Was Adani case discussed in Trump meeting? PM Modi’s sharp response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly addressed questions regarding the ongoing Adani Group situation during his recent talks with US President Donald Trump. He emphasized that such individual issues are not typically on the agenda when leaders of nations convene. "India is a democracy, and our cultural philosophy is 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'—we regard the world as one family. I believe every Indian is part of me," Modi stated. He made it clear that discussions between the two leaders do not delve into specific cases like that of Gautam Adani.

The background of the Adani controversy dates back to November 20 of last year when US authorities filed serious charges against Gautam Adani and several high-ranking officials within his business group. They are alleged to have participated in a substantial bribery scheme worth $250 million relating to contracts for solar power projects in India.

The indictment from the US Department of Justice named Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and other associates. The allegations comprise securities and wire fraud, asserting that the Adani Group misled US investors regarding their anti-corruption policies while reportedly engaging in extensive bribery practices. In response, the Adani Group has vehemently denied these accusations, branding them as baseless.

This situation gained further attention when six US lawmakers raised concerns over the indictment and the Department of Justice’s decisions under President Joe Biden’s administration. Their communication was directed to the newly-appointed US Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

During Modi's recent visit—a significant one since Trump’s second inauguration—the two leaders engaged in comprehensive bilateral discussions that spanned over four hours, addressing a wide array of topics related to both bilateral relations and pressing regional and global issues.

Tata Sons Chairman Chandrasekaran, Bharti Group chief Sunil Mittal get U.K.’s honorary civilian award

Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran has been honored with the prestigious title of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (Civil Division), an esteemed civilian award granted to foreign nationals by the United Kingdom. This recognition, an honorary DBE/KBE, acknowledges his significant contributions to enhancing business relations between the U.K. and India.

In a statement reflecting his sentiments, Mr. Chandrasekaran expressed his deep humility and gratitude for this honor, particularly addressing His Majesty, King Charles. He stated, "I am deeply humbled by this prestigious recognition," highlighting the importance of the award.

In a post shared by Tata Group on X, Mr. Chandrasekaran elaborated on the group's strong strategic ties with the U.K., mentioning the company’s expansive involvement in sectors such as technology, consumer goods, hospitality, steel, chemicals, and automotive. "We are incredibly proud of our iconic British brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley. With over 70,000 employees in the U.K., we have established fruitful partnerships with leading institutions, including the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics," he added.

Expressing gratitude towards the U.K. government for its support, he emphasized the enduring relationship between Tata Group and the U.K. and expressed his intent to further strengthen their presence in the region.

Apple Resumes Advertising on X

In an unexpected move, Apple has resumed its advertising efforts on X, previously known as Twitter, marking the company's return to the platform after a hiatus longer than a year. Apple had halted all advertising activities back in November 2023, primarily due to controversial comments made by the platform's owner, Elon Musk.

This month, users began to notice ads from the official @Apple account, specifically promoting the privacy features of Safari. Alongside this, the @AppleTV account has also been active, showcasing advertisements for its popular series, Severance.

The initial backlash that led Apple to suspend its advertising stemmed from Musk's contentious response to a tweet that expressed negative views about Jewish populations. Musk’s controversial interaction drew significant criticism and forced a reevaluation of his public presence.

Over the past year, Musk seems to have shifted away from creating waves online, adopting a quieter approach as he avoided further inflammatory statements. His recent low-profile behavior has apparently restored Apple's confidence, enabling them to navigate back into the advertising realm on X, allowing for the promotion of their products without the previous concerns.

How I built an AI company to save my open source project

Three years ago, life took a dramatic turn for me on a seemingly ordinary Thursday. After concluding my morning meetings, I checked my inbox only to discover that my life's work, OptaPlanner—a popular open-source solver we had painstakingly developed over a decade—was on the brink of extinction despite its global acclaim. Overwhelmed, I curled up on my sofa, and by the time my wife found me two hours later, I was still in disbelief.

This marks the beginning of the story of Timefold AI, a tale about transforming a doomed project into a flourishing company dedicated to PlanningAI solutions. We aimed for commercial success without compromising our commitment to open-source values, with a primary goal of liberating the world from inefficient scheduling.

