reality’ that determine the course of history. Let then steps be taken to abolish war from statecraft and history. A good start would be to invert &nbsp;the Clausewitz dictum that, ‘ war is diplomacy by other means’ to ‘ all war is bad politics and economics

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Military thinkers, strategists and philosophers have grappled with the issue of war and peace since perhaps time immemorial. One major strand that has emerged from this is the ‘theory of just war’.

Military thinkers, strategists and philosophers have grappled with the issue of war and peace since perhaps time immemorial. One major strand that has emerged from this is the ‘theory of just war’. Based on two major criteria-right to go to war (jus ad bellum) and right conduct in war( jus in Bello)-that apparently render war morally justifiable, just war theory, whose earliest proponent was Saint Augustine, holds that war is not always the worst option. The claim embedded in the just war theory is a bold one. But, is it right? Can war ever be justified and just? Is there something morally and practically wrong with the just war? Last but the least, does the just war theory hold in or under conditions of post-modernity? There is something fundamentally wrong in positing that war can be just. The reasons, in the main, pertain to the fluidity of conditions in war and combat which is essentially in the nature of a zero-sum, Hobbesian struggle where it's you or me thinking or rationalizations dominate. In this, ‘if I don’t kill you first, you will kill me’ thinking, morality, ethical and humanitarian considerations naturally fly out of the window. But assuming there is something to the just war theory, who decides to go war? Who has the right to wage war? In the law of the jungle, that is the world of states, it is strong that determine issues of war and peace; the weak are at the sufferance of the strong. Yes, in modern times, there are notable and laudable institutions that are designed to maintain peace and prevent war, but as the Second Gulf War demonstrated, the ‘Parliament of Man’ can be superseded if a powerful state is determined to go to war. Moreover, in modern conditions, where nuclear weapons, by and large, act as a deterrent to war, generally speaking, wars assume the shape of sub-conventional wars: that is, militarised conflicts that do not necessarily constitute conventional war but are wars nonetheless. There are also intra state conflicts that grew in salience during the cold war and even after. There then is a grey area of war. But does this make wars any just? No is the answer. War is war, a deplorable, inhumane and inhuman activity that depraves and debases both combatants and statesmen who order it and makes whole populations suffer. What about the theory that a quick, short war made possible by technology or Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) can be a decisive one leading to peace thereafter? This theory that gained traction in the initial days of the second Gulf War met its Waterloo in Iraq , so to speak where a raging insurgency ensued and military planners and strategists had to go back to ‘old school’ counterinsurgency theories and practice. There is also the issue of an exit strategy here. Once begun wars are notoriously difficult to end even if there is an initial exit plan because of the very nature of war and the contingency it implies. But there is another aspect to the saga. In conditions of post-modernity, where overt wars are not easy to wage (unless a state is a major power), and there are institutional and nuclear checks to war, the notion of hybrid war has emerged. Hybrid warfare incorporates elements of the political, unconventional war, economic war, cyber-attacks plus psychological dimensions like fake news, planted news and so one made eminently possible now by social media. (An example of this would be Russia’s meddling in the 2016 US elections). Hybrid war makes a mockery of the just war theory and renders it almost meaningless. But, are hybrid wars if an amendment or allowance is made to just war theory, justified? No. They are not. If no war is ever justified, but given that war has been a feature of the human condition, how can it be prevented? This is a million-dollar question that lends itself to no easy answers. But, the answer, if there is any lies in the domain of the institutional, the political and the economic. Institutionally, the Parliament of Man, that is, the United Nations must be strengthened and multilateralism ( not as a fetter but as an ideal) be rendered the operative dynamic of interstate relations and diplomacy. Politically, a discursive attempt must be made too discredit war and diplomacy held to be the option of choice in dealing with conflict. These two approaches can be complemented by developing and crystallizing trading relationships between states in a way that, if breached, hurts all sides. These options cannot be on a stand-alone basis. There are clear interrelationships between these. There then must be an integrated approach that links these elements together and makes war unjustifiable and relegated to the dust bin or history. Is this a realist approach? No. It is not. I plead guilty to the charge of idealism here but, in the final analysis, it is ideals, not ‘reality’ that determine the course of history. Let then steps be taken to abolish war from statecraft and history. A good start would be to invert the Clausewitz dictum that, ‘ war is diplomacy by other means’ to ‘ all war is bad politics and economics (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There's something fundamentally wrong in positing that war can be just

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fatf-european-union-offers-technical-assistance- to-pakistan-262766">Pakistan</a> on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1.

Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres".

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-test-fires-shaheen-1-nuclear-missile-263238">Gravitas: Pakistan Test-Fires Shaheen-1 Nuclear Missile</a>

"Pakistan successfully conducted the training launch of SSBM. Shaheen-1 capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 KMs," the head of the military's media wing tweeted.

The launch was aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) ensuring Pakistan's credible minimum deterrence, Ghafoor added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-pakistan-tests-ballistic-missile-shaheen-1-262986">WION Dispatch: Pakistan Tests Ballistic Missile Shaheen-1</a>

The missile hit its target in the Arabian Sea. The two-stage missile can carry nuclear and conventional warheads and strike with a high degree of accuracy.

Pakistan has two other medium-range ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-II and the Ghauri. The Ghauri is currently operationally deployed.

Two other ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-III and the Ababeel, are currently under development by the National Development Complex.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-it-wants-peace-with-india-conducts-missile-test-221031">&nbsp;Pakistan says it wants peace with India, conducts missile test</a>

The missile launch came after India's state-funded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../defence-ministry-clears-rs-3300-crore- acquisitions-including-anti-tank-missiles-257375">DRDO</a> successfully conducted the first night trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile Agni-II off the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday.

