Emmys 2026: Matthew Rhys wins Best Actor twice, sets historic 78-year record

3 Italians fly from Delhi to Munich without immigration clearance; Air India gets notice on major security lapse

Ex-CIA official David Rush nears plea deal in $40 million gold bar theft case

Did India risk its US trade deal despite softer stance at BRICS?

Pakistan puts Pak Rs 70 lakh bounty on UN terrorist Masood Azhar; move draws skepticism in Delhi

‘US ensuring global energy supplies’: Trump demands reimbursement for securing Strait of Hormuz

'She married her brother': Ilhan Omar faces criminal probe over immigration fraud claims

Ukraine strikes Syzran Oil Refinery deep inside Russia, fires erupt

Emmy Awards 2026: Widow's Bay and The Pitt win in lead categories- check out the complete list of winners

Indian-origin woman, Nepali-American friend crushed to death by subway train in New York

Emmys 2026: Michael J Fox honoured with Bob Hope Humanitarian Award for Parkinson’s advocacy

Emmys 2026 In Memoriam: Catherine O’Hara honoured by on-screen children Macaulay Culkin, Annie Murphy, Dan Levy; Dolly Parton, Rob Reiner remembered

Iran, India agree to deepen humanitarian and political ties, President Pezeshkian says

'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs

Emmys 2026 Red Carpet: Zendaya, Nicole Kidman and Julia Garner lead the glamour peak

Turkish Airlines plane flies through a storm three times, triggering severe turbulence

China's property crisis deepens as investment plunges nearly 20% 

What is Hyrox, in news for athlete who soiled herself, but kept running and using common equipment?

Russia proposes to build 360 kmph Ivolga FG trains in India: What happened on sidelines of BRICS

800 million years old - Scientists discover 'fingerprints' of supercontinent Gondwana in ancient rocks

Former Pak PM Imran Khan's ex-wife Jemima Goldsmith marries Australian financier: Who is Cameron O'Reilly

UPI payments up to Rs 2,000 to stays free, but bigger transactions may soon cost you: Govt

Gurugram hit and run case: Police arrest  car driver Kalyan Bainsla, book him for attempt to murder

New OTT releases this week (September 14-20, 2026): Lust Stories 3, Waiting Hai, Irumudi- 5 new titles coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Sent home midway from UK tour, Pakistan's Salman Agha hits 300* in domestic return

Who is Kalyan Bainsla, accused in the Gurugram hit-and-run case involving woman biker?

Nigerian Navy seizes 10,000 litres of suspected illegal fuel in Rivers State crackdown

Saudi Arabia discovers 110 million tonnes of Uranium-rich ore in Madinah region

Dodgers beat Reds for playoff berth in bid for third consecutive World Series

Ecstasy tablets are rage in 'drug haven' Libya | Gravitas

'Now Trump is copying us': Shivakumar links US $5,000 plan to Congress guarantees

Video of Pakistani lawmaker struggling to read English tribute to Jinnah goes viral - WATCH

Trump downplays China's alleged 'help' to Iran in strike on Jordan base | Gravitas

Trump loses Supreme Court battle over mail ballots ahead of US midterms: What happened?

BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla says Mohsin Naqvi 'did not object' India refusing trophy from ACC chief

Legendary costume designer Bob Mackie dies at 87: A look back at his iconic legacy

Delhi govt to roll out ₹13,820 crore development projects under Seva Sankalp Abhiyan: CM Rekha Gupta

UK man admits drugging, raping wife for 20 years in shocking abuse case

Extreme warming in Indian Ocean added 695 billion tons of ice to Antarctica ice sheet

China thinned Himalayan troop presence in 2025, India defence report says; terms border situation 'stable'

The Philippines and China continue their blame game in the territory of the South China Sea. In the latest the Philippines has accused China of using water canons to obstruct three of its vessels.

What is behind rising China-Phillipines tensions? All you need to know

<p>In light of Australia's recent announcement of a new migration Strategy, the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) has emerged as a pivotal safeguard, alleviating concerns for Indian students pursuing education down under. Australian High Commissioner Philip Green asserted that commitments forged under the AI-ECTA would remain intact, providing a buffer against the new measures imposed on the influx of foreigners.</p>

<p>"Commitments agreed between India and Australia under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) will be upheld under the new Migration Strategy," stated High Commissioner Green, underscoring the continuity of benefits for Indian graduates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This means that Indian graduates will continue to be eligible to stay on a Temporary Graduate Visa for two years for a bachelor's degree, three years for the completion of a Masters degree and 4 years for a completion of a PhD," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Australia heatwave: Sydney bakes in hottest day in three years</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-heatwave-sydney-bakes-in-hottest-day-in-three-years-668043/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The AI-ECTA's purview extends to former students, granting them the opportunity to stay in Australia based on their qualifications. Australian High Commissioner Green emphasised the government's welcoming stance towards high-quality students.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-most-vital-partner-in-indian-ocean-australian-envoy-philip-green-to-wion-667859">India most vital partner in Indian ocean: Australian Envoy Philip Green to WION</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Welcoming high-quality students</strong></h2>

<p>"The government will continue to welcome high-quality students seeking out educational opportunities in Australia. I see no reason why Indian student numbers shouldn’t continue to grow." The number of Indian students currently enrolled for studying in Australia is estimated at around 120,277 (August 2023), making Indian students the second largest cohort of foreign students in Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Explained | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indian-students-workers-to-be-affected-by-visa-rules-in-australia-uk-and-canada-heres-why-668656">Indian students, workers to be affected by visa rules in Australia, UK, and Canada. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia's migration review, while imposing no caps on foreign students, has introduced new measures. Stricter English language requirements, restrictions on onshore visa hopping to maintain system integrity, and increased scrutiny of high-risk student visa applications form the crux of the strategy. Canberra's focus under the migration review is to attract skilled workers which aligns with the needs of its economy under a consensus reached by the government, trade unions, and businesses.</p>


In light of Australia's recent announcement of a new migration Strategy, the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) has emerged as a pivotal safeguard, alleviating concerns for Indian students pursuing education down under.

In light of Australia's recent announcement of a new migration Strategy, the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) has emerged as a pivotal safeguard, alleviating concerns for Indian students pursuing education down under. Australian High Commissioner Philip Green asserted that commitments forged under the AI-ECTA would remain intact, providing a buffer against the new measures imposed on the influx of foreigners. "Commitments agreed between India and Australia under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) will be upheld under the new Migration Strategy," stated High Commissioner Green, underscoring the continuity of benefits for Indian graduates. "This means that Indian graduates will continue to be eligible to stay on a Temporary Graduate Visa for two years for a bachelor's degree, three years for the completion of a Masters degree and 4 years for a completion of a PhD," he said. Watch | Australia heatwave: Sydney bakes in hottest day in three years × The AI-ECTA's purview extends to former students, granting them the opportunity to stay in Australia based on their qualifications. Australian High Commissioner Green emphasised the government's welcoming stance towards high-quality students. Also Read | India most vital partner in Indian ocean: Australian Envoy Philip Green to WION Welcoming high-quality students "The government will continue to welcome high-quality students seeking out educational opportunities in Australia. I see no reason why Indian student numbers shouldn’t continue to grow." The number of Indian students currently enrolled for studying in Australia is estimated at around 120,277 (August 2023), making Indian students the second largest cohort of foreign students in Australia. Explained | Indian students, workers to be affected by visa rules in Australia, UK, and Canada. Here's why Australia's migration review, while imposing no caps on foreign students, has introduced new measures. Stricter English language requirements, restrictions on onshore visa hopping to maintain system integrity, and increased scrutiny of high-risk student visa applications form the crux of the strategy. Canberra's focus under the migration review is to attract skilled workers which aligns with the needs of its economy under a consensus reached by the government, trade unions, and businesses.