The seeds for this journey were planted 19 years ago when a colleague introduced me to his shift rostering struggles. Intrigued by the complexities of planning problems, I embarked on creating a more user-friendly Solver API. What began as a hobby project in 2006 turned into a robust open-source library by 2012, gaining traction among enterprises, including a NASA contractor for satellite scheduling.

Work challenges shifted my focus from my hobby to professional endeavors at Red Hat, where my creation, now known as OptaPlanner, began generating substantial interest. I became adept at addressing real-world planning puzzles, refining the software further through user feedback.

Despite this success, I realized that optimizing planning isn't straightforward; many companies still rely on basic drag-and-drop methods or manual spreadsheets, missing out on the potential efficiencies offered by advanced algorithms. Driven by this realization, I aimed to deepen our capabilities and establish a dedicated team, but my focus on engineering alone wasn't enough.

In February 2022, a jarring announcement indicated that our work was to be transitioned out of Red Hat's product strategy, culminating in a crash that shook my foundation. After enduring various emotional stages of loss, I finally accepted the situation and considered launching my own venture around the open-source legacy I had cultivated.

With unwavering support from my wife, I decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship. I envisioned creating a product company, making a shift from merely offering support for the open-source project to selling proprietary services, establishing a solid business model.

My search for co-founders and investors led me to Maarten, whose complementary skills in venture building and sales were exactly the partnership I needed. With $2 million in initial funding from VC firms, we founded Timefold, determined to uphold our open-source roots while developing a sustainable business strategy.

In June 2023, we launched our first product, Timefold Solver, grasping the intricacies of Product Market Fit. Amidst the struggle to position ourselves effectively, we soon recognized the need to expand our offering to SaaS solutions. By leveraging our established reputation and community feedback, we designed our platform around solving specific planning challenges.

Fast forward to October 2024, our SaaS platform went live, delivering robust APIs for vehicle routing and employee rostering while streamlining operational efficiency. Today, I’m not just a participant; I’m now vocal within the Operations Research community, showcasing our journey and plans for the future of Timefold AI.

It's essential to highlight that this journey belongs not just to me but to the talented individuals who joined me along the way and the users who actively applied our technology to improve their operations. The future is bright and ambitious for Timefold AI, where we aim to rid the world of ineffective scheduling!

UK drops ‘safety’ from its AI body, now called AI Security Institute, inks MOU with Anthropic

The U.K. government is making a significant shift towards enhancing its economy and industrial framework through artificial intelligence (AI). In line with this transformation, the Department of Science, Industry and Technology has announced a rebranding of the AI Safety Institute to the AI Security Institute. This change signifies a move from primarily examining issues like existential risks and biases in large language models to focusing on cybersecurity, specifically enhancing safeguards against the potential threats that AI poses to national security and crime.

Additionally, the government has forged a new partnership with Anthropic, a company known for its AI assistant, Claude. Although specific services were not detailed, the memorandum of understanding suggests that both entities will explore the integration of Claude into public services. Anthropic aims to contribute to research and economic modeling, and at the AI Security Institute, provide tools for evaluating AI capabilities concerning security risks.

Dario Amodei, co-founder and CEO of Anthropic, stated, “AI has the potential to transform how governments serve their citizens.” He expressed enthusiasm for investigating how their AI assistant could enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public services for U.K. residents. While Anthropic is the sole company highlighted in this announcement, it is not the only organization collaborating with the government, as previous endeavors involved tools powered by OpenAI.

This transition from AI Safety to AI Security reflects the Labour government’s broader strategy aimed at stimulating investment and modernizing the economy through technological advancements. Notably, the January announcement of their AI-driven Plan for Change omitted terms such as “safety,” “harm,” or “existential threat,” indicating a deliberate focus on progress and development over safety concerns.

In support of this vision, civil servants will have access to an in-house AI assistant dubbed “Humphrey,” encouraging the use of AI and data-sharing to enhance their productivity. Future government services will also include digital wallets and chatbots for easier access to public documents and information.

