Monday, August 25, 2025

George Mason University’s DEI programes found in breach of federal civil rights law

George Mason University’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have been flagged by the US Department of Education for violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. A federal investigation found that race-conscious hiring and promotion practices were noncompliant. The university is reviewing corrective measures while balancing legal obligations, faculty representation, and broader debates over the limits of diversity programs in public higher education.

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Gavin Newsom educational qualifications: Here's where California's Governor studied from

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s fierce criticism of Ivy League universities for “selling their souls” to the Trump administration is deeply intertwined with his own educational journey. Shaped by dyslexia, resilience, and a Jesuit education at Santa Clara University, Newsom’s defiance reflects his lifelong pursuit of intellectual independence and raises urgent questions about the integrity of higher education under political pressure.

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RSSB postpones VDO 2025 exam due to administrative reasons: Check details here

The Rajasthan Staff Selection Board (RSSB) has postponed the Village Development Officer (VDO) 2025 exam from August 31 to November 2, 2025. The three-hour test will feature 160 multiple-choice questions across seven subjects, including language, mathematics, and Rajasthan’s history and resources. The recruitment drive aims to fill 850 VDO posts, with candidates required to retain OMR copies until the results.

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Sunday, August 24, 2025

ET Startup Awards 2025: Nominees for Best on Campus

The Best on Campus award will showcase a startup whose impact can be judged both by the idea and the execution. The founders should have been students whose aim was to build a commercial enterprise.

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Saturday, August 23, 2025

Centre injects Rs 211 crore into Indian space sector under 'fund of funds for startups' scheme: Union minister Piyush Goyal

India has invested Rs 211 crore under the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) scheme to boost space-tech innovation, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced.

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Musk says xAI open sources Grok 2.5

Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI has open-sourced its Grok 2.5 model, with plans to release Grok 3 in about six months.

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Silicon Valley is in its 'hard tech' era

Silicon Valley has shifted from its Web 2.0 heyday of perks and consumer apps to a more intense AI-driven era. With fewer frills and tougher tech, the focus is now on neural networks, GPUs, and defence startups, as San Francisco reclaims its place as the heart of global innovation.

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Friday, August 22, 2025

Trump says Intel has agreed to a deal for US to take 10% equity stake

President Trump announced the U.S. would acquire a 10% stake in Intel following a meeting with CEO Lip-Bu Tan, spurred by concerns over Tan's ties to Chinese firms. This move, part of Trump's strategy to bolster U.S. semiconductor and rare earth industries, aims to revive Intel's struggling foundry business after a significant annual loss.

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Online Gaming Act: Dream 11, My11Circle shut down real money games

Dream11 and My11Circle have ceased real-money gaming offerings following the enactment of a law banning such services. Other companies like Zupee and MPL are also discontinuing or suspending real-money games. Companies are exploring alternative advertising models and international markets to mitigate the impact of the new regulations, while also considering legal challenges based on previous court rulings favoring skill-based gaming.

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Sam Altman to visit India next month

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning a visit India in September, as the company is set to open its first office in the country later this year. The company has established a legal entity and is actively hiring a local team to make AI more accessible across the country.

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Thursday, August 21, 2025

H-1B under fire: Are American workers being sidelined in their own tech hubs?

As US tech giants expand their H-1B workforce, evidence suggests American-born workers are increasingly sidelined, with job listings funneled through immigration departments rather than open recruitment channels. Critics argue this exploits regulatory loopholes, fueling concerns over premeditated workforce replacement, ethical hiring, and the future balance between domestic employment and the country’s reliance on skilled foreign labor.

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Google to offer Gemini to US agencies at $0.50 per agency a year

Google has launched Gemini for Government, joining OpenAI and Anthropic in offering AI services to US federal agencies at minimal cost. Priced under $0.50 per agency annually, this partnership with the GSA provides access to Google's AI tools like NotebookLM and Veo. This move supports the GSA's OneGov Strategy and the President's AI Action Plan.

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How much will it cost to study Biomedical Sciences at Harvard University?

Harvard’s Biomedical Informatics programme offers students a pathway to bridge medicine, technology, and research, preparing them for careers in biotech, pharmaceuticals, precision medicine, and public health. For the 2024–25 academic year, total costs—including tuition, fees, housing, and living expenses—range from $79,936 to $84,244 annually, making financial planning essential, though the programme promises unparalleled academic and career opportunities.

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Trump threatens California schools with funding cuts over transgender policies, escalating culture war in America

President Donald Trump has threatened to cut federal funding to California schools that defy his administration’s transgender policies, intensifying a long-running clash with the state. The dispute, rooted in California’s inclusion of transgender athletes in girls’ sports, has sparked lawsuits, political backlash, and nationwide debate—placing students, particularly scholarship hopefuls, at the centre of an escalating cultural and legal battle.

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Wednesday, August 20, 2025

93% of Indian business leaders plan to use AI agents in next 12-18 months : Microsoft

​​Highlighting how Indian companies are ahead of their global counterparts in adopting generative AI tools, the report has pointed out productivity, creativity, and security have emerged as the biggest drivers of change.

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The great resignation becomes the 'great stay' in the US: What you need to know about job hugging and stagnant labour markets

The US labour market has shifted from the great resignation to the “great stay,” with many workers engaging in “job hugging” by holding onto their roles amid economic uncertainty. The quits rate remains near historic lows as job openings decline and hiring slows. Experts warn this cautious approach may limit wage growth and career progression while restricting opportunities for new jobseekers, signalling a stagnant and cautious labour market.

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Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Donald Trump vs. Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Who was the brighter student?

The recent White House meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, alongside European leaders, highlighted contrasting leadership styles amid global tensions over Ukraine. Beyond diplomacy, their formative years and education reveal striking differences: Trump, the businessman shaped by wealth and risk-taking, and Zelenskyy, the entertainer-turned-president molded by intellect, discipline, and creativity. Their student experiences illuminate how early development influenced their paths to power.

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Maine schools test new model for inclusive education: Will it be a changemaker?

Maine is launching a five-year pilot to integrate students with disabilities into general classrooms, aiming to break long-standing educational silos. With one in five children needing special education—well above the national average—the program, backed by federal funding and the University of Maine, seeks to improve inclusion, reduce costs, and create learning environments where all students can thrive.

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Indians on H-1B: Where will they go if they lose jobs in the US?

For Indian professionals on H-1B and L-1 visas, the American dream is increasingly uncertain. Visa restrictions, sudden policy shifts, and political rhetoric are reshaping career and life choices. A Blind poll shows 45% would return to India if laid off, drawn by family, cultural ties, and tech opportunities, while regulatory changes and professional risks continue to complicate long-term planning.

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81% of US teachers report worsening student behaviour, stress at breaking point

A new National Education Association survey reveals that 81% of US teachers report worsening student behaviour, with many calling it a daily crisis disrupting instruction. Studies by RAND and Pew highlight behaviour as the top stressor, fuelling burnout, lost learning hours, and teacher attrition. Without systemic reforms, classrooms risk becoming pressure cookers for both educators and students.

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Monday, August 18, 2025

California spent millions on STEM programmes for women, results are still unsatisfactory: Will Trump's funding cuts deepen the crisis?

Over the past decade, California invested heavily to boost women’s participation in STEM fields, yet progress has been modest. Women remain underrepresented in engineering, computer science, and mathematics, and the COVID-19 pandemic shifted focus away from gender equity. Federal funding cuts under the Trump administration now threaten research programs, mentorship initiatives, and the overall pipeline, risking further setbacks for women in STEM.

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Chicago's Black Students Success Plan: Why is the Trump administration investigating it?