Earlier this year, Pakistan had successfully held a night training test-launch of its surface-to-surface ballistic missile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../after-failure-at-diplomatic-front-pakistan-test- fires-ghaznavi-missile-246365">Ghaznavi</a>.

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1. Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres".

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it has conducted a successful training launch of surface-to-surface ballistic missile Shaheen-1. Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor, in a tweet, said that the missile is "capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 kilometres". Also Read: Gravitas: Pakistan Test-Fires Shaheen-1 Nuclear Missile "Pakistan successfully conducted the training launch of SSBM. Shaheen-1 capable of delivering all types of warheads upto a range of 650 KMs," the head of the military's media wing tweeted. The launch was aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) ensuring Pakistan's credible minimum deterrence, Ghafoor added. Also Read: WION Dispatch: Pakistan Tests Ballistic Missile Shaheen-1 The missile hit its target in the Arabian Sea. The two-stage missile can carry nuclear and conventional warheads and strike with a high degree of accuracy. Pakistan has two other medium-range ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-II and the Ghauri. The Ghauri is currently operationally deployed. Two other ballistic missiles, the Shaheen-III and the Ababeel, are currently under development by the National Development Complex. Also Read: Pakistan says it wants peace with India, conducts missile test The missile launch came after India's state-funded DRDO successfully conducted the first night trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile Agni-II off the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Earlier this year, Pakistan had successfully held a night training test-launch of its surface-to-surface ballistic missile, Ghaznavi.

Pakistan launches surface-to-surface Ballistic missile Shaheen-1

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount. "Russia is managing the war there right now at the highest level," Erdogan said, according to the Hurriyet daily. Turkey and Russia are currently engaged in a war of words over Syria where the two countries support opposing sides. Likewise in Libya, Ankara supports the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in Tripoli while Russia backs military strongman Khalifa Haftar. Watch: 'Turkey will make Syria to pay heavy price' vows Erdogan The president has repeated the accusation that Russian security company Wagner is supporting Haftar despite Moscow's denials. "They are presently managing Wagner," Erdogan told Turkish journalists on board his plane after a visit to Pakistan this week. "Yet they still stand up and say, 'there's no link'," he added. The Wagner Group is a shadowy private security firm and thousands of its security contractors are believed to be in foreign conflicts from Syria to Ukraine to the Central African Republic. Also Read: Erdogan battles on multiple fronts in risky regional power bid Erdogan insisted Turkey would continue to support the GNA as part of a security deal signed late last year. He also hit out at the West over backing Haftar without directly naming any country. "The West still supports this man.... (He) is given arms, ammunition and money." Earlier on Saturday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu criticised the "very dangerous" meddling by some Gulf countries during the Munich Security Conference. "Those countries believe that democracy in one Arab country or the region is the biggest threat for their own regime," the top Turkish diplomat added.

Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level'

Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy' and Anubhav Sinha's 'Article 15' featured prominently in the nomination list of Filmfare awards 2020. The awards- considered as one of the most prestigious film awards in India- announced its nomination list at a glittering event on Sunday night in Mumbai.&nbsp; 
 
The technical awards were handed out at the same event which was hosted by Neha Dhupia.&nbsp;

Here is the complete list of nominations:&nbsp;

Best Film 
Chhichhore 
Gully Boy 
Mission Mangal 
URI: The Surgical Strike 
War

Best Film Critics 
Article 15 -- Anubhav Sinha 
Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota - Vasan Bala 
Photograph - Ritesh Batra 
Sonchiriya - Abhishek Chaubey 
The Sky Is Pink - Shonali Bose

Best Director 
Aditya Dhar - Uri 
Jagan Shakti - Mission Mangal 
Nitesh Tiwari - Chhichhore 
Siddharth Anand - War 
Zoya Akhtar - Gully Boy

Best Actress critics 
Bhumi Pednekar - Sonchiriya 
Bhumi Pednekar - Saand Ki Aankh 
Kangana Ranaut - Judgementall Hai Kya 
Radhika Madan - Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota 
Sanya Malhotra - Photograph 
Taapsee Pannu - Saand Ki Aankh

Best Actress in a Leading Role 
Alia Bhatt - Gully Boy 
Kangana Ranaut - Judgementall Hai Kya 
Kareena Kapoor Khan - Good Newwz 
Priyanka Chopra - The Sky Is Pink 
Rani Mukerji - Mardaani 2 
Vidya Balan - Mission Mangal

Best Actor in a leading role 
Akshay Kumar - Kesari 
Ayushmann Khurrana - Bala 
Hrithik Roshan -- Super 30 
Shahid Kapoor - Kabir Singh 
Ranveer Singh - Gully Boy 
Vicky Kaushal - Uri

Best Actor Critics 
Akshaye Khanna - Article 375 
Ayushmann Khurrana - Article 15 
Nawazuddin Siddiqui - Photograph 
Rajkummar Rao - Judgementall Hai Kya

Best Actress in a Supporting Role 
Amrita Singh - Badla 
Amruta Subhash - Gully Boy 
Kamini Kaushal - Kabir Singh 
Madhuri Dixit - Kalank 
Seema Pahwa - Bala 
Zaira Wasim - The Sky Is Pink

Best Actor in a Supporting Role 
Diljit Dosanjh - Good Newwz 
Gulshan Devaiah - Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota 
Manoj Pahwa - Article 15 
Ranveer Shorey - Sonchiriya 
Siddhant Chaturvedi - Gully Boy 
Vijay Verma - Gully Boy

