The Latest poll suggests Rishi Sunak is losing support amongst voters. According to the survey, only 6% of voters think the conservatives have done a good job in government.

UK: Can PM Rishi Sunak win General Elections again?

The Indian government has strongly refuted the International Monetary Fund's claim that india is vulnerable to rising debt. It said that the IMF has made certain presumptions, which do not reflect the factual position.

Govt refutes IMF's claim that India is vulnerable to rising debt

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. In another news, The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. “Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drone-strike-hits-ship-off-indias-coast-says-report-672821">Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew includes 21 Indians</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401166-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=3840" />

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a&nbsp;substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel.&nbsp;However, no casualties were reported.&nbsp;The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had&nbsp;first issued a public alert of the incident.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-former-minister-says-no-coincidence-after-putins-rival-navalny-remains-absent-from-court-hearings-672909">Russia’s former minister says ‘no coincidence’ as Navalny remains missing</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401195-untitled-design-2023-12-23t201917612.png?imwidth=3840" />

The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team.&nbsp;The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/czech-president-attends-mass-for-victims-of-prague-attack-as-country-holds-national-mourning-672861">Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401164-untitled-design-2023-12-23t172122277.png?imwidth=640" />

Czech Republic President Petr Pavel attended a mass on Saturday (Dec 23) to remember the victims of Prague shooting on Thursday (Dec 21) which shook the entire nation. A day of national mourning is being observed by the entire country for those who lost their lives in the mass shooting that took place at a university in Prague. The bells tolled across the country and flags were flown at half-mast on the official buildings and a minute's silence was observed at midday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-warring-parties-commit-to-new-ceasefire-agree-to-un-led-peace-process-672932">Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401211-succession-2023-12-23t212249798.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-pile-on-misery-for-woeful-manchester-united-with-2-0-win-672921">Premier League: West Ham pile on misery for woeful Man Utd with 2-0 win</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401203-1-2023-12-23t203926984.png?imwidth=640" />

Manchester United crashed to a dismal 2-0 defeat at West Ham as goals from Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus piled renewed pressure on under-fire boss Erik ten Hag on Saturday.&nbsp;Ten Hag's side were blown away by West Ham's late strikes at the London Stadium, condemning them to an eighth Premier League loss already this season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bars-anti-war-candidate-yekaterina-duntsova-from-presidential-ballot-672878">Russia bars anti-war candidate Yekaterina Duntsova from presidential ballot</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401175-succession-2023-12-23t180047001.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television.&nbsp;The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brings-rolf-russias-largest-car-dealership-owned-by-cyprus-based-firm-under-state-management-672869">Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401170-untitled-design-2023-12-23t175007649.png?imwidth=1920" />

Against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war and Western sanctions, President Vladimir Putin has taken control of Rolf, Russia's largest car dealership owned by a Cyprus-based firm, placing it under temporary state management.&nbsp;The Kremlin insisted that the move is driven by commercial considerations, citing the need to comply with Russian legislation and address the challenging international economic situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-fire-breaks-out-at-hospital-in-indias-hyderabad-672936">Major fire breaks out at hospital in India's Hyderabad</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401214-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=640" />

A major fire broke out at Ankura Hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday (Dec 23) evening. According to media reports, the fire was reported at around 5.30 pm and there were no casualties. A report by Telangana Today said that the hospital management informed the police about the fire who then alerted the fire department. Three fire tenders reached the spot and the fire was brought under control, the report added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-jaishankar-rakes-up-extremism-after-hate-crime-at-hindu-temple-in-us-672834">‘Extremists should not be given space’: India’s Jaishankar reacts to vandalism at Hindu temple in US</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401162-untitled-design-2023-12-23t171445388.png?imwidth=640" />

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-shoot-black-woman-after-she-dials-911-to-report-domestic-violence-672891">US: Police shoot black woman wielding knife after she dials 911 to report domestic violence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/23/401185-untitled-design-2023-12-23t190617064.png?imwidth=3840" />

A 27-year-old black woman, identified as&nbsp;Niani Finlayson, dialled the emergency helpline number 911 in Los Angeles, United States to report domestic violence on December 4. Responding to the distress call, the deputies of the Los Angeles County sheriff reached her house, however, the black woman was shot dead by the cops after a confrontation.

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A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel.

A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. In another news, The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. “Today Alexey was supposed to have two trials. He was again not brought to the meetings. Navalny has never been hidden for so long,” said Navalny’s team, in a Telegram post. Click on the headlines to read more. Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew includes 21 Indians A missile strike damaged a merchant ship off India's coast on Saturday (Dec 23) morning. The attack occurred 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval and resulted in a substantial explosion, causing significant damage to the vessel. However, no casualties were reported. The United Kingdom's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had first issued a public alert of the incident. Russia’s former minister says ‘no coincidence’ as Navalny remains missing The mystery around the disappearance of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny continues to deepen after he remained absent from two scheduled court hearings which were conducted through video link on Friday (Dec 22), as per a statement from his team. The team of Navalny said that the prominent politician had been missing for 17 days and his current whereabouts remain unknown. Prague shooting: Czech president attends mass for victims as nation mourns Czech Republic President Petr Pavel attended a mass on Saturday (Dec 23) to remember the victims of Prague shooting on Thursday (Dec 21) which shook the entire nation. A day of national mourning is being observed by the entire country for those who lost their lives in the mass shooting that took place at a university in Prague. The bells tolled across the country and flags were flown at half-mast on the official buildings and a minute's silence was observed at midday. Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23). Premier League: West Ham pile on misery for woeful Man Utd with 2-0 win Manchester United crashed to a dismal 2-0 defeat at West Ham as goals from Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus piled renewed pressure on under-fire boss Erik ten Hag on Saturday. Ten Hag's side were blown away by West Ham's late strikes at the London Stadium, condemning them to an eighth Premier League loss already this season. Russia bars anti-war candidate Yekaterina Duntsova from presidential ballot Russia on Saturday (Dec 23) rejected an application by presidential hopeful Yekaterina Duntsova calling for peace. The Central Electoral Commission, citing mistakes in the documents submitted by Duntsova, cancelled the plea, reported Russian television. The commission's chief, Ella Pamfilova, released a statement saying that the members rejected Duntsova's bid to stand in the elections to be held next year. Putin brings Rolf, Russia’s largest car dealership owned by Cyprus-based firm, under state management Against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war and Western sanctions, President Vladimir Putin has taken control of Rolf, Russia's largest car dealership owned by a Cyprus-based firm, placing it under temporary state management. The Kremlin insisted that the move is driven by commercial considerations, citing the need to comply with Russian legislation and address the challenging international economic situation. Major fire breaks out at hospital in India's Hyderabad A major fire broke out at Ankura Hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday (Dec 23) evening. According to media reports, the fire was reported at around 5.30 pm and there were no casualties. A report by Telangana Today said that the hospital management informed the police about the fire who then alerted the fire department. Three fire tenders reached the spot and the fire was brought under control, the report added. ‘Extremists should not be given space’: India’s Jaishankar reacts to vandalism at Hindu temple in US In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23). US: Police shoot black woman wielding knife after she dials 911 to report domestic violence A 27-year-old black woman, identified as Niani Finlayson, dialled the emergency helpline number 911 in Los Angeles, United States to report domestic violence on December 4. Responding to the distress call, the deputies of the Los Angeles County sheriff reached her house, however, the black woman was shot dead by the cops after a confrontation.

Top 10 news: Yemen's warring parties commit to ceasefire, missile strike hits ship off India’s coast, & more

A unique conversational show that brings the top leaders across all industries, sharing their insights on different agendas, right at the centre of WION's headquarters, a joint initiative with DMAasia. What Social Media means to leaders from different businesses in conversation with WION.

Brand leaders from different businesses and brands in conversation with WION

French authorities have revealed that they grounded a flight bound for Nicaragua over suspected charges of human trafficking on Thursday. The flight was carrying over 300 Indian passengers who are believed to be victims of human trafficking.

Two held after France grounds plane with 303 Indians for 'trafficking'

In World Business Watch insights on Inflation took a favourable turn in 2023, major central banks shut the books on rate hikes in 2023, and watch the video to know more!

2024 View: Hope for interest rate cuts

Darul Uloom Haqqania seminary in Akora Khattak, about 60 kilometres (35 miles) east of Peshawar is dubbed as "university of jihad" by critics. This seminary encourages its adherents to conduct violent Jihad. Watch to know more!

Spotlight on Pakistan's 'University of Jihad'

The US elections are quickly approaching, and there is a lot of buzz. The Colorado Supreme Court rendered a landmark decision barring former US President Donald Trump from the Colorado ballot. Will more courts follow Colorado's lead and exclude trump?

US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News | WION

European Parliamentarian (MEP) Morten Løkkegaard, who chairs relations with India in the European Parliament has underscored the urgency for collaboration between India and Europe amidst global uncertainties. The EU MP said that India needs to get out of it's comfort zone for trade. Addressing the ongoing talks on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, Løkkegaard emphasized the mutual need for the agreement, declaring, "both parties need this FTA agreement, we need it for growth but also for cooperation as such in the times of geopolitical tensions." He called for immediate political action, stating, "Now. I think that the negotiators, the technical sides have used all forces they can use and now we need political decisions to be made on both sides."