In February 2025, Chicago Public Schools launched the Black Student Success Plan, a five-year initiative aimed at closing racial achievement gaps through increased Black teacher representation, reduced suspensions, and expanded Black history education. The plan triggered a federal investigation under Title VI, prompting city leaders to defend it as essential for equity, while raising a national debate over race-conscious education policies.

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Gen Z does not want ‘work from home,’ says report: What disadvantages is the current workforce facing?

A Gallup report reveals that Generation Z, despite being digitally adept, largely rejects fully remote work, favoring hybrid models instead. Early-career employees cite diminished mentorship, reduced visibility, social isolation, and limited learning opportunities as key challenges in virtual settings. The findings highlight that technological fluency cannot replace human connection, career guidance, and in-person engagement essential for professional growth.

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Oklahoma draws a political line in the classroom: "America First" test demands ideological loyalty from out-of-state teachers

Oklahoma has unveiled an “America First” certification test for teachers from California and New York, requiring them to align with the state’s conservative education standards. Developed with PragerU, the exam reflects sweeping curriculum changes and has drawn fierce backlash from unions, who call it political grandstanding that deepens teacher shortages and politicizes classrooms already under strain.

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Sunday, August 17, 2025

Chancellor proposes merging Oakland’s two largest colleges into ‘Oakland City College’ amid financial strain

Chancellor Tammeil Gilkerson has proposed merging Laney and Merritt colleges into a single institution named Oakland City College, in response to mounting financial strain on the Peralta Community College District. With a $13.5 million shortfall and loss of state funding boosts, the consolidation aims to preserve services, streamline operations, and reshape higher education in Oakland.

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Authority isn’t about job titles, it’s about how you speak," says Melody Wilding, workplace psychology expert: Here's what professionals must learn

Workplace psychology expert Melody Wilding, who has advised leaders at Google, Amazon, and other Fortune 500 firms, emphasizes that authority isn’t about titles—it’s about how you speak. She highlights three phrases professionals can use to communicate confidently and decisively. For students, mastering structured, evidence-based communication builds influence, credibility, and leadership potential even before formal positions.

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Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti extends JNVST Class 6 admission 2025 registration: Check direct link to apply here

The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) has extended the registration deadline for JNVST Class 6 Admission 2025 to August 27, 2025, allowing aspirants to apply online via cbseitms.rcil.gov.in. The process has been simplified, requiring a photograph, signatures, and Aadhaar or residence proof. Each school admits up to 80 students. The selection test will be held in two phases: December 13, 2025, and April 11, 2026.

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These four traits can secure your spot at top US colleges

Every year, high school seniors navigate the Common Application, hoping to impress top US colleges. Beyond grades and test scores, admissions officers prioritize four key traits: intellectual curiosity, meaningful contribution to community, authenticity, and fit with the institution. Success comes not from perfection, but from applications that genuinely reflect a student’s character, passion, and potential to thrive.

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Saturday, August 16, 2025

10 fastest-growing jobs in America that can earn you six figures

While overall job growth in the US is slowing, careers in technology, healthcare, and specialized fields are surging, offering high salaries and rapid expansion. Roles like software developers, data scientists, nurse practitioners, and biomedical engineers are leading this transformation. Advanced skills, adaptability, and societal impact define the opportunities shaping America’s economic future.

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From Elon Musk to Mark Zuckerberg, these 5 billionaires founded schools

As traditional education struggles to meet 21st-century demands, billionaires are founding schools that prioritize creativity, critical thinking, and holistic development. Visionaries like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos are pioneering innovative, student-centered models, while global leaders such as Oprah Winfrey and Sunny Varkey expand access worldwide. These initiatives are redefining learning, preparing students for a rapidly changing, complex future.

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This is why cramming is killing your memory: 8 reasons students forget faster, stress more, and score lower

Cramming may offer quick recall, but it undermines long-term learning. Research shows that distributed practice, retrieval-based study, adequate sleep, and low stress build durable memory, while massed sessions, all-nighters, and multitasking produce fleeting understanding. By highlighting eight science-backed reasons why last-minute studying fails, this guide shows students how evidence-based strategies can enhance retention, comprehension, and academic performance.

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Friday, August 15, 2025

Harvard under fire as more than 14,000 push back against $500 million Trump deal: Campus activists vow to fight political interference

Harvard University faces increasing internal pressure to reject a potential settlement with the Trump administration regarding frozen federal research funds. A letter signed by over 14,000 individuals warns against political concessions that could undermine academic freedom. Critics fear the deal's terms, including potential oversight of academic programs and restrictions on campus activism, would set a dangerous precedent for higher education.

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As regulatory curbs seem to ease fintechs bet on festive spark in unsecured lending play

After a period of slowdown due to regulatory measures, the digital lending sector anticipates a turnaround in FY26, fueled by the upcoming festive season. Fintechs and traditional lenders are cautiously optimistic, observing signs of easing stress in the unsecured credit market. Lenders are revisiting risk weights and recalibrating partnerships, expecting a strong second half driven by increased demand.

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US Education Department's proposal could block student loan forgiveness for thousands of public workers

The Trump administration has proposed new rules that could deny Public Service Loan Forgiveness to public employees whose organizations are deemed to have engaged in activities with a “substantial illegal purpose.” This change could impact thousands of government and nonprofit workers, particularly those in institutions working with immigrants or transgender youth.

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Thursday, August 14, 2025

OpenAI aims to stay ahead of rivals with new GPT-5 technology

OpenAI has launched GPT-5, a major ChatGPT upgrade that’s faster, more accurate, and better at reasoning. It powers the free version, enabling human-like conversations and rapid app creation. OpenAI also released open-source models, seeks $40 billion funding, and faces a copyright lawsuit.

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How much you can earn in the US as a data scientist

Data scientists in the US earn an average annual salary of $156,790, according to 365 Data Science’s 2025 report based on Glassdoor data. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $112,590 as of May 2024, with projections showing 36% employment growth by 2031. Senior roles have seen an 11.7% salary increase. Key skills in demand include data visualisation, predictive modelling, and statistical analysis, with tech unemployment remaining around 2%.

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Wednesday, August 13, 2025

RBI committee recommends AI framework for finance sector

A Reserve Bank of India panel suggests a plan for Artificial Intelligence in finance. The proposal includes building local AI models and a risk assessment group. It also suggests a fund to boost Indian AI development. The aim is to balance innovation and risk control. The plan has 26 suggestions, including integrating AI with UPI and audit systems.

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Escape Plan announces partnership with actor Hrithik Roshan's HRX

Designed with the modern explorer in mind, the HRX and Escape Plan collection blends performance, style, and utility across products such as luggage, organisers, and other travel essentials, it said.

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MAH LLB 5-year CAP 2025 round 2 seat allotment out at llb5cap25.mahacet.org

MAH LLB CAP 2025: The State CET Cell, Maharashtra, has announced the MAH LLB 5-year CAP 2025 round 2 seat allotment results at llb5cap25.mahacet.org. Candidates can check their seat allotment status using their MAH CET application ID and must report to allotted colleges by August 19. Those seeking round 3 admission need to pay a Rs 1,000 seat acceptance fee. Detailed instructions to check and download the allotment order are provided on the official website.

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New work permit rules in Georgia from 2026: What foreign professionals should expect

From March 1, 2026, Georgia will introduce a mandatory work permit system for most foreign nationals, replacing the current policy that allows employment without a dedicated permit. Employers must apply on behalf of foreign workers, with processing times of up to 30 days. Certain groups, such as permanent residents and recognised refugees, will be exempt. A transition period runs until January 1, 2027. Non-compliance will result in fines for both foreign workers and employers.

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Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Over 10,000 Indian startups rush to join UAE-India CEPA Council's series

Offering a comprehensive launchpad, from mentorship to regulatory guidance, the programme leverages the opportunities created under the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to accelerate cross-border growth.

