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Sydney: There is a growing call for the construction of a memorial for the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the Pacific during World War 2. In 2022, Narinder Parmar, a soft-skill trainer and author in Australia, urged authorities to build a permanent memorial in Canberra for the 2,800 Indian soldiers who perished in Papua New Guinea during World War II.&nbsp;Among the survivors was his father, Major Chint Singh of the 2nd Dogra Regiment, whose tale of survival and camaraderie with Australian forces remains a powerful story even today.&nbsp;Parmar said in a series of posts on X, “War Memorial for 3000 Indian soldiers died in Papua &amp; New Guinea during WW2! I would like to request both political parties that a memorial erected in Canberra to honour Indian soldiers who fell in the line of duty during WW2 in Papua New Guinea and as a symbol of friendship forged by the Indian soldiers after the war with Australians. Chint Singh, one of the survivors of 3000 Indian POWs, was invited to sign the Japanese surrender flag, displayed in AWM, Canberra.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">War Memorial for 3000 Indian soldiers died in Papua &amp; New Guinea during WW2! I would like to request both political patries that a memorial erected in Canberra to honour Indian soldiers who fell in the line of duty during WW2 in Papua New Guinea... <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlboMP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottMorrisonMP</a> 1/5&mdash; Narinder Parmar🇮🇳🇦🇺 (@nparmar1957) <a href="https://twitter.com/nparmar1957/status/1525703519852195840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The role of Indian troops in the Pacific Theatre is often overlooked. After Singapore’s fall in 1942, nearly 3,000 Indian soldiers were taken prisoner by the Japanese and sent to Papua New Guinea. Only about 200 survived the brutal conditions of starvation, disease, and cruelty.&nbsp;Maj. Singh, leading his men through captivity, endured by eating grass and insects, maintaining discipline despite unimaginable hardship.&nbsp;On 30 September 1945, Australian forces liberated Maj. Singh’s group at Angoram. Lt. F.O. Monk, struck by their resilience, recalled the moment they came ashore, malnourished but unbroken.&nbsp;The 15th Australian Field Ambulance at Wewak provided care, with Sgt. Ron Bader writing letters for the soldiers and Nurse Sister Murch offering compassion. This forged a deep bond, which was captured in Maj. Singh’s 1946 farewell letter to the 6th Australian Division, praising their “sympathy, love, and affection.”&nbsp;Maj. Singh, honoured with signing the Japanese surrender flag, visited Australia in 1947 and 1970, welcomed as a friend. Australian veterans like Sgt. Eric Sparke kept his story alive. A 1971 memorial in Angoram, built by the Returned and Services League for the fallen Indians, was later washed away during floods.&nbsp;“One of them was my father, who along 3000 PoWs were shipped to PNG! He became chief witness in Aust War Crime Commission! His mateship with Australian officers nurtured post war, he cherished rest of his life,” Parmar says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One of them was my father, who along 3000 pows were shipped to PNG! He became chied witness in Aust War Crime Commission! His mateship with Aust officers nurtured post war, n he cherrished rest of his life. Pic1 with Lt Hordern, RANVR.Pic2 Identifying Japs commited crime🇮🇳🤝🇦🇺 <a href="https://t.co/EX12iCnbSp">https://t.co/EX12iCnbSp</a> <a href="https://t.co/a2eYvUAJFj">pic.twitter.com/a2eYvUAJFj</a>&mdash; Narinder Parmar🇮🇳🇦🇺 (@nparmar1957) <a href="https://twitter.com/nparmar1957/status/1956506239984447878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Parmar’s call for a Canberra memorial seeks to honour these sacrifices and the India–Australia bond, rooted in wartime compassion. As bilateral ties grow through trade and shared Indo-Pacific interests, this shared history underscores a deeper connection.&nbsp;For the Indian diaspora, a memorial would be a touchstone, linking their identity to ancestral courage and shared sacrifice.&nbsp;Like the Neuve-Chapelle Memorial in France for Indian soldiers of World War I, a memorial in Canberra would bridge past and present, India and Australia.

After Singapore’s fall in 1942, nearly 3,000 Indian soldiers were taken prisoner by the Japanese and sent to Papua New Guinea. Only about 200 survived the brutal conditions of starvation, disease, and cruelty.

Sydney: There is a growing call for the construction of a memorial for the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the Pacific during World War 2. In 2022, Narinder Parmar, a soft-skill trainer and author in Australia, urged authorities to build a permanent memorial in Canberra for the 2,800 Indian soldiers who perished in Papua New Guinea during World War II. Among the survivors was his father, Major Chint Singh of the 2nd Dogra Regiment, whose tale of survival and camaraderie with Australian forces remains a powerful story even today. Parmar said in a series of posts on X, “War Memorial for 3000 Indian soldiers died in Papua & New Guinea during WW2! I would like to request both political parties that a memorial erected in Canberra to honour Indian soldiers who fell in the line of duty during WW2 in Papua New Guinea and as a symbol of friendship forged by the Indian soldiers after the war with Australians. Chint Singh, one of the survivors of 3000 Indian POWs, was invited to sign the Japanese surrender flag, displayed in AWM, Canberra.”

After Singapore’s fall in 1942, nearly 3,000 Indian soldiers were taken prisoner by the Japanese and sent to Papua New Guinea. Only about 200 survived the brutal conditions of starvation, disease, and cruelty.

Call intensifies for a memorial in Canberra to pay homage to 2,800 WW 2 Indian troops

In countries where it intervened, the US had always advocated privatisation of their businesses. But two recent deals are making it look like the US is ‘nationalising’ its private sector—or at least entering business through the backdoor. How different is it from the free market ideals of the US? Here is a reality check.<h2>America, the land of the free market where government enters business through the backdoor?</h2>For all its preaching on privatisation—advising developing countries to keep their hands off the market or cheering on post-Soviet deregulation—America’s message was clear: government should never play entrepreneur.Come 2025, Uncle Sam (or should we say Donald Trump) seems to have dusted off his business suit, ready to sit at the corporate boardroom table.&nbsp;The recent government deals with Nvidia and Intel suggest that the US government, long averse to nationalisation, is now flirting with it.Add to that the reports suggesting the government may become some sort of player in keeping TikTok in the US, and you get the idea.None of this is happening through the front door.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nvidia-set-to-replace-intel-in-the-dow-jones-index-772924">Also read: Nvidia set to replace Intel in the Dow Jones Index</a><h2>What exactly is happening with Nvidia?</h2>This month, in a move that an authoritarian regime would envy, the Trump administration secured a 15 per cent revenue cut from Nvidia and AMD’s AI chip sales to China.In return, it granted them the golden ticket of export licences, after months of holding them back.This arrangement will affect chips like Nvidia’s H20 and AMD’s MI308. It's expected to add more than $2 billion to the US Treasury. Who needs taxes when you can just shake the corporates a little for profits?Critics are calling it an "unconstitutional export tax," while in practice it's a "pay-to-play" arrangement.&nbsp;It smacks of commercialising national security, with the government acting as a silent business partner—without actually investing a dime or breaking a sweat.<h2>Why is the Intel investment unusual for America?</h2>Intel, once the rock star of chip-making, has been struggling for some time. And an unlikely knight in shining armour has arrived: Donald Trump.The proposal is to transform some $10.9 billion in CHIPS Act grants into a 10 per cent equity stake for the government.This is basically another way of saying that the US government is going to become a major shareholder in a private company.Not quite socialism, right?The government explains this as support for domestic chip production, aligning with Trump’s “America First, Silicon Edition” policy.But it could also mean government intervention in Intel’s strategic decisions.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/intel-faces-uncertain-future-amid-qualcomm-acquisition-talks-761023">Also read: Intel faces uncertain future amid Qualcomm acquisition talks</a><h2>State capitalism is bad when China does it, but nice when the US does it?</h2>The US has often scoffed at the 'state capitalism' of countries like China. Its officials raised concerns when the Chinese government took "golden shares" in private companies for strategic leverage.Now, it seems the US may be entering its own phase of state capitalism too.Experts are calling it a move divergent from America’s free-market ideals.These new arrangements open the door to bureaucratic interventions and a fresh wave of corporate lobbying.<h2>US government intervention in business is not new. Remember the financial crisis?</h2>The Nvidia and Intel deals do not reflect a government takeover of these businesses, at least not yet. But government interventions in business are not new—though still rare. The last most significant example was the ‘bailouts’ of the 2008 financial crisis.At the time, a very reluctant US government bought a 60 per cent stake in General Motors, later selling it at a $10 billion loss. It also took an 80 per cent stake in failing insurance giant AIG to stave off disaster.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/intel-gets-2-billion-softbank-lifeline-as-chipmaker-struggles-for-ai-relevance-1755580359723">Also read: Intel gets $2 billion SoftBank lifeline as chipmaker struggles for AI relevance</a>&nbsp;Those were exceptional circumstances. But the current deals look more like business ventures, aimed at long-term strategic control of key sectors.There have been other, less-reported deals in recent months. For instance, the US Defence Department bought a $400 million stake in MP Materials in July.While free-market capitalism might still make for good PR, the US is now dabbling in the kind of state-run manoeuvring it once despised.The US government is no longer just regulating and monitoring the market—it’s entering it. With a chequebook.

The US government deals with chip makers Nvidia and Intel— taking revenue cuts and equity stakes- is raising questions about its avowed stance of keeping away from the markets. These moves echo China-style state capitalism. Here is why it matters

In countries where it intervened, the US had always advocated privatisation of their businesses. But two recent deals are making it look like the US is ‘nationalising’ its private sector—or at least entering business through the backdoor. How different is it from the free market ideals of the US? Here is a reality check. America, the land of the free market where government enters business through the backdoor? For all its preaching on privatisation—advising developing countries to keep their hands off the market or cheering on post-Soviet deregulation—America’s message was clear: government should never play entrepreneur. Come 2025, Uncle Sam (or should we say Donald Trump) seems to have dusted off his business suit, ready to sit at the corporate boardroom table. The recent government deals with Nvidia and Intel suggest that the US government, long averse to nationalisation, is now flirting with it. Add to that the reports suggesting the government may become some sort of player in keeping TikTok in the US, and you get the idea. None of this is happening through the front door. Also read: Nvidia set to replace Intel in the Dow Jones Index What exactly is happening with Nvidia? This month, in a move that an authoritarian regime would envy, the Trump administration secured a 15 per cent revenue cut from Nvidia and AMD’s AI chip sales to China. In return, it granted them the golden ticket of export licences, after months of holding them back. This arrangement will affect chips like Nvidia’s H20 and AMD’s MI308. It's expected to add more than $2 billion to the US Treasury. Who needs taxes when you can just shake the corporates a little for profits? Critics are calling it an "unconstitutional export tax," while in practice it's a "pay-to-play" arrangement. It smacks of commercialising national security, with the government acting as a silent business partner—without actually investing a dime or breaking a sweat. Why is the Intel investment unusual for America? Intel, once the rock star of chip-making, has been struggling for some time. And an unlikely knight in shining armour has arrived: Donald Trump. The proposal is to transform some $10.9 billion in CHIPS Act grants into a 10 per cent equity stake for the government. This is basically another way of saying that the US government is going to become a major shareholder in a private company. Not quite socialism, right? The government explains this as support for domestic chip production, aligning with Trump’s “America First, Silicon Edition” policy. But it could also mean government intervention in Intel’s strategic decisions. Also read: Intel faces uncertain future amid Qualcomm acquisition talks State capitalism is bad when China does it, but nice when the US does it? The US has often scoffed at the 'state capitalism' of countries like China. Its officials raised concerns when the Chinese government took "golden shares" in private companies for strategic leverage. Now, it seems the US may be entering its own phase of state capitalism too. Experts are calling it a move divergent from America’s free-market ideals. These new arrangements open the door to bureaucratic interventions and a fresh wave of corporate lobbying. US government intervention in business is not new. Remember the financial crisis? The Nvidia and Intel deals do not reflect a government takeover of these businesses, at least not yet. But government interventions in business are not new—though still rare. The last most significant example was the ‘bailouts’ of the 2008 financial crisis. At the time, a very reluctant US government bought a 60 per cent stake in General Motors, later selling it at a $10 billion loss. It also took an 80 per cent stake in failing insurance giant AIG to stave off disaster. Also read: Intel gets $2 billion SoftBank lifeline as chipmaker struggles for AI relevance Those were exceptional circumstances. But the current deals look more like business ventures, aimed at long-term strategic control of key sectors. There have been other, less-reported deals in recent months. For instance, the US Defence Department bought a $400 million stake in MP Materials in July. While free-market capitalism might still make for good PR, the US is now dabbling in the kind of state-run manoeuvring it once despised. The US government is no longer just regulating and monitoring the market—it’s entering it. With a chequebook.

The US government deals with chip makers Nvidia and Intel— taking revenue cuts and equity stakes- is raising questions about its avowed stance of keeping away from the markets. These moves echo China-style state capitalism. Here is why it matters

Nvidia, Intel deals with US govt: Is the Trump administration sneakily 'nationalising' firms in the name of capitalism?