While safety issues surrounding AI have not been fully addressed, the government appears to prioritize progress over potential risks. Kyle, a government official, stated that these changes represent a logical progression in responsible AI development aimed at promoting growth. Despite the renaming, the mission of the institute to protect citizens and democratic values against misuse of AI remains intact. Ian Hogarth, chair of the AI Security Institute, affirmed that their focus has always been on security, with new initiatives in place to address emerging threats.

In direct contrast, the focus on AI Safety appears to wane internationally, with concerns growing around the future of similar institutes like the AI Safety Institute in the U.S. amid talks of dismantling in the highest echelons of government.

Turo scraps plans for an IPO

Turo Cancels IPO Plans After Three-Year Wait

In a significant move on Thursday, Turo announced its withdrawal of plans for an initial public offering (IPO), effectively marking the end of a three-year period during which the online car-sharing network sought to enter the public marketplace. This decision was made public through a regulatory filing.

Founded in 2010, Turo operates by allowing private car owners to rent out their vehicles through its user-friendly website and app, earning it the nickname "Airbnb for cars." Turo first filed for an IPO in January 2022; however, fluctuating market conditions and a slowdown in growth soon forced a reevaluation of their plans.

The cancellation of Turo's IPO comes on the heels of Getaround, a peer-to-peer car-sharing competitor, shutting down its U.S. operations just a day earlier. Getaround had successfully made its public debut through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company in 2022, but like Turo, it started as a venture-backed initiative.

Despite the setback with the IPO, Turo continues to operate actively in the United States and several other countries, including Canada, Australia, and France. As of September 2024, the company boasts a robust platform with 150,000 active hosts globally, featuring 350,000 active vehicle listings and serving 3.5 million guests. However, its growth trajectory seems to have peaked. Turo reported $722 million in revenue during the first nine months of 2024, reflecting an increase of 8.6% compared to the same period in 2023. Yet, this figure falls short of the $879.7 million generated during the 2022 peak.

Although Turo has been profitable since 2022, the revenue and net income figures have not rebounded to levels sufficient to reignite its IPO aspirations.

Description Language for managing file/folder naming conventions

A Guide to File and Directory Naming Conventions

When it comes to organizing your digital files and folders, establishing a clear and consistent naming convention is essential. This not only helps in maintaining order but also enhances the ability to locate files quickly, especially in larger projects.

Here are some key principles to consider when developing your file and directory naming conventions:

• Be Descriptive: Use clear, descriptive names that reflect the content of the file. Avoid vague labels that can lead to confusion.
• Use Dates: Incorporate dates in your file names (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD format) to track versions and timelines effectively.
• Limit Special Characters: Stick to alphanumeric characters and avoid using special characters such as slashes, question marks, or asterisks to prevent compatibility issues across different systems.
• Consistent Structure: Maintain a consistent format throughout your naming. For example, if you choose to use underscores to separate words, stick to this format in all your files.
• Version Control: Include version numbers in your file names (e.g., v1, v2) to help keep track of changes and updates easily.

Following these guidelines can drastically improve your file management system, making it easier to collaborate with others and ensuring that important documents are never lost amid the clutter.

Hyperbound (YC S23) Is Hiring a Founding Full-Stack Engineer in SF

Join Hyperbound as a Founding Full-Stack Engineer!

Location: San Francisco, CA, US

Salary: $120K - $150K with equity (0.30% - 0.80%)

About Hyperbound: Founded in Y Combinator’s S23 batch, Hyperbound is reshaping the sales-tech landscape with innovative solutions aimed at scaling modern sales training for large enterprise teams. After a successful year, we have achieved over $1M in ARR with fully founder-led sales and a remarkable 90%+ win rate.

Job Description:

We are on the hunt for a dynamic and passionate Founding Full-Stack Engineer to join our in-office team in San Francisco. As a foundational member of our company, you will have the opportunity to significantly influence the architecture, performance, and overall user experience of our applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, test, and deploy applications using a tech stack that includes Next.js/React, Node.js/NestJS REST APIs, and PostgreSQL/MongoDB.
• Create interactive and responsive features with TailwindCSS and TypeScript.
• Integrate Machine Learning workflows with our Python FastAPI server.
• Collaborate with the team for code reviews and active feature planning.
• Focus on performance, scalability, and efficiency of our database and application.
• Support AWS infrastructure and CI/CD pipelines.
• Engage with early users to gather feedback and iterate swiftly on insights.
• Maintain clear documentation for code and processes.