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NEET UG counselling 2025 round 1 result declared at mcc.nic.in; download PDF here

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has released the NEET UG 2025 Round 1 provisional seat allotment result on its official website, mcc.nic.in. A total of 26,608 candidates have been allotted seats. Discrepancies can be reported via email until 11:00 AM on August 13, 2025. The result is provisional and subject to change. Candidates must report to allotted institutes only after downloading the final allotment letter from the MCC portal.

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Dismantling the Department of Education: How Linda McMahon is using Louisiana as an unlikely success story

Education Secretary Linda McMahon is using Louisiana’s significant literacy improvements to support the Trump administration’s plan to dismantle the US Department of Education. Beginning a nationwide tour, McMahon highlights how returning education control to states encourages local innovation and better use of federal funds. Despite legal challenges, cuts to the department continue, with special education funding and the department’s future remaining key points of discussion.

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Monday, August 11, 2025

Billions lost to compliance: McMahon explains how Trump aims to get that money to teachers and kids

US Education Secretary Linda McMahon has outlined President Donald Trump’s plan to overhaul the education system by eliminating federal bureaucracy. In a Newsmax interview shared by @RapidResponse47, McMahon stated that over half of school funding goes to regulatory compliance. She explained Trump’s intention to shut down the US Department of Education, shift key functions to other agencies, and return control to states. McMahon cited low reading proficiency scores as evidence of the need for reform.

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‘Anti-woke’ Florida state in legal crosshairs: Civil Rights complaint says 32 scholarships play race and gender favourites; what’s actually happening?

Florida State University is under federal investigation after a civil rights complaint alleged 32 scholarships discriminate based on race and gender. Filed by the Equal Protection Project, the complaint claims donor preferences violate Title VI, Title IX, and the Equal Protection Clause. FSU denies wrongdoing, but the case highlights ongoing debates over equity and donor influence in scholarship awards.

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Sunday, August 10, 2025

Truemeds closes $85 million funding led by Accel and Peak XV Partners

Truemeds, a telehealth platform, has received $85 million in funding. Accel and Peak XV Partners led the investment round. The company plans to expand its fulfillment centers and team. They will also establish a technology hub in Bengaluru. Truemeds aims to triple its national presence. The platform competes with other e-pharmacies in India.

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Saturday, August 9, 2025

Sebi proposes lower entry threshold for large-value AIFs at Rs 25 crore

In a consultation paper issued on Friday, the regulator said the changes aim to widen investor participation and cut compliance costs. The proposals follow recommendations from Sebi's Alternative Investment Policy Advisory Committee and the Ease of Doing Business Working Group.

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ICMAI CMA June 2025 result for intermediate and final to be declared on August 11 at icmai.in

CMA June 2025 result: The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) will declare the CMA June 2025 Intermediate and Final results on August 11 at icmai.in. Candidates can log in using their 17-digit registration number and password to access the results. The announcement time is expected around 8 am, based on past trends. ICMAI earlier released the Foundation results on July 8. December 2024 session pass percentages have also been shared for both Intermediate and Final levels.

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Friday, August 8, 2025

Operating at just 65% capacity, Atlanta public schools plan closures amid enrollment decline

Atlanta Public Schools faces a significant challenge with declining enrollment, leading to underutilized facilities and financial strain. Operating at only 65% capacity, the district is considering school closures, consolidations, and redistricting to align resources with shifting student populations. This mirrors a national trend, threatening K-12 stability and forcing difficult decisions to maintain educational quality.

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OpenAI's present priorities don't include IPO, says CEO Sam Altman

OpenAI has launched GPT-5, its most advanced AI model. It boasts improved accuracy and reduced errors. CEO Sam Altman clarified that an IPO is not an immediate priority. He expressed concerns about private share trading. India is now OpenAI's second-largest market after the US. The company aims to make AI more accessible and affordable in India through local partnerships.

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New Trump policy pushes colleges to prove race isn’t a factor in admissions: Here’s how it could reshape admissions and student opportunities

The Trump administration has mandated elite universities to submit detailed admissions data, aiming to prove race isn't a factor, following the 2023 Supreme Court's affirmative action ban. This intensifies scrutiny on admissions processes, raising concerns about campus diversity. Colleges face challenges in balancing legal compliance with diversity goals, potentially impacting underrepresented students' access and representation.

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Thursday, August 7, 2025

Inside the H-1B visa collapse: Why 2025 is reshaping the future of skilled immigration in the US

The H-1B visa program, crucial for skilled international workers, faces increasing political opposition, particularly from Steve Bannon and Marjorie Taylor Greene, who advocate for its ban. Their rhetoric has sparked anxiety among Indian students and professionals, who fear being targeted amid rising visa restrictions and political uncertainty. This situation threatens U.S. reputation as a global hub for talent and innovation.

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School shootings in the US: Bullets bleed local economies too; here's the hidden toll

A new study previewed by the Harvard Business Review reveals that fatal school shootings in the US cause more than emotional trauma, they disrupt local economies. Consumer spending drops sharply as fear replaces routine. From grocery shopping to dining out, community life retreats, and small businesses suffer lasting losses. The economic toll is invisible, but deeply felt.

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Why America’s richest universities are laying off staff: The hidden cost of federal funding cuts

In 2025, even elite US universities like Harvard and Stanford are facing significant staff layoffs due to sweeping federal funding cuts. Reduced research grants, international aid, and increased endowment taxes have strained operating budgets, forcing institutions to make difficult decisions. Despite massive endowments, restricted funds and long-term investment strategies limit their ability to offset these sudden financial shocks.

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Wednesday, August 6, 2025

US Department of Education to reform special needs programs with more access, choice, and new learning models

The US Department of Education is set to revamp special needs programs, prioritizing personalized learning and family empowerment. This reform aims to provide students with disabilities greater access to diverse educational options, including charter, private, and online programs. While modernizing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), concerns arise regarding equity and oversight in private institutions.

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Explained: America's Education Freedom Accounts programme; know who is eligible, how to apply and more

New Hampshire's Education Freedom Accounts (EFA) program, a voucher system allowing families to use public funds for private education, has experienced rapid growth. Enrollment has nearly doubled, reaching 10,000 students, prompting both support for personalized learning and concerns about the financial strain on public schools. The program's expansion and budget implications continue to fuel debate.

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Pennsylvania universities are resorting to layoffs: Here is why

Pennsylvania's universities face increasing financial strain, leading to layoffs, campus closures, and mergers. Declining enrollment, stagnant funding, and rising costs are major factors. Temple University cut positions, while Penn State closed seven campuses. Institutions are exploring mergers and shared services to mitigate the crisis, but experts warn that current state funding may be insufficient to reverse the trend.

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Tuesday, August 5, 2025

OpenAI releases open-weight reasoning models optimised for running on laptops

OpenAI has introduced two open-weight language models, gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b, designed for advanced reasoning and optimized for local use. These models, the first open releases since 2019, demonstrate performance comparable to OpenAI's proprietary models in coding, math, and health-related tasks. Trained on a text-only dataset emphasizing science, math, and coding, they aim to provide accessible AI capabilities.

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How Columbia’s federal deal could affect your campus job, stipend, or research opportunity

Columbia University has received its federal research funding again. This follows a settlement with the US government. Students involved in research will benefit. Campus jobs and stipends are expected to resume. International student admissions may face changes. Students should check for updates on programs and funding. The university is navigating post-settlement obligations.

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Monday, August 4, 2025

Why are rural students in the US skipping college despite increased recruitment efforts?

Despite graduating high school at higher rates, rural students in the US continue to enroll in college at significantly lower levels. In 2023, only 55% pursued higher education, compared to 64% of suburban and 59% of urban graduates, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. Economic alternatives, geographic barriers, and cultural skepticism are compounding factors behind this persistent gap.