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed the head of America’s Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), in a dramatic shake-up inside the Pentagon, according to US media reports. Lt Gen Jeffery Kruse, who led the DIA, is said to have been dismissed just weeks after a White House clash over a leaked report assessing US strikes on Iran. Two other senior commanders have also reportedly been forced out.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghislaine-maxwell-says-jeffery-epstein-didn-t-die-by-suicide-but-1755956154742">'You can get a prisoner to kill for $25': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein 'didn’t die by suicide' but...</a><h2>Why was the DIA chief removed?</h2>The Pentagon has given no official explanation for Kruse’s exit. But it comes shortly after President Donald Trump publicly attacked a DIA assessment which claimed that recent strikes on Iran had only delayed its nuclear programme by a few months. The White House branded the report “flat out wrong”, while Trump insisted the nuclear sites had been “completely destroyed” and called the criticism “an attempt to demean one of the most successful military strikes in history”. At the Nato summit in June, Hegseth described the intelligence report as “low intelligence” and confirmed that the FBI was investigating the leak.<h2>More top commanders pushed out</h2>According to Reuters, Hegseth has also removed the chief of the US Naval reserves and the commander of Naval Special Warfare Command. The Washington Post first reported Kruse’s dismissal.The DIA, part of the Pentagon, is responsible for gathering and analysing military intelligence to support US operations worldwide. It is separate from agencies such as the CIA, with a particular focus on technical and battlefield intelligence.<h2>Critics warn of “loyalty test”</h2>US Senator Mark Warner said Kruse’s removal showed Trump had a “dangerous habit of treating intelligence as a loyalty test rather than a safeguard for our country”. The firing follows a wider pattern. Trump has previously ordered the dismissal of officials who produced reports that contradicted his claims.In July, he called for the Labour Statistics commissioner, Erika McEntarfer, to be sacked “immediately” after jobs data showed slowing growth. Earlier in April, he removed General Timothy Haugh as head of the National Security Agency, alongside several senior staff at the National Security Council.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed DIA chief Lt Gen Jeffery Kruse after a clash over a leaked Iran strike report. Two other senior commanders were also reportedly dismissed.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed the head of America’s Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), in a dramatic shake-up inside the Pentagon, according to US media reports. Lt Gen Jeffery Kruse, who led the DIA, is said to have been dismissed just weeks after a White House clash over a leaked report assessing US strikes on Iran. Two other senior commanders have also reportedly been forced out. Also read: 'You can get a prisoner to kill for $25': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein 'didn’t die by suicide' but... Why was the DIA chief removed? The Pentagon has given no official explanation for Kruse’s exit. But it comes shortly after President Donald Trump publicly attacked a DIA assessment which claimed that recent strikes on Iran had only delayed its nuclear programme by a few months. The White House branded the report “flat out wrong”, while Trump insisted the nuclear sites had been “completely destroyed” and called the criticism “an attempt to demean one of the most successful military strikes in history”. At the Nato summit in June, Hegseth described the intelligence report as “low intelligence” and confirmed that the FBI was investigating the leak. More top commanders pushed out According to Reuters, Hegseth has also removed the chief of the US Naval reserves and the commander of Naval Special Warfare Command. The Washington Post first reported Kruse’s dismissal. The DIA, part of the Pentagon, is responsible for gathering and analysing military intelligence to support US operations worldwide. It is separate from agencies such as the CIA, with a particular focus on technical and battlefield intelligence. Critics warn of “loyalty test” US Senator Mark Warner said Kruse’s removal showed Trump had a “dangerous habit of treating intelligence as a loyalty test rather than a safeguard for our country”. The firing follows a wider pattern. Trump has previously ordered the dismissal of officials who produced reports that contradicted his claims. In July, he called for the Labour Statistics commissioner, Erika McEntarfer, to be sacked “immediately” after jobs data showed slowing growth. Earlier in April, he removed General Timothy Haugh as head of the National Security Agency, alongside several senior staff at the National Security Council.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed DIA chief Lt Gen Jeffery Kruse after a clash over a leaked Iran strike report. Two other senior commanders were also reportedly dismissed.

Hegseth ousts Intel chief after leak reveals US strikes barely delayed Iran’s nuclear programme, contradicting Trump’s ‘obliteration’ claim

An Indian man has been sentenced in Singapore for committing bigamy after marrying his second wife while keeping his first wife in the dark. His secret was exposed when his first wife saw him leaving the maternity ward of the hospital where she works. The man was there with his second wife, who had just given birth to a baby boy. Vaithialingam Muthukumar, a 49-year-old Indian national, was sentenced to three months and three weeks in jail on Thursday, SCMP reported. He had started an affair with his second wife after coming to Singapore to join his first wife in 2011. The woman was a Singaporean citizen named Salmah Bee Abdul Razak, who married Muthukumar, fully aware that he was already married. Muthukumar and his first wife, a Singaporean woman now aged 55, tied the knot in India in 2007. He pleaded guilty to one charge of conspiring to commit bigamy, falsely declaring in an application for permanent residence that he did not have any other marriages, and falsely stating in a visit pass application that he did not have past or other marriages. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-passport-gets-a-boost-jumps-8-places-in-henley-passport-index-2025-know-what-it-ranks-1753270132102">Indian passport gets a boost! Jumps 8 places in Henley Passport Index 2025—Know what it ranks?</a>&nbsp;In June 2022, Vaithialingam and Salmah decided to take the next step and get married. He told her that he wanted to have a child and promised her that he would get a divorce. They had a Muslim marriage in August 2022, which was registered by a religious leader in Nagore, India. After they returned to Singapore, Vaithialingam continued to live with his first wife and used to visit Salmah. On September 14, 2023, she gave birth to a son at the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, which is where his first wife worked. She saw him leaving the hospital’s delivery suite and confronted him, and learnt of his secret marriage.&nbsp;He then applied for permanent resident status as the spouse of a Singapore citizen on June 12, 2024. He falsely declared in the form that he had no other marriages. In July, Salmah told the Ministry of Manpower that he was married to her and his first wife. His application was rejected in October. His case reached the police for a bigamy offence. The deputy public prosecutor sought two to three months' jail for Vaithialingam. He told the court that he deccived both the women. The first one found out "purely by chance" about his second marriage, and falsely promised the second that he would get a divorce. &nbsp;

Singapore sentences Indian man for bigamy: Vaithialingam Muthukumar was married to his first wife when he tied the knot with his second wife. He kept her in the dark about it, while promising the second woman that he would get a divorce.

An Indian man has been sentenced in Singapore for committing bigamy after marrying his second wife while keeping his first wife in the dark. His secret was exposed when his first wife saw him leaving the maternity ward of the hospital where she works. The man was there with his second wife, who had just given birth to a baby boy. Vaithialingam Muthukumar, a 49-year-old Indian national, was sentenced to three months and three weeks in jail on Thursday, SCMP reported. He had started an affair with his second wife after coming to Singapore to join his first wife in 2011. The woman was a Singaporean citizen named Salmah Bee Abdul Razak, who married Muthukumar, fully aware that he was already married. Muthukumar and his first wife, a Singaporean woman now aged 55, tied the knot in India in 2007. He pleaded guilty to one charge of conspiring to commit bigamy, falsely declaring in an application for permanent residence that he did not have any other marriages, and falsely stating in a visit pass application that he did not have past or other marriages. Also Read: Indian passport gets a boost! Jumps 8 places in Henley Passport Index 2025—Know what it ranks? In June 2022, Vaithialingam and Salmah decided to take the next step and get married. He told her that he wanted to have a child and promised her that he would get a divorce. They had a Muslim marriage in August 2022, which was registered by a religious leader in Nagore, India. After they returned to Singapore, Vaithialingam continued to live with his first wife and used to visit Salmah. On September 14, 2023, she gave birth to a son at the KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, which is where his first wife worked. She saw him leaving the hospital’s delivery suite and confronted him, and learnt of his secret marriage. He then applied for permanent resident status as the spouse of a Singapore citizen on June 12, 2024. He falsely declared in the form that he had no other marriages. In July, Salmah told the Ministry of Manpower that he was married to her and his first wife. His application was rejected in October. His case reached the police for a bigamy offence. The deputy public prosecutor sought two to three months' jail for Vaithialingam. He told the court that he deccived both the women. The first one found out "purely by chance" about his second marriage, and falsely promised the second that he would get a divorce.

Singapore sentences Indian man for bigamy: Vaithialingam Muthukumar was married to his first wife when he tied the knot with his second wife. He kept her in the dark about it, while promising the second woman that he would get a divorce.

Singapore: Indian man's secret second marriage exposed after first wife spots him at delivery ward of hospital where she worked

As of mid-2025, the World Gold Council's rankings show the following trends US leads, India and the UAE are surging at a record pace. Here is the list of the countries with the highest gold reserves.

Global gold reserves 2025: Countries with highest gold reserves and how it impacts their economy

Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking minors, has told US investigators that she does not believe Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide. “I do not believe he died by suicide, no,” Maxwell said during a nine-hour interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. When asked if she had a view on who might have killed him, she replied, “No, I don’t.” Maxwell explained she had no first-hand knowledge of what happened but did not think Epstein was suicidal.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/c-ghislaine-maxwell-says-epstein-client-list-is-a-myth-calls-prince-andrew-claims-not-conceivable-1755953242309">'There is no list': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein ‘client list’ is a myth</a><h2>Prison violence and ‘going rate’ for a hit</h2>Maxwell criticised the Bureau of Prisons and suggested violence inside jails can be arranged cheaply. “In prison, where I am, they will kill you or they will pay, somebody can pay a prisoner to kill you for $25 worth of commissary. That’s about the going rate for a hit with a lock today,” she said. However, she added, “I don’t think Epstein had a hit on like that. If it is indeed murder, I believe it was an internal situation [in the jail].”<h2>Dismissing conspiracy theories</h2>Despite rejecting the official account of suicide, Maxwell also denied that Epstein was killed to protect the rich and powerful. “I do not have any reason to believe that. And I also think it’s ludicrous, because if that is what they wanted, they would’ve had plenty of opportunity when he wasn’t in jail. And if they were worried about blackmail or anything from him, he would’ve been a very easy target,” she said.The Justice Department and FBI under President Trump concluded there was no evidence Epstein was murdered, blackmailed powerful people, or kept a so-called “client list.” Epstein had been removed from suicide watch before his death in 2019, after a psychologist assessed him. On the night he died, cameras in the prison were not working, details that have fuelled years of speculation.<h2>Transcripts reveal Maxwell’s talks with DOJ</h2>The Justice Department released four redacted transcripts of Maxwell’s interviews on Friday. They took place shortly before she was moved to a minimum-security prison. She was given “limited” immunity to answer questions about Epstein’s sex-trafficking ring.The Trump administration has faced bipartisan criticism over how it handled the Epstein files. At the same time, conspiracy theories about Epstein’s death have become widespread online, especially among right-wing groups.

Ghislaine Maxwell doubts Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide, citing prison violence and ease of arranging hits. She claims no direct knowledge but believes any murder was likely an internal jail matter.

Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking minors, has told US investigators that she does not believe Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide. “I do not believe he died by suicide, no,” Maxwell said during a nine-hour interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. When asked if she had a view on who might have killed him, she replied, “No, I don’t.” Maxwell explained she had no first-hand knowledge of what happened but did not think Epstein was suicidal. Also read: 'There is no list': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein ‘client list’ is a myth Prison violence and ‘going rate’ for a hit Maxwell criticised the Bureau of Prisons and suggested violence inside jails can be arranged cheaply. “In prison, where I am, they will kill you or they will pay, somebody can pay a prisoner to kill you for $25 worth of commissary. That’s about the going rate for a hit with a lock today,” she said. However, she added, “I don’t think Epstein had a hit on like that. If it is indeed murder, I believe it was an internal situation [in the jail].” Dismissing conspiracy theories Despite rejecting the official account of suicide, Maxwell also denied that Epstein was killed to protect the rich and powerful. “I do not have any reason to believe that. And I also think it’s ludicrous, because if that is what they wanted, they would’ve had plenty of opportunity when he wasn’t in jail. And if they were worried about blackmail or anything from him, he would’ve been a very easy target,” she said. The Justice Department and FBI under President Trump concluded there was no evidence Epstein was murdered, blackmailed powerful people, or kept a so-called “client list.” Epstein had been removed from suicide watch before his death in 2019, after a psychologist assessed him. On the night he died, cameras in the prison were not working, details that have fuelled years of speculation. Transcripts reveal Maxwell’s talks with DOJ The Justice Department released four redacted transcripts of Maxwell’s interviews on Friday. They took place shortly before she was moved to a minimum-security prison. She was given “limited” immunity to answer questions about Epstein’s sex-trafficking ring. The Trump administration has faced bipartisan criticism over how it handled the Epstein files. At the same time, conspiracy theories about Epstein’s death have become widespread online, especially among right-wing groups.

Ghislaine Maxwell doubts Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide, citing prison violence and ease of arranging hits. She claims no direct knowledge but believes any murder was likely an internal jail matter.

'You can get a prisoner to kill for $25': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein 'didn’t die by suicide' but...

Can political parties change electoral maps in order to win elections? That’s exactly what is happening in Texas, and could soon happen in California and other US states. The Republican-controlled state legislature in Texas has passed a redistricting bill with the aim of getting more seats for the GOP in the 2026 midterm elections, while Democrat-majority California is reportedly planning a similar move to flip some seats in favour of the Democrats. While this may appear to be political malpractice at first glance, it is nothing new in American politics. In fact, gerrymandering—the practice of redrawing electoral maps to gain political advantage by clustering or splitting voter groups—is a long-standing and highly contentious issue in the United States. Here's what you need to know.<h2>Why is the Texas redistricting bill so contentious?</h2>The Texas redistricting bill, passed by the Republican-controlled Texas House and Senate, is controversial largely because it was implemented mid-decade, outside the standard 10-year census cycle. A court ruling in the Petteway v. Galveston County case, along with political pressure from President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, accelerated the passage of the bill.Also read: <a href=" https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-democracy-texas-republicans-crush-filibuster-pass-new-map-handing-trump-big-boost-ahead-of-2026-midterm-elections-1755941788914">'This is not democracy': Texas Republicans crush Filibuster, pass new map handing Trump big boost ahead of 2026 midterm elections</a><h2>What does the Texas redistricting bill aim to achieve?</h2>The main objective is to solidify Republican control of the Texas state legislature ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.The process has faced accusations of partisan gerrymandering: the bill redraws 37 of Texas’s 38 congressional districts to favour Republicans.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/texas-redistricting-plan-democrats-return-to-texas-vow-to-take-redistricting-battle-to-court-wion-1755636227781/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/texas-redistricting-plan-democrats-return-to-texas-vow-to-take-redistricting-battle-to-court-wion-1755636227781/embed</a><h2>How will Texas redistricting affect minority voters?</h2>Democrats argue that the redistricting could flip up to five Democratic-held seats. The redrawing is expected to move many minority voters—primarily Black and Latino—into districts where their voting power will be diluted, as those districts are now expected to lean Republican.With their electoral power weakened, these minority communities could see their voices diminished in the political process.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-trying-to-manipulate-2026-midterm-election-democrats-flee-texas-to-block-vote-on-redistricting-map-1754281486559">Also read: Trump trying to manipulate 2026 midterm election? Democrats flee Texas to block vote on redistricting map</a>&nbsp;The affected districts—TX-9, TX-18, TX-29, and TX-33—traditionally rely on coalition voting. However, a ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court invalidated such coalition districts, raising further concerns about the erosion of minority representation, especially in urban centres like Houston and regions like the Rio Grande Valley.Democrats attempted to block the bill by fleeing the state to deny a legislative quorum, stalling proceedings for two weeks. However, they were compelled—some say threatened—into returning.<h2>Gerrymandering by the numbers: How the Texas voting patterns could change</h2>At the national level, the balance of congressional seats in Texas could shift from the current 25 Republican vs 13 Democratic split to 30 Republican vs 8 Democratic. This shift could be decisive in future elections, including control of the US House of Representatives.Under the redrawn maps, Democratic-leaning urban districts are merged with rural, Republican-stronghold areas. For example, in TX-9, support for Trump is projected to rise from 27.2 per cent to nearly 60 per cent if the changes go into effect.Democratic incumbents such as Al Green (TX-9), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), and Marc Veasey (TX-33) now find themselves in more conservative districts, making their re-election bids significantly harder. In short, the voter base that elected them may no longer exist in the same form.<h2>California’s response: "Doing a Texas" on gerrymandering?</h2>Now enters the concept of ‘retaliatory redistricting’. California’s Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom, and his party are reportedly planning to redraw the western state’s congressional maps to flip up to five Republican-held seats, countering the Republican gains in Texas.A special election is scheduled for November, in which voters will be asked to approve the new maps.This move bypasses California’s independent redistricting commission, sparking major backlash. Republicans have filed a lawsuit alleging constitutional violations, including bypassing the mandatory 30-day waiting period.California is not acting alone. Other Democratic-majority states like New York and Illinois are also considering redistricting efforts to reinforce Democratic representation.<h2>Redrawing of electoral maps faces political and legal pushback</h2>Newsom labelled Texas Governor Abbott "delusional" and called for a national independent redistricting reform, even as he supports California’s own redistricting plans.Legal challenges could delay the implementation of Texas’s new electoral maps before the 2026 midterm elections.&nbsp;

Texas and California are redrawing electoral maps to gain political advantage ahead of the 2026 midterms. Texas Republicans aim to flip Democratic seats, while California Democrats plan a counter-move. The battle over gerrymandering raises legal, political, and voter representation concerns.

