Yemen, the poorest country among Arab nations, is once again in the spotlight after drone strikes in Emirates capital Abu Dhabi where followed by Saudi Arabia-led coalition carrying out strikes on the militant Houthi group.
Yemen's war began in September 2014, when the Houthis, who are Shias, seized Sanaa and began a march south to try to seize the entire country. Saudi Arabia, along with the UAE, both of whom are Sunni majority, and other countries, entered the war alongside Yemen's internationally recognised government in March 2015.
Situated along the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen had been split in the Cold War between a Marxist south and a northern republic. The two nations became a unified Yemen in 1990, fought a civil war in 1994 and later came under the rule of Ali Abdullah Saleh. During the Arab Spring protests, Saleh began losing his grip on power and ultimately agreed to let his vice president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, take over. However, Hadi's government struggled and Saleh, seeing a second chance to regain power, had his forces side with the same Houthis as they swept into the capital in 2014.
Iran, which is a Shia majority, seeing the opportunity to aid a war of attrition against its regional rival, Saudi Arabia, backed the Houthis. Arab countries, the West and United Nations experts say Iran has armed the Houthis with everything from assault rifles to ballistic missiles.
Saudi Arabia and its Gulf Arab allies fear the Houthis could grow as powerful as Lebanon's Shia Hezbollah militant group. The Houthis have already launched drone and missile attacks deep into the kingdom before, and on occasions struck oil wells.
All the while, Yemen's issues such as endemic poverty, lack of water and other resources have worsened. The war merely compounded the misery, and the country of 29 million people is now on the brink of famine.
The war has killed some 233,000 people, including 131,000 from indirect causes such as lack of food, health services and infrastructure, according to the United Nations.
The aid group, Save the Children, estimates that 85,000 children under the age of five have died from starvation or disease since the war began.

War in Yemen, the poorest Arab nation: who are Houthis and why is Saudi coalition fighting them

Yemen in spotlight after Saudi retaliation post Abu&nbsp;Dhabi&nbsp;drone strikes
Houthis, a&nbsp;Shia group of Yemen, in conflict with Saudi &amp;&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;since 2015
Iran, a Shia&nbsp;majority, backing Houthis&nbsp;against its rival Saudi Arabia
Saudi, Arab anticipate Houthis' rise similar to Lebanon's Hezbollah
Yemen: a checkered past since Cold War;&nbsp;internal conflicts
Yemen facing extreme poverty, on the brink of famine
Over 2.3 lakh&nbsp;people killed since 2014 in Yemen: UN
85,000 children under 5 have died since war: aid group

The war has killed some 233,000 people, including 131,000 from indirect causes such as lack of food, health services and infrastructure, according to the United Nations.

Yemen, the poorest country among Arab nations, is once again in the spotlight after drone strikes in Emirates capital Abu Dhabi were followed by Saudi Arabia-led coalition carrying out strikes on the militant Houthi group.
Yemen's war began in September 2014, when the Houthis, who are Shias, seized Sanaa and began a march south to try to seize the entire country. Saudi Arabia, along with the UAE, both of whom are Sunni majority, and other countries, entered the war alongside Yemen's internationally recognised government in March 2015.
Situated along the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen had been split in the Cold War between a Marxist south and a northern republic. The two nations became a unified Yemen in 1990, fought a civil war in 1994 and later came under the rule of Ali Abdullah Saleh. During the Arab Spring protests, Saleh began losing his grip on power and ultimately agreed to let his vice president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, take over. However, Hadi's government struggled and Saleh, seeing a second chance to regain power, had his forces side with the same Houthis as they swept into the capital in 2014.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/yemen-s-houthis-vs-saudi-coalition-two-ballistic-missiles-targeting-abu-dhabi-intercepted-1643001620255" target="_blank">Yemen's Houthis Vs Saudi coalition: two ballistic missiles targeting Abu Dhabi intercepted</a>
Iran, which is a Shia majority, seeing the opportunity to aid a war of attrition against its regional rival, Saudi Arabia, backed the Houthis. Arab countries, the West and United Nations experts say Iran has armed the Houthis with everything from assault rifles to ballistic missiles.
Saudi Arabia and its Gulf Arab allies fear the Houthis could grow as powerful as Lebanon's Shia Hezbollah militant group. The Houthis have already launched drone and missile attacks deep into the kingdom before, and on occasions struck oil wells.
All the while, Yemen's issues such as endemic poverty, lack of water and other resources have worsened. The war merely compounded the misery, and the country of 29 million people is now on the brink of famine.
The war has killed some 233,000 people, including 131,000 from indirect causes such as lack of food, health services and infrastructure, according to the United Nations.
The aid group, Save the Children, estimates that 85,000 children under the age of five have died from starvation or disease since the war began.

Canada PM reacts to Indian family freezing to death near border with US
 

Canada PM Justin Trudeau reacts to Indian family freezing to death near border with US in apparent bid to illegally cross

Justin Trudeau called the deaths 'mind-blowing' and 'tragic'. He called the family of four a victim of human traffickers.

Canada PM reacts to Indian family freezing to death near border with US

Following the tragic case of an Indian family freezing to death near the US-Canada border, Canadian Prime Minister reacted to the news. Justin Trudeau called the deaths 'mind-blowing' and 'tragic'. He called the family of 4 a victim of human traffickers. Trudeau slammed smugglers who take advantage of 'people's desire to build a better life'. He said that Canada and America are working closely together to stop human trafficking. Trudeau also urged people to not cross the border illegally. A day earlier, the Manitoba Royal Canadian Mounted Police had said that four bodies - including two adults, a teenager, and an infant - were found near the border with the US. The family died due to exposure to extreme cold. They are believed to have been a part of a group trying to illicitly cross the border into America. Other members of the group were apprehended by US authorities after crossing over. 47-year-old Steve Shand of Florida was also arrested in connection with the case. The Indian government had directed diplomats in the US and Canada to work with local authorities with regard to the tragedy.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;">Justin Trudeau called the deaths 'mind-blowing' and 'tragic'. He called the family of four a victim of human traffickers.</div>

Following the tragic case of an Indian family freezing to death near the US-Canada border, Canadian Prime Minister reacted to the news.
Justin Trudeau called the deaths 'mind-blowing' and 'tragic'. He called the family of 4 a victim of human traffickers.&nbsp;Trudeau slammed smugglers who take advantage of 'people's desire to build a better life'.&nbsp;He said that Canada and America are working closely together to stop human trafficking. Trudeau also urged people to not cross the border illegally.
ALSO WATCH | <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/indian-family-with-baby-freezes-to-death-near-us-canada-border-1642820091540" target="_blank">Indian family with baby freezes to death near US-Canada border</a>
 A day earlier, the Manitoba Royal Canadian Mounted Police had said that four bodies - including two adults, a teenager, and an infant - were found near the border with the US.&nbsp;The family died due to exposure to extreme cold.&nbsp;They are believed to have been a part of a group trying to illicitly cross the border into America.
 Other members of the group were apprehended by US authorities after crossing over.&nbsp;47-year-old Steve Shand of Florida was also arrested in connection with the case.
 The Indian government had directed diplomats in the US and Canada to work with local authorities with regard to the tragedy.

