Musk says Starlink can help underserved communities as thousands of Indian villages still lack 4G access

Starlink renews India push

Elon Musk’s Starlink has renewed its push to launch satellite internet services in India, with the company re-applying for a licence as it continues discussions with the Indian government.

Musk on Friday, August 21, said Starlink could help provide internet access to underserved communities, particularly in rural areas where conventional telecom infrastructure remains limited.

Musk shared a post on X highlighting connectivity gaps in India and said Starlink could help people living in areas that remain poorly served by existing networks.

The development comes a day after Starlink reportedly re-applied for the required licence to provide satellite-based broadband services in the country.

Over 11,000 villages lack 4G

Data cited in the social media post said more than 11,000 listed villages in India did not have access to a 4G network as of May 2026.

India has a large internet user base, but connectivity remains uneven between urban and rural areas. According to the figures cited, India had around 109.3 crore internet subscriptions as of March 2026, including approximately 44.08 crore rural subscribers.

The disparity becomes more visible when internet density is compared. Rural India had about 48.31 internet connections per 100 people, while urban areas recorded 126.80 connections per 100 people.

The figures highlight the challenge of extending reliable high-speed connectivity to remote parts of the country.

BharatNet continues expansion

The government is also expanding rural broadband connectivity through the BharatNet programme.

More than 8.5 lakh route-kilometres of fibre have reportedly been laid across India, making around 2.21 lakh Gram Panchayats service-ready.

However, the number of operational Points of Presence remains lower. By June 2026, PoPs were operational in 80,472 Gram Panchayats, according to the data cited in the report.

This gap has created space for satellite-based connectivity to complement conventional fibre and mobile networks, particularly in geographically difficult locations.

How Starlink could help

Starlink uses a network of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide broadband connectivity without depending entirely on conventional ground-based telecom infrastructure.

The technology could be particularly useful in remote villages, mountainous regions, islands and areas where laying fibre or constructing mobile towers is difficult or expensive.

Satellite connectivity can also provide an alternative communication channel during disasters or emergencies when terrestrial infrastructure is damaged.

The company is also working on direct-to-device technology, which could eventually allow compatible mobile phones to connect with satellites in areas without conventional tower coverage.

Licence and spectrum remain key

Starlink’s proposed Indian operations still depend on regulatory approvals, including the necessary licence and spectrum allocation.

India has been working on a framework for allocating satellite spectrum and regulating satellite communication services. Starlink is seeking to operate alongside other satellite broadband companies competing for a presence in the Indian market.

The company’s renewed application comes amid reports that its approval process had faced concerns linked to security and geopolitical issues.

Some reports had suggested that security agencies were worried about monitoring and controlling a foreign satellite operator during periods of geopolitical tension.

Starlink denies approval concerns

Starlink Vice President Lauren Dreyer has rejected reports suggesting that the company's discussions with the Indian government have stalled.

Dreyer said the company was continuing to engage with the Indian government and described the discussions as productive. She also cautioned against relying on what she characterised as misleading reports about the status of the process.

Starlink's latest application indicates that the company remains committed to entering the Indian market.

Satellite internet vs mobile towers

Traditional mobile networks rely on towers connected through fibre or other backhaul infrastructure. Expanding these networks into forests, mountains, islands and sparsely populated regions can be expensive and technically challenging.

Satellite internet works differently. Starlink's LEO satellites communicate with ground terminals, allowing users in areas beyond conventional broadband coverage to access the internet.

For India, the technology could potentially complement government-led fibre programmes rather than replace existing mobile and broadband networks.

The key question now is how quickly Starlink can secure the remaining regulatory approvals and spectrum required to begin commercial operations in India.

OpenAI has introduced a new macOS feature called Computer History, allowing ChatGPT to remember aspects of how users work across their computers. The optional feature is designed to help users recover information about previous activity, including files, documents, websites and tasks they may have worked on earlier.

