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Google spent ₹17,500 crore to lay off 12,000 employees!

Google parent Alphabet announced plans to cut 12,000 job in January 2023, biggest in its history.

google

Google incurred $2.1 billion (around ₹17,500 crore) in severance and related expenses during its 2023 layoffs, which affected over 12,000 employees. In this month alone, the company has already spent $700 million on severance charges for additional layoffs, encompassing more than 1,000 roles. Alphabet, the parent company of Google, disclosed these figures in its fourth-quarter earnings release on Tuesday.

In January 2023, Alphabet announced plans to cut 12,000 jobs, or 6 per cent, of its global workforce. This was the biggest layoff in the history of Google, but was “essential” for the company, chief executive Sundar Pichai had said earlier.

Alphabate posts double-digit revenue growth in 4th quarter

Google’s parent company reported a noteworthy return to double-digit revenue growth in the last quarter of the previous year, with a boost from video-sharing platform YouTube and its cloud computing unit.

The results, announced on Tuesday, marked Alphabet’s third consecutive quarter of increasing revenue growth, primarily driven by Google’s dominance in search and online advertising. This rebound is significant, considering the unprecedented drop in Google’s ad revenue following almost two decades of uninterrupted growth, especially during the initial stages of the pandemic.

Also Read : Bihar Deputy Chief Minister’s jab at Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on Nitish Kumar, “Born with golden spoon!

Google

However, while Google’s ad sales demonstrated growth, it lagged behind increases in other areas, such as cloud computing and YouTube subscriptions.

Despite the fourth-quarter results exceeding analysts’ expectations, Alphabet’s shares faced a dip of nearly 7 per cent in extended trading.

The company attributed its profit boost in the final quarter to the positive impact of artificial intelligence (AI).

Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai said: “Each of these is already benefiting from our AI investments and innovation.”

More job cuts ahead in Google

CEO Sundar Pichai has alerted employees to anticipate further job cuts in the upcoming months, aiming to “simplify execution”.

In a memo, Pichai said that the layoffs will concentrate on streamlining operations by “removing layers” from various departments to enhance the company’s efficiency, according to the report. He clarified, “These role eliminations are not at the scale of last year’s reductions, and will not touch every team.”

This article was published on Hindustantimes News!

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Bihar Deputy Chief Minister’s jab at Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on Nitish Kumar, “Born with golden spoon!

“Rahul Gandhi will never be able to understand the conditions of this place because he was born with a golden spoon in his mouth,” Bihar Deputy CM Sinha said!

After Congress leader Rahul Gandhi mocked Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar for rejoining the NDA on Tuesday, deputy CM Vijay Sinha came out in defence of the CM. Sinha said that Rahul Gandhi ‘was born with a golden spoon in his mouth’ and that ‘he would never understand the pain of the public.’ “Those who spend time on the ground understand the situation,” Sinha said.

Addressing reporters in Patna, Sinha said, “Rahul Gandhi will never be able to understand the social and geographical conditions of this place because he was born with a golden spoon in his mouth. Those who spend time on the ground understand the situation. Dynastic families with criminal and corrupt mindsets can never understand the pain of the public.”

Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday slammed Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar for “taking a U-turn each time little pressure is exerted” by the Bharatiya Janata Party. Addressing the public in Bihar’s Purnea Rahul said,” Right now Baghel ji (former Chhattisgarh CM) told me a joke. The joke goes like this…Your chief minister took oath at Governor’s house. Some of his ministers also took oath. Celebrations were going on. Nitish Kumar decided to go back to his home. Suddenly while going back he realised he has left his shawl at the Governor’s house. He went back and met the Governor. Governor was shocked and said you came back so quick this time.”

So this is the condition of Bihar a little pressure is exerted, and he (Nitish Kumar) makes a U-turn,” Gandhi said. Taking a dig at the Congress leader Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Chaudhary said that it is “Rahul Gandhi who is solely responsible for the current condition of Lalu Prasad Yadav.”