The central Asian nation of Kazakhstan has been witnessing protests since the beginning of this year that turned extremely violent, killing scores of people and many more being injured.
The protests which seemed peaceful initially were triggered by doubling of fuel prices last week in western Kazakhstan but quickly swept the whole country like a wildfire.
The clashes have set off a political crisis in the country with its president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, describing the events unfurled in the past week as a coup attempt, calling the protestors 'terrorists' and even giving shoot at sight orders to the security forces.
Over 160 people have died with nearly 6,000 people being detained with another 2,000 being injured during several days of violence.
The events have brought into action a regional alliance of several former Soviet states, Collective Treaty Security Organization (CSTO), led by Russia.
The protests have left the country’s most populous city, Almaty, in disarray. Thousands of people had been swept up in an 'anti-terrorist' operation. Internet across the country was shut down along with government buildings set ablaze.
In the latest development, people were seen fleeing the violence-ridden country and crossing the Russian-Kazakh border on Sunday.
While taking stock of the situation through a virtual meeting on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin called the unrest in Kazakhstan 'an attack on the country' and 'an act of aggression' masterminded from abroad.

Timeline of Kazakhstan turmoil and its implications

The central Asian nation of Kazakhstan has been witnessing protests since the beginning of this year that turned extremely violent

Political crisis in Kazakhstan amid ongoing protests&nbsp;
Protests over hike in fuel prices turned violent
Kazakh president Tokayev called&nbsp;protestors&nbsp;as 'terrorists'
Tokayev&nbsp;ordered shoot at sight for those protesting
Regional allies brought into action by recent events
People being swept up in 'anti-terrorist' operation
Almaty, most populous city, in disarray; internet&nbsp;shut
Putin: an&nbsp;act of aggression masterminded from abroad
People seen crossing Russia-Kazakh border
&nbsp;

Over 160 people have died with nearly 6,000 people being detained with another 2,000 being injured during several days of violence

The central Asian nation of Kazakhstan has been witnessing protests that turned extremely violent, leaving over a hundred people dead and many injured, since the beginning of this year.
The protests sparked by the doubling of fuel price in&nbsp;western Kazakhstan&nbsp;were peaceful initially but quickly turned violent and swept the whole country like a wildfire.
Over 160 people have died with nearly 6,000 people being detained with another 2,000 being injured during several days of violence.
The clashes have set off a political crisis in the country with president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, describing the events as a coup attempt, calling the protestors 'terrorists' and even giving shoot at sight orders to the government forces. The events have brought into action a regional alliance of several former Soviet states, Collective&nbsp; Security Treaty Organization, led by Russia.
The protests have left the country&rsquo;s most populous city, Almaty, in disarray. Thousands of people had been swept up in what the government is calling an 'anti-terrorist' operation. Internet across the country was shut down along with government buildings set ablaze.
In the latest development, people were seen fleeing the violence-ridden country and crossing the Russian-Kazakh border on Sunday.
While taking stock of the situation through a virtual meeting on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin called the unrest in Kazakhstan 'an attack on the country' and 'an act of aggression' masterminded from abroad.&nbsp;Russia has sent some 2,500 personnel, the Russian RIA news agency has reported.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/kazakhstan-turmoil-president-calls-protesters-terrorists-orders-shoot-at-sight-1641552931847" target="_blank">Kazakhstan turmoil: President calls protesters 'terrorists', orders shoot at sight</a>
The EU&nbsp;in veiled comments warned Russia against military intervention in Kazakhstan, the US has said it&nbsp;is closely monitoring the Russian troops in the central Asian country, and it will also be watching for any actions that may lay the predicate for the seizure of Kazakh institutions.

With the Omicron variant apparently causing a fresh surge in infections, India has joined the long list of countries providing an extra vaccine shot to vulnerable groups.
 

Does vaccine booster protect against Omicron hospitalisation? Your doubts cleared amid Covid spike

A UK study found that three vaccine doses provide up to 88% protection against hospitalisation due to Omicron infection.

