The West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) failed to meet its deadline for releasing lists of teachers categorized as "tainted" and "untainted," sparking protests and clashes with police outside its headquarters. A new "cut-off" was introduced, validating only the initial three counseling rounds from 2017-2019, leading to a standoff and barricading of the SSC office.
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Microsoft's President Brad Smith emphasises a national strategy for the US to lead in AI, focusing on R&D funding, education, and relaxed regulations.
Sugandha Hiremath, sister of Bharat Forge chairman Baba Kalyani, has challenged the validity of her late mother's two wills in a Pune court. She alleges coercion and undue influence by her brothers, Baba and Gaurishankar Kalyani, who are primary beneficiaries. The wills, made in 2012 and 2022, bequeath shares in Kalyani Group companies, properties, and jewelry.
India may lose the opportunity to host the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour due to a lack of investor support. Organizers are considering alternative venues unless an Indian investor steps forward. Talks with Indian tycoon Anand Mahindra did not yield support as his focus remains on the Global Chess League.
The polar vortex has plunged much of the US into freezing conditions, causing widespread chaos. Heavy snow, ice, and wind led to road closures, power outages, and flight cancellations. At least five lives were lost, over 600 motorists were stranded, and schools across several states have been shut down. Temperatures dropped up to 25°F below normal, breaking weather records.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has filed an FIR and initiated an investigation into an inter-state module allegedly using encrypted platforms to spread anti-national content and radicalize youth for suicide attacks. The group, active on platforms like Signal and WhatsApp, promoted jihad, encouraged attacks on Indian security forces, and discussed targeting Hindu leaders and Israeli establishments.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman criticized Elon Musk, accusing him of acting from insecurity after Musk's $97.4 billion bid to acquire OpenAI was rejected. Altman asserted that the AI startup is not for sale and suggested Musk's proposal aimed to hinder their progress. This tension might impact OpenAI's potential $40 billion funding round.
Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas predicts a rebound for Tesla stock, suggesting a potential 93% increase within the next year despite current challenges. The analyst maintains an overweight rating for Tesla, highlighting advancements in robotics and AI as key drivers for future growth.
The Netherlands seeks to deepen its defence collaboration with India, particularly in dual-use technologies like drones, AI, and semiconductors. Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans expressed plans to upgrade bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, emphasizing robust security guarantees for Ukraine and reciprocal military exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim paid tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, recalling a time when they both were finance ministers of their countries. He also hailed Singh's role in India's economic transformation. ​Ibrahim also shared a personal anecdote involving Dr Singh's offer of scholarships for his children during his imprisonment.
IUML's state general secretary P M A Salam stated that men and women are not equal, using the example of gender-specific categories in the Olympics. He argued that advocating for gender equality is unrealistic. Salam emphasized that IUML supports gender justice, not equality. His comments may have political repercussions for the UDF opposition.