The US Agency for International Development (USAID) is under scrutiny in an ongoing investigation related to hedge fund operator George Soros. ASAR Social Impact Advisors received Rs 8 crore from USAID as foreign inward remittance while also being funded by the Soros Economic Development Fund.
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Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, commented on the challenge of competing with Google after web analytics data showed ChatGPT ranking sixth among top websites for January 2025. OpenAI recently made ChatGPT's search feature available to everyone, potentially capturing up to 1% of the search market, challenging established players like Google Search and Microsoft's Bing.
Filmmaker and actor Anurag Kashyap has issued a public apology on Friday night after his controversial remark about the Brahmin community sparked widespread outrage. The comment was made amid the ongoing Phule controversy, and drew sharp criticism across social media platforms. Taking to Instagram, Kashyap shared a detailed note addressing the backlash and the threats received by his loved ones.
A girls-only residential school in Koppal, North Karnataka, faces scrutiny after an inspection revealed unsafe and unhygienic toilet conditions, with missing doors. The head teacher, Kasturi Badiger, is facing suspension for misuse of government funds and not providing essential supplies to the students. The deputy director ordered her suspension for violating safety protocols and financial mismanagement.
A heated debate occurred in the Lok Sabha over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, with Congress criticising it as unconstitutional and BJP defending it as necessary to prevent misuse. The Bill focuses on stricter criteria for Waqf declarations and amendments meant to enhance regulation and prevent illegal occupancy and misuse of Waqf lands, which are significant in India.
Australia triumphed in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, defeating India 3-1 and securing a spot in the World Test Championship final. India's over-reliance on Jasprit Bumrah and their inconsistent batting, particularly by veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, contributed to their downfall. Gautam Gambhir urged Indian players to focus on domestic cricket to improve performance.
Jasprit Bumrah's outstanding performance during India's tour of Australia has earned him high praise, with former Australian captain Michael Clarke calling him the best fast bowler across all three formats. Despite his impressive showing, including three five-wicket hauls, Bumrah's absence due to back spasms in the final Test contributed to India's series loss.
Four U.S. individuals, known as the "Cutthroat Cowboys," face charges after riding horses through a Walmart in Baker, Louisiana. A viral video captured the group startling customers and staff, leading to public outcry and a police investigation. Mason Webb stated their actions were for amusement and social media attention, claiming the horse as an emotional support animal.
Jason Gillespie refuted Sunil Gavaskar's claim that an Indian B team could defeat Pakistan, calling it nonsense. Gillespie emphasised that Pakistan has the talent but needs consistent selection and patience from management. He criticised Pakistan's squad choices and short-term coaching appointments, urging the PCB to implement long-term plans for better results.
Amit Shah met with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to discuss implementing the new criminal laws in the state, emphasizing proper use of terrorism-related sections and 'trial in absentia' for national security cases. Shah pushed for transparency and efficient legal aid, along with advancements in forensic capability and electronic evidence management.
Dense fog in Delhi caused near-zero visibility until noon, disrupting air, rail, and road traffic. The resulting spike in air pollution led to severe levels by evening, prompting the enforcement of Grap-4 pollution control measures. These include a ban on certain vehicles, halting construction, and the hybrid operation of schools. Visibility began improving after midday.