&nbsp;
((SHORT OPENING BYTES))
BYTE NARENDRA MODI, PRIME MINISTER, INDIA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5wktdB1hkA
(0:33 - 0:46) In many countries, Covid cases are rising due to new variant Omicron. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSDT4oaoeOw
​(1:23 - 1:31, 2:07 - 2:10)
Healthcare and frontline workers will get vaccine's precaution dose. Those aged above 60 years with comorbidities (also eligible).
&nbsp;
 ((VACCINATION VISUALS))
 VO: Booster shot of the Covid vaccine - to get or not to get?
&nbsp;
 ((CROWD VISUALS))
 VO:&nbsp;With the Omicron variant apparently causing a fresh surge in infections, India has joined the long list of countries providing an extra vaccine shot to vulnerable groups.
&nbsp;
 ((LOCKDOWN VISUALS))
 VO:&nbsp;As strict restrictions make a comeback, here's everything you need to know about booster shots which may help prevent a 2021-like disastrous Covid wave.
&nbsp;
 ((BIG PLATE WITH VACCINATION IMAGE AND TEXT -&nbsp;BOOSTER SHOTS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW))
&nbsp;
 ((VACCINATION VISUALS))
 VO:&nbsp;First of all, there has been some confusion regarding the difference between additional vaccine doses, and booster shots.
&nbsp;
 ((SPLIT WINDOW GFX)) HEADER - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
 SUBHEADER - BOOSTER SHOT Given after protection from original vaccine shots begins to wane over time
 SUBHEADER - ADDITIONAL DOSE Given to immunocompromised patients to aid response to original vaccine shots
&nbsp;
 VO ON GFX:&nbsp;Booster doses are given after protection induced by the original shots begins to wane over time.&nbsp;However, additional vaccines are only given to people who have a compromised immune system, and therefore need help to improve their response to the original shots. These include cancer and HIV patients, among others.
&nbsp;
 ((VACCINATION VISUALS))
 VO: India is calling its booster shots a 'precautionary dose'. Reports have quoted experts as saying that these are boosters, rather than additional doses of vaccines.
&nbsp;
 ((BIG PLATE WITH VACCINATION IMAGE AND TEXT -&nbsp;DO BOOSTERS HELP AGAINST OMICRON?))
 VO: So, do boosters really help in improving immunity against Covid, especially the Omicron variant?
&nbsp;
 ((GFX)) HEADER - BOOSTERS, HOSPITALS, AND OMICRON
 3 VACCINE DOSES = 88% PROTECTION FROM HOSPITALISATION 2 VACCINE DOSES (TILL 6 MONTHS) = 72% PROTECTION FROM HOSPITALISATION 2 VACCINE DOSES (AFTER 6 MONTHS) = 52% PROTECTION FROM HOSPITALISATION
 *UK STUDY
&nbsp;
 VO ON GFX: Early studies in the UK have shown that a third dose of the vaccine can provide up to 88% protection against hospitalisation from infection by Omicron. Those with only two shots have up to 72% protection. Researchers said that vaccine efficacy against hospitalisation drops to 52% against Omicron around 6 months after taking the second shot.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
((ENGLAND HOSPITAL VISUALS))
 VO: A report said that over four-fifths of Omicron patients in England's hospitals had not had booster shots.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 ((GFX)) HEADER - USA'S OMICRON BATTLE
 HOSPITALISATION 8 TIMES HIGHER FOR UNVACCINATED ADULTS HOSPITALISATION 10 TIMES HIGHER FOR MINORS AGED 12 TO 17
 *CNN REPORT NOV CUMULATIVE HOSPITALISATION RATE
&nbsp;
 VO ON GFX: In the US, hospitalisation has hit a 4-month high, with over 1 lakh people admitted. In America, cumulative hospitalisation rates through November are around 8 times higher for unvaccinated adults, and 10 times higher for unvaccinated children aged 12 to 17, as per a news report.
&nbsp;
 BYTEJOE BIDEN, PRESIDENT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb3M0e8cPos
(1:04 - 1:11, 1:35 - 1:48) JAN 5, 2022 Get vaccinated, get boosters. There's plenty of booster shots. Wear a mask while you're in public.&nbsp;We have booster shots for the whole nation. You can still get Covid, but it's highly unlikely that you'll become seriously ill.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 ((BIG PLATE WITH VACCINATION IMAGE AND TEXT -&nbsp;WHICH COUNTRIES ARE GIVING BOOSTERS?))
 As per the World Health Organisation, over 120 countries have started implementing booster or additional vaccine programmes.
&nbsp;
 ((WORLD MAP GFX - ARROW ON COUNTRY MATCHING WITH VO, WITH TEXT AT BOTTOM OF SCREEN)) HEADER - GLOBAL BOOSTER SITUATION
 USA FULLY VACCINATED ADULTS ELIGIBLE; 16-17 YR OLDS CAN GET PFIZER BOOSTER
 CANADA PANEL RECOMMENDED EXTRA DOSE TO IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS
 EUROPE C.D.C. RECOMMENDED BOOSTERS FOR ALL ADULTS, PRIORITY FOR THOSE AGED 40+
 ENGLAND BOOSTERS FOR ALL ADULTS, 3 MONTHS AFTER SECOND SHOT
 SOUTH AFRICA J&amp;J BOOSTERS AVAILABLE SINCE DEC 24, 2021
 EGYPT
 KENYA
 MOROCCO
 NIGERIA
 TUNISIA
 ZAMBIA
 BANGLADESH BOOSTERS FOR FRONTLINE WORKERS
 INDONESIA
 MALAYSIA
 SINGAPORE
 PHILIPPINES
 ISRAEL 4TH DOSE FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED, ELDERLY IN CARE FACILITIES
 INDIA HEALTHCARE, FRONTLINE WORKERS; THOSE AGED 60+ WITH COMORBIDITIES ELIGIBLE
&nbsp;
 *AS PER REUTERS REPORT NOT COMPREHENSIVE LIST
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 VO ON GFX: In the US, apart from fully vaccinated adults, even 16 and 17 year olds can get boosters, albeit only Pfizer-BioNTech.&nbsp;Canada's immunisation advisory committee has recommended mRNA vaccine boosters to those with moderately or severely compromised immune systems, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;The European CDC has recommended vaccine boosters for all adults, with priority for those aged above 40.&nbsp;England is offering boosters to all adults, 3 months after the second shot.
 In South Africa, where Omicron was first detected, boosters of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine have been available since Dec 24, as per Reuters.&nbsp;Other African nations like Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia, and Zambia also have booster programmes, as per reports.
 Closer home, Bangladesh is offering boosters to frontline workers. Other Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, among others have booster schemes. Significantly, Israel is now offering a fourth dose to the immunocompromised and elderly.
 India's booster scheme is limited to a few groups.
&nbsp;
 BYTENARENDRA MODI, PRIME MINISTER, INDIA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSDT4oaoeOw (0:49 - 1:32, 1:43 - 2:24)DEC 25, 2021 Corona warriors, healthcare and frontline workers, are playing a big role in keeping the country safe. They spend a lot of time serving Covid patients. As a precautionary measure, the government has decided that healthcare and frontline workers will get vaccine's precaution dose. The elderly and those with comorbidities should take greater precaution. Keeping this in mind, those aged above 60 years and with comorbidities will have an option of taking vaccine's precaution dose as per doctor's advice.
 BYTE Dr V.K. PAUL, MEMBER, NITI AAYOG https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgBLVNGSyxk &nbsp; (30:15 - 30:48) JAN 5 ,2022
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
 ((VACCINATION VISUALS))
 However, even as more and more countries roll out booster programmes, voices of criticism have been rising, led by the World Health Organisation.
&nbsp;
 BYTE
Dr TEDROS ADHANOM GHEBREYESUS, DIRECTOR GENERAL, WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg_0ZBqfIKc ​(0:19 - 0:44, 1:04 - 1:13)
DEC 22, 2021
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<div>A UK study found that three vaccine doses provide up to 88% protection against hospitalisation due to Omicron infection.</div>