On Sunday, Nitish Kumar was sworn in as the chief minister of Bihar for the ninth occasion at Raj Bhawan in Patna, marking another shift in alliances as he joined the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance once again. It was for the second time in two years that Nitish Kumar switched political affiliations, marking his fifth crossover in just over a decade.

This article was Originally published on Hindustantimes News!

Also Read : Boost health and happiness with Kiwifruit; know more benefits from nutritionist!

Boost health and happiness with Kiwifruit; know more benefits from nutritionist!

A new study says eating kiwifruit can aid in mood regulation and improved mental well-being. Here are other benefits of the fruit!

BENEFITS OF KIWIFRUIT

Want to give your mental health a boost in two weeks or less? You can trust Kiwifruit to ease mood swings and increase flow of happy hormones. Rich in Vitamin K and D, kiwifruit aids in mood regulation, manages depression, and improves mental well-being. A new study done at University of Otago and published in The British Journal of Nutrition, found that supplementation with kiwifruit improved vitality and mood within four days, peaking around 14-16 days, and improved flourishing from day 14. Kiwi is loaded with phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins. Vitamin K in kiwi can help with blood clotting and aids in vitamin D absorption by the body. Rich in potassium, kiwi can help treat kidney stones.

Kiwifruit can be consumed as a whole fruit, in desserts, salads, jams, juices, marmalades, nectar, jellies, apart from others. Even the peel of kiwi can help improve mental well-being as its peel is used as an ingredient for making natural sleeping aids.

Dr Neeti Sharma, Sr. Consultant – Nutrition & Dietitics at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram in an interview with HT Digital shares benefits of Kiwi apart from enhancing mental well-being.

BENEFITS OF KIWIFRUIT

BENEFITS OF KIWIFRUIT

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1. Vitamin K helps in blood clotting and Vitamin D absorption

Kiwi fruit stands out as a reliable source of Vitamin K, a pivotal nutrient known for its indispensable role in blood clotting mechanisms and its ability to assist in the absorption of Vitamin D.

2. Efficient protein digestion support

Kiwi takes centre stage in aiding the digestion of proteins, contributing significantly to the efficient breakdown of dietary proteins. This digestive support promotes better nutrient absorption and utilization.

3. Potassium aids in kidney health and stone prevention

Abundant in potassium, kiwi plays a vital role in fostering a diet conducive to kidney health. Its potassium content helps prevent the formation of stones, contributing to overall kidney well-being.

4. Mood regulation and mental well-being

Beyond its nutritional benefits, kiwi exhibits properties that contribute to mood regulation and the control of depression, fostering mental well-being.

5. Weight management with low-calorie, high-fibre content

Kiwi emerges as an excellent choice for those focused on weight reduction due to its dual combination of being low in calories and rich in dietary fibre. This not only aids in weight management but also supports overall digestive health.

6. Anti-inflammatory powerhouse and immune support

Kiwi’s reputation as an anti-inflammatory powerhouse is complemented by its richness in Vitamin C. These properties work synergistically to promote a robust immune system, shielding the body from various illnesses and supporting overall health.

7. Metabolic boost and immune enhancement

Incorporating kiwi into your diet goes beyond mere nutrition; it actively contributes to an increase in metabolism. Additionally, the fruit’s inherent immune-enhancing qualities make it a valuable addition to a well-rounded, health-conscious diet, fortifying the body’s defences against external threats.

This article was Originally published on Hindustantimes News!

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Elon Musk Announces Neuralink’s Successful brain implant procedure in first human recipient!

Neuralink was given clearance by the US Food and Drug Administration last year to conduct its first trial to test its implant on humans!

Elon Musk, the billionaire founder of Neuralink, announced on Monday that the first human recipient of an implant from the brain-chip startup underwent the procedure on Sunday and is recovering well.