Australia-India trade pact shields students in the wake of new migration strategy

A tribal leader in Chhattisgarh, a politician from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) in Madhya Pradesh, and a Brahmin first-time MLA in Rajasthan - the BJP's choices for the Chief Minister's post in the three heartland states reflect the party's broader caste balance formula for 2024. The common thread that binds the three surprise names is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP's ideological parent; all three are considered close to the RSS.

BJP applies 'one plus two formula' in Rajasthan, MP, & Chhattisgarh

The Supreme Court will comment on Donald Trump's historic prosecution for the first time on Monday, when special counsel Jack Smith asked the court to determine whether the former president is immune from prosecution for crimes he is accused of committing while in office.

US: Special Counsel Jack Smith requests Supreme Court to weigh in on community claim | World DNA

<p>FBI Director Christopher Wray met CBI Director Praveen Sood in India's capital New Delhi on Monday (Dec 11) where ways to achieve greater cooperation in cyber-related financial crimes along with other topics were discussed, news agency PTI reported citing officials.</p>

<p>Wray and other senior officials reached the agency headquarters in the afternoon for the meeting.</p>

<p>The FBI Director, during his two-day visit to India, is set to meet top officials of Indian security and law enforcement establishments, the officials said.</p>

<p>He arrived in New Delhi on Sunday evening (Dec 10).</p>

<p>Wray and Sood, during their meeting, discussed issues related to the exchange of information on cybercrime cases, narcotics, pending judicial requests and extradition of wanted criminals, people familiar with the matter said.</p>

<p>"Both agencies recognised the challenges posed by organised crime networks, cyber-enabled financial crimes, ransomware threats, economic crimes and transnational crimes," CBI said in an official press statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-strategic-partner-but-ones-behind-assassination-plot-should-be-held-accountable-white-house-667394">India a strategic partner but those behind Pannun 'murder plot' should be held accountable: White House</a></p>

<p>The high-profile visit comes against the backdrop of allegations by Washington over India's alleged connection to a foiled plot to kill Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.</p>

<p>The US Ambassador, Eric Garcetti during a panel discussion at the Carnegie 'Global Technology Summit', had made a mention of the FBI director's visit to India.</p>

<p>He said that India was "the number one country she (US Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen) went to outside the United States, four times this year. The Secretary of State (Antony Blinken) just came here for the third time. Secretary of Defence (Lloyd Austin) for the second time. The FBI director is here next week."</p>

<p>Earlier, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on being asked about Wray's visit to India, said that it was a part of the overall bilateral cooperation in areas of cyber security, counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics.</p>

<p>"As you're aware, we have robust security, cyber-security, counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics cooperation with the US agencies. We are also engaged in capacity-building programmes. So as part of this ongoing bilateral cooperation, a visit By the FBI director is in the works," he had said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


FBI Director Christopher Wray met CBI Director Praveen Sood in India's capital New Delhi on Monday (Dec 11) where ways to achieve greater cooperation in cyber-related financial crimes along with other topics were discussed, news agency PTI reported citing officials.

FBI Director Christopher Wray met CBI Director Praveen Sood in India's capital New Delhi on Monday (Dec 11) where ways to achieve greater cooperation in cyber-related financial crimes along with other topics were discussed, news agency PTI reported citing officials. Wray and other senior officials reached the agency headquarters in the afternoon for the meeting. The FBI Director, during his two-day visit to India, is set to meet top officials of Indian security and law enforcement establishments, the officials said. He arrived in New Delhi on Sunday evening (Dec 10). Wray and Sood, during their meeting, discussed issues related to the exchange of information on cybercrime cases, narcotics, pending judicial requests and extradition of wanted criminals, people familiar with the matter said. "Both agencies recognised the challenges posed by organised crime networks, cyber-enabled financial crimes, ransomware threats, economic crimes and transnational crimes," CBI said in an official press statement. Also read: India a strategic partner but those behind Pannun 'murder plot' should be held accountable: White House The high-profile visit comes against the backdrop of allegations by Washington over India's alleged connection to a foiled plot to kill Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. The US Ambassador, Eric Garcetti during a panel discussion at the Carnegie 'Global Technology Summit', had made a mention of the FBI director's visit to India. He said that India was "the number one country she (US Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen) went to outside the United States, four times this year. The Secretary of State (Antony Blinken) just came here for the third time. Secretary of Defence (Lloyd Austin) for the second time. The FBI director is here next week." Earlier, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on being asked about Wray's visit to India, said that it was a part of the overall bilateral cooperation in areas of cyber security, counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics. "As you're aware, we have robust security, cyber-security, counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics cooperation with the US agencies. We are also engaged in capacity-building programmes. So as part of this ongoing bilateral cooperation, a visit By the FBI director is in the works," he had said. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI director meets CBI chief amid US allegations against India over alleged Pannun 'murder plot'

On Tuesday, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif cleared yet another legal hurdle ahead of the Feb 8 general election after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) acquitted him in the Al-Azizia reference. The Al-Azizia case was one of the two graft references that Nawaz was convicted in. He was acquitted in the Avenfield reference on Nov 29 by the same bench.

Acquittals in grafts case clear hurdles for Nawaz Sharif before 2024 polls

The Texas Supreme Court on Monday overturned a lower court's ruling that would have allowed a pregnant woman to get an emergency abortion under the medical exception for the state's near-total abortion ban, granting a petition by Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Texas top court rules against woman who sought abortion for medical emergency

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidx7zooou2eaD1" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>British FMCG giant Unilever has come under the radar for bogus 'green' claims about its products. The UK antitrust regulator has opened a probe against the company over claims that it misled shoppers about how environment-friendly its products are.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in a statement released on Tuesday (Dec 12) said an initial review into Unilever's tactics found that the multi-billion dollar company was using a range of "concerning practices" to sell its products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Essentials like detergent, kitchen spray, and toiletries are the kinds of items you put in your supermarket basket every time you shop. More and more people are trying to do their bit to help protect the environment, but we’re worried many are being misled by so-called ‘green’ products that aren’t what they seem.”</p>

<p>The watchdog added that it was worried Unilever might have been overstating how clean and green it was. The company, which is responsible for brands such as Dove, Comfort and Cif among others focused on single aspect of the product to suggest it was environmentally friendly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Use of colours and imagery&nbsp;such as green leaves created the impression that some products were greener than what reality might reflect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Unilever is found guilty of greenwashing claims, the watchdog could take it to court where the case could even go to trial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/big-brands-like-coca-cola-found-guilty-of-greenwashing-what-is-this-and-why-is-it-problematic-493682"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Big brands like Coca Cola found guilty of 'greenwashing', what is this and why is it problematic?</strong></a></p>