India has joined a long list of nations administering Covid-19 vaccine's booster doses. In an address to the nation in December 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi specified that the 'precautionary' third dose of the vaccines would be reserved for healthcare and frontline workers. Those aged above 60 years with comorbidities are also eligible for a booster shot based on their doctor's advice. Coinciding with a surge in cases believed to be due to the Omicron variant, many doubts have emerged among the general populace. Here are answers to frequently asked questions on booster shots.
 BOOSTER Vs ADDITIONAL DOSES
 Booster doses are distinct from additional doses of vaccines. The former&nbsp;are given after protection induced by the original shots begins to wane over time.&nbsp;However, additional vaccines are only given to people who have a compromised immune system, and therefore need help to improve their response to the original shots. These include cancer and HIV patients, among others.&nbsp;India is calling its booster shots a 'precautionary dose'. Reports have quoted experts as saying that these are boosters, rather than additional doses of vaccines.
ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/india-crosses-145-crore-covid-19-vaccinations-milestone-1640959041689" target="_blank">India crosses 145 crore Covid-19 vaccinations milestone</a> 
BOOSTER EFFICACY
 The biggest question in people's minds is whether a booster shot provides protection against hospitalisation, especially if an individual is infected with the Omicron variant.&nbsp;Early studies in the UK have shown that a third dose of the vaccine can provide up to 88% protection against hospitalisation from infection by Omicron. Those with only two shots have up to 72% protection. Researchers said that vaccine efficacy against hospitalisation drops to 52% against Omicron around 6 months after taking the second shot.&nbsp;A report said that over four-fifths of Omicron patients in England's hospitals had not had booster shots.
 COUNTRIES GIVING BOOSTERS
 As per the World Health Organisation, over 120 countries have started implementing booster or additional vaccine programmes.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the US, apart from fully vaccinated adults, even 16 and 17 year olds can get boosters, albeit only Pfizer-BioNTech.&nbsp;Canada's immunisation advisory committee has recommended mRNA vaccine boosters to those with moderately or severely compromised immune systems, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;The European CDC has recommended vaccine boosters for all adults, with priority for those aged above 40.&nbsp;England is offering boosters to all adults, 3 months after the second shot.
In South Africa, where Omicron was first detected, boosters of Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine have been available since Dec 24, as per Reuters.&nbsp;Other African nations like Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia, and Zambia also have booster programmes, as per reports.
 Closer home, Bangladesh is offering boosters to frontline workers. Other Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, among others have booster schemes. Significantly, Israel is now offering a fourth dose to the immunocompromised and elderly.
 THE CRITICISM
 However, even as more and more countries roll out booster programmes, voices of criticism have been rising, led by the World Health Organisation. The international health policy body's chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed concern about 'blanket booster programmes' worsening vaccine inequity across the world. He pointed out that while well-to-do countries are administering extra doses, poorer countries are yet to reach a significant milestone in primary vaccination. He said that blanket booster schemes would end up prolonging the pandemic, rather than ending it.

Over 40 camels were disqualified from a beauty pageant in Saudi Arabia recently after organisers discovered that the animals were given Botox injections and other cosmetic enhancements.
At the annual the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is held in December and 66m US dollar prize money is at stake.
The state-run Saudi Press Agency reported that judges used "advanced" technology to uncover tampering with camels on a scale not seen before”.
Twenty-seven contestants in the cup for Majaheim camels alone were disqualified for having stretched body parts and 16 were ejected for having received injections.
All contestants were first led into a hall where their external appearance and movements were examined by specialists.
Their heads, necks and torsos were then scanned with X-ray and 3D ultrasound machines, and samples were taken for genetic analysis and other tests.
Key attributes include long, droopy lips, a big nose and a shapely hump.

Over 40 camels banned from Saudi beauty contest over Botox

Their heads, necks and torsos were then scanned with X-ray and 3D ultrasound machines, and samples were taken for genetic analysis and other tests.

Over 40 camels were disqualified from a beauty pageant in Saudi Arabia recently after organizers discovered that the animals were given Botox injections and other cosmetic enhancements.
The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is held in December annually and a 66 mn US dollar prize money is at stake.
The state-run Saudi Press Agency reported that judges used "advanced" technology to uncover tampering with camels on a scale not seen before&rdquo;.
Twenty-seven contestants in the cup for Majaheim camels alone were disqualified for having stretched body parts and 16 were rejected for having received injections.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/31-people-stranded-at-ikea-store-during-snow-storm-had-fun-overnight-stay-1638870966889" target="_blank">31 people stranded at IKEA store during snow storm, had &lsquo;fun&rsquo; overnight stay</a>
All contestants were first led into a hall where their external appearance and movements were examined by specialists.
Their heads, necks, and torsos were then scanned with X-ray and 3D ultrasound machines, and samples were taken for genetic analysis and other tests.
Key attributes include long, droopy lips, a big nose, and a shapely hump.

The chimney of the former Longannet Power Station in Fife was demolished by a controlled explosion on Thursday.
The 600ft chimney was the largest free-standing structure in Scotland and was considered a regional landmark.
Scottish Power lit up the structure and projected the slogan, "Make Coal History" on Wednesday evening ahead of its demolition.
Other structures at the site had already been previously demolished.
Longannet, which was once the largest coal-fired power station in Europe, began generating electricity in 1970 and produced Scotland's last coal-fired energy until it's closure in 2016.

Watch: 600-feet Scottish power station chimney reduced to dust

The  600ft chimney of the former Longannet Power Station in Fife was demolished by a controlled explosion.

The 600ft chimney of the former Longannet Power Station in Fife was demolished by a controlled explosion.

The chimney of the former Longannet Power Station in Fife was demolished by a controlled explosion on Thursday.
The 600ft chimney was the largest free-standing structure in Scotland and was considered a regional landmark.
Scottish Power lit up the structure and projected the slogan, "Make Coal History" on Wednesday evening ahead of its demolition.
<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/cop26-why-it-s-so-hard-for-india-to-quit-coal-1635779140011" target="_blank">Read also:&nbsp;COP26: Why it's so hard for India to quit coal</a>
Other structures at the site had already been previously demolished.
Longannet, which was once the largest coal-fired power station in Europe, began generating electricity in 1970 and produced Scotland's last coal-fired energy until it's closure in 2016.