Qualifications:

We are seeking candidates who:

• Can work at our San Francisco office 4-5 times a week.
• Are eager to be an integral part of a high-growth startup.
• Possess expertise in TypeScript/JavaScript across the full-stack.
• Have some experience with Python, particularly for ML tasks.
• Are familiar with AWS management and cloud infrastructure.
• Able to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Can communicate effectively and collaborate seamlessly.
• Experience in AI, SaaS, or sales-related products is advantageous.

What We Offer:

Joining Hyperbound means being part of a rapidly growing team with:

• A competitive salary and equity package.
• The opportunity to learn and grow at an unprecedented pace.
• A chance to significantly impact the company's trajectory.

Interview Process:

Our interview process involves a two-phase approach:

• Phone Screen: An informal conversation to assess fit, discuss past projects, and gauging coding capabilities.
• Onsite Interview: A thorough two-day onsite evaluation where candidates work with our team on a small project, focusing on technical skills and team fit.

About Hyperbound:

Founded in 2023, Hyperbound is a small yet driven team based in San Francisco, looking to innovate in the sales-tech arena.

India is very hard place to do business because of high tariffs: Trump over Musk and PM Modi's meeting

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump addressed the meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which took place earlier that day at the Blair House. During this encounter, they discussed significant topics including space, technology, and innovation. Trump acknowledged Musk's interest in pursuing business opportunities in India but expressed concerns regarding the challenges imposed by high tariffs in that country. He remarked, "India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs. They have the highest tariffs just about in the world."

Trump elaborated on Musk’s motivations, suggesting that his interest stems from a long-standing commitment to improving conditions that he perceives as detrimental to the country. "He’s doing this as something that he’s felt strongly about for a long time because he sees what's happening," Trump stated, indicating Musk's awareness of larger systemic issues.

In addition to this discussion, Trump issued a stern warning to BRICS nations during his Oval Office address. He declared that if these nations proceeded to launch a common currency, they would be faced with a staggering 100% tariff on all imports into the United States. Trump's comments suggest a significant challenge to BRICS' global standing and influence, asserting, "Brics is dead... if they want to play games with the Dollar, then they are going to be hit by a 100% tariff." These statements point to an escalation in trade tensions and possible repercussions in international economic relationships.

As Prime Minister Modi continues his two-day visit to the US, discussions between the two leaders are expected to center around crucial issues such as trade and tariffs, potentially impacting future collaboration between India and the US.

A.P. Lorry Owners’ Association demands withdrawal of draft notification on norms related to vehicle age

Members of the Andhra Pradesh Lorry Owners’ Association have formally appealed to Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, urging the withdrawal of a draft notification issued by the Central government on February 7, 2025. This notification proposes restrictions on vehicles older than 12 years, which has sparked significant concern among vehicle owners and drivers across the nation.

In a detailed letter to the minister, the association's general secretary, Y.V. Eswara Rao, articulated that the restrictions could lead to severe implications for many self-employed owner-cum-drivers who rely on their vehicles for their livelihoods. He stressed that such regulations could inevitably push these individuals out of work, creating a ripple effect on their financial stability and robust jobs.

Moreover, Rao highlighted that the imposition of these restrictions would not only affect individual owners but would also impose additional financial burdens on State governments and the Public Distribution System (PDS). He explained that increased transport charges resulting from these limitations would complicate the management of essential services, placing an undue strain on public resources.

In light of these issues, the association has put forward a request to either abolish the Automated Testing Stations (ATS) or bring them under state governance. They also expressed frustration over existing toll charges, arguing that the proposed regulations would only exacerbate their financial struggles. Rao demanded a standardized fitness fee—₹500 for small and medium vehicles and ₹1,000 for heavy goods and passenger vehicles—while calling on the Centre to reconsider the imposition of the draft notification to prevent financial exploitation of vehicle owners.

Trump talks trade with Modi after ordering new tariffs

Jude Sheerin from BBC News reports on the recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, held at the White House. The two leaders convened for discussions centered around trade, a topic that has become increasingly significant amid ongoing global economic changes.