<p>After the release of CMA's statement, Unilever said it was "surprised" and "disappointed" by the investigation but added it would cooperate with the watchdog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We refute that our claims are in any way misleading. Unilever is committed to making responsible claims about the benefits of our products on our packs and to these being transparent and clear," a company spokesperson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities launching the probe against Unilever is part of a broader battle against "greenwashing" that mega companies often use to sell themselves as a sustainable and eco-conscious company. In January, earlier this year, CMA expanded its investigation to include consumer goods companies that make essential items such as food, drink, cleaning products and toiletries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-seven-sins-of-greenwashing-527609"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;The seven sins of Greenwashing</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-seven-sins-of-greenwashing-527609/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>What is Greenwashing?</strong></h2>

<p>The process of fabricating or exaggerating a product, service, brand, or even an entire company's green credentials is known as "greenwashing."</p>

<p>Big brands use it to market themselves despite causing tremendous damage to the environment. Their deceptive ploy not only hurts the climate but also the ethical businesses that are attempting to better the world by changing their habits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British FMCG giant Unilever has come under the radar for bogus 'green' claims about its products. The UK antitrust regulator has opened a probe against the company over claims that it misled shoppers about how environment-friendly its products are.

British FMCG giant Unilever has come under the radar for bogus 'green' claims about its products. The UK antitrust regulator has opened a probe against the company over claims that it misled shoppers about how environment-friendly its products are. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in a statement released on Tuesday (Dec 12) said an initial review into Unilever's tactics found that the multi-billion dollar company was using a range of "concerning practices" to sell its products. “Essentials like detergent, kitchen spray, and toiletries are the kinds of items you put in your supermarket basket every time you shop. More and more people are trying to do their bit to help protect the environment, but we’re worried many are being misled by so-called ‘green’ products that aren’t what they seem.” The watchdog added that it was worried Unilever might have been overstating how clean and green it was. The company, which is responsible for brands such as Dove, Comfort and Cif among others focused on single aspect of the product to suggest it was environmentally friendly. Use of colours and imagery such as green leaves created the impression that some products were greener than what reality might reflect. If Unilever is found guilty of greenwashing claims, the watchdog could take it to court where the case could even go to trial. Also read | Big brands like Coca Cola found guilty of 'greenwashing', what is this and why is it problematic? After the release of CMA's statement, Unilever said it was "surprised" and "disappointed" by the investigation but added it would cooperate with the watchdog. "We refute that our claims are in any way misleading. Unilever is committed to making responsible claims about the benefits of our products on our packs and to these being transparent and clear," a company spokesperson said. The authorities launching the probe against Unilever is part of a broader battle against "greenwashing" that mega companies often use to sell themselves as a sustainable and eco-conscious company. In January, earlier this year, CMA expanded its investigation to include consumer goods companies that make essential items such as food, drink, cleaning products and toiletries. Watch | The seven sins of Greenwashing × What is Greenwashing? The process of fabricating or exaggerating a product, service, brand, or even an entire company's green credentials is known as "greenwashing." Big brands use it to market themselves despite causing tremendous damage to the environment. Their deceptive ploy not only hurts the climate but also the ethical businesses that are attempting to better the world by changing their habits. (With inputs from agencies)

Unilever to be investigated by UK antitrust regulator over 'greenwashing' claims

The Ministry of Health in Gaza announced on Monday that the Gaza death toll in the Gaza Strip has exceeded 18,000 as a result of the Hamas-Israel conflict since Oct. 7.

Israel-Hamas war: EU top diplomat says, 'Gaza destruction worse than in World War II's Germany'

The IPL 2023 Auction is just around the corner and the teams are looking to plug the remaining gaps during the December 19 event. The auction will be held outside India for the first time as Dubai gets ready to host the franchises and players.

All Chennai Super Kings records

Zelensky is all set to embark on his third visit to Washington since the war in Ukraine began. He last visited in September. Aid for Ukraine in its effort to ward off Russia will be a prime agenda here, but will Zelensky be able to navigate his way around the divisions in the U.S. leaders on continuing the aid for Ukraine?

US: Zelensky arrives in US; meets with IMF, military officers & lawmakers in bid to unlock aid

<p>Part of a seven-story building in the Bronx, New York suddenly collapsed on Monday afternoon (Dec 11) as firefighters were seen tunnelling through a huge pile of debris in search of possible victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The FDNY said there have been no reports of injuries thus far. As per the official, there's no confirmation on what caused the collapse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports said that the collapse happened around 3:30 pm (local time) on West Burnside Avenue and Phelan Place in Morris Heights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kate-cox-a-texas-woman-forced-to-leave-state-for-emergency-abortion-668704">Kate Cox, a Texas woman, forced to leave state for emergency abortion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>There are businesses on the first floor of the building, and the rest of the building is residential. The building was evacuated, initial reports suggest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images and videos shared on social media showed people running for their lives as the building collapsed near them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by CBS News, OEM Commissioner Zach Iscol said that FDNY members were on the scene 1 minute, and 36 seconds after they received the call.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The FDNY is responding to a partial building collapse of a six-story apartment building at 1915 Billingsley Terrace in the Bronx. So far no injuries have been reported. <a href="https://t.co/9FhCSOwbSW">pic.twitter.com/9FhCSOwbSW</a></p>
— FDNY (@FDNY) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDNY/status/1734324363896213966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NEW YORK: BREAKING: Partial building collapse at 172 W Burnside Ave in the Bronx. Reports of people trapped. <a href="https://t.co/1ZYOTt8f3F">pic.twitter.com/1ZYOTt8f3F</a></p>
— TRACKER DEEP (@tracker_deep) <a href="https://twitter.com/tracker_deep/status/1734319699486532081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All people have been evacuated from the partially collapsed building at 1915 Billingsley Terrace, Bronx. The building has 47 residential units and 6 businesses. Search for potential victims ongoing. <a href="https://t.co/UAq3CRnDrT">pic.twitter.com/UAq3CRnDrT</a></p>
— FDNY (@FDNY) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDNY/status/1734345388340264996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Surveillance video shows the harrowing moments of the building collapse in the Bronx. We bring you the latest at 10p on <a href="https://twitter.com/fox5ny?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fox5ny</a> <a href="https://t.co/HetXWAzQXb">pic.twitter.com/HetXWAzQXb</a></p>
— Arthur Chi'en (@Arthur_Chien) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arthur_Chien/status/1734375793126433061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-director-meets-cbi-chief-amid-us-allegations-against-india-over-alleged-pannun-murder-plot-668688">FBI director meets CBI chief amid US allegations against India over alleged Pannun 'murder plot'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>FDNY Chief of Department John Hodgens said: "We immediately vacated and evacuated the building and started to concentrate on the debris pile in front of the building&nbsp;to search for any victims."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're tunnelling into that debris pile as safely as we can. Firefighters right now are in a dangerous position. We don't know what caused the corner of this building to collapse, and we don't know if any more of it is going to come down. But we're searching for life. That's the main objective at this time," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said, "All of our specialised training and resources that we have for an incident like this have gone to work. We have our drone up, surveying the area, seeing if we can find additional information about potential patients and areas of potential instability."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have our K9 unit here, helping us search for potential victims. And we have all of our specially trained firefighters, tactical units, collapse units, and our EMTs and rescue medics who are trained specifically to treat someone in a collapse," added Kavanagh as she provided details on what the firefighters were doing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Part of a seven-story building in the Bronx, New York suddenly collapsed on Monday afternoon (Dec 11) as firefighters were seen tunnelling through a huge pile of debris in search of possible victims.