Taking to social media, X, Musk posted, “The first human received an implant from @Neuralink yesterday and is recovering well.

Neuralink was given clearance by the US Food and Drug Administration last year to conduct its first trial to test its implant on humans. “Initial results show promising neuron spike detection,” Musk’s post added.

According to Neuralink’s website, it has received approval from the independent institutional review board.The PRIME Study (short for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface) – an investigational medical device trial for fully-implantable, wireless brain-computer interface (BCI) – aims to evaluate the safety of our implant (N1) and surgical robot (R1) and assess the initial functionality of our BCI for enabling people with paralysis to control external devices with their thoughts, according to the company’s website.

During the study, the R1 Robot will be used to surgically place the N1 Implant’s ultra-fine and flexible threads in a region of the brain that controls movement intention. Once in place, the N1 Implant is cosmetically invisible and is intended to record and transmit brain signals wirelessly to an app that decodes movement intention. 

The initial goal of our BCI is to grant people the ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone, it also said.

The PRIME Study is being conducted under the investigational device exemption (IDE) awarded by the FDA in May 2023 and represents an important step in our mission to create a generalised brain interface to restore autonomy to those with unmet medical needs, it added.

Musk and his company have already faced massive criticism for the trial of “brain chips” on lab animals. In February 2022, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine submitted a complaint alleging that Neuralink did “invasive and deadly brain experiments.”

By December of that year, the company was being investigated by federal authorities for potential violations of animal welfare standards, with documents indicating that the company had murdered around 1,500 animals, including rats, monkeys, pigs, and mice, since 2018.

Neuralink fought back against these very serious allegations claiming that the rhesus macaque monkeys under its care were “respected and honoured” by the team. 

This article was originally published on Hindustantimes!

Also Read : Budget 2024 LIVE updates: Centre convenes all-party meeting today!

Budget 2024 LIVE updates: Centre convenes all-party meeting today!

Stay informed with live updates on Budget 2024 as the Centre hosts an all-party meeting today. Get exclusive insights and analysis as key stakeholders gather to discuss the nation’s financial direction!

Budget 2024 LIVE updates: The budget will be ‘interim’ in nature as the government is set to face a general election in April-May this year.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the budget for Financial Year 2024-25 on February 1. This will be the final annual financial statement of the BJP-led PM Narendra Modi government’s second term. Last week, the traditional pre-budget ‘halwa’ ceremony was held- beginning a ‘lock-in’ period for officials involved in budget preparation to maintain confidentiality until the document’s tabling in the Lok Sabha.

This budget is also ‘interim’ in nature as the government is set to face a general election in April-May this year. The full budget will be presented in July by the incoming government. In India, the financial year starts on April 1 and ends on March 31 the following year.

Follow all the updates here:

  • Jan 30, 2024 09:02 AM ISTBudget 2024 LIVE Updates: Parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi to meet floor leaders of parties todayParliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi will hold a meeting with the floor leaders of political parties in both houses of Parliament before the start of the upcoming Budget Session.

This article was originally published on Hindustantimes News!

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Khelo India Games creates a big community: Tokyo Olympian Varun Thakkar

Khelo India

Tokyo Olympian sailor Varun Thakkar was spotted in the crowd during events at the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 Tamil Nadu, cheering on the young wrestlers as the wrestling action began at the Rajarathinam Stadium in Chennai.
The 2018 Asian Games bronze medalist also enthusiastically reacted on every pass and penalty corner as he witnessed the men’s hockey final where Odisha beat Madhya Pradesh 4-0 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium.

Also Read- Doctor donates father’s organs at Chandigarh’s PGIMER, saves two lives!