Can political parties change electoral maps in order to win elections? That’s exactly what is happening in Texas, and could soon happen in California and other US states. The Republican-controlled state legislature in Texas has passed a redistricting bill with the aim of getting more seats for the GOP in the 2026 midterm elections, while Democrat-majority California is reportedly planning a similar move to flip some seats in favour of the Democrats. While this may appear to be political malpractice at first glance, it is nothing new in American politics. In fact, gerrymandering—the practice of redrawing electoral maps to gain political advantage by clustering or splitting voter groups—is a long-standing and highly contentious issue in the United States. Here's what you need to know. Why is the Texas redistricting bill so contentious? The Texas redistricting bill, passed by the Republican-controlled Texas House and Senate, is controversial largely because it was implemented mid-decade, outside the standard 10-year census cycle. A court ruling in the Petteway v. Galveston County case, along with political pressure from President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, accelerated the passage of the bill. Also read: 'This is not democracy': Texas Republicans crush Filibuster, pass new map handing Trump big boost ahead of 2026 midterm elections What does the Texas redistricting bill aim to achieve? The main objective is to solidify Republican control of the Texas state legislature ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The process has faced accusations of partisan gerrymandering: the bill redraws 37 of Texas’s 38 congressional districts to favour Republicans. https://www.wionews.com/videos/texas-redistricting-plan-democrats-return-to-texas-vow-to-take-redistricting-battle-to-court-wion-1755636227781/embed How will Texas redistricting affect minority voters? Democrats argue that the redistricting could flip up to five Democratic-held seats. The redrawing is expected to move many minority voters—primarily Black and Latino—into districts where their voting power will be diluted, as those districts are now expected to lean Republican. With their electoral power weakened, these minority communities could see their voices diminished in the political process. Also read: Trump trying to manipulate 2026 midterm election? Democrats flee Texas to block vote on redistricting map The affected districts—TX-9, TX-18, TX-29, and TX-33—traditionally rely on coalition voting. However, a ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court invalidated such coalition districts, raising further concerns about the erosion of minority representation, especially in urban centres like Houston and regions like the Rio Grande Valley. Democrats attempted to block the bill by fleeing the state to deny a legislative quorum, stalling proceedings for two weeks. However, they were compelled—some say threatened—into returning. Gerrymandering by the numbers: How the Texas voting patterns could change At the national level, the balance of congressional seats in Texas could shift from the current 25 Republican vs 13 Democratic split to 30 Republican vs 8 Democratic. This shift could be decisive in future elections, including control of the US House of Representatives. Under the redrawn maps, Democratic-leaning urban districts are merged with rural, Republican-stronghold areas. For example, in TX-9, support for Trump is projected to rise from 27.2 per cent to nearly 60 per cent if the changes go into effect. Democratic incumbents such as Al Green (TX-9), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), and Marc Veasey (TX-33) now find themselves in more conservative districts, making their re-election bids significantly harder. In short, the voter base that elected them may no longer exist in the same form. California’s response: "Doing a Texas" on gerrymandering? Now enters the concept of ‘retaliatory redistricting’. California’s Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom, and his party are reportedly planning to redraw the western state’s congressional maps to flip up to five Republican-held seats, countering the Republican gains in Texas. A special election is scheduled for November, in which voters will be asked to approve the new maps. This move bypasses California’s independent redistricting commission, sparking major backlash. Republicans have filed a lawsuit alleging constitutional violations, including bypassing the mandatory 30-day waiting period. California is not acting alone. Other Democratic-majority states like New York and Illinois are also considering redistricting efforts to reinforce Democratic representation. Redrawing of electoral maps faces political and legal pushback Newsom labelled Texas Governor Abbott "delusional" and called for a national independent redistricting reform, even as he supports California’s own redistricting plans. Legal challenges could delay the implementation of Texas’s new electoral maps before the 2026 midterm elections.

Texas and California are redrawing electoral maps to gain political advantage ahead of the 2026 midterms. Texas Republicans aim to flip Democratic seats, while California Democrats plan a counter-move. Here's how gerrymandering raises legal, political, and voter representation concerns

Texas and California redistricting 2025: Gerrymandering battles intensify ahead of US 2026 midterm elections - What's the row?

The Henley Passport Index ranks passports around the world based on how many destinations their holders can visit without obtaining a visa in advance. The latest report, released on July 22, 2025, shows that Asian countries still dominate the rankings, with Japan and South Korea tied in second place. India made the biggest improvement in the last six months, climbing eight spots by gaining visa-free access to two additional destinations.Singapore secured the top spot in the index, offering visa-free entry to 193 out of 227 destinations. The United Kingdom (UK) and United States (US) passports, once among the strongest in the world, have dropped in the 2025 rankings. The UK now ranks 6th, while the US has slipped to 10th, nearing the edge of the top ten for the first time in the index’s 20-year history.The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has shown the most significant improvement, jumping 34 spots from 42nd to 8th place, breaking into the top ten. In contrast, Afghanistan holds the world’s weakest passport, with visa-free access to just 25 destinations. This results in a staggering gap of 168 destinations between the strongest and weakest passports.<h3>What is the Henley Passport Index?</h3>The Henley Passport Index compares countries based on the visa-free access granted to their citizens. It evaluates 199 passports across 227 destinations, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).If no visa is required, or if travellers can obtain a visa on arrival (VOA), an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), or a visitor pass, the passport scores 1 point. If a visa must be arranged in advance (including e-Visas), it scores 0 points.<h3>India’s Ranking in 2025</h3>The Indian passport has made significant progress, moving up from 85th to 77th place, now allowing visa-free travel to 59 countries.<h3>Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in 2025</h3>

Top 10 most powerful passports in 2025<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>Country’s Passport</td><td>Total Visa-Free Countries</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Singapore</td><td>193</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Japan</td><td>190</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>South Korea</td><td>190</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Denmark</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Finland</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>France</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Germany</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Ireland</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Italy</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Spain</td><td>189</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Austria</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Belgium</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Luxembourg</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Netherlands</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Norway</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Portugal</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Sweden</td><td>188</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Greece</td><td>187</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>187</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Switzerland</td><td>187</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>United Kingdom</td><td>186</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Australia</td><td>185</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Czechia</td><td>185</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Hungary</td><td>185</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Malta</td><td>185</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Poland</td><td>185</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Canada</td><td>184</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Estonia</td><td>184</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>United Arab Emirates</td><td>184</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Croatia</td><td>183</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Latvia</td><td>183</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Slovakia</td><td>183</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Slovenia</td><td>183</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Iceland</td><td>182</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Lithuania</td><td>182</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>United States</td><td>182</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Henley Passport Index: India made the biggest improvement in the last six months, climbing eight spots by adding two more visa-free destinations.

The Henley Passport Index ranks passports around the world based on how many destinations their holders can visit without obtaining a visa in advance. The latest report, released on July 22, 2025, shows that Asian countries still dominate the rankings, with Japan and South Korea tied in second place. India made the biggest improvement in the last six months, climbing eight spots by gaining visa-free access to two additional destinations. Singapore secured the top spot in the index, offering visa-free entry to 193 out of 227 destinations. The United Kingdom (UK) and United States (US) passports, once among the strongest in the world, have dropped in the 2025 rankings. The UK now ranks 6th, while the US has slipped to 10th, nearing the edge of the top ten for the first time in the index’s 20-year history. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has shown the most significant improvement, jumping 34 spots from 42nd to 8th place, breaking into the top ten. In contrast, Afghanistan holds the world’s weakest passport, with visa-free access to just 25 destinations. This results in a staggering gap of 168 destinations between the strongest and weakest passports. What is the Henley Passport Index? The Henley Passport Index compares countries based on the visa-free access granted to their citizens. It evaluates 199 passports across 227 destinations, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). If no visa is required, or if travellers can obtain a visa on arrival (VOA), an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), or a visitor pass, the passport scores 1 point. If a visa must be arranged in advance (including e-Visas), it scores 0 points. India’s Ranking in 2025 The Indian passport has made significant progress, moving up from 85th to 77th place, now allowing visa-free travel to 59 countries. Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in 2025

Henley Passport Index: India made the biggest improvement in the last six months, climbing eight spots by adding two more visa-free destinations.

Henley Passport Index: Top 10 most powerful passports in 2025, check where India stands

Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has told US officials that a widely discussed “client list” does not exist. In a July interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, Maxwell insisted, “There is no list.” She also rejected claims that Donald Trump or Bill Clinton acted inappropriately. “The president was never inappropriate with anybody. In the times I was with him, he was a gentleman in all respects,” she said.Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, has appealed to the US Supreme Court to overturn her conviction, and her lawyer has said they would “welcome” a pardon from Trump.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-was-never-inappropriate-with-anybody-claims-ghislane-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-1755922646192">Trump was ‘never inappropriate with anybody, claims Ghislane Maxwell</a><h2>Prince Andrew allegations addressed</h2>Maxwell strongly denied introducing Prince Andrew to Epstein and called allegations of the duke having sex with an underage girl in her home “mind-blowingly not conceivable.” She also claimed the now-famous photo of Prince Andrew with Virginia Giuffre, with Maxwell in the background, was fake.Giuffre, who accused the prince of sexually abusing her when she was 17, reached a financial settlement with him in 2022. She died earlier this year, and her family has condemned Maxwell’s testimony, calling her a “monster”.<h2>Epstein connections and conspiracy theories</h2>Maxwell said Epstein paid her up to $250,000 a year even after their romantic relationship ended, describing them as “friends with benefits”. She dismissed theories that Epstein was murdered in prison, although she admitted she did not believe he took his own life.Speculation about a secret list of Epstein’s associates has fuelled conspiracy theories for years. Maxwell, however, insisted such a document does not exist, despite her being asked about figures including Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Kevin Spacey, Naomi Campbell and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak.The case continues to shadow Donald Trump, who was once friendly with Epstein but claims they fell out in 2004. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing, critics, including members of his own party, have pushed for greater transparency. The White House has insisted that “no leniency is being given or discussed” regarding Maxwell.

Ghislaine Maxwell denied the existence of a “client list,” defended Trump and Clinton, rejected Prince Andrew allegations, and called a key photo fake. She's appealing her conviction and seeks a pardon.

Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has told US officials that a widely discussed “client list” does not exist. In a July interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, Maxwell insisted, “There is no list.” She also rejected claims that Donald Trump or Bill Clinton acted inappropriately. “The president was never inappropriate with anybody. In the times I was with him, he was a gentleman in all respects,” she said. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, has appealed to the US Supreme Court to overturn her conviction, and her lawyer has said they would “welcome” a pardon from Trump. Also read: Trump was ‘never inappropriate with anybody, claims Ghislane Maxwell Prince Andrew allegations addressed Maxwell strongly denied introducing Prince Andrew to Epstein and called allegations of the duke having sex with an underage girl in her home “mind-blowingly not conceivable.” She also claimed the now-famous photo of Prince Andrew with Virginia Giuffre, with Maxwell in the background, was fake. Giuffre, who accused the prince of sexually abusing her when she was 17, reached a financial settlement with him in 2022. She died earlier this year, and her family has condemned Maxwell’s testimony, calling her a “monster”. Epstein connections and conspiracy theories Maxwell said Epstein paid her up to $250,000 a year even after their romantic relationship ended, describing them as “friends with benefits”. She dismissed theories that Epstein was murdered in prison, although she admitted she did not believe he took his own life. Speculation about a secret list of Epstein’s associates has fuelled conspiracy theories for years. Maxwell, however, insisted such a document does not exist, despite her being asked about figures including Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Kevin Spacey, Naomi Campbell and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. The case continues to shadow Donald Trump, who was once friendly with Epstein but claims they fell out in 2004. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing, critics, including members of his own party, have pushed for greater transparency. The White House has insisted that “no leniency is being given or discussed” regarding Maxwell.

Ghislaine Maxwell denied the existence of a “client list,” defended Trump and Clinton, rejected Prince Andrew allegations, and called a key photo fake. She's appealing her conviction and seeks a pardon.

'There is no list': Ghislaine Maxwell says Epstein ‘client list’ is a myth, calls Prince Andrew claims ‘not conceivable’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan and China from August 29 to September 1. After visiting Japan, in the second leg of the trip, he will visit China, where he will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. He is expected to meet with several leaders on the sidelines of the summit.&nbsp;India has been&nbsp;a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation since 2017. It held the presidency of the Council of Heads of State of the organisation during 2022-23.&nbsp;Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met PM Modi earlier&nbsp;this week and handed over the invitation for the summit from President Xi Jinping for the SCO Summit.<h2>What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation?</h2>The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a political, economic, and security organisation that&nbsp;has ten members. It was started in 2001 by six countries – China,&nbsp;Kazakhstan,&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan,&nbsp;Russia,&nbsp;Tajikistan,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan joined the grouping in June 2017. Iran joined the group in July 2023. The tenth country, Belarus, joined the SCO in 2024.&nbsp;It is one of the largest organisations in the world. Its member countries cover 24 per cent of the world's land area and 42 per cent of the world's population. Its combined nominal GDP is 23 per cent of the world's gross domestic product. Based&nbsp;on PPP, its GDP is 36 per cent of the world's total GDP.&nbsp;It is a successor of the Shanghai Five, which was formed in 1996.&nbsp;According to Statista, the combined GDP of the 10 member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was $24.4 trillion in 2023.&nbsp;The&nbsp;SCO Tianjin Summit 2025 will be the 25th such summit. It will be held from August 31 to September 1, 2025. It will be held in Tianjin, a city in China. It will be the fifth time that China will&nbsp;host the annual SCO summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan and China from August 29 to September 1. After visiting Japan, in the second leg of the trip, he will visit China, where he will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan and China from August 29 to September 1. After visiting Japan, in the second leg of the trip, he will visit China, where he will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. He is expected to meet with several leaders on the sidelines of the summit. India has been a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation since 2017. It held the presidency of the Council of Heads of State of the organisation during 2022-23. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met PM Modi earlier this week and handed over the invitation for the summit from President Xi Jinping for the SCO Summit. What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation? The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a political, economic, and security organisation that has ten members. It was started in 2001 by six countries – China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan joined the grouping in June 2017. Iran joined the group in July 2023. The tenth country, Belarus, joined the SCO in 2024. It is one of the largest organisations in the world. Its member countries cover 24 per cent of the world's land area and 42 per cent of the world's population. Its combined nominal GDP is 23 per cent of the world's gross domestic product. Based on PPP, its GDP is 36 per cent of the world's total GDP. It is a successor of the Shanghai Five, which was formed in 1996. According to Statista, the combined GDP of the 10 member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was $24.4 trillion in 2023. The SCO Tianjin Summit 2025 will be the 25th such summit. It will be held from August 31 to September 1, 2025. It will be held in Tianjin, a city in China. It will be the fifth time that China will host the annual SCO summit.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit will be held in China. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also attend the meeting.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit: How much do member nations contribute to the world's GDP?