Part of a seven-story building in the Bronx, New York suddenly collapsed on Monday afternoon (Dec 11) as firefighters were seen tunnelling through a huge pile of debris in search of possible victims. The FDNY said there have been no reports of injuries thus far. As per the official, there's no confirmation on what caused the collapse. Local reports said that the collapse happened around 3:30 pm (local time) on West Burnside Avenue and Phelan Place in Morris Heights. Also read: Kate Cox, a Texas woman, forced to leave state for emergency abortion There are businesses on the first floor of the building, and the rest of the building is residential. The building was evacuated, initial reports suggest. Images and videos shared on social media showed people running for their lives as the building collapsed near them. As quoted by CBS News, OEM Commissioner Zach Iscol said that FDNY members were on the scene 1 minute, and 36 seconds after they received the call. Watch the video here: The FDNY is responding to a partial building collapse of a six-story apartment building at 1915 Billingsley Terrace in the Bronx. So far no injuries have been reported. pic.twitter.com/9FhCSOwbSW — FDNY (@FDNY) December 11, 2023 × NEW YORK: BREAKING: Partial building collapse at 172 W Burnside Ave in the Bronx. Reports of people trapped. pic.twitter.com/1ZYOTt8f3F — TRACKER DEEP (@tracker_deep) December 11, 2023 × All people have been evacuated from the partially collapsed building at 1915 Billingsley Terrace, Bronx. The building has 47 residential units and 6 businesses. Search for potential victims ongoing. pic.twitter.com/UAq3CRnDrT — FDNY (@FDNY) December 11, 2023 × Surveillance video shows the harrowing moments of the building collapse in the Bronx. We bring you the latest at 10p on @fox5ny pic.twitter.com/HetXWAzQXb — Arthur Chi'en (@Arthur_Chien) December 12, 2023 × Also read: FBI director meets CBI chief amid US allegations against India over alleged Pannun 'murder plot' FDNY Chief of Department John Hodgens said: "We immediately vacated and evacuated the building and started to concentrate on the debris pile in front of the building to search for any victims." "We're tunnelling into that debris pile as safely as we can. Firefighters right now are in a dangerous position. We don't know what caused the corner of this building to collapse, and we don't know if any more of it is going to come down. But we're searching for life. That's the main objective at this time," the official added. As quoted, FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said, "All of our specialised training and resources that we have for an incident like this have gone to work. We have our drone up, surveying the area, seeing if we can find additional information about potential patients and areas of potential instability." "We have our K9 unit here, helping us search for potential victims. And we have all of our specially trained firefighters, tactical units, collapse units, and our EMTs and rescue medics who are trained specifically to treat someone in a collapse," added Kavanagh as she provided details on what the firefighters were doing. (With inputs from agencies)

New York: Part of residential building in the Bronx collapses, officials search for possible victims

<p>US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities.</p>

<p>As per a report published in the Washington Post, these hackers are directly linked with China’s People's Liberation Army (PLA).</p>

<p>The aim of this expansive Chinese intrusion is clear: To limit the USA’s ability to play a larger role in Asian conflicts, especially in a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan and to cause chaos within the US and stir instability in the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Hawaii: A special target</strong></h2>

<p>The Post reported that a Hawaiian water utility was amongst the various entities targeted by the Chinese hackers.</p>

<p>Hawaii is where the US stations its troops and warships meant for patrolling the Indo-Pacific area. The island also serves as the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command.</p>

<p>By interfering with Hawaii’s critical infrastructure, China likely wants to jeopardise the USA’s ability to intervene in a conflict involving Taiwan.</p>

<p>“This is stuff they pretty clearly see as relevant to a Taiwan scenario,” Joe McReynolds, a China security studies fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, was quoted as saying by The Post.</p>

<h2><strong>Dangerous designs</strong></h2>

<p>According to Chinese military officials, the PLA plans to coincide their cyber attacks on enemy targets with aerial strikes using the air force.</p>

<p>Hackers would target satellite networks, along with military logistics systems, of the enemy while airstrikes will reduce their military equipment to ashes.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Mandiant: Chinese hackers attack several government agencies</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mandiant-chinese-hackers-attack-several-government-agencies-605109/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“If Beijing feared that a major conflict with the United States was imminent, it almost certainly would consider undertaking aggressive cyber operations against US homeland critical infrastructure and military assets worldwide,” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>'Win a war without fighting'</strong></h2>

<p>The sophisticated cyber attack regime aims to provide China with the ability to win a war without even fighting it.</p>

<p>“It is very clear that Chinese attempts to compromise critical infrastructure are in part to pre-position themselves to be able to disrupt or destroy that critical infrastructure in the event of a conflict," said Brandon Wales, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-cyber-threat-dragon-is-targeting-indian-telecom-and-defence-392350"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Chinese cyber threat: Dragon is targeting Indian telecom and defence</strong></a></p>

<p>In August, Chinese hackers tried to infiltrate the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the state’s electrical grid, demonstrating their will to target civilian infrastructure in the event of a conflict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities.

US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities. As per a report published in the Washington Post, these hackers are directly linked with China’s People's Liberation Army (PLA). The aim of this expansive Chinese intrusion is clear: To limit the USA’s ability to play a larger role in Asian conflicts, especially in a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan and to cause chaos within the US and stir instability in the country. Hawaii: A special target The Post reported that a Hawaiian water utility was amongst the various entities targeted by the Chinese hackers. Hawaii is where the US stations its troops and warships meant for patrolling the Indo-Pacific area. The island also serves as the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command. By interfering with Hawaii’s critical infrastructure, China likely wants to jeopardise the USA’s ability to intervene in a conflict involving Taiwan. “This is stuff they pretty clearly see as relevant to a Taiwan scenario,” Joe McReynolds, a China security studies fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, was quoted as saying by The Post. Dangerous designs According to Chinese military officials, the PLA plans to coincide their cyber attacks on enemy targets with aerial strikes using the air force. Hackers would target satellite networks, along with military logistics systems, of the enemy while airstrikes will reduce their military equipment to ashes. Watch: Mandiant: Chinese hackers attack several government agencies × “If Beijing feared that a major conflict with the United States was imminent, it almost certainly would consider undertaking aggressive cyber operations against US homeland critical infrastructure and military assets worldwide,” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence was quoted as saying. 'Win a war without fighting' The sophisticated cyber attack regime aims to provide China with the ability to win a war without even fighting it. “It is very clear that Chinese attempts to compromise critical infrastructure are in part to pre-position themselves to be able to disrupt or destroy that critical infrastructure in the event of a conflict," said Brandon Wales, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Also read: Chinese cyber threat: Dragon is targeting Indian telecom and defence In August, Chinese hackers tried to infiltrate the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the state’s electrical grid, demonstrating their will to target civilian infrastructure in the event of a conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

PLA-backed hackers infiltrated USA’s water, power and communication entities: Report

Israel-Hamas war: Israel military says, '104 soldiers killed & 582 wounded in Gaza ground offensive'

Allies of the jailed Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny have said that they are unable to reach him. They said that the Kremlin critic has been removed from the Russian Penal Colony and his current whereabout are unknown.