The feature could be particularly useful for people who regularly switch between multiple applications and browser tabs. A user could ask ChatGPT what they were working on the previous day, where they stopped on a coding project or which document they had edited, with the system using stored activity history to help locate the relevant context.

However, the expanded capability also raises questions about privacy, data access and the use of such tools on workplace computers.

How Computer History Works

According to OpenAI, Computer History records interaction events from applications and websites to help ChatGPT understand a user's previous computer activity.

The company says the feature does not continuously capture screenshots or record audio. Instead, it can collect activity such as clicks, typing and switching between applications.

OpenAI executive Dominik Kundel said Computer History “doesn’t rely on screen or audio capture”.

Different From Microsoft Recall

OpenAI's approach differs from Microsoft's controversial Recall feature, which was designed to periodically capture screenshots of activity on Windows PCs.

Computer History is also separate from OpenAI's earlier Chronicle experiment, which used screen captures and optical character recognition to create a record of computer activity.

The company has also clarified that Computer History is different from Record & Replay, which allows ChatGPT and Codex users to demonstrate workflows that can subsequently be turned into reusable skills.

Users Can Control the Feature

Computer History is optional and remains disabled until users choose to activate it.

Mac users can exclude specific applications and websites from being included in their history. OpenAI has also introduced a menu bar control that allows users to pause the feature.

The company says the collected history is stored locally on the user's Mac. Users can inspect the information that has been recorded and delete it when required.

Privacy Concerns Remain

Local storage may provide users with greater control, but it does not eliminate all privacy concerns.

Computer History is designed to give ChatGPT access to a much broader picture of a user's digital activity than conventional conversation memory. That raises questions about how information derived from computer activity is used when ChatGPT responds to questions about previous work.

The issue could be particularly important for employees using company-managed Macs. Organisations may have separate policies governing monitoring, data access and the use of AI tools on workplace devices.

Users may therefore need to understand their company's policies before enabling Computer History on a work computer.

AI Agents Could Benefit

OpenAI also sees Computer History as a potential foundation for more capable AI agents.

By understanding how users perform tasks on their computers, future agents could potentially identify recurring workflows and help automate them.

Users could, for example, ask an agent to create a reusable skill from a task they have just completed or help prepare a regular team update based on their established workflow.

This could move ChatGPT beyond simply answering questions and towards becoming an assistant that understands how people actually work.

Who Gets Access

Computer History is rolling out to Pro, Business and Enterprise customers.

OpenAI says the feature is being introduced globally, although customers in the European Economic Area, UK and Switzerland are expected to receive access in the coming weeks.

Because the feature is optional, users who do not want to give ChatGPT broader access to their computer activity can choose not to enable it.

Convenience vs Privacy

Computer History represents a significant expansion of ChatGPT's ability to understand a user's digital context.

For people who frequently lose track of files, browser tabs or unfinished projects, the feature could save time by helping recover previously completed work.

At the same time, the wider access makes privacy controls particularly important. Users will need to consider which applications and websites should be included, how their history is stored and when it should be deleted.

For now, OpenAI's decision to make Computer History optional gives users the final choice over whether ChatGPT gets this broader window into their digital activity.

Instagram has refreshed a key part of its visual identity for the first time in a decade, introducing a redesigned version of its wordmark while retaining the familiar gradient camera icon. The Meta-owned platform has made subtle changes to the lettering, describing the updated design as cleaner, sharper and more modern.

The redesign was announced by Instagram chief Adam Mosseri through posts on Instagram and Threads. Rather than replacing the platform's established branding, Instagram has redrawn the existing lettering while retaining the script style that users have associated with the service for years.

Mosseri said the wordmark at the top of the app had remained unchanged for 10 years and that the company believed it was time for a refresh.

A Subtle Branding Change

Unlike a complete logo overhaul, Instagram's latest update focuses mainly on typography.

The company's recognisable gradient camera icon remains in place, meaning users will continue to see the symbol that has represented Instagram since its major redesign in 2016.

The new lettering has been adjusted to give it a more contemporary appearance while preserving elements of the original Instagram identity.