The medical journal’s sixth annual report, named The Lancet Countdown, tracks 44 indicators of health impacts that are directly linked to climate change.

Climate change can spread viral diseases due to a lack of preparedness

Climate change is creating ideal conditions for microbial disease transmission, and unfortunately, the world’s healthcare systems aren’t ready for it.

Climate change can cause more pandemics, warns new Lancet report

A Lancet study has revealed that climate change is creating ideal conditions for microbial disease transmission, and unfortunately, the world&rsquo;s healthcare systems aren&rsquo;t ready for it.

As the world is recovering from the plunging aftermath of the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic, a new study has now revealed that climate change is creating ideal conditions for microbial disease transmission, and unfortunately, the world&rsquo;s healthcare systems aren&rsquo;t ready for it.
The Lancet, a weekly peer-reviewed general medical journal, has highlighted that illnesses such as malaria, dengue and cholera will become a severe threat unless leaders commit to more ambitious climate plans. The medical journal&rsquo;s&nbsp;sixth annual report, named&nbsp;The Lancet Countdown,&nbsp;tracks 44 indicators of health impacts that are directly linked to climate change and highlight worsening social inequalities.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/story/climate-change-crisis-it-s-only-going-to-get-hotter-1630739162564">Climate Change Crisis: It's only going to get hotter!</a>
Drawing on research from 38 academic institutions and United Nations agencies, the study found that the potential for viral outbreaks is increasing most rapidly in developed countries. The danger of malaria infections is rising in cooler areas, while coasts around northern Europe and the U.S. are becoming more prone to bacteria which produce gastroenteritis and sepsis.
On the other hand,&nbsp;almost 600 million people are living less than 5 meters above sea level, which puts them at risk of increased flooding and intense storms. The study adds that due to this, many could be forced to permanently leave their homes. The study also warned against a fossil fuel-driven economic&nbsp;recovery that funds oil, gas and coal production.
Maria Romanello, lead author and research director of the report, said that these are grim warnings that for every day that we delay our response to climate change, the situation gets more critical. She also emphasised that &ldquo;no one is safe from the effects of climate change.&rdquo;
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/lifestyle-news/health/save-the-planet-save-humanity-tackling-the-climate-change-crisis-1634474790021">Save the Planet; Save humanity: Tackling the climate change crisis</a>

Noma and Geranium were ranked at No 1 and No 2 respectively, at “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” awards ceremony held on 5th October in Antwerp, Belgium.

The list of 50 best restaurants across the world is out! Have you been to any?

The list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants is out and Copenhagen stole the show with two restaurants from the city bagging the first two spots on the list. The list is prepared by 1040-member experts, known as the Academy. 

World’s 50 Best Restaurants!

The annual list of the world&rsquo;s 50 best restaurants is back. And this time, Copenhagen dominated the first two spots on the list.

After a year of hiatus due to the pandemic, the annual list of the world&rsquo;s 50 best restaurants is back. And this time, Copenhagen dominated the first two spots on the list.
Noma and Geranium were ranked at No 1 and No 2 respectively, at &ldquo;The World&rsquo;s 50 Best Restaurants&rdquo; awards ceremony held on 5th October in Antwerp, Belgium.
Here&rsquo;s the list of the restaurants which stole the first 5 spots.
1. Noma (Copenhagen, Denmark)
2. Geranium (Copenhagen, Denmark)
3. Asador Etxebarri (Atxondo, Spain)
4. Central (Lima, Peru)
5. Disfrutar (Barcelona, Spain)
Europe stole the show this year with more than half of the ranked restaurants located there. Asia booked eight slots and Singapore's Odette, at No. 8,&nbsp;bagged the highest position of the continent.
Eight restaurants in North America made the cut, with Mexico&rsquo;s Pujol named the &ldquo;Best Restaurant in North America.&rdquo; South America took six slots, with two restaurants in Peru securing a spot in the top 10. And lastly,&nbsp;Africa edged onto the list, with South Africa&rsquo;s Wolfgat, taking the 50th slot.
And Spain left the ceremony with 8 awards, the most number of awards from any country. Most of the award-winning restaurants are located in Basque Country which is renowned for its culinary powerhouse.
If you are wondering how one makes the list, we'll tell you exactly how.
According to the official website of the world&rsquo;s 50 best, there are 1040 industry insiders, known as the Academy. They are generally food writers, critics, chefs and restaurateurs from 26 geographical regions across the globe.
Each member chooses 10 restaurants but there aren&rsquo;t any set requirements or criteria and restaurants are chosen at the discretion of the members alone. Academy members vote for at least four restaurants outside of their regions. To accommodate restricted travel and dining opportunities caused by the global pandemic, the 2021 list consisted of votes cast in January 2020, which were never published, as well as updated regional choices.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/story/butterfly-pea-tea-beat-the-blues-with-this-enchanting-herbal-tea-1631877978665">Butterfly Pea Tea: Beat the blues with this enchanting herbal tea</a>
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/story/sober-bars-creating-a-buzz-sans-the-booze-1628081650654">Sober Bars: Creating a buzz sans the booze</a>

Australia: Bomb vest explodes inside car, killing driver
 

Australia: Startling CCTV footage of bomb vest explosion inside car, former soldier killed in blast

Australia's Seven News reported that the 43-year-old man was a former soldier and had visited the house of his ex-partner before the incident on January 22.