The Department of Posts of India on Saturday announced that it is temporarily suspending all types of postal articles dispatched for the United States after President Donald Trump’s 50% tariffs on Indian goods. An official release from the Ministry of Communications said, “The Department of Posts has taken note of the Executive Order No. 14324 issued by the US Administration on 30th July, 2025, under which the duty-free de minimis exemption for goods valued up to USD 800 will be withdrawn with effect from 29th August, 2025.”&nbsp;“Consequently, all international postal items destined for the USA, regardless of their value, shall be subject to customs duties as per the country-specific International Emergency Economic Power Act (IEEPA) tariff framework. However, gift items up to the value of USD 100 shall continue to remain exempt from duties.” Accordingly, the postal department will suspend the booking of articles for the US, except for those valued up to USD 100.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/when-dreams-touch-the-sky-national-space-day-2025-and-india-s-unstoppable-space-spirit-1755916101860">When dreams touch the sky: National Space Day 2025 and India's unstoppable space spirit</a><h2>Articles valued up to $100 allowed</h2>&nbsp;As per the Executive Order, all transport carriers delivering shipments through the international postal network, or other “qualified parties” approved by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are required to collect and remit duties on postal shipments.&nbsp;While CBP issued certain guidelines on 15th August, 2025, several processes relating to the designation of “qualified parties” and mechanisms for duty collection and remittance are still not properly defined, and hence US-bound air carriers have expressed their inability to accept postal consignments after 25th August, 2025, citing lack of readiness, the statement added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tourist-bus-crash-near-niagara-falls-kills-five-victims-from-india-china-philippines-new-york-state-tourist-bus-crash-1755916861915">Tourist bus crash near Niagara Falls kills five, victims from India, China, Philippines</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;However, letters, documents, and gift items up to USD 100 in value will continue to be accepted for the USA, subject to further clarifications from CBP and USPS.&nbsp;<h2>Many other countries also suspend shipment of packages</h2>&nbsp;Apart from India, other countries like Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, France, Belgium, Austria, the United Kingdom, and Scandinavia are also halting parcel deliveries to the US, said a Reuters report.&nbsp;The US and the European Union agreed to a trade framework last month and set a 15% tariff on the vast majority of products shipped from the EU, but many European postal services say they are pausing deliveries now because they cannot guarantee the goods will enter the US before Aug. 29. They cite ambiguity about what kind of goods are covered by the new rules and the lack of time to process their implications.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amazon-lobbies-govt-to-exempt-exports-from-foreign-investment-rules-1755940460242/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/amazon-lobbies-govt-to-exempt-exports-from-foreign-investment-rules-1755940460242/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>What is the de minimis exemption</h2>&nbsp;The de minimis tax exemption is a law that the US Congress passed allowing shipments bound for American businesses and consumers valued under $800 (per person, per day) to enter the US free of duty and taxes.&nbsp;The exemption allowed goods to be shipped quickly and affordably and hence benefited Americans as it kept inflation down.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-this-student-found-in-a-zara-fitting-room-is-every-shopper-s-worst-fear-hint-it-has-a-sting-like-sharp-glass-or-a-knife-1755938956650">What this student found in a Zara fitting room is every shopper’s worst fear. Hint: It has a sting like 'sharp glass or a knife'</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The change will affect international e-commerce, as it will end the fast and affordable way for businesses to ship low-value parcels to their consumers in the US. Consequently, the shipments will be subject to applicable duties, which could increase costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customers who have already booked articles that cannot be dispatched to the USA can seek a refund of postage, even as all possible measures are being undertaken to resume full services to the USA at the earliest.

The Department of Posts of India on Saturday announced that it is temporarily suspending all types of postal articles dispatched for the United States after President Donald Trump’s 50% tariffs on Indian goods. An official release from the Ministry of Communications said, “The Department of Posts has taken note of the Executive Order No. 14324 issued by the US Administration on 30th July, 2025, under which the duty-free de minimis exemption for goods valued up to USD 800 will be withdrawn with effect from 29th August, 2025.” “Consequently, all international postal items destined for the USA, regardless of their value, shall be subject to customs duties as per the country-specific International Emergency Economic Power Act (IEEPA) tariff framework. However, gift items up to the value of USD 100 shall continue to remain exempt from duties.” Accordingly, the postal department will suspend the booking of articles for the US, except for those valued up to USD 100. Also Read: When dreams touch the sky: National Space Day 2025 and India's unstoppable space spirit Articles valued up to $100 allowed As per the Executive Order, all transport carriers delivering shipments through the international postal network, or other “qualified parties” approved by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are required to collect and remit duties on postal shipments. While CBP issued certain guidelines on 15th August, 2025, several processes relating to the designation of “qualified parties” and mechanisms for duty collection and remittance are still not properly defined, and hence US-bound air carriers have expressed their inability to accept postal consignments after 25th August, 2025, citing lack of readiness, the statement added. Also Read: Tourist bus crash near Niagara Falls kills five, victims from India, China, Philippines However, letters, documents, and gift items up to USD 100 in value will continue to be accepted for the USA, subject to further clarifications from CBP and USPS. Many other countries also suspend shipment of packages Apart from India, other countries like Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, France, Belgium, Austria, the United Kingdom, and Scandinavia are also halting parcel deliveries to the US, said a Reuters report. The US and the European Union agreed to a trade framework last month and set a 15% tariff on the vast majority of products shipped from the EU, but many European postal services say they are pausing deliveries now because they cannot guarantee the goods will enter the US before Aug. 29. They cite ambiguity about what kind of goods are covered by the new rules and the lack of time to process their implications. https://www.wionews.com/videos/amazon-lobbies-govt-to-exempt-exports-from-foreign-investment-rules-1755940460242/embed What is the de minimis exemption The de minimis tax exemption is a law that the US Congress passed allowing shipments bound for American businesses and consumers valued under $800 (per person, per day) to enter the US free of duty and taxes. The exemption allowed goods to be shipped quickly and affordably and hence benefited Americans as it kept inflation down. Also Read: What this student found in a Zara fitting room is every shopper’s worst fear. Hint: It has a sting like 'sharp glass or a knife' The change will affect international e-commerce, as it will end the fast and affordable way for businesses to ship low-value parcels to their consumers in the US. Consequently, the shipments will be subject to applicable duties, which could increase costs.

Customers who have already booked articles that cannot be dispatched to the USA can seek a refund of postage, even as all possible measures are being undertaken to resume full services to the USA at the earliest.

India suspends postal services to US as Trump’s tariffs come into effect

Sri Lanka's former president Ranil Wickremesinghe was shifted to a prison hospital after being granted bail over alleged misuse of government funds during his tenure. He was admitted to the Magazine Remand prison hospital as his blood sugar and blood pressure levels were high, said prison spokesman Jagath Weerasinghe on Saturday.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe, 76, will remain in police custody &nbsp;till August 26 after his bail plea was rejected by Colombo Fort magistrate's court.&nbsp;After over six hours of lengthy session, Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura remanded him while ruling that the defence lawyers had failed to submit any strong argument that would have allowed the court to grant the former president bail.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe &nbsp;has been charged under Section 386 and 388 of the penal code and under Section 5(1) of the Public Properties Act, reported news agency PTI. The charges carry a punishment of one to 20 years in jail, if proven guilty&nbsp;What is the case&nbsp;The case is related to Wickremesinghe's September 2023 London visit. The former president on his way back to Sri Lanka from Havana, where the G77 summit was held had stopped in London where he and his wife, Maithree, attended a University of Wolverhampton ceremony.&nbsp;The former Sri Lankan president argues that the expenses of the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it. However, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) alleges that Wickremesinghe used government funds for the trip including covering the expenses of his bodyguards.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe Tenure&nbsp;In July 2022, during the deepening economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa was ousted from power in a massive countrywide protest. Wickremesinghe took over the reigns and helped the fragile economy recover securing a $2.9 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF), tamed runaway inflation, and rebuild dollar reserves.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe also set the groundwork for Sri Lanka to start debt restructuring talks with its official creditors and bondholders.&nbsp;In September of 24, Wickremesinghe lost his re-election bid to the left-wing AK Disannayake in a close fought contest that went into the second round.

The former Sri Lankan president argues that the expenses of the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it.

Sri Lanka's former president Ranil Wickremesinghe was shifted to a prison hospital after being granted bail over alleged misuse of government funds during his tenure. He was admitted to the Magazine Remand prison hospital as his blood sugar and blood pressure levels were high, said prison spokesman Jagath Weerasinghe on Saturday. Wickremesinghe, 76, will remain in police custody till August 26 after his bail plea was rejected by Colombo Fort magistrate's court. After over six hours of lengthy session, Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura remanded him while ruling that the defence lawyers had failed to submit any strong argument that would have allowed the court to grant the former president bail. Wickremesinghe has been charged under Section 386 and 388 of the penal code and under Section 5(1) of the Public Properties Act, reported news agency PTI. The charges carry a punishment of one to 20 years in jail, if proven guilty What is the case The case is related to Wickremesinghe's September 2023 London visit. The former president on his way back to Sri Lanka from Havana, where the G77 summit was held had stopped in London where he and his wife, Maithree, attended a University of Wolverhampton ceremony. The former Sri Lankan president argues that the expenses of the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it. However, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) alleges that Wickremesinghe used government funds for the trip including covering the expenses of his bodyguards. Wickremesinghe Tenure In July 2022, during the deepening economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa was ousted from power in a massive countrywide protest. Wickremesinghe took over the reigns and helped the fragile economy recover securing a $2.9 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF), tamed runaway inflation, and rebuild dollar reserves. Wickremesinghe also set the groundwork for Sri Lanka to start debt restructuring talks with its official creditors and bondholders. In September of 24, Wickremesinghe lost his re-election bid to the left-wing AK Disannayake in a close fought contest that went into the second round.

The former Sri Lankan president argues that the expenses of the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it.

Sri Lanka's former president Wickremesinghe admitted to prison hospital after bail rejected by court

What's the secret behind the beautiful and powerful names of Indian missiles, aircraft carriers, and other military assets? Shedding the colonial naming conventions, India has in the past decades turned to Hindu mythology, cosmology and uniquely Indian legends and concepts 
 

From Agni to Sudarshan Chakra: Hindu mythology and Indian cosmology in names of missiles, defence systems and assets of navy, army, air force

&nbsp;Texas approves new electoral map, adds five GOP seats to lock in Trump’s grip on CongressTexas Republicans early on Saturday (Aug 23) approved a controversial new electoral map that is set to help US President Donald Trump's political ambitions. The new map carves out five new Republican-leaning seats and would aid the Republican Party in retaining control of Congress ahead of next year's US midterm elections. The state Senate passed the bill 18-11 along party lines shortly after midnight, capping more than eight hours of fierce debate. While Democrats had hoped that a filibuster would help delay the vote, it was overtaken in a move being slammed as "disgraceful" and as something that does not belong in a democracy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-just-dance-vance-newsom-taunts-trump-s-vp-jd-vance-with-new-nickname-says-not-even-his-eyeliner-lines-1755506542466">'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…'</a><h2>What happened?</h2>In the early hours of Saturday, Texas's state Senate passed the new electoral map with 18-11 votes. Last week, the bill was adopted by the state's lower legislature.Reports suggest that Democrats were hoping that Senator Carol Alvarado's filibuster could delay the vote. However, Republicans abruptly shut it down with a rare procedural manoeuvre — something Democratic Senator Sarah Eckhardt later blasted as "unprecedented" and "disgraceful." As per AFP, using a rare procedural motion, Republicans proceeded directly to the final vote. Slamming the move on X, Eckhardt said, "This is not democracy, this is disgraceful". The map now heads to Governor Greg Abbott, who is expected to sign it into law within days.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What Dan Patrick pulled on <a href="https://twitter.com/CarolforTexas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarolforTexas</a> tonight was disgraceful, but some things never change. Just ask Senator Margie Neal, the first woman elected to the Texas Senate in 1931. She was silenced by a privileged motion, too. <a href="https://t.co/td3SLu2rKs">pic.twitter.com/td3SLu2rKs</a>&mdash; Senator Sarah Eckhardt (@SarahEckhardtTX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SarahEckhardtTX/status/1959160255515959363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Texas redistricting battle</h2>The fight over redistricting in Texas has been one of the most bitter political battles in the country this year. Democrats even fled the state earlier in the summer to try and stall the vote, turning the spotlight on partisan redistricting, also known as "gerrymandering" and its role in shaping national power.Driving the push was none other than Donald Trump, who reportedly pressured Texas Republicans into creating the new map as insurance against Democrats taking the House in 2026, halfway through his presidency.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-trying-to-manipulate-2026-midterm-election-democrats-flee-texas-to-block-vote-on-redistricting-map-1754281486559">Trump trying to manipulate 2026 midterm election? Democrats flee Texas to block vote on redistricting map</a><h2>What now?</h2>The move is set to set off a political arms race, with California Governor Gavin Newsom responding by starting his own redistricting process, aiming to carve out five new Democratic seats in his state. His plan, however, still needs voter approval in November.Both parties, as per the report, are now eyeing other states where quick redraws could tilt the balance further in their favour. With Republicans already holding both chambers of Congress and acting largely in line with Trump's wishes, Democrats are banking on voter backlash against his policies to flip the House. A win there would give the Democrats the ability to investigate Trump's administration, controversial government members.&nbsp;

Texas Republicans have approved a controversial new electoral map that could cement Donald Trump’s power in Congress, carving out five new GOP-leaning seats ahead of next year’s US midterm elections.

Texas approves new electoral map, adds five GOP seats to lock in Trump’s grip on Congress Texas Republicans early on Saturday (Aug 23) approved a controversial new electoral map that is set to help US President Donald Trump's political ambitions. The new map carves out five new Republican-leaning seats and would aid the Republican Party in retaining control of Congress ahead of next year's US midterm elections. The state Senate passed the bill 18-11 along party lines shortly after midnight, capping more than eight hours of fierce debate. While Democrats had hoped that a filibuster would help delay the vote, it was overtaken in a move being slammed as "disgraceful" and as something that does not belong in a democracy. Also read | 'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…' What happened? In the early hours of Saturday, Texas's state Senate passed the new electoral map with 18-11 votes. Last week, the bill was adopted by the state's lower legislature. Reports suggest that Democrats were hoping that Senator Carol Alvarado's filibuster could delay the vote. However, Republicans abruptly shut it down with a rare procedural manoeuvre — something Democratic Senator Sarah Eckhardt later blasted as "unprecedented" and "disgraceful." As per AFP, using a rare procedural motion, Republicans proceeded directly to the final vote. Slamming the move on X, Eckhardt said, "This is not democracy, this is disgraceful". The map now heads to Governor Greg Abbott, who is expected to sign it into law within days.