Russia: Vladimir Putin's jailed opponent Alexei Navalny missing since a week, US concerned | WION

According to media sources on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden is anticipated to miss India's Republic Day celebration in January. His visit was a part of the Quad Summit, which will now take place later in the year in India instead of in January of next year.

Joe Biden unlikely to visit India for Republic Day celebrations, Quad summit also postponed

Xi Jinping, the Chinese president and general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, is making a state visit to Vietnam from December 12 to 13, at the invitation of Nguyen Phu Trong, the general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, and Vo Van Thuong, the state president of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's first trip to Vietnam since 2017

Special counsel Jack Smith challenges 'Presidential Immunity' of Donald Trump

<p>2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines. From successful pig kidney transplant&nbsp;into humans to the world's first whole eye transplant, let's rewind to the year's most notable medical breakthroughs.</p>

<h2><strong>World's first whole eye transplant</strong></h2>

<p>In the United States, in November, surgeons performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye. The patient, a 46-year-old military veteran from Arkansas, had survived a work-related high-voltage electrical accident that destroyed the left side of his face, nose, mouth and left eye. In addition to the eye, a partial-face transplant was also done by the team from NYU Langone Health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The mere fact that we transplanted an eye is a huge step forward, something that for centuries has been thought about, but it's never been performed," the team lead Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, said at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0-N-S3omDAxUyR2wGHchDDjYQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3KT-rKPi5BeVr_3M1gLU7z" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315" target="_blank">Yearender 2023: Actors Who Made Their OTT Debut This Year</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>First no-rejection kidney transplant</strong></h2>

<p>In September, in the United Kingdom, an eight-year-old Indian-origin girl, Aditi Shankar, became the first child to have gone through a special type of kidney transplant. The transplant was a breakthrough, as it didn't require the little girl&nbsp;to take long-term drugs to stop the potential rejection of the newly transplanted&nbsp;organ.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The little girl's immune system was reprogrammed using stem cells from the donor, Aditi's mother Divya.</p>

<h2><strong>Genetically modified pig kidney survives one month in human body</strong></h2>

<p>In the United States, in August, surgeons transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead patient. The organ worked for a record 32 days and could help bridge the significant organ donation gap.</p>

<h2><strong>A kill switch for cancer</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento in California discovered a "kill switch" that could be used to trigger the death of cancer cells. It is called the CAR T-cell therapy, and it involves genetically modifying T cells collected from a patient's blood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs2aWK3omDAxWPbGwGHZ-6CKwQFnoECAcQAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw2alTY_0bw9Qkoru4aDySRl" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309" target="_blank">Rewind 2023: Top 5 Sporting Moments For India</a></strong></p>

<p>The therapy showed promising results in leukaemia and other 'liquid' cancers, but showed "meagre" success against solid tumours, and breast, bowel, and lung cancers.</p>

<h2><strong>Blood test for detecting depression</strong></h2>

<p>A study by McGill University in Canada analysed blood samples from more than 60 teenagers to identify specific molecules which can be used as markers for depression. This can help in the early detection of teenagers at risk of psychological diseases like depression.</p>

<h2><strong>World's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine</strong></h2>

<p>In May, the US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. The medicine that took 60 years to develop can safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/yearender-2023-the-fabulous-year-that-taylor-swift-has-had-667924">Yearender 2023: The fabulous year that Taylor Swift has had</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>New plant toxin-based antibiotic</strong></h2>

<p>As the world grapples with antibiotic resistance, a group of British, German and Polish scientists discovered a plant toxin that has a unique method of attacking bacteria. The potential new antibiotic has been named albicidin and works differently than existing antibiotic medicines.</p>

<h2><strong>3D printing to rid of invasive surgeries</strong></h2>

<p>In March, researchers from Australia announced that they had invented a snake-like soft robot that can print living cells from the inside of a patient's body. 3D bio-printing is already used for medical procedures. However, this can help eliminate the need for invasive surgeries.</p>

<h2><strong>World's first Alzheimer's treatment</strong></h2>

<p>In June, the US FDA approved Lecanemab (Leqembi), a drug that significantly helped combat the progression of Alzheimer's during clinical trials. It is the first drug that targets the underlying cause of Alzheimer's, slowing down the disease's progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/your-anxiety-is-lying-to-you-saying-no-to-plans-isnt-all-that-bad-finds-study-668806">Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>CRISPR gene editing for sickle cell disease</strong></h2>

<p>The world's first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease was given the green light in the UK (in November) and in the US (in December). The therapy called CASGEVY works by correcting faulty haemoglobin genes in a patient's bone marrow stem cells so that they can produce normal, functioning HB cells.</p>

<h2><strong>Artificial liver</strong></h2>

<p>In September, China made the headlines for reportedly developing a stem-cell-based 'artificial liver' that can work outside the human body. A boon for thousands suffering from liver failure, the bio-artificial liver can perform functions such as detoxification and protein synthesis typically carried out by the liver.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tiny robot surgeon</strong></h2>

<p>The University of Leeds has developed a tiny robot that can travel deep into the lungs and detect early signs of cancer. It is only 2 millimetres in diameter and is transported into the smallest bronchial tubes using magnets. As per researchers, during testing on a cadaver, the magnetic tentacle robot travelled 37 per cent deeper than standard equipment, that too with significantly less tissue damage.</p>

<p>In 2024, the global community looks forward to many more significant medical advancements, many of which are expected to involve Artificial Intelligence (AI).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines.