Best Music Album 
Bharat - Vishal Shekhar 
Gully Boy - Ankur Tewari and Zoya Akhtar 
Kabir Singh - Mithoon, Amaal Malik, Vishal Mishra, Sachet-Parampara, Akhil Sachdeva 
Kalank - Pritam 
Kesari - Tanishk Bagchi, Arko Pravo Mukherjee, Chirantan Bhatt, Jasbir Jassi, Gurmoh, Jasleen Royal

Best Lyrics 
Amitabh Bhattacharya for Kalank Nahi (Kalank), 
Divine and Ankur Tewari for Apna Time Aayega from Gully Boy, 
Irshad Kamil for Bekhayali from Kabir Singh, 
Manoj Muntashir for Teri Mitti in Kesari, 
Mithoon for Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage from Kabir Singh 
Tanishk Bagchi for Ve Mahi from Kesari.

Best Playback Singer (Female) 
Neha Bhasin for Chashni (Bharat) 
Parampara Thakur for Mere Sohneya from Kabir Singh 
Shilpa Rao for Ghungroo from War, 
Shreya Ghoshal for Yeh Aaina (Kabir Singh) 
Shreya Ghoshal and Vaishali Mhade for Ghar More Pardesiya from Kalank 
Sona Mohapatra and Jyotica Tangri for Baby Gold from Saand Ki Aankh

Best Playback Singer Male 
Arijit Singh for Kalank's title track Kalank Nahi 
Arijit Singh for Ve Mahi from Kesari 
Nakash Aziz for Slow Motion from Bharat 
B Praak for Teri Mitti from Kesari 
Sachet Tandon for Bekhayali from Kabir Singh.

Best Debut (Female) 
Ananya Pandey for Student of the Year 2 
Pranutan Bahl for Notebook 
Tara Sutaria for Student of the Year 2 
Saiee Manjrekar for Dabangg 3 
Sharmin Sehgal for Malaal 
Shivaleeka Oberoi for Yeh Saali Aashiqui

Best Debut (Male) 
Abhimanyu Dassani for Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota 
Meezaan Jaffrey for Malaal 
Siddhant Chaturvedi for Gully Boy 
Vardhan Puri for Yeh Saali Aashiqui, 
Vishal Jethwa for Mardaani 2 
Zaheer Iqbal for Notebook.

Best Debut Director 
Aditya Dhar for URI: The Surgical Strike 
Jagan Shakti for Mission Mangal 
Raaj Shaandilyaa for Dream Girl 
Raj Mehta for Good Newwz 
Gopi Puthran for Mardaani 2 
Tushar Hiranandani for Saand Ki Aankh

Best Dialogue 
Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki 
Bala - Niren Bhatt 
Chhichhore - Nitesh Tiwari, Piyush Gupta and Nikhil Mehrotra 
Gully Boy - Vijay Maurya 
Sonchiriya - Sudip Sharma 
Super 30 - Sanjeev Dutta

Best Screenplay 
Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki 
Gully Boy - Reema Kagti, Zoya Akhtar 
Mission Mangal - R Balki, Jagan Shakti, Nidhi Singh, Dharma, Saket Kondiparthi 
Saand Ki Aankh - Balwinder Singh Janjua 
Section 375 - Manish Gupta, Ajay Bahl 
Sonchiriya - Sudip Sharma

Best Original Story 
Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki 
Chhichhore - Nitesh Tiwari, Piyush Gupta and Nikhil Mehrotra 
Gully Boy - Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti 
Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota - Vasan Bala 
Mission Mangal - Jagan Shakti, 
Sonchiriya - Abhishek Chaubey and Sudip Sharma

 
&nbsp;

Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy' and Anubhav Sinha's 'Article 15' featured prominently in the nomination list of Filmfare awards 2020. The awards- considered as one of the most prestigious film awards in India- announced its nomination list at a glittering event on Sunday night in Mumbai.