Australia: Bomb vest explodes inside car, killing driver

note - DO NOT USE AUDIO OF CCTV VIDEO PLEASE PUT TRANSLATION IN BYTE AS ACCENT IS VERY STRONG
&nbsp;
((SHORT OPENING VISUALS)) https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/preview/mol/2022/01/24/6499073609693052893/636x382_MP4_6499073609693052893.mp4
(0:00 - 0:03)
&nbsp;
 ((AFTER ABOVE VISUALS, SHORT BYTE WITH&nbsp;TRANSLATION)) https://bit.ly/3H7yYQQ
(0:30 - 0:37) - I looked out the window of my house and saw a car had gone through the roundabout and hadn't braked or anything like that.
&nbsp;
 ((CCTV VISUALS)) https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/preview/mol/2022/01/24/6499073609693052893/636x382_MP4_6499073609693052893.mp4
SOURCE: 7NEWS
 Startling visuals emerged from Australia as police investigated the death of a man apparently wearing a bomb vest in a car. The vest detonated when the car hit a bump on a Melbourne street, as per reports. CCTV visuals showed fire rising out of the windows as the bomb exploded. Australia's Seven News reported that the 43-year-old man was a former soldier and had visited the house of his ex-partner before the incident on January 22.
&nbsp;
 ((POLICE AT SPOT)) https://bit.ly/3H7yYQQ
SOURCE: AP | CHANNEL 7
&nbsp;
Police said they had found explosive items inside the car and the Bomb Response Unit had to spend a considerable amount of time to declare the spot safe, as per reports. A witness recounted hearing a loud sound and seeing the car hitting a street sign.
&nbsp;
 BYTE BEN AUGEL, WITNESS https://bit.ly/3H7yYQQ
(0:27 - 0:43) SOURCE: AP | CHANNEL 7
 I just heard a big, loud bang about 11 a.m. and looked out the window of my house and saw a car had gone through the roundabout and hadn't braked or anything like that and crashed into a sign. They had the street blocked off and police pretty much patrolling and 15 police cars all around the place.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-weight: 400; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Australia's Seven News reported that the 43-year-old man was a former soldier and had visited the house of his ex-partner before the incident on January 22.

Startling visuals emerged from Australia as police investigated the death of a man apparently wearing a bomb vest in a car.
The vest detonated when the car hit a bump on a Melbourne street, as per reports.&nbsp;CCTV visuals showed fire rising out of the windows as the bomb exploded.
Australia's Seven News reported that the 43-year-old man was a former soldier and had visited the house of his ex-partner before the incident on January 22.
Police said they had found explosive items inside the car and the Bomb Response Unit had to spend a considerable amount of time to declare the spot safe, as per reports.
A witness recounted hearing a loud sound and seeing the car hit a street sign. "I just heard a big, loud bang about 11 a.m. and looked out the window of my house and saw a car had gone through the roundabout and hadn't braked or anything like that and crashed into a sign. They had the street blocked off and police pretty much patrolling and 15 police cars all around the place," said Ben Augel.

Indian family's death in Canada: Arrested US man released without paying bond
 

Indian family's death in Canada: Arrested US man released without paying bond; Gujarat launches probe

Steve Shand, a resident of Florida, was accused of human smuggling after he was found driving two undocumented Indian nationals in his car.

Indian family's death in Canada: Arrested US man released without paying bond

Days after the horrific death of an Indian family near the US-Canada border, an American national arrested in a human trafficking case has reportedly been released from prison without payment of a bond, but with restrictions on his movement. Steve Shand, a resident of Florida, was accused of human smuggling after he was found driving two undocumented Indian nationals in his car. Subsequently, US authorities found five other Indians walking towards the spot where Shand was apprehended.
The group told the American authorities that they had gotten separated from four other people in the group while crossing the US-Canada border. Later, Canadian police announced the discovery of 4 bodies - 2 adults, a teenager, and an infant - near the border. They were identified as Indian nationals from the state of Gujarat although their identities have not been revealed. They froze to death after being exposed to extreme cold during the night. Meanwhile, Gujarat police have reportedly launched a probe in the state to check whether an illegal immigration racket is being operated from the state. Reports suggest that the deceased family was from Dingucha village under Kalol taluka in Gandhinagar district.

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-weight: 400; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;">Steve Shand, a resident of Florida, was accused of human smuggling after he was found driving two undocumented Indian nationals in his car.</div>

Days after the horrific death of an Indian family near the US-Canada border, an American national arrested in a human trafficking case has reportedly been released from prison without payment of a bond, but with restrictions on his movement.
Steve Shand, a resident of Florida, was accused of human smuggling after he was found driving two undocumented Indian nationals in his car. Subsequently, US authorities found five other Indians walking towards the spot where Shand was apprehended.&nbsp;The group told the American authorities that they had gotten separated from four other people in the group while crossing the US-Canada border.
ALSO WATCH | <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/canada-pm-reacts-to-indian-family-freezing-to-death-near-border-with-us-1642851100686" target="_blank">Canada PM reacts to Indian family freezing to death near border with US</a>
 Later, Canadian police announced the discovery of 4 bodies - 2 adults, a teenager, and an infant - near the border.&nbsp;They were identified as Indian nationals from the state of Gujarat although their identities have not been revealed.&nbsp;They froze to death after being exposed to extreme cold during the night.
 Meanwhile, Gujarat police have reportedly launched a probe in the state to check whether an illegal immigration racket is being operated from the state. Reports suggest that the deceased family was from Dingucha village under Kalol taluka in Gandhinagar district.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

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Amid growing hostilities along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan is all set to procure nearly 600 tanks from Russia to strengthen its position along the International border with India, multiple reports said. The deal with Russia, which includes T90 tanks, comes amid Pakistan's push to revamp its armoured fleet by 2025. Pakistan has also procured the first installment of 245 50 mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy. Russia's growing proximity with Pakistan is bound to raise eyebrows in India, as Moscow has been India's primary defence supplier since independence.   

Amid growing hostilities along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan is all set to procure nearly 600 tanks from Russia to strengthen its position along the International border with India, multiple reports said. The deal with Russia, which includes T90 tanks, comes amid Pakistan's push to revamp its armoured fleet by 2025. Pakistan has also procured the first installment of 245 50 mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy. Russia's growing proximity with Pakistan is bound to raise eyebrows in India, as Moscow has been India's primary defence supplier since independence. 

Hundreds of South Korean business owners shaved their heads outside the parliament in Seoul to protest the government's virus restrictions.
Small business owners expressed their anger over government's decision to extend Covid-19 restrictions and demanded compensation from the government over their losses during the restrictions.
The current coronavirus restrictions mandate restaurants and cafes to close at 9 p.m.
299 business owners shaved their heads to express their anger on Tuesday.
In South Korea, head shaving has been a form of protest and is a long-standing tradition that is used to show one's commitment to a cause.

S Korean business owners shave their heads to protest Covid-19 restrictions

Hundreds of South Korean business owners shaved their heads outside the parliament in Seoul to protest the government's virus restrictions

S Korea: business owners shave their heads to protest virus curbs
Almost 300 small business owners shave heads in protest
S Korea: head shaving a long-standing tradition&nbsp;to protest

In South Korea, head shaving has been a form of protest and is a long-standing tradition that is used to show one's commitment to a cause.