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Tesla grants CEO Musk $29 billion in stock to 'keep Elon's energies focused'



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Sunday, August 3, 2025

Kaynes looks to open Rs 4,995 crore components making unit in Tamil Nadu

This would mark the first large scale investment in PCB manufacturing in Tamil Nadu. It underscores plans by the state government to set up a new electronics manufacturing cluster in Thoothukudi—far from the established hubs of Sriperumbudur and Hosur.

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Harvard rejects $500 million deal with Trump, says academic freedom is nonnegotiable

Harvard University President Alan M. Garber has denied reports of a $500 million settlement with the Trump administration, stating academic freedom is nonnegotiable, according to The Harvard Crimson. The University continues legal action over frozen federal research funding, while peer institutions like Columbia and Brown have already settled. Internal opposition has grown amid fears of policy concessions. Garber’s comments suggest Harvard may pursue a full legal resolution before considering any form of settlement.

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Saturday, August 2, 2025

Big Tech continues to hire in India even as local majors downsize

Despite global layoffs, FAAMNG companies are expanding their India headcount, growing by 16% in the past year, driven by demand for AI, cloud, and cybersecurity skills. While Indian IT firms face workforce reductions due to skills mismatch, Big Tech's India-based global capability centers are increasing hiring for high-end work and innovation.

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Brands press enter; GEO to show up more in AI searches

Data suggests that LLM-based searches are likely to outpace plain vanilla Google searches by 2028. MyMuse is seeing a 10% increase in its monthly searches on ChatGPT since it started focusing on GEO. Softly offers GEO services to B2B, B2C and D2C companies. Asva AI is another startup helping companies improve their presence on these models. Industry experts are of the view that LLMs are particularly well suited for specific user queries and private information-seeking behaviour.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Taiwan to face economic risk as US mulls semiconductor tariffs under Trump proposal: Think tank

Taiwan is bracing for a significant economic challenge as US President Donald Trump threatens to impose a tariff on semiconductors, according to the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER).

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Friday, August 1, 2025

Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

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Axiom Mission-4 a success for India and Gaganyaan, says astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

Per Shukla, the mission’s pilot, the experiments designed by ISRO and Indian researchers aimed at enabling India’s human spaceflight ambitions. Some experiments, such as stem cell research conducted in microgravity, could help decode why muscle atrophy happens and how it might be prevented or delayed, both in space and on earth.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Thursday, July 31, 2025

AI-led ad frauds skim billions from brands one click at a time

From China to Egypt, the murky world of fake clicks is thriving. So-called “click farms” are inflating website traffic numbers and duping advertisers, while the black market for digital ad fraud shows no signs of slowing. The schemes go beyond bots tapping on ads.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Swiggy's Q1 losses double to Rs 1,197 crore, revenue rises 54%

For the April-June period, Swiggy's net loss doubled year-on-year to Rs 1,197 crore, while it spent Rs 1,053 crore of cash on a net basis, after accounting for operating, investing, and financing activities. The Bengaluru-based company's operating revenue for the quarter increased 54% to Rs 4,961 crore.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Wednesday, July 30, 2025

BharatPe firmly on profitability track, eyes $100 million round

BharatPe, the fintech once mired in lawsuits and boardroom drama, is on the verge of a turnaround. Sources told us the company expects to post its first annual profit this fiscal, signalling a clean break from its turbulent past. Over the past two years, BharatPe has tightened its belt and pushed revenue growth, turning the business cash-positive month on month.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Edtech firm Arivihan raises $4.17 million from Prosus, Accel

GSF Investors participated in the funding round. The edtech firm that offers automated, personalised coaching for school students will use the funds to expand into UP, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh; grow its AI research and language support capabilities; and strengthen its on-ground marketing and distribution efforts. Arivihan had earlier raised $750,000 from Accel’s seed-stage programme, Atoms.

from Tech-Economic Times
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TikTok asks users to help police misinformation

With a new feature, Footnotes, TikTok will let a select group of users add context and background information to some of the short videos on the app, along with links to the information's sources.

from Tech-Economic Times
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AI to impact 1.8 crore jobs in manufacturing, retail, education sectors by 2030: Report

Manufacturing jobs will bear the highest impact with 80 lakh workers to be affected, closely followed with retail with 76 lakh jobs to be impacted and education jobs impact is pegged at 25 lakh over the next five years, as per the report by Servicenow.

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Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Palo Alto Networks in talks to buy CyberArk in deal worth over $20 billion: Report

Shares in CyberArk rose about 13%, while Palo Alto Networks' stock fell roughly 2%. Palo Alto Networks could finalise a deal for CyberArk as soon as later this week, the report said.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Monday, July 28, 2025

US will change visa interview policy from September 2

The US Department of State on July 25 announced that all non-immigrant visa applicants barring B1/B2 categories will require in-person interview. The requirement will also cover the previously excluded category of children below 14 years of age and elderly applicants aged over 79.

from Tech-Economic Times
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MeitY wants tariff shield for electronics exports

MeitY has pinged Commerce Department to help ensure electronics exports from India are not clubbed with China, others.

from Tech-Economic Times
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TCS to freeze senior hiring, pause annual salary hikes

Onboarding delays for those with experience who have been hired exceeds 65 days, according to the people cited. The Tata Group unit has already started phasing out hundreds of benched staff in Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai and Kolkata, in line with its new policy that mandates such employees to find projects in 35 days or leave. TCS did not comment on the development.

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Agritech DeHaat’s FY25 revenue up 11% to Rs 3,000 crore

Temasek-backed DeHaat clocked revenue of Rs 3,000 crore in FY25, an 11% increase from the prior year, and is currently operating at an annual revenue run rate of Rs 4,000 crore, said Shashank Kumar, who is also its chief executive. He did not provide the profit and revenue figures for the first quarter, or the bottom line for the last fiscal year. The company has yet to file the financial statements for FY25 with the Registrar of Companies.

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Sunday, July 27, 2025

Ather Energy narrows gap with Ola Electric as EV sales decline amid rare earth magnet crunch

Ola Electric's focus on profitability has led to a market share decline, with Ather Energy closing the gap. The electric two-wheeler segment faces challenges due to China's rare earth magnet export restrictions, impacting production even for major players like Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor. Meanwhile the Bhavish Agarwal-led electric scooter maker is undertaking the uphill task of developing alternative motors.

from Tech-Economic Times
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US to release result of probe into chip imports in two weeks

The Trump administration is set to reveal the results of a national security probe into semiconductor imports in two weeks, signaling potential new tariffs. President Trump hinted that companies, including those from Taiwan, would invest in U.S. manufacturing to avoid these tariffs. A new trade framework with the EU includes tariffs on imports, with autos facing even higher rates.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Saturday, July 26, 2025

Studying AI, technology alone cannot foster humanity in students; need literature, arts: SC Judge

At a felicitation event at Allahabad University, Supreme Court Justices emphasised holistic education. Justice Manoj Mishra stressed the need for arts and humanities alongside technology. Justices Vikram Nath, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and Pankaj Mithal highlighted the value of tolerance, life experience, teacher-student bonds, and staying connected with literature, society, and university life.

from Tech-Economic Times
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‘In the future, most sentient minds will be digital—and they should be treated well’

In Deep Utopia, philosopher and AI theorist Nick Bostrom, Director of the Future of Humanity Institute at Oxford University, explores a future shaped by superintelligent AI. With work, ageing, and scarcity gone, he asks what gives life meaning, urging wise development to avoid disaster and ensure well-being for all minds.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Quick fashion plays trials with AI to win ‘no return’ game

Startups bet big on ‘try and buy’ and virtual try-on tools for fewer returns. While these tools lower costs and improve customer satisfaction, concerns remain over long-term viability due to added logistics expenses.