Zoya Akhtar's 'Gully Boy' and Anubhav Sinha's 'Article 15' featured prominently in the nomination list of Filmfare awards 2020. The awards- considered as one of the most prestigious film awards in India- announced its nomination list at a glittering event on Sunday night in Mumbai. The technical awards were handed out at the same event which was hosted by Neha Dhupia. Here is the complete list of nominations: Best Film Chhichhore Gully Boy Mission Mangal URI: The Surgical Strike War Best Film Critics Article 15 -- Anubhav Sinha Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota - Vasan Bala Photograph - Ritesh Batra Sonchiriya - Abhishek Chaubey The Sky Is Pink - Shonali Bose Best Director Aditya Dhar - Uri Jagan Shakti - Mission Mangal Nitesh Tiwari - Chhichhore Siddharth Anand - War Zoya Akhtar - Gully Boy Best Actress critics Bhumi Pednekar - Sonchiriya Bhumi Pednekar - Saand Ki Aankh Kangana Ranaut - Judgementall Hai Kya Radhika Madan - Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota Sanya Malhotra - Photograph Taapsee Pannu - Saand Ki Aankh Best Actress in a Leading Role Alia Bhatt - Gully Boy Kangana Ranaut - Judgementall Hai Kya Kareena Kapoor Khan - Good Newwz Priyanka Chopra - The Sky Is Pink Rani Mukerji - Mardaani 2 Vidya Balan - Mission Mangal Best Actor in a leading role Akshay Kumar - Kesari Ayushmann Khurrana - Bala Hrithik Roshan -- Super 30 Shahid Kapoor - Kabir Singh Ranveer Singh - Gully Boy Vicky Kaushal - Uri Best Actor Critics Akshaye Khanna - Article 375 Ayushmann Khurrana - Article 15 Nawazuddin Siddiqui - Photograph Rajkummar Rao - Judgementall Hai Kya Best Actress in a Supporting Role Amrita Singh - Badla Amruta Subhash - Gully Boy Kamini Kaushal - Kabir Singh Madhuri Dixit - Kalank Seema Pahwa - Bala Zaira Wasim - The Sky Is Pink Best Actor in a Supporting Role Diljit Dosanjh - Good Newwz Gulshan Devaiah - Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota Manoj Pahwa - Article 15 Ranveer Shorey - Sonchiriya Siddhant Chaturvedi - Gully Boy Vijay Verma - Gully Boy Best Music Album Bharat - Vishal Shekhar Gully Boy - Ankur Tewari and Zoya Akhtar Kabir Singh - Mithoon, Amaal Malik, Vishal Mishra, Sachet-Parampara, Akhil Sachdeva Kalank - Pritam Kesari - Tanishk Bagchi, Arko Pravo Mukherjee, Chirantan Bhatt, Jasbir Jassi, Gurmoh, Jasleen Royal Best Lyrics Amitabh Bhattacharya for Kalank Nahi (Kalank), Divine and Ankur Tewari for Apna Time Aayega from Gully Boy, Irshad Kamil for Bekhayali from Kabir Singh, Manoj Muntashir for Teri Mitti in Kesari, Mithoon for Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage from Kabir Singh Tanishk Bagchi for Ve Mahi from Kesari. Best Playback Singer (Female) Neha Bhasin for Chashni (Bharat) Parampara Thakur for Mere Sohneya from Kabir Singh Shilpa Rao for Ghungroo from War, Shreya Ghoshal for Yeh Aaina (Kabir Singh) Shreya Ghoshal and Vaishali Mhade for Ghar More Pardesiya from Kalank Sona Mohapatra and Jyotica Tangri for Baby Gold from Saand Ki Aankh Best Playback Singer Male Arijit Singh for Kalank's title track Kalank Nahi Arijit Singh for Ve Mahi from Kesari Nakash Aziz for Slow Motion from Bharat B Praak for Teri Mitti from Kesari Sachet Tandon for Bekhayali from Kabir Singh. Best Debut (Female) Ananya Pandey for Student of the Year 2 Pranutan Bahl for Notebook Tara Sutaria for Student of the Year 2 Saiee Manjrekar for Dabangg 3 Sharmin Sehgal for Malaal Shivaleeka Oberoi for Yeh Saali Aashiqui Best Debut (Male) Abhimanyu Dassani for Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota Meezaan Jaffrey for Malaal Siddhant Chaturvedi for Gully Boy Vardhan Puri for Yeh Saali Aashiqui, Vishal Jethwa for Mardaani 2 Zaheer Iqbal for Notebook. Best Debut Director Aditya Dhar for URI: The Surgical Strike Jagan Shakti for Mission Mangal Raaj Shaandilyaa for Dream Girl Raj Mehta for Good Newwz Gopi Puthran for Mardaani 2 Tushar Hiranandani for Saand Ki Aankh Best Dialogue Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki Bala - Niren Bhatt Chhichhore - Nitesh Tiwari, Piyush Gupta and Nikhil Mehrotra Gully Boy - Vijay Maurya Sonchiriya - Sudip Sharma Super 30 - Sanjeev Dutta Best Screenplay Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki Gully Boy - Reema Kagti, Zoya Akhtar Mission Mangal - R Balki, Jagan Shakti, Nidhi Singh, Dharma, Saket Kondiparthi Saand Ki Aankh - Balwinder Singh Janjua Section 375 - Manish Gupta, Ajay Bahl Sonchiriya - Sudip Sharma Best Original Story Article 15 - Anubhav Sinha, Gaurav Solanki Chhichhore - Nitesh Tiwari, Piyush Gupta and Nikhil Mehrotra Gully Boy - Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota - Vasan Bala Mission Mangal - Jagan Shakti, Sonchiriya - Abhishek Chaubey and Sudip Sharma

Filmfare Awards 2020: The full list of nominations

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo.

His office said that death certificates would be issued for the missing.

This came after more than hundreds of families of the missing have been attending rallies demanding the whereabouts of their lost loved ones.

Some posited the idea that their relatives were still alive but captured by the security forces, a claim the government has repeatedly denied. The family members of the deceased hold daily vigils to protest.

<h6><img alt="Rajapaksa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cab0f486-feb0-4ff2-9da0-9462bb3fe52d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/116889-untitled-design-25.jpg" /> 
Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

The war 
The Sri Lankan army and the Tamil Tiger rebels had been warring for 26 years until the inferno was extinguished in May 2009.

The war had made ethnic faultlines in the country visible, for the majority Buddhist Sinhalese wanted to fight the Tamil rebels demanding a separate state. According to the BBC, the war had taken the lives of 100,000 people and left more than 20,000 missing.

Majority of the missing people are Tamil.

At the time of the war, Rajapaksa was Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary and helped crush the rebel movement.&nbsp;

In the final stages of the war, the United Nations had thrown accusations of atrocities towards both sides.

The BBC reported that multiple accounts of Tamil forces being killed even after surrendering were spurring out. Even with mounting video evidence, the government denied partaking in any such activities.

Watch:&nbsp;Why are critics of the Rajapaksas living in fear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-critics-of-the-rajapaksas-living-in-fear-265803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If seen as an opponent to Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda, businessmen, journalists and activists were taken into custody during the war and never seen again.