Hundreds of South Korean business owners shaved their heads outside the&nbsp;parliament in&nbsp;Seoul&nbsp;to protest the government's virus restrictions.
Small business owners expressed their anger over government's decision to extend Covid-19 restrictions and demanded compensation from the government over their losses during the restrictions.
The current coronavirus restrictions mandate restaurants and cafes to close at 9 p.m.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/afghanistan-hanging-by-a-thread-un-chief-asks-nations-to-authorise-aid-1643259911655" target="_blank">Afghanistan 'hanging by a thread': UN chief asks nations to authorise aid</a>
299 business owners shaved their heads to express their anger on Tuesday.
In South Korea, head shaving has been a form of protest and is a long-standing tradition that is used to show one's commitment to a cause.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council on Wednesday Afghanistan is "hanging by a thread."  
The UN chief called for countries to authorize all transactions needed to carry out humanitarian activities in the country.
He also pushed for a suspension of any rules or conditions constricting "lifesaving" aid operations as millions in the country suffer extreme hunger.
"Time is of the essence. Without action, lives will be lost, and despair and extremism will grow. A collapse of the Afghan economy could lead to a massive exodus of people fleeing the country," Guterres said.
Some $9.5 billion in Afghan central bank reserves remain blocked abroad and international aid has dried up since the Taliban seized power in August.
Donors seek to use the money as leverage over the Taliban on issues including human rights.
The United Nations earlier this month appealed for $4.4 billion in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan in 2022.
On Wednesday, it said it needed a further $3.6 billion for health and education, basic infrastructure, promotion of livelihoods and social cohesion, specifically the needs of women and girls.
 

Afghanistan 'hanging by a thread': UN chief asks nations to authorise aid

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council on Wednesday Afghanistan is "hanging by a thread."&nbsp;&nbsp;
The UN chief called for countries to authorize all transactions needed to carry out humanitarian activities in the country.
He also pushed for a suspension of any rules or conditions constricting "lifesaving" aid operations as millions in the country suffer extreme hunger.
"Time is of the essence. Without action, lives will be lost, and despair and extremism will grow. A collapse of the Afghan economy could lead to a massive exodus of people fleeing the country," Guterres said.
Some $9.5 billion in Afghan central bank reserves remain blocked abroad and international aid has dried up since the Taliban seized power in August.
Donors seek to use the money as leverage over the Taliban on issues including human rights.
The United Nations earlier this month appealed for $4.4 billion in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan in 2022.
On Wednesday, it said it needed a further $3.6 billion for health and education, basic infrastructure, promotion of livelihoods and social cohesion, specifically the needs of women and girls.
&nbsp;

Some $9.5 billion in Afghan central bank reserves remain blocked abroad and international aid has dried up since the Taliban seized power in August.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Security Council on Wednesday Afghanistan is "hanging by a thread."&nbsp;&nbsp;
The UN chief called for countries to authorize all transactions needed to carry out humanitarian activities in the country.
He also pushed for a suspension of any rules or conditions constricting "lifesaving" aid operations as millions in the country suffer extreme hunger.
"Time is of the essence. Without action, lives will be lost, and despair and extremism will grow. A collapse of the Afghan economy could lead to a massive exodus of people fleeing the country," Guterres said.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/war-in-yemen-the-poorest-arab-nation-who-are-houthis-and-why-is-saudi-coalition-fighting-them-1643028266812" target="_blank">War in Yemen, the poorest Arab nation: who are Houthis and why is Saudi coalition fighting them</a>
Some $9.5 billion in Afghan central bank reserves remain blocked abroad and international aid has dried up since the Taliban seized power in August.
Donors seek to use the money as leverage over the Taliban on issues including human rights.
The United Nations earlier this month appealed for $4.4 billion in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan in 2022.
On Wednesday, it said it needed a further $3.6 billion for health and education, basic infrastructure, promotion of livelihoods and social cohesion, specifically the needs of women and girls.
&nbsp;

Alarming news emerged from Florida in the United States of America.
A boat capsized off the coast with almost 40 people onboard. The incident came to light after a survivor was found clinging to the hull of the boat by a commercial mariner. The survivor informed authorities that the boat was carrying 39 other people.
ALSO WATCH | Indian family's death in Canada: Arrested US man released without paying bond
Subsequently, search and rescue operations were launched. The US authorities are suspecting that the vessel was being used in a human smuggling operation.
This case comes just days after an Indian family died at the US-Canada border due to extreme cold. They were also suspected to be victims of a human smuggling racket.
The survivor had boarded the boat from the Bahamas' Bimini islands on the night of January 22. The boat capsized after hitting rough weather around 70 km east of Fort Pierce inlet, off Florida's Atlantic coast. Captain Jo-Ann F. Burdian of the US Coast Guard said that the situation was 'dire'. "The longer they remain in the water without food, without water, exposed to the marine environment, the sun, the sea conditions. It is every moment that passes it becomes much more dire and unlikely that anyone could survive in those conditions," she said.

USA: Boat with 40 people sinks off Florida coast; after Indian family's death at border, another human smuggling op gone awry?

The US authorities are suspecting that the vessel was being used in a human smuggling operation.

USA: Boat with 40 people sinks off Florida coast, search ops on

NOTE - PLEASE CHECK SOCIAL MEDIA ETC FOR MORE VISUALS
&nbsp;
 ((SHORT BYTE SPLIT WITH VISUALS. PUT TRANSLATION)) https://bit.ly/3G3pS6d
(1:13 - 1:31) It is dire. The longer they remain in the water without food, without water, exposed to the marine environment, the sun, the sea conditions. It is every moment that passes it becomes much more dire and unlikely that anyone could survive in those conditions.
&nbsp;
 ((VISUALS)) https://bit.ly/3fXvGDB
&nbsp;
Alarming news emerged from Florida in the United States of America. A boat capsized off the coast with almost 40 people onboard. The incident came to light after a survivor was found clinging to the hull of the boat by a commercial mariner. The survivor informed authorities that the boat was carrying 39 other people. Subsequently, search and rescue operations were launched. The US authorities are suspecting that the vessel was being used in a human smuggling operation. This case comes just days after an Indian family died at the US-Canada border due to extreme cold. They were also suspected to be victims of a human smuggling racket. The survivor had boarded the boat from the Bahamas' Bimini islands on the night of January 22. The boat capsized after hitting rough weather around 70 km east of Fort Pierce inlet, off Florida's Atlantic coast.
&nbsp;
BYTE CAPT JO-ANN F. BURDIAN, U.S. COAST GUARD https://bit.ly/3G3pS6d
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-weight: 400; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The US authorities are suspecting that the vessel was being used in a human smuggling operation.</div>

