Author: News Desk

Google made waves in the tech world with the launch of Gemini, a groundbreaking artificial intelligence app designed to revolutionise the way people interact with technology. With this innovative application, users can now rely on AI to assist them with various tasks, from writing to interpreting information, marking a significant shift away from traditional reliance on their own cognitive abilities. Gemini: The Next Evolution in AI Technology Google’s Gemini app represents a major leap forward in AI capabilities, aiming to surpass its previous efforts, including the Bard chatbot. The move comes as Google seeks to keep pace with competitors like ChatGPT, developed by…

Many people across Southeast Asia have been exploring the use of large language models like Meta’s Llama 2 and Mistral AI, but they often do so in their native languages such as Bahasa Indonesia or Thai. However, the resulting output in English is typically nonsensical, which puts them at a disadvantage, according to tech experts. This comes as generative artificial intelligence is rapidly changing various aspects of life, including education, work, and governance worldwide. To address this issue, a Singapore government-led initiative has introduced SEA-LION (Southeast Asian Languages in One Network), the region’s first large language model trained on data…

Since its launch in January 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) scheme, a cornerstone of the Startup India programme, has proven to be a catalyst for growth in India’s startup ecosystem. According to a recent assessment named Prabhaav by SIDBI, investments totaling Rs 17,534 crore have been channelled into 938 startups, marking a substantial growth multiplier of nearly four times the initial investment. Fostering Innovation: A Closer Look at the Numbers As of November 30, 2023, the scheme has sanctioned commitments to 129 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) across various segments, facilitating crucial capital infusion into burgeoning startups. Notably, the report highlights the emergence…

A move that could mark its first venture into overseas aviation management, the Adani Group is reportedly negotiating with Sri Lankan authorities to take over the management of three airports in the island nation. The airports in question include the prominent Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, along with Ratmalana Airport and Mattala Airport. Harin Fernando, Sri Lanka’s Minister for Tourism, Land, Sports, and Youth Affairs, confirmed the ongoing discussions, indicating that the modalities being explored could involve management contracts. This potential collaboration comes at a time when Sri Lanka is witnessing a resurgence in tourism, with foreign tourist arrivals doubling…

One97 Communications Limited, the parent company of crisis-hit Paytm, is shifting its focus to the third-party payment app (TPAP) route to ensure continued availability of its fintech major’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), as per an ET report. According to a source familiar with the matter quoted in the report, “Since Paytm Payments Bank will cease to offer payment services, Paytm will transition into a third-party app, integrating UPI services through other financial institutions.” Consequently, One97 Communications Limited has initiated discussions with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the entity responsible for overseeing the UPI ecosystem in the country. Currently,…

Dubai, UAE – A new VIP ticket for Dubai Frame was unveiled on Thursday, promising visitors a premium experience with guided tours, reserved parking, and expedited entry through a private gate. Priced at Dh300 per ticket, this VIP package aligns with Dubai Municipality’s ongoing efforts to provide attractive and fully integrated amenities and services to its visitors, according to Ahmed Al Zarouni, Director of the Department of Public Parks and Recreational Facilities. The iconic Dubai Frame, which first opened its doors in January 2018, has already welcomed over 5.5 million visitors. Situated within Za’abeel Park, it stands as a cultural landmark commemorating the journey of Dubai from its early…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony on Monday, marking the consecration of the 51-inch Ram Lalla idol at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The event was a momentous occasion, symbolising the divine presence of Lord Ram in his revered abode. Craftsmanship Inspired by Sacred Texts The depiction of Lord Ram as a five-year-old child in the Ayodhya Ram Temple is adorned with exquisite jewellery, meticulously crafted by artisans drawing inspiration from sacred texts such as the Adhyatma Ramayana, Srimad Valmiki Ramayana, Shri Ramcharitmanas, and Aalavandar Stotra. Each piece of jewellery reflects the scriptural beauty described in these…

SoftBank Group Corp. reportedly divested a majority of its holdings in Paytm before regulatory scrutiny led to a significant decline in the shares of the once-lauded Indian fintech firm, as indicated by the executive managing partner of the Vision Fund, as per a Bloomberg report. Navneet Govil, speaking to Bloomberg News on February 8, expressed that SoftBank Group Corp., a Tokyo-based tech investor, observed mounting uncertainty regarding India’s regulatory landscape, particularly concerning Paytm Payments Bank Ltd.’s license. “We felt it was prudent to start monetizing,” the Vision Fund’s finance chief said, as quoted by Bloomberg. “We’re glad we did a…

In a recent press conference, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) sought to clarify its recent directive, emphasising that the regulatory measures taken pertain specifically to Paytm Payments Bank and not the Paytm app itself. Last month, the RBI mandated significant restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank, including the suspension of deposit-taking and fund transfers effective from March 1, citing multiple instances of non-compliance and supervisory concerns. Addressing Public Concerns Governor Shaktikanta Das highlighted the forthcoming release of a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) aimed at addressing widespread inquiries about the Paytm Payments Bank issue. This move comes in response…

For career development, securing internships within governmental organisations stands out as a pivotal stepping stone towards valuable experience and skill enhancement. Here’s a closer look at some of the most coveted government internship programs in India, each offering unique avenues for learning and personal development. NITI Aayog, Government of India Internship NITI Aayog, as India’s premier policy think tank, opens its doors to students across all academic disciplines. This internship promises an immersive experience in policy formulation, research, and development. From engineering to economics, social sciences to technology, applicants from diverse backgrounds are welcomed to contribute to shaping India’s future.…