However, the government continues to deny any role in the disappearance, with Rajapaksa telling the BBC that all war crime allegations against him were ''baseless''.

<h6><img alt="Rajapaksa brothers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14dcd2e8-fd9c-49e8-9929-8d144f8f8cb8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/116497-untitled-design.jpg" /> 
Rajapaksa brothers&nbsp;| Reuters</h6>

''Internal matter''? 
According to the government statement given to UN resident co-ordinator Hanaa Singer, all the missing were members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

"President Rajapaksa outlined his plans to address the issue of missing persons. He explained that these missing persons are actually dead," the statement said.

"The families of the missing attest to it. However, they do not know what has become of them and so claim them to be missing," he said.

Death certificates are utterly important in Sri Lanka, where families cannot access property deeds, inheritances, and bank accounts without it. 
Even though the UN and other organisations have demanded the Lanka government to initiate a crimes tribunal to shed light on human rights abuses in the country, no such action has borne fruits. Sri Lanka has constantly referred to the issue as a ''internal matter'' that should be handled domestically.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-firmly-committed-to-saarc-gotabaya-rajapaksa-267154">Sri Lanka firmly committed to SAARC: Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo. His office said that death certificates would be issued for the missing. This came after more than hundreds of families of the missing have been attending rallies demanding the whereabouts of their lost loved ones. Some posited the idea that their relatives were still alive but captured by the security forces, a claim the government has repeatedly denied. The family members of the deceased hold daily vigils to protest. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa | Reuters The war The Sri Lankan army and the Tamil Tiger rebels had been warring for 26 years until the inferno was extinguished in May 2009. The war had made ethnic faultlines in the country visible, for the majority Buddhist Sinhalese wanted to fight the Tamil rebels demanding a separate state. According to the BBC, the war had taken the lives of 100,000 people and left more than 20,000 missing. Majority of the missing people are Tamil. At the time of the war, Rajapaksa was Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary and helped crush the rebel movement. In the final stages of the war, the United Nations had thrown accusations of atrocities towards both sides. The BBC reported that multiple accounts of Tamil forces being killed even after surrendering were spurring out. Even with mounting video evidence, the government denied partaking in any such activities. Watch: Why are critics of the Rajapaksas living in fear If seen as an opponent to Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda, businessmen, journalists and activists were taken into custody during the war and never seen again. However, the government continues to deny any role in the disappearance, with Rajapaksa telling the BBC that all war crime allegations against him were ''baseless''. Rajapaksa brothers | Reuters ''Internal matter''? According to the government statement given to UN resident co-ordinator Hanaa Singer, all the missing were members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). "President Rajapaksa outlined his plans to address the issue of missing persons. He explained that these missing persons are actually dead," the statement said. "The families of the missing attest to it. However, they do not know what has become of them and so claim them to be missing," he said. Death certificates are utterly important in Sri Lanka, where families cannot access property deeds, inheritances, and bank accounts without it. Even though the UN and other organisations have demanded the Lanka government to initiate a crimes tribunal to shed light on human rights abuses in the country, no such action has borne fruits. Sri Lanka has constantly referred to the issue as a ''internal matter'' that should be handled domestically. Also read: Sri Lanka firmly committed to SAARC: Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Thousands missing in ethnic civil war are dead: Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa

Pope Francis on Thursday (January 9) urged the United States and Iran to avoid escalation and pursue "dialogue and self-restraint" to avert a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Pope appeals to U.S. and Iran to pursue dialogue, self-restraint

Hearing about Iran's ballistic missile attack on Iraq's al-Asad airbase, which hosts U.S. soldiers, was emotional for Wayne Anstead, the owner of a cigar lounge in Fayetteville, North Carolina, which is frequented by members of the U.S. military.

Popular cigar lounge near Fort Bragg remembers troops deployed to Iraq

More than two decades after Hong Kong returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, a long border fence still threads between mainland China and the city.

Tranquil borderlands of Hong Kong caught in timewarp as China booms

New documents reveal how United States officials misled Americans on the War in Afghanistan. The documents paint a stark picture of missteps and failures in the American effort in the war-torn country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-report-calls-us-bluff-on-afghanistan-war-267536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Washington Post Report by investigative reporter Craig Whitlock called America's bluff on Afghanistan. The newspaper reported on Monday that it had obtained a confidential trove of government documents.

Craig interviewed close to 400 officials involved in the war in Afghanistan, including people such as the commanding generals, diplomats and the on-field workers.

Officials had made rosy pronouncements they knew were false and hidden unmistakable evidence which showed that the war had become unwinnable.

The Report details how Pentagon officials privately told a watchdog for years about their deep concerns about the US war strategy in Afghanistan, which included senior officials who were publicly more hopeful.

The Report quotes a three-star Army General John Sopko claiming that the US was devoid of a fundamental understanding of Afghanistan and that it did not know what it was doing.

Sopko served as the White House’s Afghan War Czar during the presidencies of Geroge W. Bush and Barack Obama.

The General also claimed that the US didn’t have the foggiest notion of what it was undertaking in Afghanistan and blamed the deaths of US military personnel on bureaucratic breakdowns among the legislature and the government.

However, in public, US military commanders throughout the war spoke about how the conflict in Afghanistan was turning a corner.

This, even as the Taliban held on to large parts of the country and killed US and Afghan forces, without having any air combat capability.

The documents accessed by the Washington Post show US Generals and officials acknowledging that the strategies for fighting the Afghan War were flawed and that the US wasted hundreds of billions of dollars trying to make Afghanistan into a stable, democratic nation.

US Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, all vowed they would avoid becoming mired in Afghanistan.

But, the Report shows how even from the early days of the war, the US was confused about its basic objectives and strategy for achieving them.

The United States along with its allies had invaded Afghanistan in 2001 to oust the Taliban from power for sheltering Al-Qaeda leaders who were accused of plotting the 9/11 attacks on the American World Trade Centre and the Pentagon.

The Afghan War is estimated to have killed more than 1,50,000 people, including civilians, insurgents, local and foreign troops.

The conflict has claimed the lives of more than 2,400 US military personnel and cost Washington nearly one trillion dollars.

The disclosure comes as US President Donald Trump and the Pentagon look to draw down the number of forces in Afghanistan.

This is in order to focus more on battling Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State terror groups, as the US government hopes to establish a peace deal with the Taliban.

The US and the Afghan Taliban restarted peace negotiations on Saturday, three months after Trump abruptly stopped the yearlong process aimed at finding a political settlement with the insurgent group and ending the war in Afghanistan.

The Afghan-born US Special Representative, Zalmay Khalilzad, led his team at a meeting Saturday in Doha, where Taliban negotiators are presently based.

The draft agreement reached between the US and Taliban would have set the stage for a phased withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

New documents reveal how United States officials misled Americans on the War in Afghanistan. The documents paint a stark picture of missteps and failures in the American effort in the war-torn country.

New documents reveal how United States officials misled Americans on the War in Afghanistan. The documents paint a stark picture of missteps and failures in the American effort in the war-torn country. Watch: The Washington Post Report by investigative reporter Craig Whitlock called America's bluff on Afghanistan. The newspaper reported on Monday that it had obtained a confidential trove of government documents. Craig interviewed close to 400 officials involved in the war in Afghanistan, including people such as the commanding generals, diplomats and the on-field workers. Officials had made rosy pronouncements they knew were false and hidden unmistakable evidence which showed that the war had become unwinnable. The Report details how Pentagon officials privately told a watchdog for years about their deep concerns about the US war strategy in Afghanistan, which included senior officials who were publicly more hopeful. The Report quotes a three-star Army General John Sopko claiming that the US was devoid of a fundamental understanding of Afghanistan and that it did not know what it was doing. Sopko served as the White House’s Afghan War Czar during the presidencies of Geroge W. Bush and Barack Obama. The General also claimed that the US didn’t have the foggiest notion of what it was undertaking in Afghanistan and blamed the deaths of US military personnel on bureaucratic breakdowns among the legislature and the government. However, in public, US military commanders throughout the war spoke about how the conflict in Afghanistan was turning a corner. This, even as the Taliban held on to large parts of the country and killed US and Afghan forces, without having any air combat capability. The documents accessed by the Washington Post show US Generals and officials acknowledging that the strategies for fighting the Afghan War were flawed and that the US wasted hundreds of billions of dollars trying to make Afghanistan into a stable, democratic nation. US Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, all vowed they would avoid becoming mired in Afghanistan. But, the Report shows how even from the early days of the war, the US was confused about its basic objectives and strategy for achieving them. The United States along with its allies had invaded Afghanistan in 2001 to oust the Taliban from power for sheltering Al-Qaeda leaders who were accused of plotting the 9/11 attacks on the American World Trade Centre and the Pentagon. The Afghan War is estimated to have killed more than 1,50,000 people, including civilians, insurgents, local and foreign troops. The conflict has claimed the lives of more than 2,400 US military personnel and cost Washington nearly one trillion dollars. The disclosure comes as US President Donald Trump and the Pentagon look to draw down the number of forces in Afghanistan. This is in order to focus more on battling Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State terror groups, as the US government hopes to establish a peace deal with the Taliban. The US and the Afghan Taliban restarted peace negotiations on Saturday, three months after Trump abruptly stopped the yearlong process aimed at finding a political settlement with the insurgent group and ending the war in Afghanistan. The Afghan-born US Special Representative, Zalmay Khalilzad, led his team at a meeting Saturday in Doha, where Taliban negotiators are presently based. The draft agreement reached between the US and Taliban would have set the stage for a phased withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

US officials mislead public with false evidence in Afghanistan War: Report

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-praises-europe-defence-spending-boost-as-summit-looms-265274">summit</a> aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine.

No comprehensive peace deal is expected from the meeting,&nbsp;mediated by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel,&nbsp;but diplomats hope the summit will help to bolster trust between the two men.

The four-way talks at the Elysee Palace are expected to be followed by a hotly-awaited bilateral between wily ex-KGB agent Putin,&nbsp;in power for two decades,&nbsp;and ex-comedian Zelensky who won the presidency this year. &nbsp;

Thousands have been killed and one million have fled their homes since pro-Russia militias in eastern Ukraine launched a bid for independence in 2014, kicking off a conflict that deepened Russia's estrangement from the West.

Separatists seized control of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions shortly after Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea.&nbsp;

The issue of Crimea, whose seizure gave Putin a popularity boost at home but led to international sanctions being imposed against Moscow, is not on the table at this summit.

The meeting's aims include agreeing to disband illegal militias, the departure of foreign fighters from Donetsk and Lugansk, and Ukraine taking back control of its border with Russia, according to a French presidential source.

Also key is agreeing to a calendar for local municipal elections to be held in Donetsk and Lugansk under Ukrainian law, with the two regions enjoying special status,&nbsp;an idea known as the Steinmeier Formula.

"If the summit meeting is to be meaningful, it should have a result, and the result should very much be on the Steinmeier Formula," said Gerhard Mangott, professor of international relations at Austria's Innsbruck University.