from Tech-Economic Times
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US health officials, tech executives to launch data-sharing plan: Report

Top Trump health officials will reportedly meet tech executives at the White House to promote smoother health-care data sharing. The event is expected to take place Wednesday.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Friday, July 25, 2025

Rare earth shortage hits electronic component companies

While applications under the scheme have surged past 110 now, at least 10 firms have sounded out worries at a time when the industry is keen on expanding its production and export footprint, officials at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and industry executives told ET.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Thursday, July 24, 2025

Setu strengthens top deck with senior execs from Razorpay, PhonePe, Wibmo

Pine Labs-owned fintech appoints Anand Raisinghani as CEO, brings in former leaders from Razorpay, Clear, and PhonePe across key roles.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Grok steps into prediction markets with xAI, Kalshi partnership

Kalshi is now partnering with Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company xAI to integrate Grok, xAI's advanced chatbot, into the prediction market experience.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Wednesday, July 23, 2025

US tariffs, big beautiful bill derail Indian IT’s big shift away from BFSI

India’s IT sector faces earnings pressure as key verticals like manufacturing, life sciences, and communications see spending cuts due to global disruptions and US policy changes. While firms pivot to BFSI and retail for stability, sector-wide growth remains cautious amid regulatory, pricing, and supply chain headwinds impacting client priorities.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Meta launches new teen safety features, removes 635,000 accounts that sexualise children

The company also announced Wednesday that it has removed thousands of accounts that were leaving sexualised comments or requesting sexual images from adult-run accounts of kids under 13. Of these, 135,000 were commenting and another 500,000 were linked to accounts that "interacted inappropriately," Meta said in a blog post.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Infosys profit surges 8.7% on deals, Europe show

Infosys raised its lower-end growth forecast for the fiscal, with revenue expected to expand between 1% and 3% from the earlier 0-3%. The company is also gaining from increased adoption of artificial intelligence, top executives said. AI programmes are improving productivity between 5% and 15% and this is being partly passed on to customers, according to CEO Salil Parekh who struck an optimistic note at the company’s post earnings call on Wednesday.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Europe revival helps IT survive quarter shocks

HCLTech, LTIMindtree, and Tech Mahindra gained new business from European clients, marking a revival for the region after three quarters of deal slowdown. Overall revenues in these companies rose in low single digits in the three months ended June.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Telegram introduces built-in crypto wallet, bringing its users into mainstream blockchain

The Open Network (TON) is a decentralised, layer-1 blockchain platform developed by the Telegram team, led by the Durov brothers, to create a highly scalable and user-friendly blockchain ecosystem integrated with the Telegram app.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Monday, July 21, 2025

New-age travel accessories platform Escape Plan raises $5 million from Jungle Ventures, Fireside Ventures

Launched in May 2025, the Bengaluru-based company sells travel bags and accessories for everyday as well as vacation travel. The fresh funds will be used to expand its retail footprint, acquire customers, and launch its quick commerce services.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Lawmakers want US tech CEOs to address concerns about submarine cables

Washington has been raising alarm about the network of more than 400 subsea cables that handle 99% of international internet traffic. The letter was signed by Representative John Moolenaar, who chairs a House panel on China and two other Republicans.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Reliance Retail claims market leadership across channels

The retail arm of Reliance Industries said that while all segments performed well, the grocery and fashion segments propelled it to the market leadership spot.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Sunday, July 20, 2025

AI-assisted coding is the way to go when hiring graduates: LTIMindtree CEO

Venugopal Lambu said there was more emphasis in terms of the learning ability, and the foundational skill sets that freshers have on which companies can build, using their training and learning methods. “So those assessments will always improvise it…Whenever we hire people, we take all those aspects, whether it is related to the coding roles, cloud roles or infrastructure roles or data roles,” he said.

from Tech-Economic Times
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IT companies tighten belt as AI, macro headwinds squeeze biz margins

The fiscal first quarter showed companies are stretching all internal levers aggressively to protect profits amid slowing large-deal momentum. This includes lowering selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) costs, delaying pay hikes, and rejigging bench policies. Analysts expect the trend to continue through the fiscal second half as the IT sector is turning into a "negotiator's market".

from Tech-Economic Times
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New high tech incubators to get millions in funding

The Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) launched a competitive proceeding to establish new high-tech incubators with up to a 40 million Shekel (USD 11.9 million) investment per Incubator.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Saturday, July 19, 2025

Musk says xAI will make kid-friendly app 'Baby Grok'

Elon Musk’s AI firm xAI is set to launch "Baby Grok," a separate, kid-friendly chatbot app. Announced via Musk’s X post, the move follows efforts to enhance Grok’s features and public image. It comes amid xAI’s rapid AI expansion, including Grok 4’s debut and government-focused product offerings.

from Tech-Economic Times
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RSSB PHED recruitment 2025: Application for 1,050 support engineer and chemist posts to begin shortly at rssb.rajasthan.gov.in

The Rajasthan Staff Selection Board (RSSB) has announced the recruitment of 1,050 Support Engineers and Support Chemists under the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED). The application process will begin soon at rssb.rajasthan.gov.in. Eligible candidates with relevant engineering or science qualifications may apply. The selection process includes a CBT, document verification, and a final merit list. Salary is set at Rs 16,900 per month, with additional allowances as per government norms.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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Eight chipsets designed by IIT students sent to fabs: IT Minister Vaishnaw

Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) students have designed 20 chipsets, with eight already sent for fabrication, signaling significant progress in domestic semiconductor development. The first commercial-scale, made-in-India semiconductor chip is expected this year, supported by government initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission and AIKosh. India's electronics exports have surged, marking substantial growth in the sector.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Friday, July 18, 2025

Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Future-proofing of jobs: Mid-career pros rewire skills to ride AI current

TeamLease reported over 60% growth in enrolments for micro-credential courses this year, while Simplilearn noted growing demand from professionals in their 30s and 40s seeking domain pivots or deeper specialisation. Online learning platform Coursera also reported that 39% of its learners are career switchers, drawn by the promise of better growth, pay, and job security.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Thursday, July 17, 2025

OpenAI unveils ChatGPT agent to handle tasks as AI apps evolve

AI agents - considered to be an evolution of an assistant - have been embraced across the tech world with large firms, including Microsoft, Salesforce and Oracle, spending billions on the technology to boost productivity and make operations more cost efficient.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Wipro Q1 net profit up 11% to Rs 3,337 crore, revenue flat

Wipro faced a compression in business in all geographies of Europe, Americas 2 and APMEA (Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) and business verticals such as banking, financial services & insurance and consumer in the April-June period compared with the prior quarter.

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Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Wipro looking to become consulting-led, AI-powered company, says Rishad Premji

Addressing the Bengaluru-based company’s 79th annual general meeting through videoconferencing on Wednesday, the son of billionaire promoter Azim Premji said 2024-25 was a year of significant change for Wipro as well as the world.