Prime Minister Modi's visit lasts two days and unfolds against the backdrop of Trump’s recent directive requiring that US trading partners face reciprocal tariffs. This means that countries must implement similar import taxes on American goods that the US faces from them. Immigration was also a crucial focus during their talks, with Trump expected to urge India to accept thousands of undocumented immigrants currently in the US.

Before their meeting, Modi tweeted about his discussions with Elon Musk, indicating that topics of mutual interest, including space, technology, and innovation, were on the table. The personal rapport between Trump and Modi has strengthened over the years, leading Trump to remark, "We've had a wonderful relationship," as he welcomed Modi to Washington, DC.

Modi expressed optimism about future cooperation, stating, "I firmly believe with Trump we will work with twice the speed we did in his first term." Trump added that India is set to purchase significant amounts of US oil and gas, considering their growing energy needs.

As discussions continued, Trump revealed that he had instructed advisors to evaluate the implementation of broad new tariffs. He candidly stated, "Our allies are worse than our enemies," regarding import tariffs, highlighting his administration's view of current trade relationships. The White House release pointed to the disparity in average tariffs between the US and India - a striking 39% versus 5% for agricultural goods.

Furthermore, Trump acknowledged the potential risks of his tariffs, admitting they could lead to short-term price increases, but he assured that they would ultimately enhance American manufacturing and create jobs. He has already imposed a 10% tariff on imports from China and is considering additional tariffs on Canada and Mexico.

Hundreds of Sydney trains cancelled as negotiation between NSW government and rail workers comes to a halt

Sydney commuters are experiencing significant disruptions, as hundreds of rail services have been canceled and delays are rampant, thanks to stalled pay negotiations between train unions and the state government. Transport Minister John Graham announced on local radio station 2GB that more than 350 services were canceled on Friday morning, causing major impacts across the rail network.

The conflict escalated when a spokesperson for the New South Wales (NSW) government claimed that the unions requested a $4,500 bonus payment per rail worker just before the negotiations reached a deadlock. However, Toby Warnes, secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union NSW (RTBU), refuted this claim, declaring it “completely untrue”. In his statement, he insisted that the payment is part of an existing agreement and not an additional request made during recent talks.

Adding to the turmoil, the RTBU warned the public just the night before about potential delays where trains will operate at a significantly reduced speed of 23 km/h in areas with a speed limit exceeding 80 km/h. Warnes highlighted that the widespread delays stem from the government issuing 5,000 lockout notices to train crew workers, impacting their attendance at work.

The situation remains unpredictable, with no clear timeline on when normal services will resume. The government has expressed that they have a fair pay offer prepared but acknowledges the challenging negotiations ahead. Transport for NSW continues to work towards a new agreement before the next Fair Work Commission hearing set for Monday.

This ongoing situation emphasizes the complexities of labor relations within the public transport sector, where the stakes involve not only employee pay but also the daily lives of commuters who depend on rail services for their journeys.

UK government to ‘wait and see’ in the face of Trump tariffs announcement

The UK government has decided to take a cautious approach to the recent tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump, as expressed by senior minister Pat McFadden. Speaking on Sky News, McFadden emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions about the implementation of these tariffs, suggesting that the best response is to 'wait and see'. He pointed out that many tariff announcements in the past have been quickly retracted.

McFadden stated, "Sometimes tariffs are announced and then unannounced a couple of days later," suggesting a certain level of skepticism towards the stability of Trump's tariffs. There remain many unanswered questions about the specifics of the tariffs and their potential implications for the UK. He stressed that rather than react impulsively, the government should take time to digest the information and see what actually materializes.

The potential tariffs come amid a series of measures Trump has initiated since his presidency began, including a notable 25% levy on steel imports, which has raised concerns within the UK. While Trump’s administration has previously engaged in negotiations that halted impending tariffs for Canada and Mexico, uncertainty looms for other countries, including the UK.

McFadden refrained from discussing any retaliatory measures the UK might consider, stating it would be premature to speculate on that front. He conveyed that the UK government intends to focus on maintaining strong trading relationships around the world. The British Chambers of Commerce also warned that Trump’s tariffs might disrupt longstanding trade norms, creating further uncertainty for businesses and consumers globally.