'Festering wound'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-seeks-to-require-uk-court-hearings-if-russia-tries-to-enforce-debt-267127">Ukrainian</a> Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko ahead of the meeting reaffirmed his country's key demands of a "total and permanent ceasefire, our control over the borders of a unitary and indivisible state, the disarmament and dismantling of illegal armed groups, local elections in accordance with our legislation." &nbsp;

The Kremlin has sent signals that it is ready to work with Zelensky, whom Putin has described as "likeable" and "sincere".&nbsp;

But the Russian leader also will not want to return empty-handed and will be pushing for an easing of sanctions.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told the Funke newspaper group that "we have to do everything we can... to make progress in the Ukrainian peace process", and described the conflict as "a festering wound in Europe".

Maas praised Zelensky for bringing "new momentum" to the talks, adding that "to make progress with the next difficult steps, Russia needs to make a move too".

"There remains the problem of trust between the parties," said the French presidential source, who asked not to be identified by name. "This needs to be created before we can move forward."&nbsp;

Watch: Zelensky and Putin to come face-to-face

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-summit-zelensky-and-putin-to-come-face-to-face-267077/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Wound of war'

Monday's summit is the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-leaders-set-to-meet-for-paris-talks-with-bleak-prospects-of-peace-266434">first of its kind in three years</a> and seeks to implement accords signed in Minsk in 2015 that call for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the restoration of Kiev's control over its borders, wider autonomy for Donetsk and Lugansk, and the holding of local elections.

The summit is a hugely delicate event for everyone involved, but particularly for Zelensky, who is under pressure not to cede ground to the Kremlin.

About 200 demonstrators spent the night in tents outside the Ukrainian president's office, seeking to put pressure on Zelensky not to "capitulate" to his Russian counterpart.

The Ukrainian leader,&nbsp;who came to power after starring in a comedy show about a school teacher who suddenly becomes president, took a realistic tone ahead of the talks.

"I want to come back with concrete results, but we understand that we cannot have everything. The meeting is already a victory. Since 2016, there has been no dialogue."

For Macron, the summit is a centrepiece of an increasingly bold foreign policy he is driving despite troubles at home, where transport workers have been on strike for days in a dispute over pension reforms.

Macron, who shocked NATO allies last month by declaring the alliance brain dead, has made clear his belief that Europe needs a strategic partnership with Russia.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris summit aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday met Ukranian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time ever at a Paris summit aimed at agreeing to measures to help end five years of conflict in the east of Ukraine. No comprehensive peace deal is expected from the meeting, mediated by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, but diplomats hope the summit will help to bolster trust between the two men. The four-way talks at the Elysee Palace are expected to be followed by a hotly-awaited bilateral between wily ex-KGB agent Putin, in power for two decades, and ex-comedian Zelensky who won the presidency this year. Thousands have been killed and one million have fled their homes since pro-Russia militias in eastern Ukraine launched a bid for independence in 2014, kicking off a conflict that deepened Russia's estrangement from the West. Separatists seized control of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions shortly after Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea. The issue of Crimea, whose seizure gave Putin a popularity boost at home but led to international sanctions being imposed against Moscow, is not on the table at this summit. The meeting's aims include agreeing to disband illegal militias, the departure of foreign fighters from Donetsk and Lugansk, and Ukraine taking back control of its border with Russia, according to a French presidential source. Also key is agreeing to a calendar for local municipal elections to be held in Donetsk and Lugansk under Ukrainian law, with the two regions enjoying special status, an idea known as the Steinmeier Formula. "If the summit meeting is to be meaningful, it should have a result, and the result should very much be on the Steinmeier Formula," said Gerhard Mangott, professor of international relations at Austria's Innsbruck University. 'Festering wound' Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko ahead of the meeting reaffirmed his country's key demands of a "total and permanent ceasefire, our control over the borders of a unitary and indivisible state, the disarmament and dismantling of illegal armed groups, local elections in accordance with our legislation." The Kremlin has sent signals that it is ready to work with Zelensky, whom Putin has described as "likeable" and "sincere". But the Russian leader also will not want to return empty-handed and will be pushing for an easing of sanctions. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told the Funke newspaper group that "we have to do everything we can... to make progress in the Ukrainian peace process", and described the conflict as "a festering wound in Europe". Maas praised Zelensky for bringing "new momentum" to the talks, adding that "to make progress with the next difficult steps, Russia needs to make a move too". "There remains the problem of trust between the parties," said the French presidential source, who asked not to be identified by name. "This needs to be created before we can move forward." Watch: Zelensky and Putin to come face-to-face 'Wound of war' Monday's summit is the first of its kind in three years and seeks to implement accords signed in Minsk in 2015 that call for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the restoration of Kiev's control over its borders, wider autonomy for Donetsk and Lugansk, and the holding of local elections. The summit is a hugely delicate event for everyone involved, but particularly for Zelensky, who is under pressure not to cede ground to the Kremlin. About 200 demonstrators spent the night in tents outside the Ukrainian president's office, seeking to put pressure on Zelensky not to "capitulate" to his Russian counterpart. The Ukrainian leader, who came to power after starring in a comedy show about a school teacher who suddenly becomes president, took a realistic tone ahead of the talks. "I want to come back with concrete results, but we understand that we cannot have everything. The meeting is already a victory. Since 2016, there has been no dialogue." For Macron, the summit is a centrepiece of an increasingly bold foreign policy he is driving despite troubles at home, where transport workers have been on strike for days in a dispute over pension reforms. Macron, who shocked NATO allies last month by declaring the alliance brain dead, has made clear his belief that Europe needs a strategic partnership with Russia.

