Google is offering buyouts to thousands of U.S. employees across various divisions, including Search and core engineering, as part of cost-cutting measures amid significant AI investments. The "Voluntary Exit Program" aims to provide a supportive exit for employees who feel misaligned with the company's strategy or are struggling to meet expectations.
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Delhi experienced a drop in maximum temperature by up to 6.1 degrees Celsius on Friday, offering slight respite from the intense heat, though high humidity persisted. A change in weather patterns, including a trough line and a western disturbance, brought moisture and thunder activity to northwest India.
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A Delhi court acquitted former coal ministry officials H C Gupta, K S Kropha, and K C Samaria in a case concerning irregularities in the allocation of Jharkhand's Mahuagarhi coal block to JAS Infrastructure. However, the firm and its director, Manoj Kumar Jayaswal, were convicted, with sentencing arguments set for July 8.
Donald Trump has signaled a potential reconciliation with Elon Musk, stating he holds no ill will towards the billionaire despite past disagreements. Trump expressed surprise at Musk's criticism of his spending bill but acknowledged Musk's subsequent regret over his remarks. This apparent thaw follows a public dispute ignited by Musk's disapproval of Trump's proposed legislation.
China's dominance in rare earth minerals, particularly samarium, poses a significant challenge to the US and its allies in replenishing military equipment. Export restrictions on these materials, vital for defence applications, are impacting weapon production. Despite ongoing trade negotiations, China is unlikely to ease these restrictions.
The Shani Shingnapur shrine trust in Maharashtra dismissed 167 employees, citing non-performance and absenteeism. A significant portion, 68% of those laid off, were Muslims. This action followed threats from a Hindu group demanding the removal of non-Hindus from the shrine's workforce, though the trust denies any discriminatory intent, stating the dismissals were disciplinary.
India's robust economic growth faces threats from escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly the Iran-Israel conflict, which could spike oil prices and disrupt trade routes. While India possesses sufficient energy reserves, potential disruptions could elevate inflation and shipping expenses. Government officials are closely monitoring the situation, confident that India's strong macroeconomic indicators will help it weather the crisis.
Hiring in India's smaller cities is booming, outpacing metros with a 42% surge compared to 19%, reveals the Randstad Talent Insights Report 2025. BFSI, manufacturing, retail, and IT sectors are fueling this growth, establishing tier-2 cities as emerging talent hubs. Bengaluru leads tier-1 demand, while Chandigarh shines among tier-2 cities.
Tragedy struck Meghani Nagar as Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad. Carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members, the flight issued a distress call before losing contact. The crash triggered a massive emergency response as thick smoke billowed from the site.
Tensions escalate as Israel and Iran exchange missile strikes, defying global calls for de-escalation. Israeli airstrikes inside Iran targeted nuclear and energy sites, resulting in over 230 deaths. Iran retaliated with missile barrages, causing casualties and damage in Israel. Nuclear talks are suspended amidst fears of wider regional conflict, with both sides signaling no immediate end to hostilities.