With UK-US trade amounting to approximately £300 billion annually, McFadden's cautious stance highlights the complexity of international trade relations and the need for carefully measured responses to avoid escalating tensions.

Tolerating full cloud outages with Monzo Stand-in

Ensuring Uninterrupted Banking Services at Monzo

At Monzo, we believe it's reasonable for our customers to expect the ability to use their cards, transfer funds, and pay bills any time of day, all year round. With lives that never pause for maintenance, we aim to provide seamless banking experiences. Despite our robust engineering efforts to mitigate downtime during technical migrations and daily operations, it is impossible to completely eliminate unforeseen incidents that may lead to outages.

To address this challenge, we have developed a separate backup system known as Monzo Stand-in, ensuring that essential services remain accessible in the face of unforeseen complications. Monzo Stand-in is not the primary service delivery mechanism; rather, it acts as a backup of last resort, bolstering the resilience of our offerings to our valued customers.

What is Monzo Stand-in?

Monzo Stand-in operates independently on the Google Cloud Platform (GCP), prepared to take over services from our primary platform, which is based in Amazon Web Services (AWS), during major incidents. This system supports essential functionalities such as card spending, cash withdrawals, fund transfers, balance checks, and card management.

The two platforms operate autonomously, utilizing Kubernetes clusters, each with unique services. Notably, services in the Monzo Stand-in environment do not run concurrently in the Primary Platform—ensuring that failure in one does not compromise the other. Both platforms can independently authorize transactions and can connect to payment networks through various data centers.

Why a Fresh Approach?

While it might seem counterintuitive to design an entirely new service for Monzo Stand-in instead of utilizing identical mechanisms to the Primary Platform, we have compelling reasons for this decision. Primarily, attempting to mirror the same services would necessitate real-time data replication between both platforms, risking overall availability. Instead, we prioritize eventual consistency over strict synchronization, alleviating the pressure on crucial systems.

Cost-Effective Reliability

Monzo Stand-in operates at around 1% of the Primary Platform's expenses, retaining minimal ongoing costs which only marginally rise during a major incident. Data syncing between the two platforms aligns closely with a real-time framework, ensuring that updates remain manageable and effective.

Learning from Incidents

The effectiveness of Monzo Stand-in was evidenced during a significant incident in August 2024, where we experienced a major platform outage. Swift activation of Monzo Stand-in allowed our customers continued access to their most crucial transactions, underscoring our commitment to maintaining essential banking services regardless of the circumstances.

As we move forward, we plan to share a more comprehensive understanding of Monzo Stand-in’s functions, including payment processing intricacies and configuration details. We are dedicated to building resilient systems to serve our millions of customers effectively. If you're ready to contribute to this mission, feel free to check our open engineering roles!

'Worse than our enemies': Trump slams US trading allies, imposes 'reciprocal tariffs'

Just hours before meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump announced a new plan to impose comprehensive "reciprocal tariffs" targeting both allies and rivals, significantly heightening global trade tensions.

Trump stated in the Oval Office, "I’ve decided for purposes of fairness that I will charge a reciprocal tariff. It’s fair to all. No other country can complain." He expressed concerns that US allies have historically treated the US even worse than its opponents in terms of trade.

Furthermore, Trump highlighted India's high tariffs, claiming they hindered Harley Davidson's ability to sell motorcycles in the country. He pointed out that the substantial tariffs prompted Harley Davidson to establish a factory in India to bypass the financial burden. "Traditionally, India is right at the top of the pack pretty much. There are a couple of smaller countries that are actually more, but India charges tremendous tariffs," he said.

Under this new plan, the tariffs would be tailored to fit each trading partner and include considerations of non-tariff elements like value-added tax (VAT). The announcement came just before Trump's planned meeting with PM Modi, indicating that emerging markets like India could face significant repercussions, particularly due to their higher effective tariff rates.

Trump's trade advisor, Peter Navarro, criticized the European Union's VAT practices, suggesting that many exporting nations impose harsh tariffs and other barriers that hurt American markets. According to a White House representative, the US will initially zero in on economies with the largest trade deficits or the most pressing trade issues.