2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines. From successful pig kidney transplant into humans to the world's first whole eye transplant, let's rewind to the year's most notable medical breakthroughs. World's first whole eye transplant In the United States, in November, surgeons performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye. The patient, a 46-year-old military veteran from Arkansas, had survived a work-related high-voltage electrical accident that destroyed the left side of his face, nose, mouth and left eye. In addition to the eye, a partial-face transplant was also done by the team from NYU Langone Health. "The mere fact that we transplanted an eye is a huge step forward, something that for centuries has been thought about, but it's never been performed," the team lead Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, said at the time. Also read | Yearender 2023: Actors Who Made Their OTT Debut This Year First no-rejection kidney transplant In September, in the United Kingdom, an eight-year-old Indian-origin girl, Aditi Shankar, became the first child to have gone through a special type of kidney transplant. The transplant was a breakthrough, as it didn't require the little girl to take long-term drugs to stop the potential rejection of the newly transplanted organ. The little girl's immune system was reprogrammed using stem cells from the donor, Aditi's mother Divya. Genetically modified pig kidney survives one month in human body In the United States, in August, surgeons transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead patient. The organ worked for a record 32 days and could help bridge the significant organ donation gap. A kill switch for cancer Scientists from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento in California discovered a "kill switch" that could be used to trigger the death of cancer cells. It is called the CAR T-cell therapy, and it involves genetically modifying T cells collected from a patient's blood. Also read | Rewind 2023: Top 5 Sporting Moments For India The therapy showed promising results in leukaemia and other 'liquid' cancers, but showed "meagre" success against solid tumours, and breast, bowel, and lung cancers. Blood test for detecting depression A study by McGill University in Canada analysed blood samples from more than 60 teenagers to identify specific molecules which can be used as markers for depression. This can help in the early detection of teenagers at risk of psychological diseases like depression. World's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine In May, the US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. The medicine that took 60 years to develop can safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV. Also read | Yearender 2023: The fabulous year that Taylor Swift has had New plant toxin-based antibiotic As the world grapples with antibiotic resistance, a group of British, German and Polish scientists discovered a plant toxin that has a unique method of attacking bacteria. The potential new antibiotic has been named albicidin and works differently than existing antibiotic medicines. 3D printing to rid of invasive surgeries In March, researchers from Australia announced that they had invented a snake-like soft robot that can print living cells from the inside of a patient's body. 3D bio-printing is already used for medical procedures. However, this can help eliminate the need for invasive surgeries. World's first Alzheimer's treatment In June, the US FDA approved Lecanemab (Leqembi), a drug that significantly helped combat the progression of Alzheimer's during clinical trials. It is the first drug that targets the underlying cause of Alzheimer's, slowing down the disease's progress. Also read | Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study CRISPR gene editing for sickle cell disease The world's first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease was given the green light in the UK (in November) and in the US (in December). The therapy called CASGEVY works by correcting faulty haemoglobin genes in a patient's bone marrow stem cells so that they can produce normal, functioning HB cells. Artificial liver In September, China made the headlines for reportedly developing a stem-cell-based 'artificial liver' that can work outside the human body. A boon for thousands suffering from liver failure, the bio-artificial liver can perform functions such as detoxification and protein synthesis typically carried out by the liver. Tiny robot surgeon The University of Leeds has developed a tiny robot that can travel deep into the lungs and detect early signs of cancer. It is only 2 millimetres in diameter and is transported into the smallest bronchial tubes using magnets. As per researchers, during testing on a cadaver, the magnetic tentacle robot travelled 37 per cent deeper than standard equipment, that too with significantly less tissue damage. In 2024, the global community looks forward to many more significant medical advancements, many of which are expected to involve Artificial Intelligence (AI). (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Let's 'Rewind 2023' to medical breakthroughs that gave the world hope

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday defended his scheme to encourage people to eat out following the first coronavirus wave, saying it was not responsible for a second wave of infections.

UK: Will PM Rishi Sunak charm UK lawmakers to back his asylum plan

The United States is concerned about reports Israel used U.S.-supplied white phosphorus munitions in an October attack in southern Lebanon, White House spokesperson John Kirby said on Monday.

Israel-Hamas war: White House 'concerned' at reports Israel used white phosphorus in attack

<p>A jury in San Francisco on Monday (Dec 11) found that Google struck some deals that stifled competition for its Play mobile app store, while violating California and federal antitrust laws.</p>

<p>The verdict came in the <strong>Epic vs Google case</strong>, where the Fortnite-maker company had accused the tech giant of restricting smartphone makers, wireless carriers, and app developers from providing any competition to the Play Store.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that a whopping 95 per cent of total mobile phone app downloads come from Google Play within the US.</p>

<p>Google has denied any wrongdoing and has announced its intention to appeal the decision.</p>

<h2><strong>Epic’s lawsuit</strong></h2>

<p>Epic Games in its 2020 lawsuit alleged that Google struck deals with smartphone makers such as LG and Samsung to pin its app store on home screens, in return for a cut of Google’s profits.</p>

<p>It also said that the tech giant abused its powers to charge excessive fees from app developers, citing Google’s massive operating profit of $12 billion in 2021 alone from Play Store.</p>

<p>Epic wanted to devise an alternative billing mechanism that bypassed Play’s billing regime, to which Google had raised objections. The tensions between the two sides resulted in the removal of Fortnite game from both Google and Apple app stores.</p>

<p>Chief executive Sundar Pichai testified at the trial last month, where he defended Google’s actions.</p>

<h2><strong>Google’s argument</strong></h2>

<p>Google says its sole aim is to provide a safe and attractive experience to users, especially as it faced competition from Apple, its iPhone, and its App Store.</p>

<p>Now, it will appeal the decision, as declared by Wilson White, a Google vice president of government affairs and public policy.</p>

<p>“We plan to challenge the verdict.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will continue to defend the Android business model and remain deeply committed to our users, partners, and the broader Android ecosystem,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Epic hails the decision</strong></h2>

<p>Epic hailed the decision as a major victory for app developers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Epic Games said, “Today’s verdict is a win for all app developers and consumers around the world. It proves that Google’s app store practices are illegal and they abuse their monopoly to extract exorbitant fees, stifle competition and reduce innovation.”</p>

<p>It also called on the governments to take note of the judgment and make regulations to limit the overreach of tech giants.</p>

<p>Epic Games Chief Executive Tim Sweeney was quoted by Financial Times as saying: "To me, that’s the antitrust elephant in the room — that they all charge the same rate because they all have no competition. I think 30 per cent’s days are numbered."</p>

<h2><strong>Epic’s unsuccessful campaign against Apple</strong></h2>

<p>For Epic, the victory comes as a major relief, just two years after it lost a similar fight against Apple when Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers decided that the fight had nothing to do with apps.</p>

<p>The judge ruled that all of Apple’s app store practices were justified—except for one—that Epic viewed as anti-competitive. Apple still has not had to comply as it awaits the Supreme Court’s decision early next year about whether to review the case.</p>

<p>What distinguishes Google from Apple in this case is that Google doesn’t control hardware that uses its operating system.</p>

<p>Instead, it licenses it to other companies through contracts that were the focus of Epic’s case.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The case will now move to the remedy stage where a judge will decide what changes Google must make for course correction.</p>

<p>Both parties will meet with Judge James Donato, in the second week of January to discuss potential remedies.</p>

<p>As expected, users of Google-powered smartphones might start seeing more app stores to download apps from if it is forced to make way for its rivals.</p>

<p>Also, it could be forced to share a bigger portion of the sales revenue to app developers.</p>

<p>But it is to be noted that any appeal by Google might further delay these changes.</p>

<h2><strong>Google’s billing regime</strong></h2>

<p>Google mandates app developers to use its Play Store for all in-app billings, also requiring them to pay up to 30 per cent of the total sales as fees.</p>

<p>This has long triggered an outcry from app developers, who allege that these prices are unjustified and are designed to maximise Google’s profits.</p>

<p>Not just that, Google has also faced allegations that it had struck deals with network operators such as AT&amp;T and T-Mobile, and game developers like Activision Blizzard, paying them off to prevent them from launching Play Store rivals.</p>

<h2><strong>More bad news for Google in 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Further bad news for Google might come in mid-2024 as US district judge Amit Mehta in Washington, DC, is expected to issue his ruling on whether Google has unlawfully maintained its monopoly over web search.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A jury in San Francisco on Monday (Dec 11) found that Google struck some deals that stifled competition for its Play mobile app store, while violating California and federal antitrust laws.