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Sam Altman endorses Jensen Huang’s view on AI and its impact on jobs

In a post on X, Altman noted key themes Huang has emphasised: AI will not eliminate jobs wholesale but will fundamentally change how work is done.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Sarvam AI will open source its IndiaAI Mission AI models

The company has received the highest subsidy allocated under the IndiaAI Mission so far at Rs 98.68 crore, out of a bill of Rs 246.71 crore for access to 4,096 Nvidia H100 GPUs for six months, as per the IndiaAI website.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Mid-year ecommerce sales spike sets the stage for cracking festive season

Ecommerce order volumes rose 19% during the July 11–14 sale, driven by strong demand in electronics, appliances, and fashion. Tier-II and III cities led growth. Brands saw up to 8x sales spikes, prompting festive season preparations. The momentum signals recovery after last year’s slowdown, boosting industry optimism for Diwali.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Monday, July 14, 2025

HCLTech’s first quarter net drops 10% YoY to Rs 3,843 crore, revenue up 8%

India’s third-largest software services company reported a net profit of Rs 3,843 crore in the three months ended June, historically a soft quarter for the software business. Margins fell 16.3% during the quarter amid lower employee utilisation “due to delay in implementation and ramp-down of a specific program, which resulted in a larger bench.”

from Tech-Economic Times
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Sunday, July 13, 2025

Very unfair criticism to call TCS one-trick pony: CEO K Krithivasan

TCS CEO K Krithivasan attributes recent revenue dips to global economic uncertainties impacting client spending. Despite challenges in sectors like airlines and auto, TCS remains confident, dismissing reliance on the BSNL deal as a mischaracterization. Strategic moves, including service line alignment and AI integration, aim to drive future growth and adapt to evolving IT service models.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Smaller EV players nearly wiped out as FAME-II crackdown triggers sales collapse

Electric two-wheeler makers penalised for FAME-II subsidy violations have experienced a significant sales decline, with smaller players struggling. Government crackdown consolidated market share among compliant companies like TVS and Bajaj. Investigations into fraudulent subsidy claims led to subsidy suspensions and price increases, impacting consumer demand. A new FAME-III programme is anticipated to promote electric mobility with stricter compliance.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Saturday, July 12, 2025

JEECUP 2025: Round 2 seat allotment announced at jeecup.admissions.nic.in for UP Polytechnic

JEECUP has announced the round 2 seat allotment for UP Polytechnic admissions 2025. Candidates can check their results on jeecup.admissions.nic.in and must complete seat acceptance fee payment, document verification, or seat withdrawal within the specified dates. The counselling process includes seven rounds, and the current phase runs from July 13 to 17, 2025. Candidates are required to carry original and photocopies of specified documents for verification at district help centres.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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Does AI actually boost productivity? evidence is murky

A survey of 2,500 professionals found generative AI actually increased workload for 77% of workers. Some 47% said they didn't know how to unlock productivity benefits. The study points to barriers such as the need to verify and/or correct AI outputs, the need for AI upskilling, and unreasonable expectations about what AI can do.

from Tech-Economic Times
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SpaceX to invest $2 billion in Musk's xAI startup: Report

SpaceX has invested $2 billion in xAI as part of a $5 billion equity round, strengthening Elon Musk's AI endeavors. This investment values the merged xAI and X at $113 billion, with the Grok chatbot now supporting Starlink and potentially integrating into Tesla's Optimus robots. Despite controversies, Musk touts Grok as the smartest AI, driving xAI's heavy spending on development.

from Tech-Economic Times
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xAI apologises for Grok's offensive posts

The company said the change occurred after the chatbot was prompted to "reply to the post just like a human" as well as "tell like it is and you are not afraid to offend people who are politically correct." As a result, Grok became susceptible to users' "extremist views," which made it produce "responses containing unethical or controversial opinions to engage the user."

from Tech-Economic Times
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Friday, July 11, 2025

Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

from Tech-Economic Times
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US move to lift chip software curbs on China puts India on alert

Regarding companies rethinking their ‘China Plus One’ strategy with the lifting of software curbs, Dixit said that companies considering investing in India for EDA development or other functions might choose to thoughtfully evaluate their timing. However, Shankar Krishnamoorthy, chief product development officer, Synopsys, said the company does not foresee the software export restrictions that were previously placed on China being placed on India, especially given India’s ambition to build its semiconductor ecosystem and the existing US-India collaboration in the sector.

from Tech-Economic Times
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X slashes subscription fees in India by up to 48%

The social media firm has slashed premium account subscription fee for mobile app by about 48% to Rs 470 from Rs 900 it charged earlier on a monthly basis. The subscribers of premium and premium-plus service at X get a checkmark next to their name or ID.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Thursday, July 10, 2025

Capgemini's $3.3 billion WNS buy may revive IT-plus-BPO model

Capgemini's $3.3 billion acquisition of WNS signals a resurgence of the IT-plus-BPO model, driven by the need for AI integration. Analysts anticipate further consolidation in the BPO sector as companies seek to leverage AI for growth and digital transformation. This deal reflects a broader industry shift towards AI-led reinvention and service-as-software models.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Wednesday, July 9, 2025

New 'strategist' COO at Apple faces tariff test

Sabih Khan, Apple's new COO, faces the challenge of reordering the global supply chain amid geopolitical tensions and the company's AI lag. He must balance US-China relations while expanding manufacturing in India and meeting sustainability goals. Khan's success hinges on ensuring timely delivery and quality of Apple products, navigating a complex and evolving global landscape.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Only 47% of schools offer skill-based courses: Government study

A recent PARAKH survey reveals that less than half of Indian schools offer skill-based courses for Classes IX and above, with only 29% of students participating. This highlights a significant gap in vocational education, hindering the Skill India Mission's goals.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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Open to supply products to US market from multiple sites, India based on tariff outcomes: Samsung

Samsung is closely monitoring US trade policy under the Trump administration and is prepared to shift production to India and other locations to maintain price and business stability. Amid high uncertainty, the company has diversified manufacturing, strengthened AI partnerships, and launched its new Galaxy Z foldable smartphone series.

from Tech-Economic Times
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OpenAI is readying an open-weight model that will debut as soon as next week: Report

The move would mark a major shift toward openness for the company, potentially allowing developers and researchers greater access and flexibility compared to current closed models like GPT-4 and GPT-4o.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Tuesday, July 8, 2025

IIT Delhi-incubated deeptech startup Green Aero secures 1.6 million from pi Ventures

The funds will be used for Green Aero’s R&D efforts, setting up an in-house testing facility, and hiring talent. Plans include commercialisation of its first small-category engine within the next 12 months while laying the groundwork for a larger engine platform.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Over half of school kids struggle with basics, reveals government survey

A recent PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan reveals significant learning gaps among Indian schoolchildren. A large percentage of students in Classes VI and IX struggle with basic math, language comprehension, and science concepts. The survey, encompassing over 21 lakh students across India, highlights persistent rural-urban and gender disparities, with varying performance levels among states and school types.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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OpenAI and Microsoft bankroll new AI training for teachers

The American Federation of Teachers is launching an AI training hub for educators, funded by Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic, to integrate AI tools into classrooms. This initiative follows similar moves by California State University and Miami-Dade County Public Schools to adopt AI technologies like ChatGPT and Gemini.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Monday, July 7, 2025

Can AI plan your next holiday?

Agoda CTO Idan Zalzberg sees AI evolving into a personalised travel planner, capable of handling complex tasks through conversational, agentic interactions. While AI improves efficiency and customer understanding, challenges like unpredictability remain. India, with its tech-savvy users, serves as a key testbed. Agoda has launched 150 GenAI projects globally.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Smarter AI needs smarter humans

As AI grows more advanced, the need for complex, high-quality training data has surged, making data annotation a critical industry. India is emerging as a key global hub, offering skilled talent across domains. With rapid market growth and increasing sophistication, data labelling now demands deep expertise in science, tech, and language.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Xbox producer recommends ChatGPT, Copilot prompts to laid off Microsoft staff

After Microsoft’s Xbox layoffs, executive producer Matt Turnbull suggested using AI chatbots like ChatGPT for emotional support and career guidance. In a deleted LinkedIn post, he shared prompts for job planning, resume help, and networking, aiming to ease the stress of unemployment.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Microsoft announces public preview of deep research in Azure AI foundry

This tool aims to accelerate research and deployment of frontier AI technologies, further strengthening Microsoft's position in enterprise-grade generative AI solutions.