FTA agreement would need a paradigm shift: EU Lawmaker | World News | WION

France passed the controversial Immigration Bill. The Bill secures a policy win for President Emmanuel Macron. Bill passed amid deep division in Emmanuel Macron's party.

France passes controversial Immigration Bill | World News | WION

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cardinal-becciu-sent-to-prison-for-55-years-in-historic-vatican-fraud-trial-670354">Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399578-untitled-design-2023-12-16t211142982.png?imwidth=3840" />

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-reopens-aid-crossing-into-gaza-670152">LIVE: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli army</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399569-succession-2023-12-16t203821591.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/independent-putin-is-seeking-russian-presidency-again-heres-what-it-means-670352">'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398196-untitled-design-2023-12-09t152419331.png?imwidth=3840" />

On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399553-succession-2023-12-16t182204949.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region.&nbsp;"Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-security-breach-five-accused-reveal-their-plans-to-perform-self-immolation-670293">Parliament security breach: Five accused reveal their plan of self-immolation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399537-untitled-design-2023-12-16t172331037.png?imwidth=640" />

The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ai-giant-sensetime-founder-tang-xiaoou-dies-days-after-revenue-fabrication-row-670309">China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399551-untitled-design-2023-12-16t181424383.png?imwidth=3840" />

China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16).&nbsp;"It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaits-ruling-emir-sheikh-nawaf-dies-at-the-age-of-86-670264">Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399546-succession-2023-12-16t174756028.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-could-become-first-country-in-eu-to-provide-nature-with-a-protected-status-670356">Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399579-succession-2023-12-16t212053726.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so.&nbsp;The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-with-oman-sultan-haitham-bin-tarik-in-new-delhi-670235">PM Modi holds bilateral with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tarik as discussions on free trade pact ongoing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399510-untitled-design-2023-12-16t132814406.png?imwidth=640" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.&nbsp;India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following&nbsp;Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-failing-for-poor-us-records-highest-ever-number-of-homeless-people-670287">Biden failing for the poor? US records highest-ever number of homeless people</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/16/399535-untitled-design-2023-12-16t161131236.png?imwidth=640" />

Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period.&nbsp;The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

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Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16).

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin will seek re-election as an independent candidate in 2024, Russian news agencies reported on Saturday. Click on the headlines to read more. Cardinal Becciu sent to prison for 5.5 years in historic Vatican fraud trial Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once an adviser to Pope Francis and was seen as a papal contender himself, has been sentenced to 5.5 years of imprisonment in a historic Vatican fraud trial on Saturday (Dec 16). LIVE: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli army A hostage who was mistakenly killed by the Israeli military while being held hostage in Gaza by Islamist group Hamas was laid to rest at a funeral in southern Israel on Saturday (December 16). Around 300 people turned out to mourn Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, 25, a member of Israel's Bedouin Arab minority, in his hometown of Hura. 'Independent' Putin is seeking Russian presidency again. Here's what it means On Saturday, a group of over 700 politicians and figures from the sporting and cultural worlds met in Moscow and gave unanimous endorsement to Vladimir Putin as an independent candidate. Putin announced earlier this month that he will seek another six-year term in March next year in Russian presidential election. UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' A British destroyer shot down a suspected attack drone in the Red Sea, defence minister Grant Shapps on Saturday (Dec 16) said in a statement, amid growing maritime tensions in the region. "Overnight, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. One Sea Viper missile was fired and successfully destroyed the target," Shapps said in a statement posted on X. Parliament security breach: Five accused reveal their plan of self-immolation The five people, who were arrested for the Parliament security breach on December 13, said that they were earlier considering options of self-immolation and distribution of pamphlets before they decided to jump from the visitors' gallery into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters, said Delhi Police officials on Saturday (Dec 16). China: AI giant SenseTime founder Tang Xiao'ou dies days after revenue fabrication row China's leading artificial intelligence firm SenseTime's founder and influential computer scientist Tang Xiao'ou died at the age of 51, said the company, in a statement on Saturday (Dec 16). "It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce to everyone the sorrowful news: Our beloved founder... Tang Xiao'ou, due to an illness that could not be treated, left us forever at 23:45 on December 15, 2023," said SenseTime, in an online post. Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf dies at 86, Sheikh Meshal, 83, named successor The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, on Saturday (Dec 16), died at the age of 86, after being in power for three years, said the royal court. “With great sadness and sorrow, we – the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world – mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” said a statement aired on Kuwaiti state television. Ireland could become first country in EU to provide nature with a protected status The Irish government is planning to consider a request to alter the constitution in order to provide nature with a protected status. This could make Ireland the very first country in the European Union to do so. The proposal, recommended by the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action, has recommended the government advance a referendum on safeguarding biodiversity. This would grant nature rights similar to that of humans. PM Modi holds bilateral with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tarik as discussions on free trade pact ongoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, held a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House on Saturday (Dec 16), focussing on reinforcing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations. India is the third country Haitham bin Tarik has travelled to following Iran and Singapore after becoming the Sultan of his country. Biden failing for the poor? US records highest-ever number of homeless people Homelessness in the United States reached to a record high as it surged to an unprecedented level due to a significant increase in first-time homelessness in the post-pandemic period. The findings of a report released by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development on Friday (Dec 15) revealed that over 650,000 individuals experienced homelessness on a single night in January this year, marking a notable 12 per cent rise from the figures reported in 2022.

Top 10 news: Funeral held for hostage mistakenly killed by Israel, Cardinal Becciu sent to prison, & more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplaned for Dubai to participate in the World Climate Action Summit at COP28. He is set to hold a number of engagements during his visit, including&nbsp;an address at the event. WION, in its live blog on the Israel-Hamas war, is covering all the updates, the latest being a further extension of the truce between Israel and Hamas for an additional day.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, WION's special series Cast From The Past reflects on the diplomatic moves by Henry Kissinger during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Kissinger, a prominent figure in US foreign policy, passed away on November 30, 2023.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-walked-the-talk-in-climate-action-says-pm-modi-as-he-departs-for-cop28-664764">PM Modi departs for COP28, says 'India has walked the talk in climate action'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/30/396487-untitled-design-97.jpg?imwidth=640" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Dubai on Thursday (Nov 30) where he is scheduled to take part in the World Climate Action Summit at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). The prime minister will take part in the deliberations, which will take place under the presidency of the United Arab Emirates on Friday (Dec 1).&nbsp;

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Born in the boom of Telegraphs and Trunk Calls in Germany's Bavaria region in May 1923, the immensely controversial and equally consequential US foreign policy practitioner Henry Kissinger&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/henry-kissinger-the-most-controversial-and-influential-american-of-20th-century-dies-at-100-664470">died in the hyperconnected times of internet</a>&nbsp;on November 30, 2023. The scholar-turned-diplomat was serving as the US National Security Adviser to President Richard Nixon in the December of 1971 when New Delhi militarily intervened in the erstwhile East Pakistan after millions of refugees poured into India in the wake of outrageous atrocities committed by Punjabi-dominated Pakistani military against their own Bengali brethren.&nbsp;

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The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out.&nbsp; Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplaned for Dubai to participate in the World Climate Action Summit at COP28. He is set to hold a number of engagements during his visit, including an address at the event.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplaned for Dubai to participate in the World Climate Action Summit at COP28. He is set to hold a number of engagements during his visit, including an address at the event. WION, in its live blog on the Israel-Hamas war, is covering all the updates, the latest being a further extension of the truce between Israel and Hamas for an additional day. Meanwhile, WION's special series Cast From The Past reflects on the diplomatic moves by Henry Kissinger during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Kissinger, a prominent figure in US foreign policy, passed away on November 30, 2023. PM Modi departs for COP28, says 'India has walked the talk in climate action' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Dubai on Thursday (Nov 30) where he is scheduled to take part in the World Climate Action Summit at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28). The prime minister will take part in the deliberations, which will take place under the presidency of the United Arab Emirates on Friday (Dec 1). Israel-Hamas war LIVE: Israel says two hostages handed over to Red Cross Israel-Hamas war LIVE: Israel and Hamas have agreed to extend the pause in fighting in Gaza for another day as negotiations continue on the release of hostages, according to mediator Qatar. Follow our live updates on the war. Cast From The Past: When Kissinger's diplomacy failed, and Bangladesh was born Born in the boom of Telegraphs and Trunk Calls in Germany's Bavaria region in May 1923, the immensely controversial and equally consequential US foreign policy practitioner Henry Kissinger died in the hyperconnected times of internet on November 30, 2023. The scholar-turned-diplomat was serving as the US National Security Adviser to President Richard Nixon in the December of 1971 when New Delhi militarily intervened in the erstwhile East Pakistan after millions of refugees poured into India in the wake of outrageous atrocities committed by Punjabi-dominated Pakistani military against their own Bengali brethren. COP28: UN Chief Antonio Guterres sounds alarm, says 2023 set to be hottest year in human history The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a dire warning in Dubai ahead of the UN climate conference COP28, declaring that 2023 is on track to become the hottest year ever recorded, citing alarming indicators such as record-high sea levels, unprecedented sea surface temperatures, and historic low in Antarctic sea ice. Cancer-stricken mother appeals for release of daughter held hostage by Hamas. Watch Video In a heartfelt video shared by Israel's government, a mother grappling with brain cancer is urging Hamas to release her 26-year-old daughter who was abducted from the Supernova music festival on October 7. Will still fund Trump campaign even if he's convicted, says Home Depot billionaire Republican mega-donor Bernie Marcus said on Tuesday he would likely still give money to Donald Trump's 2024 presidential bid if the former president was convicted of a crime - but the billionaire does not plan to be one of his biggest financial backers. A 35-year-old man in Vietnam, who suffered severe headaches for five months, was left dumbfounded when he discovered that the cause of his discomfort was a pair of chopsticks firmly lodged in his skull. 'Mysterious' jellyfish with 240 tentacles discovered off Japan's coast declared a new species In 2002, scientists aboard a research vessel discovered a peculiar jellyfish near a volcanic crater off Japan. Spotting the same creature again in 2020, scientists have now confirmed that it is a new species named Santjordia pagesi. Sam Bahadur Vs Animal: Who will conquer the top spot at the box office ? 2023 is the year of big box office clashes. In Hollywood, we saw Barbie vs Oppenheimer, and in Bollywood, we have OMG 2 vs Gadar 2. And now we have another big clash coming, which is between Ranbir Kapoor's Animal and Vicky Kaushal's Sam Bahadur. The next is between Shah Rukh Khan's Dunki and Prabhas' Salaar. SA vs Ind: BCCI announces 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out. Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy.