A jury in San Francisco on Monday (Dec 11) found that Google struck some deals that stifled competition for its Play mobile app store, while violating California and federal antitrust laws. The verdict came in the Epic vs Google case, where the Fortnite-maker company had accused the tech giant of restricting smartphone makers, wireless carriers, and app developers from providing any competition to the Play Store. It is to be noted that a whopping 95 per cent of total mobile phone app downloads come from Google Play within the US. Google has denied any wrongdoing and has announced its intention to appeal the decision. Epic’s lawsuit Epic Games in its 2020 lawsuit alleged that Google struck deals with smartphone makers such as LG and Samsung to pin its app store on home screens, in return for a cut of Google’s profits. It also said that the tech giant abused its powers to charge excessive fees from app developers, citing Google’s massive operating profit of $12 billion in 2021 alone from Play Store. Epic wanted to devise an alternative billing mechanism that bypassed Play’s billing regime, to which Google had raised objections. The tensions between the two sides resulted in the removal of Fortnite game from both Google and Apple app stores. Chief executive Sundar Pichai testified at the trial last month, where he defended Google’s actions. Google’s argument Google says its sole aim is to provide a safe and attractive experience to users, especially as it faced competition from Apple, its iPhone, and its App Store. Now, it will appeal the decision, as declared by Wilson White, a Google vice president of government affairs and public policy. “We plan to challenge the verdict.” “We will continue to defend the Android business model and remain deeply committed to our users, partners, and the broader Android ecosystem,” he said. Epic hails the decision Epic hailed the decision as a major victory for app developers. Epic Games said, “Today’s verdict is a win for all app developers and consumers around the world. It proves that Google’s app store practices are illegal and they abuse their monopoly to extract exorbitant fees, stifle competition and reduce innovation.” It also called on the governments to take note of the judgment and make regulations to limit the overreach of tech giants. Epic Games Chief Executive Tim Sweeney was quoted by Financial Times as saying: "To me, that’s the antitrust elephant in the room — that they all charge the same rate because they all have no competition. I think 30 per cent’s days are numbered." Epic’s unsuccessful campaign against Apple For Epic, the victory comes as a major relief, just two years after it lost a similar fight against Apple when Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers decided that the fight had nothing to do with apps. The judge ruled that all of Apple’s app store practices were justified—except for one—that Epic viewed as anti-competitive. Apple still has not had to comply as it awaits the Supreme Court’s decision early next year about whether to review the case. What distinguishes Google from Apple in this case is that Google doesn’t control hardware that uses its operating system. Instead, it licenses it to other companies through contracts that were the focus of Epic’s case. What next? The case will now move to the remedy stage where a judge will decide what changes Google must make for course correction. Both parties will meet with Judge James Donato, in the second week of January to discuss potential remedies. As expected, users of Google-powered smartphones might start seeing more app stores to download apps from if it is forced to make way for its rivals. Also, it could be forced to share a bigger portion of the sales revenue to app developers. But it is to be noted that any appeal by Google might further delay these changes. Google’s billing regime Google mandates app developers to use its Play Store for all in-app billings, also requiring them to pay up to 30 per cent of the total sales as fees. This has long triggered an outcry from app developers, who allege that these prices are unjustified and are designed to maximise Google’s profits. Not just that, Google has also faced allegations that it had struck deals with network operators such as AT&T and T-Mobile, and game developers like Activision Blizzard, paying them off to prevent them from launching Play Store rivals. More bad news for Google in 2024 Further bad news for Google might come in mid-2024 as US district judge Amit Mehta in Washington, DC, is expected to issue his ruling on whether Google has unlawfully maintained its monopoly over web search. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Google’s legal defeat against Epic: Why 2024 could be worst year for US tech giant  

India's central government is planning to replace the outdated criminal laws. The government has greenlit the introduction of criminal law amendment bills.

What's Modi government's stance on adultery as India eyes criminal law reforms?

<p>The European Union as a part of its historic agreement between the European Parliament and 27 member states will soon ban police and national security bodies in the EU from using real-time biometric data driven by artificial intelligence (AI) in most situations without judicial authorisation, reported The Guardian citing an official with knowledge of the text.</p>

<p>The landmark deal was signed following three days of negotiations, on Friday (Dec 8), but the officials, as per the British media report only revealed the operational details on Monday (Dec 11) since the final text is yet to be published.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Possible ban on&nbsp;AI biometric surveillance</strong></h2>

<p>The ban on surveillance will apply to public and private places, including parks and sports grounds, but in the event of specified serious crimes, a terrorist threat or urgent searches for victims will be exempted, reported The Guardian. However, the police will require prior approval from a judge or independent administrative authority.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;EU achieves agreement on landmark AI rules, becomes first major power to enact AI laws</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-achieves-agreement-on-landmark-ai-rules-becomes-first-major-power-to-enact-ai-laws-668393/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to the report, it is only under most exceptional circumstances like a live terrorist threat that the police will be able to deploy the AI biometric tools without prior approval.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But they must still obtain authorisation within 24 hours and notify the authorities – including the relevant market surveillance authority and the data protection authority – with a “prior fundamental rights impact assessment,” reported The Guardian citing an EU official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-member-states-and-lawmakers-strike-deal-on-landmark-ai-law-667785">EU member states strike landmark deal on first-ever laws to regulate AI</a></strong></p>

<p>If approval by a judge or authority is not given, according to the report, the AI tool should be turned off immediately and all data extracted on a suspect or suspects deleted immediately. The EU and members of the European Parliament (MEP) have reportedly agreed on a specific list of 16 types of serious crimes which may be exempted from the ban.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Averting ‘predictive policing’</strong></h2>

<p>EU officials believe that these safeguards would avert the risk of what they have called “predictive policing” which according to the MEPs if used alongside racial profiling could discriminate against individuals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-may-take-x-out-of-europe-to-dodge-anti-fake-news-eu-regulation-report-648596">Elon Musk may take X out of Europe to dodge anti-fake news EU regulation: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, the use of AI in biometric surveillance had pitted policymakers who wanted to use it for national security, defence and military purposes against EU lawmakers who wanted to bar those uses because of concerns related to privacy.</p>

<p>The agreement signed last week has made the EU the first continent in the world to set clear rules for the use of AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The European Union as a part of its historic agreement between the European Parliament and 27 member states will soon ban police and national security bodies in the EU from using real-time biometric data driven by artificial intelligence (AI) in most situations without judicial authorisation, reported The Guardian citing an official with knowledge of the text.