“I think the Khelo India Youth Games is a huge stepping stone for budding athletes. It gives a lot of opportunities for scouts to see young talents play at such a high level,” mentioned Varun.
Varun paired up with KC Ganapathy to represent Team India at the Skiff – 49er Event in Sailing at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The duo also finished 5th with 48 net points in the men’s skiff 49er event at the Hangzhou Asian Games, held last year.
“I would say this is a great initiative by the Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India. And I also congratulate the Tamil Nadu government for such a superb organisation of the games. It was very nice to witness the wrestling and hockey action. The energy level and excitement of these athletes is tremendous,” Varun added.
Speaking about the community-building aspect of the games, Varun said, “I think the most important thing about the games is the big community it creates. There are so many States competing and there is audience representation from all these States too. The constant cheerings from the stands to the friendships building, I think this is a great environment to be in for all these guys to come together.
“The Khelo India games is a boon for sports in India and the message goes out to every nook and corner of the country to give more impetus to choose a professional career in sports.”

This article was published on ANI News.

Have you fallen prey to a cyberattack? Discover the five functions of cyber insurance in today’s highly linked society!

Cyber threats and attacks are a growing concern in our digital world. Investing in individual cyber insurance is not just prudent, it’s necessary to protect your digital assets!

cyberattack

In an increasingly digital world, our reliance on the internet has grown exponentially. From managing our finances and shopping to staying connected on social media, our lives are intricately woven into the online fabric. While the benefits are immense, so too are the associated risks. Cyber threats and attacks loom large, targeting not just businesses, but individuals. The question is: Are you prepared for the unexpected? Do you have a safeguard for your digital assets? Here’s why investing in individual cyber insurance is not just a prudent choice; it’s a necessity.

Guarding against digital threats

Consider this: In the bustling streets of Mumbai, countless individuals engage in online transactions daily, managing their finances, sharing personal information, and living their lives through the web. However, the convenience of the digital age comes with a hazard – vulnerability. Cyber fraud, identity theft, malware attacks, and data breaches are lurking around the corner, waiting to disrupt our lives.

One of the recent cases that we analysed was that of a young professional Rahul living in a non-metropolitan city. What began with him receiving an innocent-looking email, turned out to be a phishing attack. Before he knew it, his hard-earned money had vanished from his bank account. The financial loss was devastating, but what hit Rahul the hardest was the emotional turmoil that followed. The feeling of violation, the stress, and the fear of subsequent attacks were overwhelming. These perils do not discriminate; they can impact anyone, regardless of age or profession. 

Fortunately, the young man had invested in an individual cyber insurance policy. It not only helped him get indemnified for the stolen funds but also offered support and counselling to help him cope with the emotional trauma.

That’s why it’s the need of the hour for you to consider purchasing a cyber insurance policy, designed to protect you from these digital threats.

Looking closely at what we gain from cyber insurance

Now, let’s dive deeper into the benefits of individual cyber insurance. It’s not just about financial protection; it’s about preserving your peace of mind. Some of its key advantages are cited here below:

Financial protection: The financial consequences of a cyber attack can be devastating. Whether it’s funds drained from your account, legal expenses, or data recovery costs, cyber insurance cushions you from these financial blows.

Identity theft recovery: Identity theft is a nightmare scenario. It can damage your financial well-being and tarnish your social image/reputation. Cyber insurance ensures you have the financial support to reclaim your identity and rebuild what’s been lost.

Also Read : Chinese President Xi Jinping offers to strengthen China-France ties after French President inks defence deals with India!

Cyber security

Malware and phishing protection: Malware and phishing attacks can wreak havoc on your devices and your life. Cyber insurance helps you recover from the financial setbacks that may result from these incidents.

Emotional support: Cyberattacks aren’t just about money; they can leave deep emotional scars. The feeling of violation, the fear, and the stress can be overwhelming. Many cyber insurance policies offer counselling services, helping you cope with the emotional aftermath.

Social media peace: We all enjoy the benefits of social media, but it can also be a source of trouble. Cyber insurance covers incident management in cases of reputational harm, ensuring you can navigate the digital realm without fear.