Alarming news emerged from Florida in the United States of America.
A boat capsized off the coast with almost 40 people onboard.&nbsp;The incident came to light after a survivor was found clinging to the hull of the boat by a commercial mariner.&nbsp;The survivor informed authorities that the boat was carrying 39 other people.
ALSO WATCH | <a href="https://www.editorji.com/world-news/indian-family-s-death-in-canada-arrested-us-man-released-without-paying-bond-1643109444346" target="_blank">Indian family's death in Canada: Arrested US man released without paying bond</a>
Subsequently, search and rescue operations were launched.&nbsp;The US authorities are suspecting that the vessel was being used in a human smuggling operation.
 This case comes just days after an Indian family died at the US-Canada border due to extreme cold. They were also suspected to be victims of a human smuggling racket.
 The survivor had boarded the boat from the Bahamas' Bimini islands on the night of January 22.&nbsp;The boat capsized after hitting rough weather around 70 km east of Fort Pierce inlet, off Florida's Atlantic coast. Captain Jo-Ann F. Burdian of the US Coast Guard said that the situation was 'dire'. "The longer they remain in the water without food, without water, exposed to the marine environment, the sun, the sea conditions. It is every moment that passes it becomes much more dire and unlikely that anyone could survive in those conditions," she said.

Corruption Perception Index: Watch India, Pakistan, China's ranks


Corruption Perception Index: Check India, Pakistan, China's ranks as Transparency International highlights 'concerns'

The index ranks countries based on a scorecard of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean.

Corruption Perception Index: Watch India, Pakistan, China's ranks

In a corruption perception index released by a global NGO called Transparency International, India has ranked 85 out of 180 countries. India's rank has reportedly improved by one place compared to the last report, but the corruption perception score has remained the same at 40.&nbsp; The index ranks countries based on a scorecard of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. Neighbouring Pakistan slid significantly in the rankings. It currently stands at 140 out of 180, down from 124 a year ago. Islamabad's score is 28, compared to 31 a year ago. Meanwhile, China ranked 66 with a score of 45. Last year, Beijing's rank was 78, with a score of 42. The global NGO reportedly said that India's case is worrying because its score has remained stagnant, but "some of the mechanisms which help rein in corruption are weakening". The corruption perception document reportedly said that there are "concerns over India's democratic status as fundamental freedoms, and institutional checks and balances decay". Transparency International reportedly said that there are concerns over risks to journalists and activists who have been "victims of attacks by police, political militants, criminal gangs, and corrupt local officials" in India. In the latest corruption perception index, Denmark ranked first, followed by Finland. New Zealand rounded off the Top 3.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff;">The index ranks countries based on a scorecard of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean.</div>

In a corruption perception index released by a global NGO called Transparency International, India has ranked 85 out of 180 countries.
India's rank has reportedly improved by one place compared to the last report, but the corruption perception score has remained the same at 40.
ALSO WATCH | <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/powerful-passports-list-india-pakistan-ranks-revealed-1641997897836" target="_blank">Powerful passports list: India, Pakistan ranks revealed</a>
The index ranks countries based on a scorecard of 0 to 100, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean.
Neighbouring Pakistan slid significantly in the rankings. It currently stands at 140 out of 180, down from 124 a year ago. Islamabad's score is 28, compared to 31 a year ago.
Meanwhile, China ranked 66 with a score of 45. Last year, Beijing's rank was 78, with a score of 42.
The global NGO reportedly said that India's case is worrying because its score has remained stagnant, but "some of the mechanisms which help rein in corruption are weakening".
The corruption perception document reportedly said that there are "concerns over India's democratic status as fundamental freedoms, and institutional checks and balances decay".&nbsp;Transparency International reportedly said that there are concerns over risks to journalists and activists who have been "victims of attacks by police, political militants, criminal gangs, and corrupt local officials" in India.
In the latest corruption perception index, Denmark ranked first, followed by Finland. New Zealand rounded off the Top 3.

The head of the World Health Organisation has warned that it is dangerous to assume that Omicron is the last of the Covid-19 variants or that we are in the endgame of the pandemic. 
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO's director-general said that conditions remain ideal for more coronavirus variants to emerge but also added a positive note by saying that  the acute phase of the pandemic could still end this year — if some key targets are met.
He said Covid can cease to be global health emergency by this year if WHO's target to vaccinate 70 per cent of the population of each country by the middle of this year is achieved.
The WHO chief added that the focus must be on people who are at the highest risk of Covid-19, and improving testing and sequencing rates to track the virus and its emerging variants more closely.

WHO warns against thinking of Omicron as end of Covid-19

The head of the World Health Organisation has warned that it is dangerous to assume that Omicron is the last of the Covid-19 variants or that we are in the endgame of the pandemic. 

Dangerous to think we are in the endgame of Covid&nbsp;pandemic: WHO WHO: conditions remain ideal for emergence of more variants 'Need to vaccinate 70% population of each country by mid 2022'
WHO: focus must be on people with highest risk of Covid-19

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO's director-general said&nbsp;that conditions remain ideal for more coronavirus variants to emerge

The head of the World Health Organisation has warned that it is dangerous to assume that Omicron is the last of the Covid-19 variants or that we are in the endgame of the pandemic.&nbsp;
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO's director-general said&nbsp;that conditions remain ideal for more coronavirus variants to emerge but also added a positive note by saying that&nbsp;&nbsp;the acute phase of the pandemic could still end this year &mdash; if some key targets are met.
Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.editorji.com/coronavirus/india-driving-covid-19-numbers-in-south-east-asia-who-1643022694312" target="_blank">India driving Covid-19 numbers in South-East Asia: WHO</a>
He said Covid&nbsp;can cease to be&nbsp;global health emergency by this year if&nbsp;WHO's target to vaccinate 70 per cent of the population of each country by the middle of this year is achieved.
The WHO chief added that the&nbsp;focus must be on people who are at the highest risk of Covid-19, and improving testing and sequencing rates to track the virus and its emerging variants more closely.

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