Govt backs 20 indigenous AI models, clears 58 centres of excellence

Among the models already launched are Sarvam AI’s 30-billion and 105-billion parameter models and Indus, Gnani.AI’s speech-to-speech model, BharatGen’s multilingual models and Avataar AI’s video-generation model. The IndiaAI Mission, approved in March 2024 with an outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore over five years, is aimed at creating domestic capabilities in computing, foundation models, applications, research…

In the 1920s, New Zealand sent prisoners to plant a barren volcanic plateau, laying the foundation for today’s 205,000-hectare forest

New Zealand transformed barren land into Kaingaroa Forest using prisoner labor. Unemployed men later joined the extensive tree-planting efforts during the Great Depression. This project successfully established the nation’s largest planted forest and a significant Southern Hemisphere resource. The forest now supplies millions of cubic meters of logs annually for local and export markets. Kaingaroa…

‘It was always Ranbir in my head’: Shoojit Sircar reveals why he gave up his Kishore Kumar biopic once he learned the ‘Ramayana’ star was doing Anurag Basu’s version

In an interview with Variety India recently, acclaimed filmmaker Shoojit Sircar opened up about his long-gestating, now-shelved Kishore Kumar biopic, revealing that ‘Ramayana’ star Ranbir Kapoor was always his pick to play the legendary singer-actor. Sircar also spoke about why he stepped back once he learned Anurag Basu was developing his own version with Kapoor,…

“It shows how hypocritical he is”: Aaron Rodgers slammed for ‘desperate desire to be relevant’ after latest Pat McAfee Show appearance

Aaron Rodgers is facing fresh criticism after his latest appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, where he renewed attacks on Anthony Fauci and discussed the COVID-19 pandemic. Sports commentator Charlotte Wilder accused the Steelers quarterback of having a “desperate desire to be relevant,” questioning his credibility and future plans. Although Rodgers insists he will disappear…

Pidilite sees double-digit volume growth in FY27 despite volatile commodity prices: MD Sudhanshu Vats

Pidilite Industries expects double-digit volume growth in FY27 and stable earnings. The company implemented price increases to offset rising raw material costs. Demand remains robust across urban and rural markets, according to the managing director. Pidilite is diversifying its supply chain to mitigate geopolitical disruptions effectively. The company maintains its EBITDA margin guidance band of…

Coal India enters iron ore mining after Odisha block win

Coal India secured the Gadadharpur iron ore block in Odisha. This acquisition marks the state-run miner’s entry into iron ore mining. India’s iron ore production is projected to increase significantly by 2026-27. Odisha’s rising output will support planned steel capacity additions. This will also bolster infrastructure and construction demand across the nation.

Auto industry total retail sales up 26 pc at 25,91,138 units in July, says FADA

Total automobile retail sales in India grew by over twenty-five percent year-on-year in July. Passenger vehicle sales increased nineteen percent, while two-wheeler sales saw a significant rise. Three-wheeler and commercial vehicle sales also posted healthy growth figures for the month. Alternative fuels are now nearing petrol’s share in the passenger vehicle market. Dealer confidence remains…