Top 10 world news: PM Modi departs for COP28, Israel says two hostages handed over to Red Cross, & more

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the world leaders to embody 'humanitarianism over hostility' at a time when the world is gripped by the crisis in West Asia that was triggered by&nbsp;Palestinian group Hamas's attack on&nbsp;Israel on October 7. In an article for the Indian Express on the completion of a year of India's G20 presidency, Modi wrote that "terrorism and the senseless killing of civilians are unacceptable, and we must address them with a policy of zero tolerance".

Modi's piece comes as India is nearing the end of its term as president of the Group of Twenty (G20) nations, and more than two months after India successfully stewarded the New Delhi G20 Leaders Summit.

"Today marks 365 days since India assumed the G20 presidency. It is a moment to reflect, recommit, and rejuvenate the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “One Earth, One Family, One Future”," Modi wrote.

<h2>Modi puts focus on alternative to world's existing status quo</h2>

India's Prime Minister Modi, who is set to seek a record third consecutive term in power in 2024, said that while assuming the G20 chair, India sought to offer the world an alternative to the status quo, "a shift from a GDP-centric to human-centric progress."&nbsp;

"India aimed to remind the world of what unites us, rather than what divides us. Finally, the global conversation had to evolve — the interests of the few had to give way to the aspirations of the many. This required a fundamental reform of multilateralism as we knew it," Modi wrote, in what appears to be a reference to the West-led global order that has impeded the evolution of a multipolar global polity.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-delhi-delivers-as-the-voice-of-global-south-634649">The Capitals: Delhi delivers as the voice of Global South</a>

"Inclusive, ambitious, action-oriented, and decisive — these four words defined our approach as G20 president," Modi wrote, adding that "the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (NDLD), unanimously adopted by all G20 members, is testimony to our commitment to deliver on these principles."

The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration was adopted on the first day of the Delhi G20 summit itself, in stark contrast to the assertions in Western Media that India would struggle to adopt a declaration due to polarising global opinions over the Russian offensive in Ukraine.

Also watch |&nbsp;G20 Summit 2023: Indian PM Modi hands over G20 Presidency to Brazil Prez Lula Da Silva

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"The New Delhi Declaration embodies a renewed spirit of collaboration across these key priorities, focusing on policy coherence, reliable trade, and ambitious climate action. It is a matter of pride that during our presidency, G20 achieved 87 outcomes and 118 adopted documents, a marked rise from the past," Modi wrote.

While referring to the inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G20 forum, Modi wrote,&nbsp;"inclusivity has been at the heart of our presidency".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion</a>

"The first-of-its-kind 'Voice of the Global South Summit', convened by India in two editions, heralded a new dawn for multilateralism. India mainstreamed the Global South’s concerns in the international discourse and has ushered in an era where developing countries take their rightful place in shaping the global narrative," Modi wrote, in relation to two Voice of Global South Summits, organised virtually, first in January 2023 and the second earlier this month in New Delhi's bid to focus on inclusion of developing world into multilateral order.&nbsp;

"As we hand over the G20 presidency to Brazil, we do so with the conviction that our collective steps for people, planet, peace, and prosperity, will resonate for years to come," Modi wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the world leaders to embody 'humanitarianism over hostility' at a time when the world is gripped by the crisis in West Asia that was triggered by Palestinian group Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the world leaders to embody 'humanitarianism over hostility' at a time when the world is gripped by the crisis in West Asia that was triggered by Palestinian group Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7. In an article for the Indian Express on the completion of a year of India's G20 presidency, Modi wrote that "terrorism and the senseless killing of civilians are unacceptable, and we must address them with a policy of zero tolerance". Modi's piece comes as India is nearing the end of its term as president of the Group of Twenty (G20) nations, and more than two months after India successfully stewarded the New Delhi G20 Leaders Summit. "Today marks 365 days since India assumed the G20 presidency. It is a moment to reflect, recommit, and rejuvenate the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “One Earth, One Family, One Future”," Modi wrote. Modi puts focus on alternative to world's existing status quo India's Prime Minister Modi, who is set to seek a record third consecutive term in power in 2024, said that while assuming the G20 chair, India sought to offer the world an alternative to the status quo, "a shift from a GDP-centric to human-centric progress." "India aimed to remind the world of what unites us, rather than what divides us. Finally, the global conversation had to evolve — the interests of the few had to give way to the aspirations of the many. This required a fundamental reform of multilateralism as we knew it," Modi wrote, in what appears to be a reference to the West-led global order that has impeded the evolution of a multipolar global polity. Also read | The Capitals: Delhi delivers as the voice of Global South "Inclusive, ambitious, action-oriented, and decisive — these four words defined our approach as G20 president," Modi wrote, adding that "the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (NDLD), unanimously adopted by all G20 members, is testimony to our commitment to deliver on these principles." The New Delhi Leaders' Declaration was adopted on the first day of the Delhi G20 summit itself, in stark contrast to the assertions in Western Media that India would struggle to adopt a declaration due to polarising global opinions over the Russian offensive in Ukraine. Also watch | G20 Summit 2023: Indian PM Modi hands over G20 Presidency to Brazil Prez Lula Da Silva × "The New Delhi Declaration embodies a renewed spirit of collaboration across these key priorities, focusing on policy coherence, reliable trade, and ambitious climate action. It is a matter of pride that during our presidency, G20 achieved 87 outcomes and 118 adopted documents, a marked rise from the past," Modi wrote. While referring to the inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G20 forum, Modi wrote, "inclusivity has been at the heart of our presidency". Also read | G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion "The first-of-its-kind 'Voice of the Global South Summit', convened by India in two editions, heralded a new dawn for multilateralism. India mainstreamed the Global South’s concerns in the international discourse and has ushered in an era where developing countries take their rightful place in shaping the global narrative," Modi wrote, in relation to two Voice of Global South Summits, organised virtually, first in January 2023 and the second earlier this month in New Delhi's bid to focus on inclusion of developing world into multilateral order. "As we hand over the G20 presidency to Brazil, we do so with the conviction that our collective steps for people, planet, peace, and prosperity, will resonate for years to come," Modi wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi repeats 'this is not an era of war' call as India nears end of its G20 presidency

On November 17, India hosted the second ‘Voice of the Global South Summit’ (VOGSS) in the virtual format. The first summit was held on 12–13 January 2023. Two summits within a year to advance the cause of developing nations and the announcement to convene another summit later to discuss issues relating to Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the Global South are clearly indicative of the creation of a new institutional platform for sustaining solidarity in the developing world. This is also an indicator of India asserting its leadership of a large and important grouping. How has Indian diplomacy performed so far in this regard and how it might address this complex phenomenon in the next two years will be watched with widespread interest.

<h2>From Global South to first summit</h2>

International relations experts are quite used to depicting the world as divided into certain camps or categories. The Cold War threw up the polarization between the West and the East, terming the rest of the world as the ‘Non-aligned’. The ‘Third World’ was used in the past to club together all developing countries. The Group of 77 (G77) was a more neutral and acceptable phrase to describe countries on the path of development, which advocated both North-South and South-South cooperation.

The term ‘global South’ was first used by Carl Oglesky, a leftist American author and political activist in 1969, which gathered currency in the later decades. Through his famous 1980 report entitled ‘North-South: A Programme for Survival’, former West German Chancellor Willy Brandt invented the ‘Brandt Line’ that divided the world roughly at the latitude of 30 degrees North, placing North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia in the North and showing the southern part of the hemisphere as the South.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-raised-indias-profile-as-voice-of-global-south-imec-has-potential-finnish-envoy-to-wion-660098">Also read |&nbsp;G20 raised India's profile as voice of Global&nbsp;South, IMEC has potential: Finnish&nbsp;envoy&nbsp;to&nbsp;WION</a>

India, a leading light in both the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the G77, has always been perceived as an important pillar of the South. In contrast, China was neither a member of NAM nor of G77, though it worked as a partner of the latter, thus terming the grouping as ‘G77 and China’. Conscious of the reduced relevance of NAM in the post-Cold War era and disenchanted with the non-performing G77, India has created a new and innovative pathway suitable for the needs of the 21st century. The opportunity to host the G20 summit was the trigger for India to craft the new platform. It is designed to help the Global South address current geopolitical and economic challenges more effectively. While defining the Global South, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar observed, “Those who are really Global South know they are Global South.”