The change may appear relatively small, but even minor modifications can attract considerable attention when they involve a globally recognised brand.

Last Major Redesign in 2016

Instagram's previous major visual change came in 2016, when the company replaced its older brown camera illustration with the colourful gradient icon that is now widely associated with the platform.

The earlier logo had closely reflected Instagram's origins as a photo-sharing service. By 2016, however, the platform had already begun expanding beyond simple photography.

The new gradient design initially faced strong criticism from users who considered it too simplistic. Over time, the redesigned icon became a familiar part of Instagram's identity.

Instagram Has Changed Since Then

A decade after the last major visual overhaul, Instagram is very different from the service it was in 2016.

Video has become one of the platform's central features, while direct messaging, shopping, personalised recommendations and algorithm-driven feeds have significantly changed how users interact with the app.

Instagram has increasingly positioned itself as a broader entertainment and content platform rather than simply a photo-sharing service.

Mosseri has previously highlighted recommendations as a major part of the platform's user experience, reflecting this shift in how content is discovered and consumed.

Users React to New Wordmark

The new wordmark has already generated mixed reactions online.

Some users have welcomed the updated lettering and described it as a cleaner version of the familiar branding. Others have questioned why Instagram needed to change a design that was already well recognised.

One of the recurring jokes surrounding the redesign is that the altered lettering can reportedly look like “Instagzam”when viewed quickly.

The reaction illustrates the challenge faced by major technology companies when making changes to familiar branding. Even a minor adjustment to the shape of individual letters can become noticeable to millions of users.

Icon Remains Unchanged

An important difference between the latest update and Instagram's 2016 redesign is the scale of the change.

Instagram has not replaced its familiar gradient camera icon or introduced a completely new visual identity.

Instead, the company has focused on the wordmark that appears alongside its broader branding.

For users, this means the overall Instagram identity remains largely recognisable despite the refreshed lettering.

Why the Change Matters

The redesign comes as Instagram continues to evolve from a photography-focused social network into a platform built around video, creators, recommendations and messaging.

The updated wordmark may therefore be intended to modernise the brand without disconnecting it from its history.

Whether the new design becomes familiar over time remains to be seen. Instagram's 2016 redesign shows that even controversial branding changes can eventually become accepted once users have had enough time to adjust.

For now, however, the new wordmark has left Instagram users divided, with some praising the cleaner look while others remain unconvinced that the decade-old branding needed to be changed.

His work has largely focused on helping organizations use enterprise technology to improve business processes, strengthen operational visibility and support growth. Over the years, this experience has shaped Mohit's approach to consulting: understand the business requirement first, evaluate the technology carefully and then commit to what can realistically be delivered.

For Mohit, an ERP engagement begins with understanding the client's business rather than starting with a software pitch. He looks at the processes involved, the challenges the organization is trying to solve, the expected business outcomes and the practical requirements of implementation. This allows him to assess where technology can create value and what will be required to implement it effectively.

This approach is also reflected in the way Mohit deals with clients. Despite leading a growing organization, he continues to remain personally involved in client conversations. He believes that when a client is discussing an implementation, the person making commitments should have a thorough understanding of the technology and the delivery process behind it.

For Mohit, this becomes particularly important when discussing timelines, project scope and commercial commitments. His view is that a commitment should be based on knowledge of what the software can do, what the implementation requires and what the delivery team can realistically execute. This enables him to have direct and informed conversations with clients instead of relying only on broad estimates or standard sales commitments.

The same principle applies regardless of the size of the client base. As more organizations engage with Magnifia, Mohit continues to maintain direct interaction with clients. He remains involved in understanding requirements, discussing solutions and addressing important business and technology decisions. This keeps him closely connected to the actual requirements of the organizations that Magnifia serves.

Mohit's approach has developed through years of working with enterprise ERP systems and understanding the complexity involved in business transformation. ERP platforms influence multiple functions within an organization, from finance and supply chain to operations, reporting and customer management. He therefore views ERP consulting as a business transformation exercise rather than simply a software implementation.