In an era where the digital and real worlds are inseparable, why take chances? Cyber insurance is not just about policies and premiums; it’s about safeguarding your digital existence. Our online safety is paramount, and individual cyber insurance is the answer. In a world that’s constantly evolving, it’s not just an option; it’s a necessity. Don’t wait for the unexpected to happen, Secure your digital life & bring peace of mind with individual cyber insurance today!

This Article was published on Livemint News!

Read Also : Doctor donates father’s organs at Chandigarh’s PGIMER, saves two lives!

Doctor donates father’s organs at Chandigarh’s PGIMER, saves two lives!

A Heartfelt Act of Generosity: A Doctor’s Tribute to His Father’s Legacy!

The doctor’s father was admitted to PGIMER, Chandigarh, following a brain bleed; the prognosis being poor, ge could not be revived and was pronounced brain dead.

A young doctor from Patiala donated his father’s organs at PGIMER, Chandigarh, giving two patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease a second chance at life.

The patient, Nachhatter Singh, 58, was admitted to PGIMER on January 9, following a brain bleed. The prognosis being poor, Nachhatter could not be revived and was pronounced brain dead on January 16.

On being informed, the family showcased exceptional initiative and expressed willingness to donate the patient’s organs. With his mother supporting him, Dr Kamal consented to donate his father’s organs.

Following the family’s consent, the kidneys retrieved from the donor were transplanted to two terminally ill patients dependent on kidney dialysis for long.

“It is a bittersweet moment for our family. Losing my father is undoubtedly heartbreaking, but being able to contribute to the lives of others through organ donation brings a sense of purpose to this loss. My father’s legacy lives on in the lives he has saved,” said Dr Kamal.

Dr Vipin Koushal, medical superintendent, PGIMER, and nodal officer, ROTTO (North), said, “Any initiative, however difficult, becomes successful when the community owns it and takes it forward.These families are the bedrock of the cadaver donation programme as they sustain faith for the cause. The donor’s story is a story of resurrection and of good coming full circle.

This Article was published on Hindustantimes News!

Also Read : ICCC’s India Mission 2024 To Revitalize India Canada Economic Relations!

ICCC’s India Mission 2024 To Revitalize India Canada Economic Relations

India Canada Economic Relations

By uniting Canadian innovation with Indian ingenuity, the delegation led by ICCC President Murarilal Thapliyal shall strive to take the Indo-Canada trade bonhomie to unprecedented heights.
With the intention of fostering a deeper understanding between the two nations, Indo- Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) President Murarilal Thapliyal, a Canadian lawyer and renowned Indo-Canadian community leader, has pledged to give significant emphasis on Canada-India commercial relations. A 12-day Canadian delegation to India between 29th January and 9th February 2024, aims to strengthen business to business (B2B) relations between India and Canada, thereby laying a foundation to increase bilateral trade with shared interests.
Thapiyal elaborated, “We are trying to bridge the gap between India and Canada. Trade and business should not suffer because the economy depends on it. We want to take one step ahead to improve the relationship.”
The esteemed delegates of “India Mission 2024” will head to six major cities (in six different states) stretching across the vast economic canvas of India — Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Dispur, Chandigarh, and Dehradun. This delegation shall feature many distinguished investors, trailblazing entrepreneurs, hoteliers, realtors, tourism pundits, lawyers, and professionals from the education and technology sectors, who will meet with Indian trailblazers from different domains under the theme — “Uniting Canadian innovation with Indian ingenuity.”
Constructive Engagement Objectives Of ‘India Mission 2024’:
During their 12 day-sojourn, the ICCC delegates shall engage with prominent state-level business chambers, eminent political and corporate leaders at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Invest India, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), the National Institute for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, innovation hubs and eminent educational institutions. The delegation is also scheduled to visit India’s GIFT City, the country’s first operational smart city and center for international financial services.