The first VOGSS was quite a success, once the initial question as to which countries should be invited was resolved neatly. For obvious reasons, China could not be included but this exclusion required a touch of diplomacy. Therefore, no member nations of the G20 were part of the first Global South summit. This meant excluding close partners like Indonesia, Brazil, and South Africa too, but India has been in close touch with them through the medium of the G20 Troika.

The simple purpose of the January summit for India was to ascertain key concerns and needs of developing countries that could be taken up and pursued by the G20 President during its tenure from December 2022 to November 2023. The participation of 125 countries in this summit was the validation of India's decision to convene the summit. The inclusive programme and the opportunity for a sizeable number of leaders and ministers to articulate their views received considerable appreciation. The most tangible outcome was that the host obtained rich inputs that later moulded the G20 agenda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/global-south-needs-a-reality-check-concept-is-the-same-but-the-context-is-not-552302">Also read |&nbsp;Global South needs a reality check: Concept is the same but the context is not</a>

<h2>The second summit</h2>

The second VOGSS was structured in the same pattern as the first summit. It comprised an opening and a closing session attended by the leaders, whereas eight ministerial sessions were held where participants were minister of foreign affairs (two sessions), finance, education, environment, energy, health, and commerce. The specific theme of the inaugural session was ‘Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust’, and for the concluding session, it was ‘Global South: Together for One Future.’

The essential purpose of the second summit was twofold: to apprise high-level representatives of the Global South of the deliberations and outcomes of the G20 summit hosted and presided over by India, and to ensure that momentum is sustained, with the support of developing countries, for optimal implementation of the G20 decisions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined that the Global South priorities were fully reflected in the G20 summit outcomes. “Geographically the Global South has always existed, but it is getting a voice for the first time, and this is because of the joint efforts,” he noted adding, “We are more than 100 countries but our priorities are similar.” He was clear that the message from the Global South was that “it wants its autonomy.”

At a special media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra provided details about the issues discussed, the reactions of foreign participants, and the summit’s outcomes. He conveyed that New Delhi was well on its way to implementing various initiatives that PM Modi had announced at the January summit. In particular, Modi inaugurated the Global South Center of Excellence, to be called ‘DAKSHIN’, an acronym for Development and Knowledge Sharing Initiative. It will serve as a think tank and a repository of knowledge and development initiatives that promotes greater collaboration among developing nations.

Ministerial sessions, it was disclosed, went into a deep dive on a whole gamut of India's G20 priorities ranging from Sustainable Development Goals, energy transition, climate action finance, digital transformation, debt relief, women-led development, counter-terrorism, and reform of international financial institutions as well as the UN Security Council. The mood in the conference rooms was imbued with an expression of “gratitude to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership here.” Specifically, the admission of the African Union (AU) as a member of G20 was widely lauded by the participants.

<h2>Assessment</h2>

Several observations are in order here. First, the Global South orientation of the G20 summit was fully noted at the VOGSS summit. Perhaps over 50% of the content of the G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration (NDLD) is related exclusively to the needs of the Global South. Second, there was recognition that the success in securing a seat for the AU in G20 demonstrated that global groupings can be persuaded to respond to the changing global realities in an inclusive fashion, as Foreign Secretary Kwatra put it. Third, participants seemed clear that resolving global challenges required not confrontation but a mix of cooperation, consultation, and coordination.

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Minister Jaishankar referred to India's conviction that “the success of our G20 Presidency is the success of the Global South.” But this mission will be truly accomplished when the implementation of G20 decisions gets underway and picks up momentum. For this, the Global South nations were urged “to keep our collective voices robust.”

For India, the next challenge, as a leader of the Global South, is to ensure maximum coordination with Brazil and South Africa as the next two presidents of G20. Through close engagement, deft diplomacy, and while respecting the sensitivities of its G20 successors, India can continue serving the cause of the Global South constructively.

(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.)

&nbsp;

On November 17, India hosted the second ‘Voice of the Global South Summit’ (VOGSS) in the virtual format. The first summit was held on 12–13 January 2023. Two summits within a year to advance the cause of developing nations and the announcement to convene another summit later to discuss issues relating to Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the Global South are clearly indicative of the creation of a new institutional platform for sustaining solidarity in the developing world.

On November 17, India hosted the second ‘Voice of the Global South Summit’ (VOGSS) in the virtual format. The first summit was held on 12–13 January 2023. Two summits within a year to advance the cause of developing nations and the announcement to convene another summit later to discuss issues relating to Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the Global South are clearly indicative of the creation of a new institutional platform for sustaining solidarity in the developing world. This is also an indicator of India asserting its leadership of a large and important grouping. How has Indian diplomacy performed so far in this regard and how it might address this complex phenomenon in the next two years will be watched with widespread interest. From Global South to first summit International relations experts are quite used to depicting the world as divided into certain camps or categories. The Cold War threw up the polarization between the West and the East, terming the rest of the world as the ‘Non-aligned’. The ‘Third World’ was used in the past to club together all developing countries. The Group of 77 (G77) was a more neutral and acceptable phrase to describe countries on the path of development, which advocated both North-South and South-South cooperation. The term ‘global South’ was first used by Carl Oglesky, a leftist American author and political activist in 1969, which gathered currency in the later decades. Through his famous 1980 report entitled ‘North-South: A Programme for Survival’, former West German Chancellor Willy Brandt invented the ‘Brandt Line’ that divided the world roughly at the latitude of 30 degrees North, placing North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia in the North and showing the southern part of the hemisphere as the South. Also read | G20 raised India's profile as voice of Global South, IMEC has potential: Finnish envoy to WION India, a leading light in both the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the G77, has always been perceived as an important pillar of the South. In contrast, China was neither a member of NAM nor of G77, though it worked as a partner of the latter, thus terming the grouping as ‘G77 and China’. Conscious of the reduced relevance of NAM in the post-Cold War era and disenchanted with the non-performing G77, India has created a new and innovative pathway suitable for the needs of the 21st century. The opportunity to host the G20 summit was the trigger for India to craft the new platform. It is designed to help the Global South address current geopolitical and economic challenges more effectively. While defining the Global South, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar observed, “Those who are really Global South know they are Global South.” The first VOGSS was quite a success, once the initial question as to which countries should be invited was resolved neatly. For obvious reasons, China could not be included but this exclusion required a touch of diplomacy. Therefore, no member nations of the G20 were part of the first Global South summit. This meant excluding close partners like Indonesia, Brazil, and South Africa too, but India has been in close touch with them through the medium of the G20 Troika. The simple purpose of the January summit for India was to ascertain key concerns and needs of developing countries that could be taken up and pursued by the G20 President during its tenure from December 2022 to November 2023. The participation of 125 countries in this summit was the validation of India's decision to convene the summit. The inclusive programme and the opportunity for a sizeable number of leaders and ministers to articulate their views received considerable appreciation. The most tangible outcome was that the host obtained rich inputs that later moulded the G20 agenda. Also read | Global South needs a reality check: Concept is the same but the context is not The second summit The second VOGSS was structured in the same pattern as the first summit. It comprised an opening and a closing session attended by the leaders, whereas eight ministerial sessions were held where participants were minister of foreign affairs (two sessions), finance, education, environment, energy, health, and commerce. The specific theme of the inaugural session was ‘Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust’, and for the concluding session, it was ‘Global South: Together for One Future.’ The essential purpose of the second summit was twofold: to apprise high-level representatives of the Global South of the deliberations and outcomes of the G20 summit hosted and presided over by India, and to ensure that momentum is sustained, with the support of developing countries, for optimal implementation of the G20 decisions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined that the Global South priorities were fully reflected in the G20 summit outcomes. “Geographically the Global South has always existed, but it is getting a voice for the first time, and this is because of the joint efforts,” he noted adding, “We are more than 100 countries but our priorities are similar.” He was clear that the message from the Global South was that “it wants its autonomy.” At a special media briefing, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra provided details about the issues discussed, the reactions of foreign participants, and the summit’s outcomes. He conveyed that New Delhi was well on its way to implementing various initiatives that PM Modi had announced at the January summit. In particular, Modi inaugurated the Global South Center of Excellence, to be called ‘DAKSHIN’, an acronym for Development and Knowledge Sharing Initiative. It will serve as a think tank and a repository of knowledge and development initiatives that promotes greater collaboration among developing nations. Ministerial sessions, it was disclosed, went into a deep dive on a whole gamut of India's G20 priorities ranging from Sustainable Development Goals, energy transition, climate action finance, digital transformation, debt relief, women-led development, counter-terrorism, and reform of international financial institutions as well as the UN Security Council. The mood in the conference rooms was imbued with an expression of “gratitude to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership here.” Specifically, the admission of the African Union (AU) as a member of G20 was widely lauded by the participants. Assessment Several observations are in order here. First, the Global South orientation of the G20 summit was fully noted at the VOGSS summit. Perhaps over 50% of the content of the G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration (NDLD) is related exclusively to the needs of the Global South. Second, there was recognition that the success in securing a seat for the AU in G20 demonstrated that global groupings can be persuaded to respond to the changing global realities in an inclusive fashion, as Foreign Secretary Kwatra put it. Third, participants seemed clear that resolving global challenges required not confrontation but a mix of cooperation, consultation, and coordination. Minister Jaishankar referred to India's conviction that “the success of our G20 Presidency is the success of the Global South.” But this mission will be truly accomplished when the implementation of G20 decisions gets underway and picks up momentum. For this, the Global South nations were urged “to keep our collective voices robust.” For India, the next challenge, as a leader of the Global South, is to ensure maximum coordination with Brazil and South Africa as the next two presidents of G20. Through close engagement, deft diplomacy, and while respecting the sensitivities of its G20 successors, India can continue serving the cause of the Global South constructively. (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.)