Texas Republicans have approved a controversial new electoral map that could cement Donald Trump’s power in Congress, carving out five new GOP-leaning seats ahead of next year’s US midterm elections.

'This is not democracy': Texas Republicans crush Filibuster, pass new map handing Trump big boost ahead of 2026 midterm elections

In Brazil, a shopping trip turned into a nightmare for a 20-year-old student after she was stung by a dangerous creepy crawly while trying on clothes at Zara. The shopper, identified as Alice Spies, was in the fitting room of a Zara store in Guara, São Paulo in Brazil, when she suddenly felt something crawling up her leg. It was not something that she or anyone else would expect in the changing room of a brand like Zara: a scorpion. Moments later, she was hit with a sharp sting that left her dizzy. Here's what happened and how Zara responded to the incident.<h2>Snakes on a plane? Naah, this time it's Scorpion in Zara</h2>As per local media reports, Alice Spies was in the Zara changing room trying on clothes when she had the disgusting 'something is crawling on the skin' feeling. She looked down, probably expecting a bug, but was shocked to see a bright yellow-orange scorpion, which then promptly stung her.Talking to local media, as quoted by Sun News, Alice said she felt a sharp sting, and when she looked dow,n she saw a huge yellow scorpion on her clothes and started screaming for help.Store staff rushed to her aid, gave her first aid, and kept her in a wheelchair until paramedics arrived. She was taken to Asa Norte Regional Hospital, where she spent five hours receiving fluids and treatment. Alice has since been discharged, but says the pain from the sting hasn't gone away.<h2>Zara responds</h2>Both the mall and Zara issued statements saying they maintain strict pest control measures and are investigating how the scorpion got inside. Zara said it was in "direct contact" with Alice."Zara deeply regrets what happened and confirms that it is in direct contact with the customer, providing all necessary assistance," said a Zara spokesperson. The Brazilian shopping centre, meanwhile, said it "maintains strict pest control protocols," and that the safety of the shoppers was of utmost importance to it.<h2>Can scorpion bites kill you?</h2>Scorpions are found in deserts and forests across the world, and while their stings are usually not deadly, they can be extremely painful and, in rare cases, affect the nervous system.How rare are scorpion bites?This isn't the first time unassuming people have had terrifying run-ins with scorpions. Just months ago, in March, a woman at Boston's Logan Airport was rushed to hospital after being stung while collecting her luggage. The 40-year-old victim, as per the Daily Mail, was left in agony and had to be rushed to the hospital. In another incident, in December 2024, in Las Vegas, a sleeping tourist suffered a scorpion bite after the insect crawled into his underwear and stung him in the groin. The tourist, 62-year-old Michael Farchi, said that the sting felt like a "sharp glass or a knife" and is suing The Venetian Resort.

A 20-year-old student in Brazil was stung by a yellow scorpion while trying on clothes at a Zara store in Guara, São Paulo. This is what happened next.

In Brazil, a shopping trip turned into a nightmare for a 20-year-old student after she was stung by a dangerous creepy crawly while trying on clothes at Zara. The shopper, identified as Alice Spies, was in the fitting room of a Zara store in Guara, São Paulo in Brazil, when she suddenly felt something crawling up her leg. It was not something that she or anyone else would expect in the changing room of a brand like Zara: a scorpion. Moments later, she was hit with a sharp sting that left her dizzy. Here's what happened and how Zara responded to the incident. Snakes on a plane? Naah, this time it's Scorpion in Zara As per local media reports, Alice Spies was in the Zara changing room trying on clothes when she had the disgusting 'something is crawling on the skin' feeling. She looked down, probably expecting a bug, but was shocked to see a bright yellow-orange scorpion, which then promptly stung her. Talking to local media, as quoted by Sun News, Alice said she felt a sharp sting, and when she looked dow,n she saw a huge yellow scorpion on her clothes and started screaming for help. Store staff rushed to her aid, gave her first aid, and kept her in a wheelchair until paramedics arrived. She was taken to Asa Norte Regional Hospital, where she spent five hours receiving fluids and treatment. Alice has since been discharged, but says the pain from the sting hasn't gone away. Zara responds Both the mall and Zara issued statements saying they maintain strict pest control measures and are investigating how the scorpion got inside. Zara said it was in "direct contact" with Alice. "Zara deeply regrets what happened and confirms that it is in direct contact with the customer, providing all necessary assistance," said a Zara spokesperson. The Brazilian shopping centre, meanwhile, said it "maintains strict pest control protocols," and that the safety of the shoppers was of utmost importance to it. Can scorpion bites kill you? Scorpions are found in deserts and forests across the world, and while their stings are usually not deadly, they can be extremely painful and, in rare cases, affect the nervous system. How rare are scorpion bites? This isn't the first time unassuming people have had terrifying run-ins with scorpions. Just months ago, in March, a woman at Boston's Logan Airport was rushed to hospital after being stung while collecting her luggage. The 40-year-old victim, as per the Daily Mail, was left in agony and had to be rushed to the hospital. In another incident, in December 2024, in Las Vegas, a sleeping tourist suffered a scorpion bite after the insect crawled into his underwear and stung him in the groin. The tourist, 62-year-old Michael Farchi, said that the sting felt like a "sharp glass or a knife" and is suing The Venetian Resort.

A 20-year-old student in Brazil was stung by a yellow scorpion while trying on clothes at a Zara store in Guara, São Paulo. This is what happened next.

What this student found in a Zara fitting room is every shopper’s worst fear. Hint: It has a sting like 'sharp glass or a knife'

Places of worship in Pakistan have mushroomed exponentially in the last few years. In first ever economic census release by &nbsp;Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, there are a whopping 600,000 mosques in the country, which surprisingly is way higher than 23,000 factories plying in Pakistan. While religious seminaries are 36,000, again higher than the number of industries in the country.&nbsp;Though, there are 643,000 small production units across Pakistan, according to the report.Obtained as part of the population census, the report was officially released on Thursday (Aug 21), reported the Express Tribune.&nbsp;The census comes at a time Pakistan is looking to seal a deal with the International Monetary Fund for the second review of the USD 7 billion bailout package in order to revive its economy.According to the report, most of the 600,000 mosques and over 36,000 religious seminaries are located in the Punjab province.&nbsp;The data revealed that there are 40 million permanent units, out of which 7.2 million are employment structures where 25.4 million people worked as of 2023.&nbsp;The maximum numbers of people are engaged in the services sector that accounts for 45 per cent or 11.3 million of the 25.4 million workforce.&nbsp;Second in number is the social sector where 7.6 million people are employed, which is 30 per cent of the total workforce. While the production sector employed &nbsp;22 per cent.&nbsp;"Credible data is the backbone of sustainable development, as it enables evidence-based planning and effective decision-making," said Iqbal while launching the report.&nbsp;After the population census and the agriculture census, the economic census -first ever- &nbsp;was the third such detailed report by the planning ministry in Pakistan since 1947.&nbsp;An attempt in this regard was &nbsp;made in 2003 but it failed as activity-related questions were added into the population census framework, reported the Express Tribune.&nbsp;On the contrary Pakistan's neighbour India has conducted seven economic censuses, while Bangladesh, which was earlier a part of Pakistan and split in 1971, has so far conducted three such censuses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The census comes at a time Pakistan is looking to seal a deal with the International Monetary Fund for the second review of the USD 7 billion bailout package in order to revive its economy.

Places of worship in Pakistan have mushroomed exponentially in the last few years. In first ever economic census release by Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, there are a whopping 600,000 mosques in the country, which surprisingly is way higher than 23,000 factories plying in Pakistan. While religious seminaries are 36,000, again higher than the number of industries in the country. Though, there are 643,000 small production units across Pakistan, according to the report. Obtained as part of the population census, the report was officially released on Thursday (Aug 21), reported the Express Tribune. The census comes at a time Pakistan is looking to seal a deal with the International Monetary Fund for the second review of the USD 7 billion bailout package in order to revive its economy. According to the report, most of the 600,000 mosques and over 36,000 religious seminaries are located in the Punjab province. The data revealed that there are 40 million permanent units, out of which 7.2 million are employment structures where 25.4 million people worked as of 2023. The maximum numbers of people are engaged in the services sector that accounts for 45 per cent or 11.3 million of the 25.4 million workforce. Second in number is the social sector where 7.6 million people are employed, which is 30 per cent of the total workforce. While the production sector employed 22 per cent. "Credible data is the backbone of sustainable development, as it enables evidence-based planning and effective decision-making," said Iqbal while launching the report. After the population census and the agriculture census, the economic census -first ever- was the third such detailed report by the planning ministry in Pakistan since 1947. An attempt in this regard was made in 2003 but it failed as activity-related questions were added into the population census framework, reported the Express Tribune. On the contrary Pakistan's neighbour India has conducted seven economic censuses, while Bangladesh, which was earlier a part of Pakistan and split in 1971, has so far conducted three such censuses.

The census comes at a time Pakistan is looking to seal a deal with the International Monetary Fund for the second review of the USD 7 billion bailout package in order to revive its economy.

Pakistan has more mosques, madrassas than factories? Economic census reveals surprising details

In a chilling revelation Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that Russian authorities had plans to strike Ukraine's administrative center in kiev - Zelensky’s office - with new Oreshnik missiles. However, Vladimir Putin vetoed the proposal laid out by his senior official.&nbsp;According to Russia Today, a state-controlled international news television network, Lukashenko while speaking to reporters on Friday (Aug 22) in Minsk said that unnamed figures in Russia had suggested using the system against Kiev’s “decision-making centers,” but Putin declined the suggestion by saying "Absolutely not".&nbsp;"There would have been nothing left", if the strike would have taken place," added the Belarusian President.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-fewer-than-20-hostages-remain-alive-here-s-what-trump-said-at-oval-office-1755924640071">Israel-Hamas war: Fewer than 20 hostages remain alive? Here's what Trump said at Oval office</a>&nbsp;In May, Putin had said that the West was provoking him into using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, but there has been no need for Moscow to take such step. "I hope it won’t be necessary,” he ended by saying.&nbsp;Russia's Oreshnik missile&nbsp;Oreshnik is a newly developed medium-range hypersonic missile system developed by Russia that has speeds of up to Mach 10. Serial production of the missile that was first battle-tested in November 2024 when it struck Ukraine’s Yuzhmash defense facility in Dnepr has already started.Russian officials compare the missiles destructive power in conventional form &nbsp;to a low-yield nuclear strike.&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine peace talk status&nbsp;Meanwhile, there has not been much movement on peace talks between Ukraine and Russia after Trump-Putin talks in Alaska last &nbsp;week. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday (Aug 22) accused Zelensky of refusing several principles necessary for peace.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-use-tactical-nuclear-weapons-against-indian-military-on-our-soil-if-pakistan-pm-s-aide-claims-1755754591496">'Will use tactical nuclear weapons against Indian military on our soil if...': Pakistan PM's aide claims</a>&nbsp;Lavrov said that the Ukrainian president was presented with several principles and said "no" to everything.&nbsp;The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday there was "no meeting planned" between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents, despite US attempts to organise the summit. &nbsp;

In May, Putin had said that the West was provoking him into using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, but there has been no need for Moscow to take such step.

In a chilling revelation Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that Russian authorities had plans to strike Ukraine's administrative center in kiev - Zelensky’s office - with new Oreshnik missiles. However, Vladimir Putin vetoed the proposal laid out by his senior official. According to Russia Today, a state-controlled international news television network, Lukashenko while speaking to reporters on Friday (Aug 22) in Minsk said that unnamed figures in Russia had suggested using the system against Kiev’s “decision-making centers,” but Putin declined the suggestion by saying "Absolutely not". "There would have been nothing left", if the strike would have taken place," added the Belarusian President. Also Read: Israel-Hamas war: Fewer than 20 hostages remain alive? Here's what Trump said at Oval office In May, Putin had said that the West was provoking him into using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, but there has been no need for Moscow to take such step. "I hope it won’t be necessary,” he ended by saying. Russia's Oreshnik missile Oreshnik is a newly developed medium-range hypersonic missile system developed by Russia that has speeds of up to Mach 10. Serial production of the missile that was first battle-tested in November 2024 when it struck Ukraine’s Yuzhmash defense facility in Dnepr has already started. Russian officials compare the missiles destructive power in conventional form to a low-yield nuclear strike. Russia-Ukraine peace talk status Meanwhile, there has not been much movement on peace talks between Ukraine and Russia after Trump-Putin talks in Alaska last week. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday (Aug 22) accused Zelensky of refusing several principles necessary for peace. Also Read: 'Will use tactical nuclear weapons against Indian military on our soil if...': Pakistan PM's aide claims Lavrov said that the Ukrainian president was presented with several principles and said "no" to everything. The Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday there was "no meeting planned" between the Russian and Ukrainian presidents, despite US attempts to organise the summit.

In May, Putin had said that the West was provoking him into using nuclear weapons in Ukraine, but there has been no need for Moscow to take such step.

Russia planned to strike Zelensky's office but Putin... Belarus leader's explosive claim

As Israel military prepares for an expanded offensive in the Gaza city to release all remaining hostages and disarm the Hamas group, United States President Donald Trump in a press conference in the Oval Office on Friday (Aug 22), said that fewer than 20 hostages held by terror group in Gaza are still alive, sparking despair from the families.&nbsp;Trump taking credit for the release of hostages during the last ceasefire deal between January and March, slammed Hamas’s “extortion,” and spoke about working on ways to reuniting the remaining hostages with their families in Israel.&nbsp;“So now they have 20, but the 20 is actually probably not 20 because a couple of them are not around any longer," Trump hinted at the number of hostages alive during the press conference at the Oval office.&nbsp;Trump was also asked about US' decision to back Israel's decision to take over Gaza City despite protests in Israel, including the family members of the hostages to which he replied "Not all of them".&nbsp;"And you have to understand, I’m the one who got all of the hostages out," he further said taking credit for the release.&nbsp;Israel’s defence minister threatens destruction&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Minister issued a warning on Friday saying that the Gaza City will get destroyed if Hamas does not agree to Tel Aviv’s terms of disarming, and releasing all remaining hostages in the Palestinian territory to end the war. The warning came as the Israeli military prepares for an expanded offensive in the enclave.&nbsp;"Soon, the gates of hell will open upon the heads of Hamas’s murderers and rapists in Gaza—until they agree to Israel’s conditions for ending the war, primarily the release of all hostages and their disarmament,” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz posted on social media platform X.&nbsp;The remarks of the defence minister came a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would authorise the military to seize Gaza City. PM Netanyahu also ordered immediate negotiations aimed at freeing all the remaining hostages in Gaza. &nbsp;

Trump was also asked about Washingtons decision to back Israels decision to take over Gaza City despite protests in Israel, including the family members of the hostages.