Putin, Zelensky meet at Paris Summit amid push to end Ukraine war

The war that has ravaged&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/200-yemen-rebels-to-be-freed-amid-peace-push-saudi-led-coalition-264761">Yemen</a>&nbsp;has especially impacted the country's estimated 4.5 million people living with disabilities, Amnesty International warned in a report Tuesday.

The London-based human rights group called on donors, aid groups and UN agencies to take steps to better assist people with disabilities in displaced people's centres.

"Yemen's war has been characterised by unlawful bombings, displacement and a dearth of basic services, leaving many struggling to survive," said Rawya Rageh, senior crisis adviser at Amnesty.

"The humanitarian response is overstretched, but people with disabilities,&nbsp;who are already among those most at risk in armed conflict,&nbsp;should not face even greater challenges in accessing essential aid."

The conflict between Saudi-backed government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has raged since 2015, sparking what the United Nations terms the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Amnesty reported that many people with disabilities who have been forced to flee the violence had to leave behind their crutches or wheelchairs in the chaos of war.

In the worst cases, it was the disabled people themselves who were left behind by their families after being separated while fleeing their homes, said the report.

Published on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the report documented the experience of 53 women, men and children with a wide spectrum of disabilities.

Amnesty pointed to "design flaws" in camps for the displaced, including in latrines and at aid distribution points, that were impacting people with disabilities.

These "strip people with disabilities of their independence and dignity by forcing them to rely on their families or others," it said.

A 75-year-old man with limited mobility said he needed to have his sons take him to the latrine, telling the group's researchers: "They drag me. They can't carry me."

Rageh called on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-tough-times-ahead-for-honey-trade-as-war-cripples-country-263486">organisations providing humanitarian aid</a> to "do more to overcome the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from meeting even their most basic needs".&nbsp;

The brutal war and economic collapse had&nbsp;hit hard public health care and social welfare services, "resulting in a systematic failure to guarantee the rights of people with disabilities".&nbsp;

"Many rely on handouts or fend for themselves,&nbsp;with some forced into poverty to pay for basic supplies like medicines or adult diapers," Amnesty said.

"One man with a disability was forced to beg along the highway."

The war that has ravaged Yemen has especially impacted the country's estimated 4.5 million people living with disabilities, Amnesty International warned in a report Tuesday.

The war that has ravaged Yemen has especially impacted the country's estimated 4.5 million people living with disabilities, Amnesty International warned in a report Tuesday. The London-based human rights group called on donors, aid groups and UN agencies to take steps to better assist people with disabilities in displaced people's centres. "Yemen's war has been characterised by unlawful bombings, displacement and a dearth of basic services, leaving many struggling to survive," said Rawya Rageh, senior crisis adviser at Amnesty. "The humanitarian response is overstretched, but people with disabilities, who are already among those most at risk in armed conflict, should not face even greater challenges in accessing essential aid." The conflict between Saudi-backed government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has raged since 2015, sparking what the United Nations terms the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Amnesty reported that many people with disabilities who have been forced to flee the violence had to leave behind their crutches or wheelchairs in the chaos of war. In the worst cases, it was the disabled people themselves who were left behind by their families after being separated while fleeing their homes, said the report. Published on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the report documented the experience of 53 women, men and children with a wide spectrum of disabilities. Amnesty pointed to "design flaws" in camps for the displaced, including in latrines and at aid distribution points, that were impacting people with disabilities. These "strip people with disabilities of their independence and dignity by forcing them to rely on their families or others," it said. A 75-year-old man with limited mobility said he needed to have his sons take him to the latrine, telling the group's researchers: "They drag me. They can't carry me." Rageh called on organisations providing humanitarian aid to "do more to overcome the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from meeting even their most basic needs". The brutal war and economic collapse had hit hard public health care and social welfare services, "resulting in a systematic failure to guarantee the rights of people with disabilities". "Many rely on handouts or fend for themselves, with some forced into poverty to pay for basic supplies like medicines or adult diapers," Amnesty said. "One man with a disability was forced to beg along the highway."

Disabled people hardest hit by war in Yemen: Amnesty

Veterans from armed forces and family members of 135 fallen heroes were facilitated at a ceremony held in Delhi Cantt's Sadar Bazaar area. 
 
While 135 war widows were felicitated on the occasion, 15 gallantry award winners were also honoured on the occasion, social worker and army veteran TC Rao said on Monday. 
 
Family members of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil war and 1962 India-China conflict were also honoured on the occasion. 
 
Organisers also raised issues related to war-veterans and dependents of martyrs during the ceremony and urged for central government to take necessary action in this regard.

Veterans from armed forces and family members of 135 fallen heroes were facilitated at a ceremony held in Delhi Cantt's Sadar Bazaar area. While 135 war widows were felicitated on the occasion, 15 gallantry award winners were also honoured on the occasion, social worker and army veteran TC Rao said on Monday.

Veterans from armed forces and family members of 135 fallen heroes were facilitated at a ceremony held in Delhi Cantt's Sadar Bazaar area. While 135 war widows were felicitated on the occasion, 15 gallantry award winners were also honoured on the occasion, social worker and army veteran TC Rao said on Monday. Family members of the soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil war and 1962 India-China conflict were also honoured on the occasion. Organisers also raised issues related to war-veterans and dependents of martyrs during the ceremony and urged for central government to take necessary action in this regard.

Delhi: War veterans, widows felicitated by social workers

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