The European Union as a part of its historic agreement between the European Parliament and 27 member states will soon ban police and national security bodies in the EU from using real-time biometric data driven by artificial intelligence (AI) in most situations without judicial authorisation, reported The Guardian citing an official with knowledge of the text. The landmark deal was signed following three days of negotiations, on Friday (Dec 8), but the officials, as per the British media report only revealed the operational details on Monday (Dec 11) since the final text is yet to be published. Possible ban on AI biometric surveillance The ban on surveillance will apply to public and private places, including parks and sports grounds, but in the event of specified serious crimes, a terrorist threat or urgent searches for victims will be exempted, reported The Guardian. However, the police will require prior approval from a judge or independent administrative authority. ALSO WATCH | EU achieves agreement on landmark AI rules, becomes first major power to enact AI laws According to the report, it is only under most exceptional circumstances like a live terrorist threat that the police will be able to deploy the AI biometric tools without prior approval. But they must still obtain authorisation within 24 hours and notify the authorities – including the relevant market surveillance authority and the data protection authority – with a “prior fundamental rights impact assessment,” reported The Guardian citing an EU official. ALSO READ | EU member states strike landmark deal on first-ever laws to regulate AI If approval by a judge or authority is not given, according to the report, the AI tool should be turned off immediately and all data extracted on a suspect or suspects deleted immediately. The EU and members of the European Parliament (MEP) have reportedly agreed on a specific list of 16 types of serious crimes which may be exempted from the ban. Averting ‘predictive policing’ EU officials believe that these safeguards would avert the risk of what they have called “predictive policing” which according to the MEPs if used alongside racial profiling could discriminate against individuals. ALSO READ | Elon Musk may take X out of Europe to dodge anti-fake news EU regulation: Report Notably, the use of AI in biometric surveillance had pitted policymakers who wanted to use it for national security, defence and military purposes against EU lawmakers who wanted to bar those uses because of concerns related to privacy. The agreement signed last week has made the EU the first continent in the world to set clear rules for the use of AI. (With inputs from agencies)

EU to ban use of AI biometric surveillance by police without judicial authorisation: Report

<p>China's President Xi Jinping starts a two-day visit to Vietnam on Tuesday, three months after U.S. President Joe Biden travelled to Hanoi as the two great powers vie for influence in the Southeast Asian nation.</p>

<p>The trip, Xi's first in six years, has been months in planning and was even briefly considered to take place days before Biden's visit, according to officials.</p>

<p>It is aimed at boosting relations between the two Communist-ruled countries which have very close economic ties but are at odds over boundaries in the South China Sea and have a millennia-long history of frequent conflict.</p>

<p>The visit has been delayed also because of prolonged discussions over how to phrase the countries' enhanced bilateral relations, which Beijing wants to be framed as "common destiny," a reference that Hanoi has resisted but is expected to have eventually accepted, according to officials and diplomats.</p>

<p>Beyond the symbolism of elevating ties to a notch that Beijing may see as being above the U.S.-Vietnam relationship, the upgraded status comes with the signature of "dozens of cooperation documents," according to China's ambassador to Vietnam Xiong Bo, as reported by Vietnamese state newspaper Tuoi Tre before the visit.</p>

<p>Among the expected deals are Chinese investments to upgrade rail links between the two neighbours, which would include grants, although the volume of aid is not clear and neither is the amount and terms of possible loans.</p>

<p>Both countries have expressed interest in boosting transport connections. Vietnam is willing to export more to China, especially farm products, and Beijing wants to integrate northern Vietnam further into its southern supply chain networks.</p>

<p>Many Chinese companies have moved part of their operations to Vietnam at a faster pace this year than before the pandemic to be closer to Western clients in Vietnam, lower risks from U.S.-China trade tensions and reduce exposure to China's weakened economy.</p>

<p>Strengthened rail connections would facilitate import of components from China for assembling in Vietnam, effectively expanding China's new silk road, which Beijing calls the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</p>

<p>China has also pushed to include Vietnam in its Digital Silk Road, which may entail investments for new undersea optical fibre cables, the 5G network and other telecoms infrastructure.</p>

<p>The only project so far that has received BRI loans in Vietnam is the Hanoi metro, although Vietnam prefers not to openly label it as a BRI project, in a sign of how sensitive it is to show too close ties with Beijing.</p>

<p>Easier trade and stronger cooperation in several sectors including renewable energy, rare earths and tourism are also among the possible agreements.</p>


China's President Xi Jinping starts a two-day visit to Vietnam on Tuesday, three months after U.S. President Joe Biden travelled to Hanoi as the two great powers vie for influence in the Southeast Asian nation.

China's President Xi Jinping starts a two-day visit to Vietnam on Tuesday, three months after U.S. President Joe Biden travelled to Hanoi as the two great powers vie for influence in the Southeast Asian nation. The trip, Xi's first in six years, has been months in planning and was even briefly considered to take place days before Biden's visit, according to officials. It is aimed at boosting relations between the two Communist-ruled countries which have very close economic ties but are at odds over boundaries in the South China Sea and have a millennia-long history of frequent conflict. The visit has been delayed also because of prolonged discussions over how to phrase the countries' enhanced bilateral relations, which Beijing wants to be framed as "common destiny," a reference that Hanoi has resisted but is expected to have eventually accepted, according to officials and diplomats. Beyond the symbolism of elevating ties to a notch that Beijing may see as being above the U.S.-Vietnam relationship, the upgraded status comes with the signature of "dozens of cooperation documents," according to China's ambassador to Vietnam Xiong Bo, as reported by Vietnamese state newspaper Tuoi Tre before the visit. Among the expected deals are Chinese investments to upgrade rail links between the two neighbours, which would include grants, although the volume of aid is not clear and neither is the amount and terms of possible loans. Both countries have expressed interest in boosting transport connections. Vietnam is willing to export more to China, especially farm products, and Beijing wants to integrate northern Vietnam further into its southern supply chain networks. Many Chinese companies have moved part of their operations to Vietnam at a faster pace this year than before the pandemic to be closer to Western clients in Vietnam, lower risks from U.S.-China trade tensions and reduce exposure to China's weakened economy. Strengthened rail connections would facilitate import of components from China for assembling in Vietnam, effectively expanding China's new silk road, which Beijing calls the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has also pushed to include Vietnam in its Digital Silk Road, which may entail investments for new undersea optical fibre cables, the 5G network and other telecoms infrastructure. The only project so far that has received BRI loans in Vietnam is the Hanoi metro, although Vietnam prefers not to openly label it as a BRI project, in a sign of how sensitive it is to show too close ties with Beijing. Easier trade and stronger cooperation in several sectors including renewable energy, rare earths and tourism are also among the possible agreements.

China's Xi Jinping visits Vietnam after Biden, seeks to boost ties

Reversing a steady decline that was seen in the Opium cultivation between 2014 and 2020, the illicit crop growing has surged in Myanmar since the military seized the power in 2021 and this is according to the United Nations in its annual Opium survey for 2022.

Myanmar: Opium cultivation surges, 65% rise in opium yield in 2 years

world

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

world news