In a bid to comprehend the various nuances of the regional market and strike probable partnerships and investment opportunities, the delegates shall pin their hopes on making the most out of this fast-paced mission. We must remember that this grand program was orchestrated when India-Canada trade relations reached a valuation of USD 9 billion, a vivid illustration of how the roots of Indo-Canada trade cordiality keep on deepening. The delegation is visiting India to ensure that this trade momentum does not wane but gets augmented with partnerships in the modern domains of artificial intelligence, cleantech, scientific agriculture and education sector.
On the core purpose of the delegation, Murarilal Thapliyal said, “India Mission 2024 is a bridge connecting Canadian innovation with Indian ingenuity. Our goal is to be a catalyst for future growth and prosperity in both nations. We are committed to exploring new frontiers and deepening our existing relationships.”
Catalyzing Change For A Collaborative Future
The key to any successful bilateral trade relationship is a history of trust and companionship. India and Canada have been witnessing to each other’s growing economic synergy for decades. Data suggests that more than 600 Canadian companies and organizations have a considerable presence in India, and many more are actively pursuing business opportunities here. The bilateral commercial relationships between the two countries stand at USD 100 billion, 70% of which is Canadian portfolio investment into India. It is also worth mentioning that almost 6% of overseas Indians have found their home in Canada — making the country the fourth largest source of foreign tourists in India!
By focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and technological advancement, the ICCC wants to leave no stone unturned in its bid to take Canada-India trade to unprecedented heights. ‘India Mission 2024’ is a step in that direction.

Legacy Of ICCC:
The Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce, based out of Toronto, Ontario, in Canada, has been working diligently for the past 47 years, aiming to “deepen economic and business relations between Canada and India and create business opportunities for Canadian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).” Established as a non-profit organization in 1977, the ICCC has been instrumental in fostering business and trade relations between the 5th (India) and 10th (Canada) largest economies in the world.
Keeping the richness of the Indo-Canadian diaspora in mind, the ICCC has extended tremendous efforts at fostering business opportunities for Indo-Canadians by providing them with a dais for sharing ideas, information, and experiences. To ensure the optimum utilization of its vast talent pool, the ICCC facilitates various learning opportunities through their seminars, workshops, and conferences.


DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by ATK.

Also Read- Chinese President Xi Jinping offers to strengthen China-France ties after French President inks defence deals with India!

Chinese President Xi Jinping offers to strengthen China-France ties after French President inks defence deals with India!

Chinese President Xi Jinping announces plans to boost China-France ties and calls for joint efforts in promoting peace, security, prosperity, and progress!

Chinese President Xi Jinping

Days after French President Emmanuel Macron’s high-profile visit to India, Chinese President Xi Jinping has announced to boost China-France ties. Jinping has said, “China and France should jointly open up a path of peace, security, prosperity, and progress for human development”. On the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, Chinese President Xi offered to “break new ground” to give a fillip to bilateral ties between the two countries.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said they have offered to step up French imports to the country. We will continue to unleash consumer and investment market demand, and continue to expand the import of high-quality products and services from France,” Wang Yi said.

The Chinese foreign minister hoped that France too would provide Chinese companies with a fair, just, and predictable business environment. China prioritises ties with France as Macron is pushing Europe to become a third bloc, a balancing force between the US and China.

Last week only French President Emmanuel Macron was invited as the chief guest at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on January 26.

During Macron’s high-profile visit to India, the two countries unveiled an ambitious defence roadmap besides intensifying cooperation in the strategic Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific region.

Chinese President Xi Jinping

France ties up defence deal, sets Indian students’ target

The intensification of India-France cooperation in the Indian Ocean concerns China as it tries to make forays in India’s backyard.

Beijing kept a wary watch on Macron’s visit to India as Paris is emerging as a key defence partner to New Delhi amid efforts by the US and European Union to court India as a counterweight to counter China.

The US, India, and several other world powers have been discussing the need to ensure a free, open, and thriving Indo-Pacific in the backdrop of China’s rising military manoeuvring in the resource-rich region.

This Article was published on Livemint News!

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