As Israel military prepares for an expanded offensive in the Gaza city to release all remaining hostages and disarm the Hamas group, United States President Donald Trump in a press conference in the Oval Office on Friday (Aug 22), said that fewer than 20 hostages held by terror group in Gaza are still alive, sparking despair from the families. Trump taking credit for the release of hostages during the last ceasefire deal between January and March, slammed Hamas’s “extortion,” and spoke about working on ways to reuniting the remaining hostages with their families in Israel. “So now they have 20, but the 20 is actually probably not 20 because a couple of them are not around any longer," Trump hinted at the number of hostages alive during the press conference at the Oval office. Trump was also asked about US' decision to back Israel's decision to take over Gaza City despite protests in Israel, including the family members of the hostages to which he replied "Not all of them". "And you have to understand, I’m the one who got all of the hostages out," he further said taking credit for the release. Israel’s defence minister threatens destruction Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Minister issued a warning on Friday saying that the Gaza City will get destroyed if Hamas does not agree to Tel Aviv’s terms of disarming, and releasing all remaining hostages in the Palestinian territory to end the war. The warning came as the Israeli military prepares for an expanded offensive in the enclave. "Soon, the gates of hell will open upon the heads of Hamas’s murderers and rapists in Gaza—until they agree to Israel’s conditions for ending the war, primarily the release of all hostages and their disarmament,” Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz posted on social media platform X. The remarks of the defence minister came a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would authorise the military to seize Gaza City. PM Netanyahu also ordered immediate negotiations aimed at freeing all the remaining hostages in Gaza.

Trump was also asked about Washington's decision to back Israel's decision to take over Gaza City despite protests in Israel, including the family members of the hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: Fewer than 20 hostages remain alive? Here's what Trump said at Oval office

US President Donald Trump, a controversial figure in his own right, has been receiving a barrage of compliments online. Not for being the "peacemaker" as he would like, but rather for his new "satanic" portrait that netizens say is "pretty accurate". The newly unveiled portrait of Donald Trump is setting off a firestorm online, with critics mocking its dramatic flair. The image, painted by Arizona-based Christian artist Vanessa Horabuena, shows Trump striding through a tunnel of American flags, bathed in an orange glow.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Why is the country on fire behind him?&mdash; Project Liberal (@ProjectLiberal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProjectLiberal/status/1957608260057592090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump wants to go to heaven, but...</h2>While supporters call Trump's latest portrait patriotic, detractors say the fiery backdrop looks more like hell than heaven. "Why is the country literally on fire behind him?" one X user asked, as another responded to the comment with "Why wouldn't it be? Little he hasn't torched, tho not even 7 months." A third user quipped, “fits. America's burning and Trump just walks away.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-vs-history-potus-tells-museums-to-stop-saying-how-bad-slavery-was-slams-woke-ness-in-bizarre-truth-social-rant-1755678553258">Trump vs history: POTUS tells museums to stop saying 'how bad Slavery was,' slams 'WOKE-ness' in bizarre rant</a>Users were quick to mock Trump's recent statement, in which he said that he wanted to bring peace between Ukraine and Russia so that he could "get to heaven". X user FaunaLovesFlora commented, “Looks like he's sad because he didn't get into heaven like he thought he could”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Looks like he&#39;s sad because he didnt get into heaven like he thought he could 🤣 terrible!&mdash; Calamity🇵🇸🕊️🇺🇦Jessica (@FaunaLovesFlora) <a href="https://twitter.com/FaunaLovesFlora/status/1958207294568841368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pretty accurate&mdash; lolo (@Laurabelle96Lm) <a href="https://twitter.com/Laurabelle96Lm/status/1958304789017571408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump’s new WH portrait is literally him walking away while America burns. <a href="https://t.co/IiUuIL0foY">pic.twitter.com/IiUuIL0foY</a>&mdash; Tim Hannan (@TimHannan) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimHannan/status/1958139542059561128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Online reaction was predictably divided. Fans praised the painting's "strength and symbolism," while critics mocked its execution. "Did you request to look 60 pounds lighter?" one commenter joked. Others rolled their eyes at what they see as Trump's obsession with curating his own legacy. "The man can't get enough of himself," another user wrote.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pushes-zelensky-putin-for-one-on-one-peace-talks-says-it-ll-be-better-but-will-he-crash-the-meeting-1755656335352">Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting?</a>Another user commented that the portrait was “how he feels on the inside.”He feels for none of us and would be more for him if we were all eliminated. That's why I keep my eyes out for the next war he's provoking."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That's how he feels on the inside . He feels for none of us and would be more for him if we were all eliminated. That's why I keep my eyes out for the next war he's provoking. He's old and more insane than ever since Epstein so someone's gonna pay for that and I don't want it…— Anita (@angelsurfer50) <a href="https://twitter.com/angelsurfer50/status/1958350026276516257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Yet another X user posted a quote attributed to Sin Tzu that read, “An evil man will burn his own nation to the ground to rule over the ashes.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://t.co/qfBFIwwNNU">pic.twitter.com/qfBFIwwNNU</a>— Linda (@Lindademocat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lindademocat/status/1958249427711459836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Posting a picture of Adolf Hitler and Trump on a feiry, hellish background, one user wrote, "Always room for one more...".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Always room for one more … <a href="https://t.co/HGuaRdwxKe">pic.twitter.com/HGuaRdwxKe</a>— PHIL (@philbutta) <a href="https://twitter.com/philbutta/status/1958166165387116721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, another user posted a manipulated copy of the portrait in which a devilish Trump, supporting horns and pointed nails, walks with his teeth bared in a grimace as American flags burn in the background.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The portrait wasn&#39;t finished then. <a href="https://t.co/0arCnoD5Lr">pic.twitter.com/0arCnoD5Lr</a>&mdash; RussiaGoHome🇺🇦🌻 (@MartinaHemming) <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinaHemming/status/1958277622179525037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-just-dance-vance-newsom-taunts-trump-s-vp-jd-vance-with-new-nickname-says-not-even-his-eyeliner-lines-1755506542466">'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…'</a><h2>Trump's self-obsession</h2>The portrait was shared by Sebastian Gorka, a former Trump aide, who teased it as just "one of the new" Trump-themed artworks now hanging in the White House. This new portrait comes as part of a broader makeover. Trump has reportedly shuffled the portraits of former presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush into an obscure stairwell, replacing them with images of himself.Notably, this isn't Trump's first brush with portrait drama. He has proudly displayed artwork of his 2024 assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, where a gunman's bullet grazed his ear. In fact, during a recent meeting with European leaders, Trump gestured toward a large canvas of that bloody moment and told them, "That was not a good day. Not a great day. See the picture?" The leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron, barely looked, reports the Mirror.Inside the Oval Office, Trump has doubled down on what he calls "patriotic portraits," mixing new gold accents and patriotic themes with his own likeness. In one photo circulated online, a Trump portrait sits between images of two first ladies, occupying the spot where Hillary Clinton's once hung.Love it or loathe it, the new artwork has done exactly what Trump thrives on: sparked headlines, triggered outrage, and kept the spotlight firmly on him.

Trump’s latest portrait, painted by Christian artist Vanessa Horabuena, shows him striding through flaming American flags. Supporters call it patriotic; critics mock it as “satanic” and self-obsessed. Here's what online users think.

US President Donald Trump, a controversial figure in his own right, has been receiving a barrage of compliments online. Not for being the "peacemaker" as he would like, but rather for his new "satanic" portrait that netizens say is "pretty accurate". The newly unveiled portrait of Donald Trump is setting off a firestorm online, with critics mocking its dramatic flair. The image, painted by Arizona-based Christian artist Vanessa Horabuena, shows Trump striding through a tunnel of American flags, bathed in an orange glow.

Trump’s latest portrait, painted by Christian artist Vanessa Horabuena, shows him striding through flaming American flags. Supporters call it patriotic; critics mock it as “satanic” and self-obsessed. Here's what online users think.

‘Satanic’ Trump White House portrait sets internet on fire—netizens call it his most honest image yet, compare POTUS to Hitler

‘Building castles in the air’ – the adage translates to ambitiously indulging in wishful thinking. In this case, it concerns a hypothetical situation posed to Najam Sethi, who is the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s close aide and formerly served as&nbsp;the chairperson of the&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board&nbsp;(PCB). If embroiled in a conflict with neighbouring India, will Pakistan use its nuclear weapons?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-slams-pakistan-at-unsc-over-minority-conversions-1755692076572/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-slams-pakistan-at-unsc-over-minority-conversions-1755692076572/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In an assertive tone, he said during an interview with news outlet Samaa TV,&nbsp;“…we will use tactical nuclear weapons on you (Indian military) on our soil to defend ourselves.” This, he said, would happen if the Indian military entered Pakistan with a plan to break the country, split the northern and southern regions of Karachi and Lahore. Then Pakistan will not shy from pushing the nuke, Sethi said, while describing a hypothetical situation.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Najam Sethi threatens nukes saying Pakistan&#39;s nuclear weapons are not made for Diwali celebration and won’t hesitate to use them if 1. Indian Navy blocks the Pakistan naval movement and Karachi port 2. Indian Army enters karachi &amp; Lahore and breaks the north and southern part… <a href="https://t.co/2NIyINxEUq">pic.twitter.com/2NIyINxEUq</a>&mdash; OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/OsintTV/status/1956711414967488668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://trc.taboola.com/zeemedia-wionews/log/3/click?pi=%2Fworld%2Fpakistan-will-push-nuke-on-these-three-conditions-says-shehbaz-sharif-s-aide-1755744339891&amp;ri=55189c412dfcae5ea29154edf1e59803&amp;sd=v2_cb53a88a34192954e5bd34cd84d531e2_12af3589-e418-4210-8fe1-c1760c658fb4-tucta909417_1755744875_1755757386_CIi3jgYQj-NHGPamrtqMMyATKAMwZziY0QpA3I8QSKPx1gNQ____________AVgAYLwKaMSRjp2g9sWpfnABgAEA&amp;ui=12af3589-e418-4210-8fe1-c1760c658fb4-tucta909417&amp;ii=~~V1~~3133339609615244858~~LD1FjYfLXmhXEq3A2jGLUQ&amp;it=text&amp;pt=text&amp;li=rbox-t2m&amp;sig=b01dd357608e1a52a9876f3b8b46af165274ff20ff93&amp;vi=1755757384566&amp;lti=trecs&amp;r=909&amp;tvi2=10408&amp;tvi50=9864&amp;tvi62=23565&amp;ppb=CMwF&amp;cpb=EhIyMDI1MDgxOS01LVJFTEVBU0UYoqH-2AQgACoZaGsudGFib29sYXN5bmRpY2F0aW9uLmNvbTIIdHJjNjAyNTU4gM6E2g1AmNEKSNyPEFCj8dYDWP___________wFjCKo1EIhNGDJkYwjpKhCoURgCZGMI1xYQ1R8YI2RjCPIkEJzNARgUZGMItCMQkTAYB2RjCNIDEOAGGAhkYwiWFBCZHBgYZGMI3BUQ-yUYCWRjCKiFARDtqAEYOmRjCLeSARCNuAEYPmRjCPQUEJ4dGB9kYwikJxCKNRgvZHgBgAHA9wGIAfPyiQGQATaYAairrtqMM9sBCjh5LU1lRDJzVUZHMnVJd1dzMWpIYlhPdGxuVDBwUm5QUVllSndYTFQ3cGFkSzk1UmptcE93LS0tQRAB3AE&amp;cv=20250819-5-RELEASE&amp;route=HK%3AHK%3AV&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wionews.com%2Fworld%2Fus-favouring-pakistan-and-distancing-from-india-here-s-what-trump-admin-said-amid-munir-s-nuke-threat-and-tariff-war-1755059139784">US favouring Pakistan and distancing from India? Here's what Trump admin said amid Munir's nuke threat and tariff war</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;While elaborating on his plans, he was pompous about the country’s plans, assuring that they have ample missiles in their possession. The ammunition has not been kept for Diwali, he asserted, stating it will be used when time comes.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-will-push-nuke-on-these-three-conditions-says-shehbaz-sharif-s-aide-1755744339891">Pakistan will push nuke on these three conditions, says Shehbaz Sharif's aide</a>&nbsp;In another situation posed by him, he said, “If you build a dam and stop our water, we will use not one but 10 missiles and blow up your dams.” The region known after the Indus Valley civilisation is based on a river. “Based on the Indus Valley Civilisation, we are reliant on water; if that is blocked, it is attacking our existence. And so, we will use nuclear weapons," Sethi continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If embroiled in a conflict with neighbouring India, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s close aide says the country will push the nuke. He said, “…we will use tactical nuclear weapons on you (Indian military) on our soil to defend ourselves.”

‘Building castles in the air’ – the adage translates to ambitiously indulging in wishful thinking. In this case, it concerns a hypothetical situation posed to Najam Sethi, who is the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s close aide and formerly served as the chairperson of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). If embroiled in a conflict with neighbouring India, will Pakistan use its nuclear weapons? https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-slams-pakistan-at-unsc-over-minority-conversions-1755692076572/embed In an assertive tone, he said during an interview with news outlet Samaa TV, “…we will use tactical nuclear weapons on you (Indian military) on our soil to defend ourselves.” This, he said, would happen if the Indian military entered Pakistan with a plan to break the country, split the northern and southern regions of Karachi and Lahore. Then Pakistan will not shy from pushing the nuke, Sethi said, while describing a hypothetical situation.

If embroiled in a conflict with neighbouring India, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s close aide says the country will push the nuke. He said, “…we will use tactical nuclear weapons on you (Indian military) on our soil to defend ourselves.”

'Will use tactical nuclear weapons against Indian military on our soil if...': Pakistan PM's aide claims

Ghislane Maxwell, the convicted associate and alleged girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein told top Justice Department official that she never saw US President Donald Trump ‘inappropriate setting’. This came to light after the interview transcript was released on Friday (August 23). The conversation dates back to July, where she also said, “I never witnessed the President in any inappropriate setting in any way.”

Ghislane Maxwell, the convicted associate and alleged girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein told top Justice Department official that she never saw US President Donald Trump ‘inappropriate setting’. 

Ghislane Maxwell, the convicted associate and alleged girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein told top Justice Department official that she never saw US President Donald Trump ‘inappropriate setting’. This came to light after the interview transcript was released on Friday (August 23). The conversation dates back to July, where she also said, “I never witnessed the President in any inappropriate setting in any way.”