It is this professional approach that led Mohit to build Magnifia IT Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The company reflects his belief that organizations need ERP consulting partners who can combine technical knowledge with a clear understanding of business requirements and implementation realities.

Today, Magnifia operates as a Microsoft Dynamics 365 consulting partner, providing ERP implementation, licensing, upgrades, managed services, application support and digital transformation services. Magnifia works with organizations across manufacturing, retail, banking, distribution and professional services, supporting businesses at different stages of their ERP journey.

Magnifia's consulting model follows the same principles that define Mohit's professional approach. Client requirements are evaluated before solutions are recommended, implementation expectations are discussed with clarity, and technology decisions are considered in the context of business objectives. The objective is not simply to deploy an ERP platform, but to ensure that the technology supports the organization's operational and strategic requirements.

As Magnifia grows, Mohit continues to retain an active role in client relationships and strategic direction. His involvement allows the organization to maintain a direct and accessible approach while developing the capabilities required to serve a growing enterprise customer base.

Mohit is also looking beyond conventional ERP consulting. His vision for Magnifia includes developing proprietary ERP accelerators and intellectual property, strengthening its consulting capabilities and building solutions that can simplify ERP adoption for businesses. The longer-term objective is to develop Magnifia into a product- and IP-led technology organization with a broader global presence.

For Mohit, growth therefore comes with a clear responsibility: maintaining the quality of decisions and commitments as the business expands. His approach remains centered on understanding the requirement, knowing the technology, setting realistic expectations and staying accountable for the outcome.

That combination of technical experience and direct client engagement is becoming an important part of Magnifia's identity. As Mohit continues to build the organization, his professional approach remains closely connected to its direction, creating an ERP consulting business where expertise, clarity and accountability are central to how client relationships are built and delivered.

US President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imported unmanned drones and related components, citing national security concerns and the need to reduce America's dependence on foreign supply chains.

The move is expected to put additional pressure on Chinese drone manufacturers, which have maintained a dominant position in the US commercial drone market. The White House said the new tariff structure is intended to encourage domestic manufacturing and strengthen the country's supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems.

Tariffs Linked to Drone Specifications

Under the new structure, the highest tariff will apply to drones considered particularly sensitive from a national security perspective.

Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms or those equipped with thermal imaging capabilities will face a 100 per cent tariff.

Smaller drones with a take-off weight of 25 kilograms or less will face a 25 per cent tariff, according to the details released by the US administration.

The different rates indicate that Washington is seeking to distinguish between smaller commercial drones and systems that could have greater surveillance, security or military applications.

New Rules to Take Effect in Stages

The tariff measures will not take effect for all categories at the same time.

Most of the new duties are expected to become effective 21 days after the order is signed. For certain drone components that are not classified as highly sensitive, the tariffs will take effect after 180 days.

There are also provisions for specific products and components that receive exemptions from the Federal Communications Commission's covered list under the conditions outlined by the administration. Such products will also be subject to the 180-day timeline under the stated exemption framework.

Allied Countries Also Face Duties

The new measures are not limited to imports from countries viewed by Washington as strategic competitors.

Drones and components imported from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan will face a 15 per cent tariff, according to the announced structure.

Imports from the United Kingdom will face a 10 per cent duty, provided the products meet the specified origin requirements for their hardware, software and technology.

The inclusion of allied trading partners highlights Washington's broader effort to reorganise the drone supply chain rather than simply targeting Chinese manufacturers.

China Faces Greater Pressure

The announcement comes amid growing US scrutiny of Chinese drone technology.

Chinese manufacturer DJI, headquartered in Shenzhen, has held a dominant position in the US commercial drone market, accounting for a substantial share of sales in recent years.

The United States has already taken steps to restrict the use and approval of certain foreign-made communications and drone technologies. The latest tariff move could further increase costs for American companies and government agencies that currently rely on imported equipment.

China has also taken measures affecting drone exports and has responded to US trade restrictions with its own controls and sanctions against American entities.