Second Global South Summit: A holistic assessment

An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away,&nbsp;orbiting around a small red dwarf star.

Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System. 
 
The exoplanet has been named LTT 1445 Ac and it is some 1.37 times the mass and around 1.07 times the Earth's radius.

The planet is too hot for the existence of life, however its similarity with our Earth makes it a good option to understand how planets evolve, and what factors make an Earth-like world different from another such planet. 
 
The scientists used data collected by the TESS exoplanet-hunting telescope in 2021 to first identify LTT 1445 Ac.

But they faced some difficulties in observing it, which meant the astronomers could not be certain of its properties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/giant-devil-comet-continues-hurtling-towards-earth-after-experiencing-4th-explosion-in-space-659566">Devil Comet with horns, hurtling towards Earth, has exploded a fourth time</a>

The exoplanet exists in a different system. The star this planet orbits is one of the three stars, which is gravitationally bound in a trinary system. The scientists observe the changes in the light of the host star to find and study exoplanets, however, in systems of stars, the stellar companions also leave an effect on the other stars' light.

<h2>How do scientists understand the properties of an exoplanet?</h2>

Two types of measurement are needed to understand an exoplanet's properties. The first is transit data which is the tiny dips in starlight which occur after an orbiting exoplanet passes between the star and the Earth. 
 
The second measurement is radial velocity data which measures the amount of gravity tugs of an exoplanet on the star by recording changes in the starlight's wavelength as it very minutely wobbles on the spot.

Watch:&nbsp;European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-space-agency-released-first-images-taken-by-euclids-telescope-656604/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The transit data informs the scientist of an exoplanet's radius which can be calculated from the amount the light of the star which dims during a transit. The radial velocity data informs the scientists about the mass of the exoplanet. 
 
The mass and radius combined together tell us the exoplanet's density and using that the scientists understand what the exoplanet is made of. 
 
If the planet is found to have low density it implies it has lost of atmosphere and is like a gas giant. A higher density means it has a rocky composition, like Earth, Venus, Mars, or Mercury.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away, orbiting around a small red dwarf star. Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System.

An Earth-sized world was found just 22 light-years away, orbiting around a small red dwarf star. Discovered by scientists in the US, this Earth-sized world is the closest to our Solar System. The exoplanet has been named LTT 1445 Ac and it is some 1.37 times the mass and around 1.07 times the Earth's radius. The planet is too hot for the existence of life, however its similarity with our Earth makes it a good option to understand how planets evolve, and what factors make an Earth-like world different from another such planet. The scientists used data collected by the TESS exoplanet-hunting telescope in 2021 to first identify LTT 1445 Ac. But they faced some difficulties in observing it, which meant the astronomers could not be certain of its properties. Also read: Devil Comet with horns, hurtling towards Earth, has exploded a fourth time The exoplanet exists in a different system. The star this planet orbits is one of the three stars, which is gravitationally bound in a trinary system. The scientists observe the changes in the light of the host star to find and study exoplanets, however, in systems of stars, the stellar companions also leave an effect on the other stars' light. How do scientists understand the properties of an exoplanet? Two types of measurement are needed to understand an exoplanet's properties. The first is transit data which is the tiny dips in starlight which occur after an orbiting exoplanet passes between the star and the Earth. The second measurement is radial velocity data which measures the amount of gravity tugs of an exoplanet on the star by recording changes in the starlight's wavelength as it very minutely wobbles on the spot. Watch: European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope The transit data informs the scientist of an exoplanet's radius which can be calculated from the amount the light of the star which dims during a transit. The radial velocity data informs the scientists about the mass of the exoplanet. The mass and radius combined together tell us the exoplanet's density and using that the scientists understand what the exoplanet is made of. If the planet is found to have low density it implies it has lost of atmosphere and is like a gas giant. A higher density means it has a rocky composition, like Earth, Venus, Mars, or Mercury. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover closest known Earth-sized world only 22 light-years away

Dubai plans to replace the world's busiest airport - Dubai International with an even larger one on the city's outskirts.

Dubai airports futuristic plan for 2030s expansion

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report. The report also notes that a return to the times when boundary issue was shelved to let India-China bilateral ties get stronger "seems improbable in the short term". In other news, &nbsp;the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Nov 15) ruled as unlawful the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-lac-prone-to-sudden-flare-ups-of-violence-says-global-think-tank-658902">India-China LAC prone to 'sudden flare-ups', says global think-tank</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393253-untitled-design-2023-11-15t194250459.png?imwidth=640" />

The number of Chinese incursions into Indian side of Line of Actual Control (LAC) tripled since Xi Jinping took over the corridors of power in 2013, the report points out while citing a dataset from November 2012 to November 2022.&nbsp;But notably, those incursions have been relatively low in "scale and intensity" in the Middle Sector of India-China boundary.&nbsp;"The number of transgressions by the Chinese troops in the last decade has been quite high in the western and eastern sectors compared to the least-disputed middle sector. So, the delineation of the border in the middle sector is the low-hanging fruit that both sides could pursue," Praveen Donthi, Senior India Analyst at International Crisis Group told WION.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-strikes-down-rishi-sunaks-plant-to-deport-rwanda-asylum-seekers-658799">Supreme Court strikes down Sunak’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/07/391739-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-11-07t165356285.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The lower court had found that sending anyone to Rwanda would be in breach of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) laws as there was a “real risk” they could be returned to their home countries to face “persecution or other inhumane treatment”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-general-elections-to-be-held-on-jan-7-2024-658887">Bangladesh general elections to be held on Jan 7, 2024</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393244-bangla.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15).&nbsp;The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-steps-down-as-pakistan-captain-after-world-cup-debacle-658881">Babar Azam steps down as Pak captain in all formats after World Cup debacle</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/14/392937-1-2023-11-14t122738882.png?imwidth=640" />

Pakistan men's cricket team captain Babar Azam has stepped down from his post in all three formats after the culmination of&nbsp;a disastrous World Cup campaign in India. Babar took to social media to post a statement wherein he said it was a 'difficult decision' but the right time to make the call.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/halsey-admits-cowardice-criticism-for-silence-on-israel-hamas-war-reveals-the-reason-658842">Halsey admits 'cowardice' criticism for silence on Israel-Hamas war</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393222-halsey.png?imwidth=640" />

Pop sensation Halsey recently took to Instagram to address critics who labelled her a 'coward' for not speaking out earlier on the Israel-Palestine conflict. In a candid and heartfelt post, the singer opened up about the challenges she faced during her tour, revealing that past threats, including instances of violence and swatting at her home, influenced her decision to stay silent initially.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madagascar-imposes-curfew-in-antananarivo-ahead-of-presidential-elections-658872">Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393235-succession-2023-11-15t183717391.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-massive-fire-engulfs-express-train-in-indias-up-three-coaches-gutted-658911">Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393262-untitled-design-2023-11-15t192558446.png?imwidth=640" />

A massive fire broke out in the New Delhi-Darbhanga Special Express when it was passing through Etawah city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday evening (Nov 15), stated officials. The officials confirmed no casualties in the mishap and said the fire was doused later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-earthquakes-cause-massive-cracks-on-roads-in-iceland-smoke-rises-from-ground-658725">Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393169-wion-images-61.png?imwidth=640" />

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-plans-to-send-cosmonauts-to-moon-for-first-time-in-next-decade-658934">Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/15/393271-untitled-design-2023-11-15t210119361.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mcdonalds-faces-one-to-two-sexual-harassment-allegations-from-workers-every-week-says-its-uk-boss-658705">McDonald's faces 'one to two' sexual harassment allegations from workers every week, says its UK boss</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/05/16/262741-0001oj89y.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Alistair Macrow, chief executive of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said Tuesday (Nov 14) that the fast-food giant faces "one to two" sexual harassment allegations from workers every week. The issue was recently exposed by the BBC and Macrow has promised to tackle the alarming situation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report.