While acknowledging that tariffs could lead to price increases, Trump remained optimistic about a future stabilization. He has consistently framed these tariffs as tools for generating revenue, correcting trade imbalances, and wielding diplomatic influence. The signed memorandum instructs various US officials to develop country-specific solutions to address trade inequities.

Govt to stop duty-free import of yellow peas this month

New Delhi: The Indian government has announced that it will not extend the duty-free import of yellow peas beyond February 2024, as stated by the Food and Consumer Affairs Minister, Pralhad Joshi, on Thursday. The provision for duty-free imports was initially allowed in December 2023 and saw three subsequent extensions to help mitigate rising prices of tur dal.

Minister Joshi emphasized, "We are stopping the duty-free import of yellow peas," during his press briefing. However, it is expected that the issue will be brought up for discussion by a Group of Ministers (GoM) led by Home Minister Amit Shah next week. Joshi indicated that the Food Ministry has already submitted its comments, and a final decision will rest on the deliberations of the GoM.

Chairman of the India Pulses and Grain Association (IPGA), Bimal Kothari, expressed that the government might impose restrictions on yellow pea imports to safeguard the interests of farmers. He mentioned, "We expect that this (duty-free import of yellow peas) may not be extended or there might be some restrictions on import." According to reports, India imported 30 lakh tonnes of yellow peas contributing to a total of 67 lakh tonnes of overall pulses imported in the 2024 calendar year.

Enable courts to modify arbitral awards: Govt to Supreme Court

NEW DELHI: There is growing momentum for the swift resolution of significant corporate disputes through arbitration. In light of this, the Union government has put forth a request to a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court. They are seeking to empower courts with the ability to modify arbitral awards rather than merely quashing them, which would save parties from the burdensome process of undergoing new arbitration.

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta presented the argument to the bench, which included Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices B. R. Gavai, Sanjay Kumar, K. V. Viswanathan, and A. G. Masih. Mehta emphasized that the Indian Arbitration and Conciliation Act of 1996, similar to legal frameworks in the US, UK, Singapore, Australia, and Canada, typically advocates for limited judicial interference, except in instances where unjust awards need to be quashed.

In contrast, other jurisdictions allow courts to modify awards, modifying specific aspects to prevent parties from having to relive the arbitration process unnecessarily. He stated, “It is essential to have a little broader judicial oversight over arbitral awards since an almost minimalistic interference approach may have resulted in some shockingly unsustainable awards escaping judicial scrutiny.” Mehta explained that without the ability to modify, courts often have to set aside entire awards, even when a minor correction would suffice, ultimately leading to excessive litigation.

The Chief Justice-led bench is currently assessing whether courts can exercise their powers under Sections 34 and 37 of the 1996 Act to modify arbitration awards. This includes examining the scope and circumstances under which such modification powers could be applied. Senior advocate Arvind Datar backed the Solicitor General's position, asserting that pushing parties to resort to fresh arbitration proceedings contradicts the legislative goal of achieving prompt dispute resolution.

Food prices to be under control, critical imports mired in uncertainty: Nirmala Sitharaman

During the recent Budget session of Parliament in New Delhi, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the Rajya Sabha, discussing projections for food prices and inflation management for the upcoming year. She assured members that the government is closely monitoring food prices and will take necessary actions to shield ordinary citizens from inflationary pressures.

Sitharaman highlighted that the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures indicate a decline in inflation rates, dropping from 5.22% in December to 4.31% in January. This drop brings inflation closer to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) target of 4%. She credited the correction in prices of staple foods such as potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, coupled with the decline in pulses inflation due to tariff-free imports for domestic consumption.

Outlining the government’s initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector, the Finance Minister announced targeted actions for pulses, vegetables, fruits, and the promotion of high-yield seeds. She pointed out that adverse weather conditions and supply chain disruptions often trigger food inflation, leading a Group of Ministers (GoM) to oversee timely imports to counter any supply deficits.

Furthermore, the advance estimates of agricultural production for 2024-25 are promising, with expectations of a 5.7% increase in kharif food grain production and notable rises in rice and tur dal outputs. Sitharaman is optimistic that this will keep food prices within manageable levels as the economy targets growth rates of 6.4%.