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Sunday, July 6, 2025

Startups weigh government nod to use Aadhaar KYC for gig workers

Food delivery and e-commerce startups are seeking government approval for Aadhaar authentication to streamline gig worker verification, following a crackdown on unauthorized Aadhaar usage. Protean eGov Technologies offers a secure channel for Aadhaar access with ministry clearance, potentially simplifying KYC processes. Startups are exploring Digilocker-based verification and redirection processes to comply with regulations and ensure secure onboarding.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Saturday, July 5, 2025

UGC NET answer key 2025 for June exams released at ugcnet.nta.ac.in: Raise objections online by this date, direct link here

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the provisional answer key for the UGC NET June 2025 examination on ugcnet.nta.ac.in. Candidates can now download their recorded responses and question papers. The objection window is open until July 8, 2025, allowing candidates to challenge discrepancies with a non-refundable fee of Rs. 200 per question.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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AI robots fill in for weed killers and farm hands

Aigen's solar-powered, AI-driven robot "Element" autonomously weeds fields without chemicals, offering a sustainable solution to labour shortages and herbicide resistance. Designed by former Tesla engineer Richard Wurden, the robot mimics human weeding and runs on sunlight. The robot's AI system takes in data from onboard cameras, allowing it to follow crop rows and identify weeds.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to interact with school students at NESAC on Tuesday

The interaction is planned via a telebridge set up NESAC in Shillong, said the Amateur Radio on International Space Station (ARISS), which facilitates interaction of school students with astronauts on the orbital laboratory.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Friday, July 4, 2025

Top tech and startup stories this week

Welcome to a new edition of ETtech Unwrapped – our weekend newsletter packed with the most important stories this week. Let’s take a look.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Ban-battered bike-taxi riders say struggling to make both ends meet

Karnataka's bike-taxi ban has severely impacted Bengaluru's gig workers, slashing incomes by half. Approximately 150,000 riders are affected, forcing many into already saturated delivery services. This shift has also reduced earnings for existing food and grocery delivery workers. While some find alternatives like DriveU, many struggle to cover expenses and support families, hoping for the ban's revocation with regulated rules.

from Tech-Economic Times
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India GCC leasing now focusing on larger spaces as demand surges: Vestian report

Office space leasing by global capability centres in India surged 24% to 31.8 million sq ft in FY25, driven by IT, finance, and engineering services. Fortune 500 GCCs leased 13.5 million sq ft, a 25% increase, highlighting India's attractiveness. While the number of lease transactions decreased, larger office spaces became more prevalent, with large transactions rising significantly.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Thursday, July 3, 2025

Morocco bets on video game industry to provide jobs and diversify economy

Morocco is building a local gaming industry with a new developer hub, training programs, and a $26 million Rabat Gaming City. Hosting global developers at its gaming expo, the country aims to empower youth, attract investment, and double industry revenue by 2030 while combating high youth unemployment through tech-driven careers.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Ambiq Micro files for US IPO as generative AI fuels chip demand

Strong investor demand for AI-focused tech stocks is helping revive the IPO market, as investors warm again to high-growth tech startups they had largely avoided for nearly three years. The Austin, Texas-based company disclosed a net loss of $39.7 million in 2024, narrowing from a loss of $50.3 million in the previous year.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Wednesday, July 2, 2025

AI-backed brand analytics platform GobbleCube raises $3.5 million in round led by InfoEdge Ventures

Existing investor Kae Capital participated in the funding round. The fresh funds will be used to deepen its AI capabilities, expand platform coverage, and accelerate its global go-to-market efforts. Earlier in a seed round led by Kae Capital in 2024, the startup had raised $1.9 million.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Bhim gets big boost as NPCI scales up incentives, offers

Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM), the govt's UPI-based payment app, has seen a resurgence, nearly doubling its monthly transactions to 70 million in June after a period of stagnation. This growth is attributed to a user-interface revamp, increased marketing spend by NPCI, and targeted incentives.

from Tech-Economic Times
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India needs more telecom unicorns, says DoT secretary Neeraj Mittal

This follows the Union Cabinet clearing the Rs 1 lakh crore research, development, and innovation (RDI) scheme, which the government feels will give momentum to telecom startups in India.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Monday, June 30, 2025

Rapido eyeing food delivery ops pilot in Bengaluru by next week

Rapido will pilot its food delivery service, Ownly, in Bengaluru's Koramangala, HSR, and Sarjapur areas. Targeting 10 cities by next July, it aims to undercut Zomato and Swiggy on commissions. The company is collaborating with restaurants for data access and pricing strategies, prioritising sustainable growth and early learnings.

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Sunday, June 29, 2025

From Reels to Retail: India’s influencers turning as next startup founders

Indian social media influencers are transitioning from content creation to entrepreneurship, launching brands in beauty, fashion, and more. Leveraging their strong audience connections, they compete with established celebrities, focusing on niche communities. This evolution unlocks new value beyond influencer marketing, driven by India's vast digital population and creator ecosystem, with firms supporting their business ventures.

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Saturday, June 28, 2025

Tech industry group sues Arkansas over new social media laws

Arkansas is among several states that have been enacting restrictions on social media, prompted by concerns about the impact on children's mental health. NetChoice - whose members include Facebook parent Meta and the social platform X - challenged Arkansas' 2023 age-verification law for social media. A federal judge who initially blocked the law struck it down in March.

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AI is learning to lie, scheme, and threaten its creators

The world's most advanced AI models are exhibiting troubling new behaviors - lying, scheming, and even threatening their creators to achieve their goals. Users report that models are "lying to them and making up evidence," according to Apollo Research's co-founder.

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Friday, June 27, 2025

Karnataka’s fake news bill: Rs 10 lakh fine, 7-year jail for disrespecting sanatan symbols, promoting superstition

The draft bill includes setting up a state fake news regulatory authority tasked with a broad mandate to monitor and regulate the content disseminated on social media platforms. Defending the move, state IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge said the Congress government is not trying to change any policy but only making an effort to connect the dots that already exist and make a bill out of it.

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In pursuit of godlike technology, Mark Zuckerberg amps up the AI race

In April, Meta’s AI ambitions faltered as its new model underperformed rivals, prompting CEO Mark Zuckerberg to overhaul strategy. He demoted leaders, invested $14.3 billion in Scale AI, aggressively recruited top talent—some with $100M offers—and expanded Meta’s AI team, aiming to reassert Meta’s place in the superintelligence race.

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Thursday, June 26, 2025

Shadowfax to file IPO papers under confidential route

The hyperlocal logistics startups could be valued at around Rs 5,500-6,000 crore, depending on the market conditions at the time of the listing, a person in the know said. The company has increasingly focused on the fast-growing quick commerce sector over the last year by providing rapid delivery to brands and marketplaces without their own logistics.

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Microsoft is killing Windows' Blue Screen of Death

After four decades, Microsoft is replacing the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with a Black Screen of Death. The updated design aims for clarity, removing the sad face emoji and QR code, and prioritizing essential error information. This change is part of Microsoft's broader initiative to enhance Windows' resilience, following incidents that caused widespread BSOD errors.

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Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Bessemer Venture Partners sees $1 trillion digital opportunity in India; eyes quick commerce, D2C boom: report

According to a report titled ‘Click, Watch, Shop: The Indian Consumer Opportunity,’ the upcoming wave of value creation in India’s consumer internet space could be five times larger than the last decade. Quick commerce, D2C brands and mobile-first platforms will be big gainers, it added.

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Namma Yatri turns city-level Ebdita positive in core markets; launches welfare fund for drivers

Bengaluru's Namma Yatri achieves city-level profitability in key markets, with plans for further expansion. It has facilitated over 10 crore rides, generating significant earnings for drivers. Namma Yatri introduces a driver welfare trust, allocating 2% of revenue for financial support. The company aims to digitise public transport in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata.