The mutual distrust between India and China keeps the Line of Actual Control between two Asian powers prone to "sudden flare-ups of violence", with consequences that could reach far beyond the region, a global think tank has concluded in its latest report. The report also notes that a return to the times when boundary issue was shelved to let India-China bilateral ties get stronger "seems improbable in the short term". In other news, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Nov 15) ruled as unlawful the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda. Click on the headlines to read more: India-China LAC prone to 'sudden flare-ups', says global think-tank The number of Chinese incursions into Indian side of Line of Actual Control (LAC) tripled since Xi Jinping took over the corridors of power in 2013, the report points out while citing a dataset from November 2012 to November 2022. But notably, those incursions have been relatively low in "scale and intensity" in the Middle Sector of India-China boundary. "The number of transgressions by the Chinese troops in the last decade has been quite high in the western and eastern sectors compared to the least-disputed middle sector. So, the delineation of the border in the middle sector is the low-hanging fruit that both sides could pursue," Praveen Donthi, Senior India Analyst at International Crisis Group told WION. Supreme Court strikes down Sunak’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda The lower court had found that sending anyone to Rwanda would be in breach of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) laws as there was a “real risk” they could be returned to their home countries to face “persecution or other inhumane treatment”. Bangladesh general elections to be held on Jan 7, 2024 The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15). The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports. Babar Azam steps down as Pak captain in all formats after World Cup debacle Pakistan men's cricket team captain Babar Azam has stepped down from his post in all three formats after the culmination of a disastrous World Cup campaign in India. Babar took to social media to post a statement wherein he said it was a 'difficult decision' but the right time to make the call. Halsey admits 'cowardice' criticism for silence on Israel-Hamas war Pop sensation Halsey recently took to Instagram to address critics who labelled her a 'coward' for not speaking out earlier on the Israel-Palestine conflict. In a candid and heartfelt post, the singer opened up about the challenges she faced during her tour, revealing that past threats, including instances of violence and swatting at her home, influenced her decision to stay silent initially. Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country. Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted A massive fire broke out in the New Delhi-Darbhanga Special Express when it was passing through Etawah city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday evening (Nov 15), stated officials. The officials confirmed no casualties in the mishap and said the fire was doused later. Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place. Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS. McDonald's faces 'one to two' sexual harassment allegations from workers every week, says its UK boss Alistair Macrow, chief executive of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said Tuesday (Nov 14) that the fast-food giant faces "one to two" sexual harassment allegations from workers every week. The issue was recently exposed by the BBC and Macrow has promised to tackle the alarming situation.

Top 10 news: India-China LAC prone to sudden flare-ups, Bangladesh general elections to be held in Jan, & more

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that the United States continues to buy critical goods, such as uranium, from Russia while pushing the European Union (EU) to abandon all things Russian

Lavrov says US continues to buy critical goods from Russia

The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans. 
 
This megalithic site in Indonesia is called Gunung Padang. Indonesia's hillside, which is filled with ancient stone structures and is on the island of West Java, is considered sacred by locals, who call it a 'punden berundak' which means a stepped pyramid for the terraces that slowly move towards its peak. 
 
The site's surface has barely been brushed by the archaeologists, and already it is shaping up to become a "remarkable testament" to human ingenuity. 
 
As per experts, Gunung Padang is the world's oldest pyramidal structure and was built atop an extinct volcano before civilisations existed and humans delved into agriculture.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-why-some-people-have-more-neanderthal-dna-than-others-648706">Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation</a>

As per new data found by scientists in Indonesia, its interior hides large open chambers which contain many unknown elements. 
 
An extensive analysis of Gunung Padang, which is known as the 'mountain of enlightenment' in the local language, has suggested that the natural hill of lava was "meticulously sculpted" by an ancient civilization into the core of a pyramid-like structure after a long time. 
 
The site's first radiocarbon dating indicated that initial construction started in the last glacial period, which was more than 27,000 years ago. The results of Gunung Padang's current study have come after carrying out many years of careful analysis.

<h2>Archaeologists decode the complex structure of Gunung Padang</h2>

In the years between 2011 and 2015, a variety of techniques like ground penetrating radars, core drilling and subsurface imaging were used by a team of archaeologists, geophysicists and geologists, headed by geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency to investigate the cultural heritage site. 
 
It was found by Natawidjaja and other researchers that Gunung Padang was created in complex and sophisticated stages and its deepest part lies 30 meters down.

WATCH |&nbsp;Troubling discovery baffles scientists

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/troubling-discovery-baffles-scientists-649754/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The structure's core part was probably created between 25,000 and 14,000 BCE, however, it was later abandoned for several millennia. 
 
"The builders of Unit 3 and Unit 2 at Gunung Padang must have possessed remarkable masonry capabilities, which do not align with the traditional hunter-gatherer cultures," said the team of researchers. 
 
"Given the long and continuous occupation of Gunung Padang, it is reasonable to speculate that this site held significant importance, attracting ancient people to repeatedly occupy and modify it,” they added.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans.

The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans. This megalithic site in Indonesia is called Gunung Padang. Indonesia's hillside, which is filled with ancient stone structures and is on the island of West Java, is considered sacred by locals, who call it a 'punden berundak' which means a stepped pyramid for the terraces that slowly move towards its peak. The site's surface has barely been brushed by the archaeologists, and already it is shaping up to become a "remarkable testament" to human ingenuity. As per experts, Gunung Padang is the world's oldest pyramidal structure and was built atop an extinct volcano before civilisations existed and humans delved into agriculture. ALSO READ | Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation As per new data found by scientists in Indonesia, its interior hides large open chambers which contain many unknown elements. An extensive analysis of Gunung Padang, which is known as the 'mountain of enlightenment' in the local language, has suggested that the natural hill of lava was "meticulously sculpted" by an ancient civilization into the core of a pyramid-like structure after a long time. The site's first radiocarbon dating indicated that initial construction started in the last glacial period, which was more than 27,000 years ago. The results of Gunung Padang's current study have come after carrying out many years of careful analysis. Archaeologists decode the complex structure of Gunung Padang In the years between 2011 and 2015, a variety of techniques like ground penetrating radars, core drilling and subsurface imaging were used by a team of archaeologists, geophysicists and geologists, headed by geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency to investigate the cultural heritage site. It was found by Natawidjaja and other researchers that Gunung Padang was created in complex and sophisticated stages and its deepest part lies 30 meters down. WATCH | Troubling discovery baffles scientists The structure's core part was probably created between 25,000 and 14,000 BCE, however, it was later abandoned for several millennia. "The builders of Unit 3 and Unit 2 at Gunung Padang must have possessed remarkable masonry capabilities, which do not align with the traditional hunter-gatherer cultures," said the team of researchers. "Given the long and continuous occupation of Gunung Padang, it is reasonable to speculate that this site held significant importance, attracting ancient people to repeatedly occupy and modify it,” they added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world

Movember is an annual event during the month of November where guys grow their moustache to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men's suicide.&nbsp;

The event aims to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, and ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths.&nbsp;

The Movember Foundation runs the Movember charity event with a goal to change the face of men's health. In, 2012, Global Journal listed the organisation as one of the world's top 100 NGOs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/the-generational-work-symphony-genx-millennials-and-genz-in-a-crescendo-of-success-653846">The Generational Work Symphony: GenX, Millennials, and GenZ in a crescendo of success</a>

<h2>History of Movember</h2>

According to a story published in Seven Nightly News, an Adelaide-based group of young men came up with the idea of growing moustaches for charity throughout the month of November. With just 80 men from Adelaide at first, the club quickly spread across the country. They also&nbsp;raised money for the RSPCA by selling T-shirts with the text "Growing Whiskers for Whiskers".&nbsp;

A separate group in Melbourne organised an event in 2004 where 30 guys grew a moustache for thirty days in an effort to raise awareness about men's depression and prostate cancer. Over $40,000 was raised for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia by almost 500 individuals the following year. Subsequently, this group evolved into the Movember Foundation charity. The Movember movement was officially recognised as a charity in Australia three years after it&nbsp;started. Since then, the Movember Foundation has raised $174 million globally.&nbsp;

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The charity every year since 2010, has been organising an online global user-submitted video contest to help Movember participants showcase their involvement in the movement. Each submission is limited to four&nbsp;minutes, and there are awards available in a number of categories. The first champion was Mark Knight from London in 2010.&nbsp;

<h2>Criticism of the movement</h2>

A 2015 study published in the Journal of Cancer Education stated that "Findings from Twitter suggest that the Movember Canada 2013 did not meet the stated campaign objective of creating conversations about men’s health and, specifically, about prostate and testicular cancers."

Another study published in 2012&nbsp;by BMJ titled "Is Movember misleading men?" stated that "Movember’s emphasis on screening tests, its recommendation of a frequency of screening that is not based on evidence, and its failure to provide good supporting information place well-intentioned men in unhelpful conflict with their doctors. Meanwhile, the far more pressing concerns of mental illness, alcohol and substance misuse, smoking, and obesity are pressed into near silence. Is this the best we can do for men’s health?"

(With inputs from agencies)

Movember is an annual event during the month of November where guys grow their moustache to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men's suicide.