While presenting this optimistic outlook, she acknowledged the prevailing external challenges that complicate the global economic landscape. She remarked on the shift from the previously stable global economic order to one characterized by fragmentation and rising national debts, underscoring the importance of India's interests amid this shifting backdrop.

In conclusion, Sitharaman expressed gratitude to the MPs who contributed to the discussion, emphasizing that the government’s budgetary assessments aim to anticipate uncertainties while prioritizing the needs of the nation.

Trump launches plan to target countries with new tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump is intensifying his efforts to impose tariffs on imports from countries he claims have unfair trade practices that disadvantage American businesses. On Thursday, he signed a memo directing his team to devise custom tariffs for various nations, considering their current tariffs, exchange rates, trade balances, and other regulations.

The Biden administration emphasized that while foreign tariffs are a concern, other trade policies from countries, particularly those within the European Union, also hinder U.S. exporters. Although concrete details of the new trade strategy remain to be seen, this initiative is expected to reignite global trade discussions.

As part of the memo, staff members are tasked with crafting a plan for “reciprocal trade and tariffs” within the next 180 days. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has stated that the plan would be ready by April 1. Trump highlighted the goal of his proposed tariffs as creating a more favorable environment for U.S. manufacturing: "If you build your product in the United States, there are no tariffs," he noted, adding that past trade practices had been inequitable.

This move is likely to reshape trade dynamics with nations like India, Vietnam, and Thailand, who have relatively high tariffs and rely heavily on the U.S. market for their exports. Trump is expected to discuss these trade issues with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has already taken steps to lower tariffs on items like motorcycles—a point Trump raised during his earlier tenure.

While the European Union has expressed its commitment to maintaining strong ties with the U.S., it also prepares to defend its interests amidst these developments. Trump’s new emphasis on tariffs is a notable shift, as historically, the U.S. had pursued low tariffs for the majority of imports. Currently, the U.S. maintains an average tariff rate of 3.4%, compared to the EU’s average of 5%.

The potential economic impact of these tariffs adds another layer of complexity. Trump’s recent import tax of 25% on steel and aluminum will soon take effect, alongside increased tariffs on Chinese goods and potential duties on imports from Canada and Mexico. Market reactions have been mixed, with analysts warning that increased tariffs may lead to higher costs for Americans and could exacerbate inflationary pressures.

Public sentiment surrounding these tariff measures remains skeptical. A recent poll indicates that only 24% of respondents believe that tariffs will be beneficial for the U.S. economy. Concerns about the long-term economic implications and potential price increases on everyday goods are prevalent, challenging Trump’s narrative surrounding job creation and growth through new tariffs.

OpenAI scrubs diversity commitment web page from its site

Recently, OpenAI made a notable change by removing a dedicated page on its website that highlighted its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This former page, which can now be found in the archives, conveyed a strong dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The URL for this commitment—https://openai.com/commitment-to-dei/—now redirects to a different page titled https://openai.com/building-dynamic-teams/, where the term “diversity” is conspicuously absent. Instead, the new content focuses on the importance of bringing together people from various backgrounds and experiences to enhance creativity and idea generation.

The previous DEI page assured visitors of OpenAI's ongoing investment in these core values, promising continuous improvement in creating a diverse and equitable workplace. This change appears to have occurred quite recently, as evidence suggests that the page was still functional in late January, only to be replaced shortly thereafter. The updated page emphasizes the recognition of the value in diverse ideas, promoting a culture of curiosity where challenging notions is encouraged.

The motivations behind this shift are not entirely clear, especially given OpenAI's lack of response to inquiries about the potential implications for its internal processes or philosophy. However, it’s important to note that they continue to advocate for fairness in model training aimed at reducing social biases.

OpenAI isn't alone in this trend; other major players like Meta, Google, and Amazon have also adjusted their DEI policies in light of growing political and legal opposition to DEI initiatives. For example, recent directives from officials, like Attorney General Pam Bondi, have prompted investigations into DEI programs that might conflict with federal regulations for businesses receiving government funding.

For context, OpenAI has maintained close collaboration with government entities, such as securing contracts and deploying specialized chatbots for various government agencies, indicating the company's strategic approach to navigate changing landscapes in corporate governance and compliance.