Asteroids promise payoffs for humanity

Chinese scientists will look at ways to harvest resources on asteroids and how to use these so-called minor planets as bases for interstellar journeys, according to a senior space expert.

Officials removed after deadly coal mine gas leak

Six government officials, including Wang Zhuowen, deputy head of Zhuzhou's Youxian county in Hunan province, were removed from their posts after a deadly gas leak on Sunday killed 18 people, local authorities said on Monday.

University teaches aeronautics - and embroidery

A university in eastern China known for producing aircraft technicians has introduced an embroidery class, aiming to inspire more students to learn about traditional culture.

Former legislator jailed for bribery that tainted election

A former senior legislator in Northeast China's Liaoning province has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison for election malpractice and bribery, a court in Shandong province said on Monday.

Financing services to help small businesses grow

Limited financing has long been viewed as an obstacle for small businesses and business startups. Now, an upcoming policy from the State Council, China's Cabinet, is expected to help such companies overcome the hurdle.

Policy digest

Healthcare reform urged to be deepened

Ministries respond to public concerns

Ministries and departments under the State Council, China's Cabinet, have responded to a series of issues concerning the public in the past week, including odorous salt, preferential financial policy, kindergarten, primary and middle-school security, think tank management and air pollution.

Taiwan seizes another boat; sailors hurt

Mainland authorities called on Taiwan to thoroughly investigate the shooting of fishermen by the Taiwan coast guard over the weekend, to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Master of mathematics dies at age 98

Wu Wenjun, one of China's top mathematicians, died in Beijing on Sunday morning at the age of 98, according to the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

IN BRIEF (Page 4)

Lab-grown veggies costly but have market

Vegetables can be grown year-round indoors, in "plant factories" that look a lot like laboratories - without a farm's heavy dependence on water supplies, soil, weather and manual labor.

Sandstorm expected to hit south

At least one death is attributed to strong winds, others injured