Movember is an annual event during the month of November where guys grow their moustache to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men's suicide. The event aims to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, and ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths. The Movember Foundation runs the Movember charity event with a goal to change the face of men's health. In, 2012, Global Journal listed the organisation as one of the world's top 100 NGOs. Also read: The Generational Work Symphony: GenX, Millennials, and GenZ in a crescendo of success History of Movember According to a story published in Seven Nightly News, an Adelaide-based group of young men came up with the idea of growing moustaches for charity throughout the month of November. With just 80 men from Adelaide at first, the club quickly spread across the country. They also raised money for the RSPCA by selling T-shirts with the text "Growing Whiskers for Whiskers". A separate group in Melbourne organised an event in 2004 where 30 guys grew a moustache for thirty days in an effort to raise awareness about men's depression and prostate cancer. Over $40,000 was raised for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia by almost 500 individuals the following year. Subsequently, this group evolved into the Movember Foundation charity. The Movember movement was officially recognised as a charity in Australia three years after it started. Since then, the Movember Foundation has raised $174 million globally. Also read: Here's how much you'd be worth if you had invested in Bitcoin on day 1 The charity every year since 2010, has been organising an online global user-submitted video contest to help Movember participants showcase their involvement in the movement. Each submission is limited to four minutes, and there are awards available in a number of categories. The first champion was Mark Knight from London in 2010. Criticism of the movement A 2015 study published in the Journal of Cancer Education stated that "Findings from Twitter suggest that the Movember Canada 2013 did not meet the stated campaign objective of creating conversations about men’s health and, specifically, about prostate and testicular cancers." Another study published in 2012 by BMJ titled "Is Movember misleading men?" stated that "Movember’s emphasis on screening tests, its recommendation of a frequency of screening that is not based on evidence, and its failure to provide good supporting information place well-intentioned men in unhelpful conflict with their doctors. Meanwhile, the far more pressing concerns of mental illness, alcohol and substance misuse, smoking, and obesity are pressed into near silence. Is this the best we can do for men’s health?" (With inputs from agencies)

Movember 2023: What is No-Shave November and why is it celebrated? Here's all you need to know

Two people were killed in clashes between anti-government protesters and police of Bangladesh. Dozens have been injured on the first day of the three day protest.

Bangladesh: Anti-government protesters clash with police

In the latest,&nbsp;Martin Dominic has claimed responsibility for planting an improvised explosive device (IED) at a convention centre in Kerala, south India, leading to two fatalities and 56 injuries, according to the Director General of Police in Kerala. 
 
On the Israel-Hamas war,&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is under intense scrutiny following the apparent security lapse during the October 7 Hamas terror attack, deflected blame to his intelligence chiefs, stating that he had not received any warning of a comprehensive attack from all fronts.

Click on the headlines to read more.

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A man, identified as Martin Dominic, has claimed the responsibility of placing a bomb at a convention centre in South India's Kerala that claimed two lives and left 56 others injured. The incident occurred due to an improvised explosive device (IED), according to Kerala state's Director General of Police.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-blames-security-chiefs-over-hamas-attack-deletes-post-after-uproar-652696">Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu blames security chiefs over Hamas attack, deletes post after uproar</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389821-netan.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/path-towards-xi-biden-meeting-is-not-smooth-says-chinese-foreign-minister-652637">Path towards Xi-Biden meeting is 'not smooth', says Chinese foreign minister</a>

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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that the journey towards a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping was "not smooth", Chinese state media reported. This week, Wang met President Biden and other senior US officials in Washington. Both sides agreed on Friday to set up meeting between the leaders next month. Biden has invited Xi Jinping to San Francisco in the month of November for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

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At least two people were gunned down and 18 injured on Sunday (Oct 29) early morning after a fight between two groups during Halloween festivities in Florida’s Tampa street.

"It was a disturbance or a fight between two groups," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw told reporters at the scene

. "And in this fight between two groups, we had hundreds of innocent people involved that were in the way."

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389827-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=1920" />

Former United States president Donald Trump, who is a 2024 presidential hopeful, on Saturday (Oct 28) promised the re-imposition of a controversial order that targeted a slew of mostly Muslim countries if he becomes president again. Addressing a Republican Jewish convention in Las Vegas, Trump said, "We will keep radical Islamic terrorists the hell out of our country."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-warns-civil-order-in-gaza-starting-to-collapse-after-food-stores-ransacked-652643">Israel-Hamas war: UN warns of civil order collapse in Gaza after food stores, warehouses looted</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389797-untitled-design.png?imwidth=1920" />

The United Nations warned on Sunday (Oct 29) that the civil order in war-torn Gaza was starting to collapse after thousands of people ransacked its food warehouses. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees, also known as the UNRWA, said that wheat, flour, and other supplies had been looted from several of its warehouses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-approves-worlds-first-passenger-carrying-flying-taxi-652612">China approves world’s first passenger-carrying flying taxi</a>

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Guangzhou-based company named Ehang has received the world's first airworthiness "type certificate" for its EH216-S AAV, a fully autonomous drone designed to carry two passengers.&nbsp;

Ehang, a US-listed company, has declared&nbsp;itself the first to hold this certificate, allowing it to operate autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for passenger transport in China, reported CNBC.&nbsp;

CEO Huazhi Hu in an&nbsp;interview with CNBC said&nbsp;that this achievement will pave the way for similar certificates in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia, streamlining Ehang's global ambitions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shin-yan-6-sri-lanka-allows-48-hour-research-window-to-chinese-vessel-amid-spy-concerns-652733">Shin Yan 6: Sri Lanka allows 48-hour research window to Chinese vessel amid spy concerns</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389836-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-10-29t200813608.png?imwidth=1920" />

Sri Lanka has permitted the Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6 to conduct marine research under supervision for a two-day period along its west coast, according to the country's foreign ministry.

The vessel, which had been in Colombo since Wednesday, was initially allowed into the main port for "replenishments" amid concerns about its potential use for espionage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-says-hamas-political-bureau-in-doha-useful-for-hostage-release-amid-war-with-israel-652560">Qatar says Hamas political bureau in Doha 'useful' for hostage release amid war with Israel</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389753-untitled-design-13.png?imwidth=1920" />

Qatar has said that the Hamas' politial bureau in Doha is "useful"&nbsp;for aiding in hostage release amid the Islamist group's war with Israel, media reports said. As Qatar continues to mediate talks between Israel and Hamas, the country's foreign ministry spokesperson&nbsp;Majed al-Ansari told a Western media outlet,&nbsp;“As long as this channel is useful in creating peace, we have to have it. We cannot afford to lose it."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-serial-blasts-delhi-mumbai-up-on-alert-centre-sends-nsg-team-to-kerala-652672">Kerala serial blasts: Delhi, Mumbai &amp; UP on alert; Centre sends NSG team to Kerala</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/29/389812-2023-10-29t082933z1lynxmpej9s026rtroptp4india-blasts.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

India's national capital New Delhi, financial capital Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on a high alert following serial blasts in the southern state of Kerala on Sunday (Oct 29). According to a report by the news PTI, security was beefed up around churches, metro stations, bus stands, railway stations, and other public places in New Delhi. Speaking to PTI, a police officer, who chose to remain anonymous, said, "Teams have been informed to put barricades on the border area from Uttar Pradesh side and Haryana side."

In the latest, Martin Dominic has claimed responsibility for planting an improvised explosive device (IED) at a convention centre in Kerala, south India, leading to two fatalities and 56 injuries, according to the Director General of Police in Kerala.

In the latest, Martin Dominic has claimed responsibility for planting an improvised explosive device (IED) at a convention centre in Kerala, south India, leading to two fatalities and 56 injuries, according to the Director General of Police in Kerala. On the Israel-Hamas war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is under intense scrutiny following the apparent security lapse during the October 7 Hamas terror attack, deflected blame to his intelligence chiefs, stating that he had not received any warning of a comprehensive attack from all fronts. Click on the headlines to read more. India: Kochi man claims responsibility for IED blast at religious gathering; terror angle being probed A man, identified as Martin Dominic, has claimed the responsibility of placing a bomb at a convention centre in South India's Kerala that claimed two lives and left 56 others injured. The incident occurred due to an improvised explosive device (IED), according to Kerala state's Director General of Police. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu blames security chiefs over Hamas attack, deletes post after uproar Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing massive heat over the apparent security lapse over the Oct 7 Hamas terror attack, on Sunday (Oct 29) shifted the blame at his intelligence chiefs saying that he was never warned of an all-front attack. Path towards Xi-Biden meeting is 'not smooth', says Chinese foreign minister Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that the journey towards a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping was "not smooth", Chinese state media reported. This week, Wang met President Biden and other senior US officials in Washington. Both sides agreed on Friday to set up meeting between the leaders next month. Biden has invited Xi Jinping to San Francisco in the month of November for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. Two shot down, 18 injured after a fight in Florida At least two people were gunned down and 18 injured on Sunday (Oct 29) early morning after a fight between two groups during Halloween festivities in Florida’s Tampa street. "It was a disturbance or a fight between two groups," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw told reporters at the scene . "And in this fight between two groups, we had hundreds of innocent people involved that were in the way." Explained | Trump promises to reimpose Muslim travel ban. What is it? Former United States president Donald Trump, who is a 2024 presidential hopeful, on Saturday (Oct 28) promised the re-imposition of a controversial order that targeted a slew of mostly Muslim countries if he becomes president again. Addressing a Republican Jewish convention in Las Vegas, Trump said, "We will keep radical Islamic terrorists the hell out of our country." Israel-Hamas war: UN warns of civil order collapse in Gaza after food stores, warehouses looted The United Nations warned on Sunday (Oct 29) that the civil order in war-torn Gaza was starting to collapse after thousands of people ransacked its food warehouses. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees, also known as the UNRWA, said that wheat, flour, and other supplies had been looted from several of its warehouses. China approves world’s first passenger-carrying flying taxi Guangzhou-based company named Ehang has received the world's first airworthiness "type certificate" for its EH216-S AAV, a fully autonomous drone designed to carry two passengers. Ehang, a US-listed company, has declared itself the first to hold this certificate, allowing it to operate autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for passenger transport in China, reported CNBC. CEO Huazhi Hu in an interview with CNBC said that this achievement will pave the way for similar certificates in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia, streamlining Ehang's global ambitions. Shin Yan 6: Sri Lanka allows 48-hour research window to Chinese vessel amid spy concerns Sri Lanka has permitted the Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6 to conduct marine research under supervision for a two-day period along its west coast, according to the country's foreign ministry. The vessel, which had been in Colombo since Wednesday, was initially allowed into the main port for "replenishments" amid concerns about its potential use for espionage. Qatar says Hamas political bureau in Doha 'useful' for hostage release amid war with Israel Qatar has said that the Hamas' politial bureau in Doha is "useful" for aiding in hostage release amid the Islamist group's war with Israel, media reports said. As Qatar continues to mediate talks between Israel and Hamas, the country's foreign ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari told a Western media outlet, “As long as this channel is useful in creating peace, we have to have it. We cannot afford to lose it." Kerala serial blasts: Delhi, Mumbai & UP on alert; Centre sends NSG team to Kerala India's national capital New Delhi, financial capital Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on a high alert following serial blasts in the southern state of Kerala on Sunday (Oct 29). According to a report by the news PTI, security was beefed up around churches, metro stations, bus stands, railway stations, and other public places in New Delhi. Speaking to PTI, a police officer, who chose to remain anonymous, said, "Teams have been informed to put barricades on the border area from Uttar Pradesh side and Haryana side."