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Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Mini ‘AI missions’ sprout in states boosting adoption and innovation

Indian states are launching AI missions to drive innovation, enhance public services, and boost local economies. From Rajasthan to Odisha and Telangana, states are creating policies, funding infrastructure, and enabling AI adoption. While challenges like limited budgets and skill gaps persist, this decentralised push aligns with India’s broader, enablement-focused tech strategy.

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Micron’s Sanand chip plant enters crucial cleanroom validation stage

Micron's Sanand plant in Gujarat has entered cleanroom validation for its Phase 1 ATMP facility, aiming for partial operation by late 2024. With a planned $2.75 billion investment, this milestone ensures a contamination-free environment crucial for semiconductor quality, marking significant progress toward production readiness in India’s chip manufacturing ecosystem.

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OpenAI goes after Google Docs, Microsoft's Word for web with new ChatGPT features

OpenAI is reportedly developing collaboration features for ChatGPT, potentially rivaling Google Docs and Microsoft Word. These features, including document collaboration and chat, could lead to file storage and other productivity tools. This move intensifies competition with Google and further complicates OpenAI's relationship with Microsoft, its major investor, as it aims to attract more business subscriptions.

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Monday, June 23, 2025

UK launches new taskforce and fund to attract global science, tech talent

Aimed at boosting innovation and economic growth, the initiative supports relocation and research, targeting elite researchers, entrepreneurs, and creatives aligned with Britain’s new 10-year industrial strategy.

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Sunday, June 22, 2025

Contract maker Zetwerk set to pump Rs 500–800 crore for component making

Zetwerk plans to invest Rs 500–800 crore in manufacturing printed circuit boards (PCBs), enclosures, and electromechanical components. Cofounder Rahul Sharma mentioned the company is preparing for the government's PLI scheme and has technology tie-ups with Taiwanese companies. Zetwerk is also exploring collaborations with South Korean and Chinese firms, pending government approvals, to enhance India's self-reliance in electronics manufacturing.

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Saturday, June 21, 2025

UGC NET admit card 2025 for June 25 exam released: Check direct link to download hall ticket here

National Testing Agency has issued the admit cards for University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test. The exam is scheduled for June 25, 2025. Candidates can download their hall tickets from ugcnet.nta.ac.in. The admit card contains exam timing, center address, and candidate details. Applicants must carry a printed copy and a valid photo ID.

from Latest Education news - Board Exam Results, Admit Cards, Exam Paper Analysis and Question Papers | Times of India
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Horowitz backs AI startup with slogan 'cheat at everything'

The startup was cofounded by 21-year-old Roy Lee, who was booted from Columbia University earlier this year for creating a tool called Interview Coder that helped technical job candidates cheat on interviews using AI.

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Walmart tries to shed a stodgy vibe to battle digital-native rivals

Walmart built its empire by dominating on price. But to maintain that empire it must now compete on convenience, breadth and speed. During Associates Week -- its annual gathering of thousands of employees from around the world -- the company made a number of tech-focused announcements, like a new artificial intelligence assistant that it says will help customers shop online and an expansion of its drone home-delivery operation to more cities.

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Friday, June 20, 2025

Clampdown on ecommerce dark patterns may raise compliance burden for companies

The government is cracking down on deceptive online practices. Consumer internet companies face increased scrutiny. They must conduct self-audits to eliminate 'dark patterns'. These patterns trick users into unwanted purchases. A joint working group will monitor compliance. Companies will need dedicated teams. Experts believe sustained enforcement is crucial for consumer trust. This move impacts startups and large firms alike.

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Former Y Combinator investor Arnav Sahu joins Peak XV

Arnav Sahu, formerly a principal at Y Combinator, has joined Peak XV as an investment partner in the Bay Area. He will be part of a new San Francisco-based team focused on investments, particularly in the AI sector. This move signifies Peak XV's strategic expansion into the US market following its spin-off from Sequoia, aiming to capitalize on AI opportunities.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Myntra’s entry to quick commerce in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai hold key considerations

Myntra has expanded its 30-minute delivery service, M-Now, to Delhi-NCR and Mumbai, targeting premium fashion shoppers amid rising quick commerce competition. With access to 600 brands, strong seasonal demand, and urban expansion, Myntra aims to strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing quick commerce segment.

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Thursday, June 19, 2025

Quick commerce firms face delivery partner crunch amid rising demand

Quick commerce faces challenges in hiring delivery partners. Demand is rising, and companies like Amazon are joining the market. However, a shortage of bikers exists. Riders are demanding better pay and conditions. Some disrupt operations due to low payouts. Extreme weather worsens working conditions. Companies are trying to retain riders with benefits amid competition.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Telegram CEO to leave fortune to 100 children he’s fathered

Pavel Durov, Telegram's founder, will bequeath his wealth to his numerous children. He has six children from three partners and over 100 from sperm donations. Durov wants his children to access the fortune after 30 years. He also faced charges in France related to Telegram. A ruling now allows him to travel to Dubai for longer periods.

from Tech-Economic Times
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EU probes Musk's xAI buyout of X: Bloomberg News report

The European Union is intensifying its scrutiny of Elon Musk's xAI acquisition of X, potentially leading to significant fines under the Digital Services Act. Regulators are examining X's corporate structure post-acquisition and probing alleged DSA infractions, including deceptive design related to the blue checkmark verification system.

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Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Byju’s RP’s suit claims directors owe compensation to company under IBC laws

An EY-backed resolution professional, Shailendra Ajmera, has sued former Byju's directors. The lawsuits claim fraudulent asset transfers. These transfers allegedly deprived Think and Learn of funds. The transactions involve $533 million and Rs 130 crore. Riju Ravindran previously filed a petition. He sought Ajmera's removal citing conflict of interest. A Delaware court also ruled against Byju's Alpha's asset transfer.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Microsoft planning thousands more job cuts aimed at salespeople

Microsoft is reportedly planning to eliminate thousands of jobs, primarily impacting its sales division, as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures amidst substantial investments in artificial intelligence. The announcement is expected in early July, following the close of the company's fiscal year. These terminations follow previous layoffs in May and a shift towards using third-party firms for some sales operations.

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Tuesday, June 17, 2025

IPO-bound BlueStone geared for unicorn tag

Bluestone is preparing for its public market debut. 360 One and Centrum Wealth are facilitating secondary deals. These deals amount to Rs 300–350 crore. The transaction values Bluestone at Rs 10,500 crore. RB Investments will fully exit Bluestone through these deals. Bluestone's IPO includes a fresh capital raise. The company reported revenue of Rs 1,266 crore in fiscal 2024.

from Tech-Economic Times
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Amazon's corporate workforce may shrink as AI takes over routine tasks

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced that the rollout of generative AI and agents will lead to a reduction in the company's corporate workforce in the coming years. While AI is expected to automate tasks and reshape roles, experts anticipate a workforce reshuffling rather than mass unemployment. Amazon is implementing AI to enhance efficiency and customer experience across various internal operations.

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Google introduces stable Gemini 2.5 Flash and Pro, previews Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite

Google DeepMind released stable versions of Gemini 2.5 Flash and Pro, highlighting top benchmark performance. Now broadly available to developers, the models support advanced reasoning, multimodal tasks, and one million-token context. A new Flash-Lite preview offers the fastest, most cost-efficient model in the Gemini 2.5 series.

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Monday, June 16, 2025

We would like to be DeepSeek in the West, says Essential AI cofounder

Ashish Vaswani, cofounder of Essential AI, emphasises the need for open, collaborative AI development to counter rising inequality and short-termism in AI research. He advocates transparency, open-source frontier models, and sustainable innovation, warning that current monetisation pressures may hinder long-term breakthroughs and narrow the path to artificial general intelligence.

from Tech-Economic Times
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