Ghislane Maxwell, the convicted associate and alleged girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein told top Justice Department official that she never saw US President Donald Trump ‘inappropriate setting’.&nbsp;

Trump was ‘never inappropriate with anybody, claims Ghislane Maxwell

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, part of a caretaker government, quit his cabinet post on Friday ahead of schedule over the government's position on Israel's war in Gaza, he told reporters. He said the government did not support additional measures against Israel over Gaza and plans for the occupied West Bank. "I have felt pushback in the cabinet for additional measures," he said, adding he would formally tender his resignation.&nbsp;The Dutch government collapsed on June 3, and the caretaker minority government is expected to stay in place until a coalition government is formed after October elections, which may take months. Israel has launched a military offensive aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, relocating civilians to the south, dismantling Hamas and creating pressure for hostage releases.&nbsp;Earlier on Friday a global hunger monitor determined people in Gaza City and its surroundings were officially suffering from famine. Israel has dismissed the findings as false and biased.&nbsp;Israel this week gave final approval to plans to construct a settlement that would bisect the occupied West Bank and fragment territory Palestinians seek for an independent state.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, part of a caretaker government, quit his cabinet post on Friday ahead of schedule over the government's position on Israel's war in Gaza.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, part of a caretaker government, quit his cabinet post on Friday ahead of schedule over the government's position on Israel's war in Gaza, he told reporters. He said the government did not support additional measures against Israel over Gaza and plans for the occupied West Bank. "I have felt pushback in the cabinet for additional measures," he said, adding he would formally tender his resignation. The Dutch government collapsed on June 3, and the caretaker minority government is expected to stay in place until a coalition government is formed after October elections, which may take months. Israel has launched a military offensive aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, relocating civilians to the south, dismantling Hamas and creating pressure for hostage releases. Earlier on Friday a global hunger monitor determined people in Gaza City and its surroundings were officially suffering from famine. Israel has dismissed the findings as false and biased. Israel this week gave final approval to plans to construct a settlement that would bisect the occupied West Bank and fragment territory Palestinians seek for an independent state.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, part of a caretaker government, quit his cabinet post on Friday ahead of schedule over the government's position on Israel's war in Gaza.

Dutch foreign minister quits caretaker government over Gaza

At least five people were killed Friday (Aug 22) when a tourist bus crashed on a New York state highway, police said. The crash, as per reports, happened after the driver became distracted. The wreck happened near Pembroke, about 40 kilometres east of Buffalo, as the bus headed back to New York City with 54 passengers on board. Authorities confirmed the victims were of Indian, Chinese and Filipino origin. “It's believed the operator became distracted, lost control, over corrected and ended up... over there,” said state police commander Major Andre Ray, pointing to the wreckage. He confirmed that five people died but said no other passenger was in life-threatening condition.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-picks-loyal-aide-musk-enemy-sergio-gor-as-us-ambassador-to-india-calls-him-incredible-envoy-1755910479653">Trump loyalist, Musk enemy Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India</a><h2>What happened?</h2>Just after 12:20 pm (local time), a tourist bus, which was driving at full speed on the New York state highway, crashed and was heavily damaged. State police commander Major Andre Ray confirmed that the death toll stood at five and revealed that several passengers were treated for minor injuries and released. Earlier reports suggesting children had died were later corrected by officials.Fifty-four people were on board the bus when it crashed. Mechanical error, impairment, and intoxication have been ruled out, Ray said, adding that the driver survived and is cooperating with investigators. No charges have been filed. "The driver is alive and well -- we're working with him. We believe we have a good idea of what happened, why the bus lost control. We just want to make sure that all the details are thoroughly vetted," a police spokesman said earlier, as reported by AFP.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-sergio-gor-trump-loyalist-once-dubbed-snake-by-musk-to-be-us-envoy-to-india-all-you-need-to-know-about-him-1755913509372">Who is Sergio Gor? Trump loyalist once dubbed 'snake' by Musk, to be US envoy to India. All you need to know about him</a>Eight helicopters took part in the rescue effort, according to Margaret Ferrentino of Mercy Flight, a nonprofit air ambulance service. Translators were dispatched to assist survivors who did not speak English. &nbsp;

A tourist bus crash near Pembroke, New York, has resulted in the death of at least 5 passengers. The bus, carrying 54 passengers back to NYC, veered off after the driver was distracted. Victims were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin. 

At least five people were killed Friday (Aug 22) when a tourist bus crashed on a New York state highway, police said. The crash, as per reports, happened after the driver became distracted. The wreck happened near Pembroke, about 40 kilometres east of Buffalo, as the bus headed back to New York City with 54 passengers on board. Authorities confirmed the victims were of Indian, Chinese and Filipino origin. “It's believed the operator became distracted, lost control, over corrected and ended up... over there,” said state police commander Major Andre Ray, pointing to the wreckage. He confirmed that five people died but said no other passenger was in life-threatening condition. Also read | Trump loyalist, Musk enemy Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India What happened? Just after 12:20 pm (local time), a tourist bus, which was driving at full speed on the New York state highway, crashed and was heavily damaged. State police commander Major Andre Ray confirmed that the death toll stood at five and revealed that several passengers were treated for minor injuries and released. Earlier reports suggesting children had died were later corrected by officials. Fifty-four people were on board the bus when it crashed. Mechanical error, impairment, and intoxication have been ruled out, Ray said, adding that the driver survived and is cooperating with investigators. No charges have been filed. "The driver is alive and well -- we're working with him. We believe we have a good idea of what happened, why the bus lost control. We just want to make sure that all the details are thoroughly vetted," a police spokesman said earlier, as reported by AFP. Also read | Who is Sergio Gor? Trump loyalist once dubbed 'snake' by Musk, to be US envoy to India. All you need to know about him Eight helicopters took part in the rescue effort, according to Margaret Ferrentino of Mercy Flight, a nonprofit air ambulance service. Translators were dispatched to assist survivors who did not speak English.

A tourist bus crash near Pembroke, New York, has resulted in the death of at least 5 passengers. The bus, carrying 54 passengers back to NYC, veered off after the driver was distracted. Victims were of Indian, Chinese, and Filipino origin.&nbsp;

Tourist bus crash near Niagara Falls kills five, victims from India, China, Philippines

<h2>A Day Born from Historic Achievement</h2>On August 23, 2025, India celebrates its second National Space Day with unprecedented enthusiasm and national pride. This special day, established to commemorate one of India's greatest technological achievements, carries deep significance that extends far beyond the realm of space exploration.The story begins on August 23, 2023, when India scripted history at the Moon's South Pole. On this remarkable day, the Vikram Lander of the Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a safe and soft landing at what is now called 'Shiv Shakti Point,' while the Pragyan Rover rolled onto the lunar surface. With this singular achievement, India became the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to conquer the challenging terrain near the Moon's South Pole.Recognising the monumental significance of this achievement, the Government of India declared August 23 as National Space Day, creating an annual celebration that honours India's space accomplishments while inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.<h2>The 2025 Theme: A Bridge Through Time</h2>This year's theme, "Bridging the Past and Future: Honoring Traditional Astronomy and Showcasing Modern Space Achievements," perfectly captures the essence of India's space journey. The theme acknowledges that India's fascination with celestial bodies is not new—it dates back thousands of years to ancient astronomers like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara, who made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the cosmos.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-left-my-laptop-mid-air-assuming-it-will-float-shubhanshu-shukla-on-relearning-the-effect-of-gravity-1755779392691">'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla</a>Today, this ancient wisdom merges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology as ISRO continues to push boundaries in space exploration. The 2025 celebrations will highlight this beautiful continuity, showing how traditional astronomical knowledge laid the foundation for modern achievements like Chandrayaan-3, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission.<h2>Students at the Heart of Celebration</h2>National Space Day 2025 places students firmly at the center of all activities. The day is designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds through science fairs, planetarium shows, competitions, and interactive sessions with ISRO scientists. These activities aim to transform space science from a distant dream into an achievable career path for India's youth.The celebrations will demonstrate how space technology directly benefits ordinary people through initiatives like SVAMITVA land-mapping using satellite images, disaster warning systems, real-time weather forecasts, telecommunication services in remote villages, and precision farming techniques that support agricultural development and rural prosperity.<h2>From Fishing Village to Lunar Success: The ISRO Story</h2>The foundation of India's space achievements was laid in 1962 when scientist Vikram Sarabhai chose Thumba, a humble fishing village near Thiruvananthapuram, to build India's first rocket station. This strategic location near the geomagnetic equator proved perfect for launching rockets. From that modest beginning, ISRO has evolved into one of the world's most respected space agencies, completing 100 successful launches and earning global recognition for achieving remarkable results with limited resources.What makes ISRO's journey truly extraordinary is how space technology has quietly integrated into daily Indian life. Every phone call, weather forecast, GPS navigation, and disaster warning system relies on ISRO's satellites working tirelessly 36,000 kilometres above Earth. The INSAT communication satellites ensure connectivity across the vast Indian subcontinent, while NavIC—India's indigenous GPS system—helps everything from food delivery to precision agriculture.<h2>The Chandrayaan-3 Triumph</h2>The Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a testament to ISRO's ability to learn from setbacks and achieve excellence. Following the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, this mission successfully demonstrated India's capability to safely land and operate a rover on the lunar surface. Launched by the LVM3 rocket from Sriharikota, the spacecraft carried the Lander and Rover to a 100-kilometer lunar orbit via a propulsion module, which also housed the SHAPE (Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth) instrument for studying Earth's characteristics from lunar orbit.The success of Chandrayaan-3 proved that smart engineering, careful planning, and determination could overcome any challenge. It showed the world that India's space program had matured into a reliable, cost-effective, and technically sophisticated operation capable of the most complex missions.<h2>Vision for the Future: Bold Space Goals</h2>During a recent meeting with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to visit the International Space Station on the Axiom-4 mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined ambitious goals for India's space program. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to train and prepare 40-50 astronauts for future space missions, recognising that India's space ambitions require a substantial human spaceflight capability.Shukla's 20-day space journey and his experiences living on the ISS have provided invaluable insights for India's upcoming missions. ISRO chief V. Narayanan confirmed that the mission was a "100% success," generating nearly 12,000 pages of detailed records that will prove extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan mission planned for mid-2027.The roadmap ahead is clear and ambitious: India plans its first human spaceflight in 2027, aims to establish a space station by 2035, and intends to send an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040. These goals reflect not just technological ambition but a commitment to establishing India as a leading spacefaring nation.<h2>Space Technology for the Common Good</h2>National Space Day 2025 will showcase how space technology serves humanity. ISRO's satellites provide early warnings for cyclones, preventing disasters like the 2004 tsunami that cost thousands of lives due to lack of timely alerts. Today, these satellites maintain 24/7 vigilance over India's coasts and weather patterns.The cost-effectiveness of India's space program has made it globally competitive. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) reached Mars for just ₹450 crores—less than the budget of many commercial films—proving that excellence doesn't require excessive expenditure. This approach has made ISRO a preferred launch partner for many countries, earning foreign exchange while demonstrating that space technology can be accessible and affordable.<h2>Learning from Challenges</h2>ISRO's journey includes both triumphs and setbacks. Early GSLV rocket failures, the heartbreak of Chandrayaan-2's lander crash, and recent mission challenges have all contributed to the organization's growth. Each failure provided valuable lessons that strengthened subsequent missions. The successful Chandrayaan-3 landing exemplified how ISRO transforms setbacks into stepping stones for greater achievements.<h2>Human Stories Behind the Success</h2>Behind every ISRO mission are ordinary Indians achieving extraordinary results. Scientists like Ritu Karidhal, who helped guide Mangalyaan to Mars, and M. Vanitha, who led Chandrayaan-2, represent the talent and dedication that drives India's space program. The recent SpaDeX mission, featuring the complex orbital docking of two Indian satellites, was achieved by engineers who grew up in regular Indian families, studied in Indian institutions, and nurtured dreams of touching the sky.<h2>Inspiring Future Generations</h2>The true measure of ISRO's success lies not just in missions completed but in dreams planted in young minds across the country. When children in remote villages look up at the night sky and imagine building rockets, when girls from small towns decide to become space scientists, ISRO's mission reaches its highest fulfilment.National Space Day 2025 will celebrate these dreams while showcasing the practical benefits of space exploration. The Ministries of Science &amp; Technology and Culture are collaborating to create exhibits, educational content, and outreach programs that blend traditional astronomical wisdom with modern innovations, ensuring that India's space heritage continues to inspire future generations.<h2>A Shared Victory for Humanity</h2>As astronaut Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, who trained as backup for the ISS mission, eloquently stated, space achievements belong to all humanity. Referring to the concept of "one single consciousness," he emphasized that while individual astronauts undertake the physical journey, their accomplishments represent shared victories for all Indians and humanity as a whole.Shubhanshu Shukla's experience reinforced this perspective. Looking down at Earth from space, he observed the unity of our planet—India appeared beautiful, but national borders disappeared, leaving him with a profound sense of Earth's oneness and humanity's shared destiny.<h2>Looking to the Stars and Beyond</h2>As India prepares for its biggest space challenge yet—sending humans into space through the Gaganyaan mission—National Space Day 2025 carries the hopes and dreams of 1.4 billion Indians. From a fishing village in Kerala to the south pole of the Moon, ISRO has demonstrated that with determination, innovation, and intelligent planning, India can achieve any goal it sets.The theme "Bridging the Past and Future" perfectly encapsulates this journey. Ancient Indian astronomers mapped the heavens with remarkable precision, laying the intellectual foundation for today's space missions. Modern ISRO scientists continue this tradition, using advanced technology to explore new frontiers while remaining connected to the wisdom of their predecessors.National Space Day 2025 will be more than a celebration—it will be a declaration that the stars are no longer the limit but merely the beginning of India's cosmic journey. As students participate in science fairs, interact with scientists, and dream of their own space missions, they carry forward a legacy that spans millennia, bridging ancient astronomical wisdom with tomorrow's space achievements.The fishing village of Thumba may have provided ISRO's humble beginnings, but the destination has always been the infinite expanse of space, where Indian ingenuity continues to shine as brightly as the stars themselves.