Ukraine War Highlights Drone Risks

The increasing military use of drones has added another dimension to the debate over unmanned aircraft technology.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has demonstrated how drones can be used for surveillance, battlefield reconnaissance, targeting and attacks. Their relatively low cost and ability to operate without putting pilots directly at risk have made them an increasingly important part of modern warfare.

The Trump administration has consequently linked the availability and security of unmanned aircraft systems to broader national and economic security considerations.

Industry Could Face Higher Costs

Technology and US-China trade experts have warned that the measures could significantly reshape the commercial drone market.

American commercial operators and government agencies that depend on foreign-made systems may have to look for suppliers based in the US or allied countries. That transition could involve higher procurement costs and require changes to existing equipment and supply chains.

The policy could therefore have consequences beyond Chinese manufacturers, particularly for businesses that use drones for surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, photography, logistics and other commercial activities.

What Are Unmanned Aircraft Systems?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are aircraft that operate without a human pilot sitting inside the aircraft.

They can be remotely controlled or operate using automated software. Drones are now widely used for photography, mapping, agriculture, deliveries, infrastructure monitoring and emergency response, while military versions are used for surveillance, reconnaissance and combat operations.

The new US tariff policy reflects the growing strategic importance of the technology and Washington's attempt to build a more secure domestic and allied supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems.

Samsung’s latest foldable smartphone, the Galaxy Z Fold8, brings a redesigned form factor along with upgraded display technology, performance, camera capabilities and AI-powered features. The device was unveiled at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event in July and is positioned as a foldable designed for users who consume content, multitask and create content on the go.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 adopts a shorter and wider design compared with previous generations. Samsung says the new shape is intended to make everyday use more comfortable, including one-handed operation, while providing a more immersive experience when the phone is unfolded.

Wider Cover Screen for Everyday Use

The Galaxy Z Fold8 features a 10:16 cover screen, which Samsung says is suited to messaging, web browsing and short-form video. The wider layout is designed to make common smartphone activities more comfortable without requiring users to open the device.

When unfolded, the phone offers a 4:3 main screen designed for larger-format content such as movies, e-books and other media. The main display also features anti-reflection technology and can reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness, helping improve visibility in different lighting conditions.

The two-screen approach allows users to choose between a conventional smartphone-style experience and a larger display depending on the task.

4,800mAh Battery and Snapdragon Chip

Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Z Fold8 with a 4,800mAh battery. According to the company, the device can deliver up to 26 hours of continuous video playback, although actual battery life will vary depending on usage, settings and network conditions.

Performance is handled by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy platform. The processor combines a next-generation CPU, GPU and NPU, with Samsung highlighting improvements in processing performance, graphics and on-device artificial intelligence capabilities.

The NPU is particularly important for the phone's AI features, while the GPU is designed to provide smoother visuals during activities such as video playback and gaming.

50MP Cameras for Content Creation

Camera capabilities are another major focus of the Galaxy Z Fold8. Samsung highlights its 50MP front Wide and Ultra-Wide cameras, designed to provide users with greater flexibility when capturing photos and videos.

The company is positioning the device as a tool for content creators as well as consumers who want to document everyday moments without carrying a separate camera.

The foldable form factor also provides additional flexibility when composing and reviewing content on the larger internal display.

My FanCam Uses AI Tracking

One of the camera-related features highlighted by Samsung is My FanCam. The feature allows users to transform a wide-angle recording into a subject-focused shot directly from the Gallery.

Users can select a person within the footage and adjust the crop and aspect ratio for sharing. Samsung says advanced tracking technology keeps the selected person naturally centred as they move through the frame.

Galaxy AI then assists with preparing the resulting clip for the selected sharing format, reducing the need for additional editing software.

Built Around Multitasking and AI

Beyond its hardware changes, Samsung is also promoting the Galaxy Z Fold8 as a device designed around multitasking and artificial intelligence. The larger internal display provides more space for working across applications, consuming content and editing media.