Top 10 world news: Kerala serial blasts, Gazans raid UN food warehouses, and more

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell.

In other news,&nbsp;several people went&nbsp;missing after a collision between two freight ships in the North Sea near the German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).

The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">Israel-Hamas war: Survivor recounts horrific experience as captive in Gaza</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388681-untitled-design-2023-10-24t161841040.png?imwidth=1920" />

Yocheved Lifshitz&nbsp;had spent years getting medical supplies into Gaza. She stated that they&nbsp;entered Gaza Strip through a gate and that she suffered bruises because of the motorbike ride. She added that she was struggling to breathe.&nbsp;While speaking about the ordeal, Yocheved Lifschitz's daughter Sharone also helped her mother in recounting what all happened to her. She further confirmed that Hamas militants took her mother on a motorbike and also hit her with sticks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cargo-ships-collide-in-german-north-sea-several-people-missing-650714">Cargo ships collide in German North Sea, one sinks; several people missing</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388699-collage-maker-24-oct-2023-05-05-pm-9321.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Several people went&nbsp;missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).&nbsp;The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles &nbsp;(22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removes-defence-minister-shangfu-ousts-former-foreign-minister-from-cabinet-650718">China removes Defence Minister Shangfu, also ousts Qin Gang from cabinet</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388707-untitled-design.png?imwidth=640" />

The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. As per CCTV, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress also voted to remove former foreign minister Qin Gang from his position as state councillor. The broadcaster did not name a replacement for Li, neither&nbsp;did it mention the reason for his removal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-fit-and-well-kremlin-rejects-speculation-about-putins-health-650690">He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388684-2023-10-24t093317z1lynxmpej9n0dgrtroptp4russia-putin.JPG?imwidth=640" />

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-found-lying-on-floor-after-allegedly-suffering-cardiac-arrest-reports-suggest-650538">speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health&nbsp;</a>and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-how-much-is-lionel-messi-earning-in-mls-with-inter-miami-revealed-650749">Football: How much is Lionel Messi earning in MLS with Inter Miami? REVEALED</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/08/384671-untitled-design-90.png?imwidth=640" />

Lionel Messi is earning more money at Inter Miami than the entire payroll of 25 clubs in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Only four other teams in the league have payrolls bigger than the salary offered to Messi by David Beckham co-owned Inter Miami, according to the 2023 MLS players salary guide, as revealed by&nbsp;Goal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-men-charged-by-french-judge-over-deadly-attack-in-brussels-last-week-650599">Two men charged by French judge over deadly attack in Brussels last week</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388632-capture.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

A Paris judge on Monday (Oct 23) charged two men suspected of having links with the Islamist gunman who killed two Swedish football fans in Brussels last week, reported AFP.&nbsp;The men were charged with forming a terror group and getting involved in murder linked to a terror plot. France's anti-terror prosecutor's office said that both men were placed in detention.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-air-force-drops-leaflets-in-gaza-seeking-information-on-hostages-650774">Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388736-untitled-design-12.jpg?imwidth=640" />

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.&nbsp;When it launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas fighter captured more than 200 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-proposes-international-coalition-against-hamas-650752">French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388721-succession-2023-10-24t174325046.png?imwidth=640" />

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-police-officer-suspended-over-tricolour-row-during-pak-vs-afg-world-cup-match-650757">India: Police officer suspended over tricolour row during PAK vs AFG World Cup match</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388723-flag.jpg?imwidth=640" />

A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag.&nbsp;The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-several-people-hospitalised-after-using-fake-versions-of-diabetes-drug-650792">Austria: Several people hospitalised after using fake versions of diabetes drug</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/24/388749-2023-10-24t092733z1lynxmpej9n0dcrtroptp4health-obesity-novo-nordisk-austria.JPG?imwidth=640" />

Several people in Austria were hospitalised after they used suspected fake versions of Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug Ozempic, the news agency reported on Tuesday (Oct 24) citing the country's health safety regulator BASG. On Monday, the BASG said that patients were reported to have suffered hypoglycaemia, seizures, and other serious side effects.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell.

A woman identified as Yocheved Lifschitz, who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and released on Tuesday morning (Oct 24), held a press conference from the hospital where she was recovering after being freed, sayying she has been through hell. In other news, several people went missing after a collision between two freight ships in the North Sea near the German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24). The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Survivor recounts horrific experience as captive in Gaza Yocheved Lifshitz had spent years getting medical supplies into Gaza. She stated that they entered Gaza Strip through a gate and that she suffered bruises because of the motorbike ride. She added that she was struggling to breathe. While speaking about the ordeal, Yocheved Lifschitz's daughter Sharone also helped her mother in recounting what all happened to her. She further confirmed that Hamas militants took her mother on a motorbike and also hit her with sticks. Cargo ships collide in German North Sea, one sinks; several people missing Several people went missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24). The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity. China removes Defence Minister Shangfu, also ousts Qin Gang from cabinet The Chinese government on Tuesday (Oct 24) removed Li Shangfu from his position as defence minister and state councillor, state broadcaster CCTV reported. As per CCTV, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress also voted to remove former foreign minister Qin Gang from his position as state councillor. The broadcaster did not name a replacement for Li, neither did it mention the reason for his removal. He's fit and well: Kremlin rejects rumours about Putin's ill-health The Kremlin on Tuesday (Oct 24) rejected speculation about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health and said he is fit and well. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also denied claims that President Putin was using body doubles. Football: How much is Lionel Messi earning in MLS with Inter Miami? REVEALED Lionel Messi is earning more money at Inter Miami than the entire payroll of 25 clubs in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Only four other teams in the league have payrolls bigger than the salary offered to Messi by David Beckham co-owned Inter Miami, according to the 2023 MLS players salary guide, as revealed by Goal. Two men charged by French judge over deadly attack in Brussels last week A Paris judge on Monday (Oct 23) charged two men suspected of having links with the Islamist gunman who killed two Swedish football fans in Brussels last week, reported AFP. The men were charged with forming a terror group and getting involved in murder linked to a terror plot. France's anti-terror prosecutor's office said that both men were placed in detention. Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When it launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas fighter captured more than 200 people. French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. India: Police officer suspended over tricolour row during PAK vs AFG World Cup match A sub-inspector of Tamil Nadu Police has been shunted out and a probe was initiated against him after he allegedly did not let spectators enter the Chennai cricket stadium with the Indian flag. The move comes after a video went viral showing the police officer barring the entry of a few cricket fans to the MA Chidambaram Stadium ahead of the Pakistan-Afghanistan World Cup match on Monday (Oct 23). Austria: Several people hospitalised after using fake versions of diabetes drug Several people in Austria were hospitalised after they used suspected fake versions of Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug Ozempic, the news agency reported on Tuesday (Oct 24) citing the country's health safety regulator BASG. On Monday, the BASG said that patients were reported to have suffered hypoglycaemia, seizures, and other serious side effects.

Top 10 world news: Israel woman recounts ordeal as Hamas captive, cargo ship collides in North Sea, & more

In their first meeting since Azerbaijan regained control of Nagorno-Karabakh, the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan convened in Iran on Monday. Russia stated that the primary issue had been settled, subject to additional work on a peace treaty. The summit was held against the backdrop of escalating Middle East tensions, following Azerbaijan's swift advance into the disputed territory.

Russia on Armenia-Azerbaijan talks

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