Celebrating India's journey from ancient astronomy to lunar triumph

A Day Born from Historic Achievement On August 23, 2025, India celebrates its second National Space Day with unprecedented enthusiasm and national pride. This special day, established to commemorate one of India's greatest technological achievements, carries deep significance that extends far beyond the realm of space exploration. The story begins on August 23, 2023, when India scripted history at the Moon's South Pole. On this remarkable day, the Vikram Lander of the Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a safe and soft landing at what is now called 'Shiv Shakti Point,' while the Pragyan Rover rolled onto the lunar surface. With this singular achievement, India became the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to conquer the challenging terrain near the Moon's South Pole. Recognising the monumental significance of this achievement, the Government of India declared August 23 as National Space Day, creating an annual celebration that honours India's space accomplishments while inspiring future generations to reach for the stars. The 2025 Theme: A Bridge Through Time This year's theme, "Bridging the Past and Future: Honoring Traditional Astronomy and Showcasing Modern Space Achievements," perfectly captures the essence of India's space journey. The theme acknowledges that India's fascination with celestial bodies is not new—it dates back thousands of years to ancient astronomers like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara, who made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the cosmos. Also read | 'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla Today, this ancient wisdom merges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology as ISRO continues to push boundaries in space exploration. The 2025 celebrations will highlight this beautiful continuity, showing how traditional astronomical knowledge laid the foundation for modern achievements like Chandrayaan-3, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission. Students at the Heart of Celebration National Space Day 2025 places students firmly at the center of all activities. The day is designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds through science fairs, planetarium shows, competitions, and interactive sessions with ISRO scientists. These activities aim to transform space science from a distant dream into an achievable career path for India's youth. The celebrations will demonstrate how space technology directly benefits ordinary people through initiatives like SVAMITVA land-mapping using satellite images, disaster warning systems, real-time weather forecasts, telecommunication services in remote villages, and precision farming techniques that support agricultural development and rural prosperity. From Fishing Village to Lunar Success: The ISRO Story The foundation of India's space achievements was laid in 1962 when scientist Vikram Sarabhai chose Thumba, a humble fishing village near Thiruvananthapuram, to build India's first rocket station. This strategic location near the geomagnetic equator proved perfect for launching rockets. From that modest beginning, ISRO has evolved into one of the world's most respected space agencies, completing 100 successful launches and earning global recognition for achieving remarkable results with limited resources. What makes ISRO's journey truly extraordinary is how space technology has quietly integrated into daily Indian life. Every phone call, weather forecast, GPS navigation, and disaster warning system relies on ISRO's satellites working tirelessly 36,000 kilometres above Earth. The INSAT communication satellites ensure connectivity across the vast Indian subcontinent, while NavIC—India's indigenous GPS system—helps everything from food delivery to precision agriculture. The Chandrayaan-3 Triumph The Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a testament to ISRO's ability to learn from setbacks and achieve excellence. Following the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, this mission successfully demonstrated India's capability to safely land and operate a rover on the lunar surface. Launched by the LVM3 rocket from Sriharikota, the spacecraft carried the Lander and Rover to a 100-kilometer lunar orbit via a propulsion module, which also housed the SHAPE (Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth) instrument for studying Earth's characteristics from lunar orbit. The success of Chandrayaan-3 proved that smart engineering, careful planning, and determination could overcome any challenge. It showed the world that India's space program had matured into a reliable, cost-effective, and technically sophisticated operation capable of the most complex missions. Vision for the Future: Bold Space Goals During a recent meeting with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to visit the International Space Station on the Axiom-4 mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined ambitious goals for India's space program. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to train and prepare 40-50 astronauts for future space missions, recognising that India's space ambitions require a substantial human spaceflight capability. Shukla's 20-day space journey and his experiences living on the ISS have provided invaluable insights for India's upcoming missions. ISRO chief V. Narayanan confirmed that the mission was a "100% success," generating nearly 12,000 pages of detailed records that will prove extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan mission planned for mid-2027. The roadmap ahead is clear and ambitious: India plans its first human spaceflight in 2027, aims to establish a space station by 2035, and intends to send an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040. These goals reflect not just technological ambition but a commitment to establishing India as a leading spacefaring nation. Space Technology for the Common Good National Space Day 2025 will showcase how space technology serves humanity. ISRO's satellites provide early warnings for cyclones, preventing disasters like the 2004 tsunami that cost thousands of lives due to lack of timely alerts. Today, these satellites maintain 24/7 vigilance over India's coasts and weather patterns. The cost-effectiveness of India's space program has made it globally competitive. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) reached Mars for just ₹450 crores—less than the budget of many commercial films—proving that excellence doesn't require excessive expenditure. This approach has made ISRO a preferred launch partner for many countries, earning foreign exchange while demonstrating that space technology can be accessible and affordable. Learning from Challenges ISRO's journey includes both triumphs and setbacks. Early GSLV rocket failures, the heartbreak of Chandrayaan-2's lander crash, and recent mission challenges have all contributed to the organization's growth. Each failure provided valuable lessons that strengthened subsequent missions. The successful Chandrayaan-3 landing exemplified how ISRO transforms setbacks into stepping stones for greater achievements. Human Stories Behind the Success Behind every ISRO mission are ordinary Indians achieving extraordinary results. Scientists like Ritu Karidhal, who helped guide Mangalyaan to Mars, and M. Vanitha, who led Chandrayaan-2, represent the talent and dedication that drives India's space program. The recent SpaDeX mission, featuring the complex orbital docking of two Indian satellites, was achieved by engineers who grew up in regular Indian families, studied in Indian institutions, and nurtured dreams of touching the sky. Inspiring Future Generations The true measure of ISRO's success lies not just in missions completed but in dreams planted in young minds across the country. When children in remote villages look up at the night sky and imagine building rockets, when girls from small towns decide to become space scientists, ISRO's mission reaches its highest fulfilment. National Space Day 2025 will celebrate these dreams while showcasing the practical benefits of space exploration. The Ministries of Science & Technology and Culture are collaborating to create exhibits, educational content, and outreach programs that blend traditional astronomical wisdom with modern innovations, ensuring that India's space heritage continues to inspire future generations. A Shared Victory for Humanity As astronaut Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, who trained as backup for the ISS mission, eloquently stated, space achievements belong to all humanity. Referring to the concept of "one single consciousness," he emphasized that while individual astronauts undertake the physical journey, their accomplishments represent shared victories for all Indians and humanity as a whole. Shubhanshu Shukla's experience reinforced this perspective. Looking down at Earth from space, he observed the unity of our planet—India appeared beautiful, but national borders disappeared, leaving him with a profound sense of Earth's oneness and humanity's shared destiny. Looking to the Stars and Beyond As India prepares for its biggest space challenge yet—sending humans into space through the Gaganyaan mission—National Space Day 2025 carries the hopes and dreams of 1.4 billion Indians. From a fishing village in Kerala to the south pole of the Moon, ISRO has demonstrated that with determination, innovation, and intelligent planning, India can achieve any goal it sets. The theme "Bridging the Past and Future" perfectly encapsulates this journey. Ancient Indian astronomers mapped the heavens with remarkable precision, laying the intellectual foundation for today's space missions. Modern ISRO scientists continue this tradition, using advanced technology to explore new frontiers while remaining connected to the wisdom of their predecessors. National Space Day 2025 will be more than a celebration—it will be a declaration that the stars are no longer the limit but merely the beginning of India's cosmic journey. As students participate in science fairs, interact with scientists, and dream of their own space missions, they carry forward a legacy that spans millennia, bridging ancient astronomical wisdom with tomorrow's space achievements. The fishing village of Thumba may have provided ISRO's humble beginnings, but the destination has always been the infinite expanse of space, where Indian ingenuity continues to shine as brightly as the stars themselves.

Celebrating India's journey from ancient astronomy to lunar triumph

When dreams touch the sky: National Space Day 2025 and India's unstoppable space spirit

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 22) nominated close political aide Sergio Gor as ambassador to India, placing one of his most trusted enforcers in a key diplomatic post at a sensitive moment in Washington-New Delhi ties. "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador," Trump said in a Truth Social post announcing the appointment, adding that Gor would also serve as special envoy for South and Central Asia. Gor, who has little experience in foreign policy, was once branded "snake" by ex-DOGE chief Elon Musk. The move comes amid friction between the US and India. Trump has ramped up tariffs on New Delhi in a bid to pressure it over Russian energy imports, even as India deepens ties with Moscow and Beijing.<h2>Who is Sergio Gor?</h2>The 38-year-old Gor, as per AFP, rose swiftly in conservative circles to become one of the most influential but low-profile figures in Trump's orbit. As White House personnel chief, he vetted around 4,0000 appointees to ensure loyalty to Trump, a role that won him both allies and fierce critics. Among his enemies' list features Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who once branded him a "snake" after Gor blocked the billionaire's preferred pick to head NASA.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-satanic-trump-white-house-portrait-sets-internet-on-fire-netizens-call-it-his-most-honest-image-yet-compare-potus-to-hitler-1755752441076">‘Satanic’ Trump White House portrait sets internet on fire—netizens call it his most honest image yet, compare POTUS to Hitler</a>Despite his clout, Gor has little experience in foreign policy. His exposure has been limited to joining Trump's overseas trips and purging National Security Council officials viewed with suspicion.Still, Trump wrote on Truth Social that "For the most populous Region in the World" he wanted "someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda and help us, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN." He said, "Sergio is a great friend, who has been at my side for many years. He worked on my Historic Presidential Campaigns, published my Best Selling Books, and ran one of the biggest Super PACs, which supported our Movement. Sergio’s role as Director of Presidential Personnel has been essential to delivering on the unprecedented Mandate that we received from the American People."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-vs-history-potus-tells-museums-to-stop-saying-how-bad-slavery-was-slams-woke-ness-in-bizarre-truth-social-rant-1755678553258">Trump vs history: POTUS tells museums to stop saying 'how bad Slavery was,' slams 'WOKE-ness' in bizarre rant</a><h2>US-India tensions</h2>Gor's appointment comes on the heels of Trump's decision to ramp up tariffs on New Delhi in a bid to pressure it over Russian energy imports. Washington has long viewed India as a counterbalance to China. The recent tensions can also be credited to Trump's insistence that he helped broker peace between India and Pakistan after they were embroiled in a brief conflict in May. However, New Delhi has denied outside mediation — especially Trump's suggestion he was behind the ceasefire with Pakistan.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 22) nominated close political aide Sergio Gor as ambassador to India, placing one of his most trusted enforcers in a key diplomatic post at a sensitive moment in Washington-New Delhi ties. "Sergio will make an incredible Ambassador," Trump said in a Truth Social post announcing the appointment, adding that Gor would also serve as special envoy for South and Central Asia. Gor, who has little experience in foreign policy, was once branded "snake" by ex-DOGE chief Elon Musk. The move comes amid friction between the US and India. Trump has ramped up tariffs on New Delhi in a bid to pressure it over Russian energy imports, even as India deepens ties with Moscow and Beijing. Who is Sergio Gor? The 38-year-old Gor, as per AFP, rose swiftly in conservative circles to become one of the most influential but low-profile figures in Trump's orbit. As White House personnel chief, he vetted around 4,0000 appointees to ensure loyalty to Trump, a role that won him both allies and fierce critics. Among his enemies' list features Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who once branded him a "snake" after Gor blocked the billionaire's preferred pick to head NASA. Also read | ‘Satanic’ Trump White House portrait sets internet on fire—netizens call it his most honest image yet, compare POTUS to Hitler Despite his clout, Gor has little experience in foreign policy. His exposure has been limited to joining Trump's overseas trips and purging National Security Council officials viewed with suspicion. Still, Trump wrote on Truth Social that "For the most populous Region in the World" he wanted "someone I can fully trust to deliver on my Agenda and help us, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN." He said, "Sergio is a great friend, who has been at my side for many years. He worked on my Historic Presidential Campaigns, published my Best Selling Books, and ran one of the biggest Super PACs, which supported our Movement. Sergio’s role as Director of Presidential Personnel has been essential to delivering on the unprecedented Mandate that we received from the American People."

Trump has nominated close aide Sergio Gor as US ambassador to India and special envoy for South and Central Asia, calling him a trusted enforcer. The move comes amid strained ties as Washington pressures New Delhi over Russian energy imports and its growing links with Moscow and Beijing.

Trump loyalist, Musk enemy Sergio Gor nominated as US ambassador to India

Former Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe was refused bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate Court after his arrest on the charge of ‘misusing government funds’ and remanded in custody till 26 August. Wickremesinghe, who served as head of state from 2022 to 2024 and was a six-time prime minister, was arrested earlier on Friday by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over the allegations of misusing state funds to finance a private trip to London for attending the graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, during his presidency.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe’s legal counsel argued in the court that detaining the former president posed a serious risk to his security and health and pleaded that bail be granted to him.&nbsp;President’s counsel Anuja Premaratne appeared for Wickremesinghe and said he is “76 years old, suffering from heart disease for seven years, as well as diabetes and hypertension”.&nbsp;“For the first time today, it is revealed that his wife is a cancer patient. They have no children and depend solely on each other. He is scheduled to be the chief guest at the Commonwealth Youth Council in India on August 24. Prison is not a safe place for a former president. I therefore respectfully request Your Honour to release my client on suitable bail conditions.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-sri-lanka-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-arrested-on-corruption-charge-1755880153042/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-sri-lanka-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-arrested-on-corruption-charge-1755880153042/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the magistrate, Nilupuli Lankapura, denied the request and ruled that Wickremesinghe would remain in custody until Tuesday.Wickremesinghe’s supporters gathered outside the court and started chanting in anger when the remand order was announced and he was escorted away. Senior political figures, including Namal Rajapaksa, former president Maithripala Sirisena, and former prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena, had earlier visited court in a show of solidarity and were present at the time of the court order.&nbsp;It is the first time a former head of state has ever been detained on the island. Sri Lankan Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem condemned the detention of Wickremesinghe as “unbecoming” and akin to treating him “like a common criminal.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed also voiced support, stating he looked forward to Wickremesinghe’s “return home shortly.”Wickremesinghe will remain in remand prison until 26 August, when the case is scheduled to be reviewed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former Sri Lankan president argues that the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it. However, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has alleged that Wickremesinghe used government funds for the trip, including covering the expenses of his bodyguards.

Former Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe was refused bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate Court after his arrest on the charge of ‘misusing government funds’ and remanded in custody till 26 August. Wickremesinghe, who served as head of state from 2022 to 2024 and was a six-time prime minister, was arrested earlier on Friday by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over the allegations of misusing state funds to finance a private trip to London for attending the graduation ceremony of his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, during his presidency. Wickremesinghe’s legal counsel argued in the court that detaining the former president posed a serious risk to his security and health and pleaded that bail be granted to him. President’s counsel Anuja Premaratne appeared for Wickremesinghe and said he is “76 years old, suffering from heart disease for seven years, as well as diabetes and hypertension”. “For the first time today, it is revealed that his wife is a cancer patient. They have no children and depend solely on each other. He is scheduled to be the chief guest at the Commonwealth Youth Council in India on August 24. Prison is not a safe place for a former president. I therefore respectfully request Your Honour to release my client on suitable bail conditions.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-sri-lanka-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-arrested-on-corruption-charge-1755880153042/embed However, the magistrate, Nilupuli Lankapura, denied the request and ruled that Wickremesinghe would remain in custody until Tuesday. Wickremesinghe’s supporters gathered outside the court and started chanting in anger when the remand order was announced and he was escorted away. Senior political figures, including Namal Rajapaksa, former president Maithripala Sirisena, and former prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena, had earlier visited court in a show of solidarity and were present at the time of the court order. It is the first time a former head of state has ever been detained on the island. Sri Lankan Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem condemned the detention of Wickremesinghe as “unbecoming” and akin to treating him “like a common criminal.” Former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed also voiced support, stating he looked forward to Wickremesinghe’s “return home shortly.” Wickremesinghe will remain in remand prison until 26 August, when the case is scheduled to be reviewed.

The former Sri Lankan president argues that the trip was funded by his wife and they did not use public money for it. However, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has alleged that Wickremesinghe used government funds for the trip, including covering the expenses of his bodyguards.

Former Lanka president Ranil Wickremesinghe cites ill health, wife’s cancer in bail plea, remanded till Aug 29

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