Perplexity AI, a US-based search engine startup, proposes a merger with TikTok US, involving ByteDance's existing investors retaining equity. The proposal aims to enhance Perplexity's video capabilities. Meanwhile, TikTok is navigating potential bans and app store removals, with President-elect Trump planning a temporary reprieve to address national security concerns.
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Elon Musk, backed by President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, has decided to rehire Marko Elez, a young staffer who resigned after being outed for racist social media posts. Despite controversy, Vance argued that social media mistakes should not ruin a young person's life. The move has sparked online disputes, notably between Vance and Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna.
Canada has filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization against US-imposed tariffs, following China's similar move. Prime Minister Trudeau criticised the US trade actions and imposed retaliatory tariffs on American imports. Trump's tariff increases on Mexican, Canadian, and Chinese goods have heightened tensions, prompting swift retaliation and sparking financial market concerns.
The Union government has announced the first list of Padma Award winners ahead of the 76th Republic Day. Honorees include Harvinder Singh, the first Indian para-archer to win gold at the Paralympics, and Neerja Bhatla, a gynecologist renowned for her work in cervical cancer detection.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response in the Lok Sabha to the Motion of Thanks debate was heavily criticized by Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Shashi Tharoor, for ignoring opposition concerns. Modi faced backlash for making an election-focused speech, not addressing the Kumbh Mela tragedy, and criticizing the Gandhi family. Modi defended government initiatives like 'JAM Trinity.'
Shubman Gill practices in the nets ahead of the fifth Test at SCG with his parents in attendance. His return to the playing XI appears likely after discussions with head coach Gautam Gambhir. Akash Deep is confirmed out due to a back issue, while the final team will be decided after assessing the pitch.
The Los Angeles Lakers plan to convert Jordan Goodwin's two-way contract into a standard NBA deal as they prepare for the playoffs. Goodwin has become a key player, averaging 6.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. To make space, the Lakers are likely to waive Cam Reddish. A multi-year contract for Goodwin is also anticipated.
Selena Gomez dazzled at the 2025 Oscars in a custom Ralph Lauren gown adorned with over 16,000 hand-applied glass droplets and Rosemont crystals. Her bold style choices and sophisticated elegance were evident, pairing platinum Bvlgari jewellery to complement her stunning off-the-shoulder dress, affirming her status as a fashion icon.
Oxfam’s 'Takers, Not Makers' report reveals Britain extracted $64.82 trillion from India during colonialism, enriching the UK's elite and middle class. It details the suppression of India’s industrial growth, the modern impact on global inequality, and ongoing exploitation by multinational corporations linked to colonial practices.
Meta plans to lay off around 3,600 employees to improve performance management, focusing on removing underperforming staff sooner. The move aims for 10% non-regrettable attrition, sparking concerns over the accuracy of performance reviews and timing following recent changes within the company.
Mayawati announced that nobody would succeed her in the BSP while she is alive, removing her nephew Akash Anand from his roles. She reinstated Ramji Gautam and Anand Kumar as national coordinators. This decision followed the expulsion of Akash Anand's father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, for factionalism, which Mayawati said influenced Akash Anand's career.