The combination of the redesigned screens, Snapdragon processing platform and AI capabilities is intended to make the Fold8 useful for both productivity and entertainment.

With the Galaxy Z Fold8, Samsung is continuing to push foldable smartphones beyond the conventional phone-and-tablet concept, focusing on a form factor that changes depending on how users interact with the device.

India is expanding its capabilities across semiconductors, artificial intelligence, chip design and high-performance computing as the government seeks to build a technology ecosystem focused on domestic manufacturing, innovation and supply-chain resilience.

According to data released by the government on Thursday, the semiconductor and AI sectors are increasingly being developed as interconnected parts of India's technology strategy, covering chip design and fabrication, advanced packaging, computing infrastructure, indigenous AI models and deep-tech skills.

Semiconductor Mission Expands

The first phase of the semiconductor programme was launched with a budgetary outlay of ₹76,000 crore. The government said the programme supports the wider semiconductor value chain, including chip design, fabrication, packaging, testing, equipment, materials and talent development.

In July 2026, the government approved a ₹1.27 lakh crore budget for Semicon India 2.0. The next phase focuses on six strategic areas — chip design, equipment and materials, semiconductor fabs, ATMP/OSAT, research and development, and talent.

The government said 12 semiconductor projects have been approved across six states, involving investment of more than ₹1.64 lakh crore. These include silicon and compound semiconductor fabs, display fabrication and advanced packaging facilities.

Three facilities have already started commercial production, marking a shift from policy support and project approvals towards actual semiconductor manufacturing.

Building Domestic Chip Design

India is also strengthening its chip-design capabilities through initiatives such as the Chips to Startup programme.

Electronic Design Automation tools have been made available across 320 academic institutions, while more than 68,000 students have received training under the programme.

Under the Design Linked Incentive scheme, 24 semiconductor design projects have received financial support. Another 105 startups and MSMEs have received assistance for access to EDA tools.

The government said 75 institutions had completed tape-outs of 211 chip designs by April 2026. Seven chips have subsequently been manufactured across different technology nodes, including advanced nodes such as 12 nanometres.

Global Semiconductor Partnerships

India is also expanding international cooperation with countries and regions including the United States, Japan, Singapore, the Netherlands, Germany and the European Union.

The government said Semicon India 2025 attracted more than 350 exhibitors and participants from 48 countries and territories. The event recorded more than 35,000 registrations and 30,000 physical attendees, along with 25,000 online viewers.

Twelve memoranda of understanding were also announced to support product development, services and semiconductor skill development.

IndiaAI Builds Computing Capacity

Alongside semiconductors, the government is expanding the country's AI infrastructure through the IndiaAI Mission, approved with an outlay of around ₹10,372 crore.

The mission's shared computing capacity crossed 45,000 GPUs by June 2026. By August, 237 projects had accessed subsidised AI computing, accounting for 93.18 lakh GPU hours.

The infrastructure is intended to provide researchers, startups and innovators with affordable access to high-performance computing required for developing, training and testing AI models.

Indigenous AI Models

The government said 20 proposals for indigenous foundation AI models were selected from 506 applications. These include 12 large multimodal models and eight small language models.

The initiative is aimed at developing AI systems suited to Indian languages, requirements and local contexts.

The AIKosh platform had more than 14,000 datasets and 331 AI models as of July 2026, providing resources for researchers and developers.

IndiaAI initiatives had also produced 62 AI prototypes and deployed 20 AI solutions in public-sector institutions by August 2026. Eleven national-level hackathons and innovation challenges have been organised to encourage practical AI applications.

Focus on Responsible AI

The government said 58 Artificial Intelligence Centres of Excellence had been approved across states and Union Territories by August 2026, with 22 centres in 13 states and Union Territories already approved and operational work underway.

The IndiaAI Mission has also approved 13 projects under its Safe and Trusted AI pillar. These projects address areas including bias reduction, machine unlearning, deepfake detection, privacy-preserving AI, explainability and AI risk assessment.

The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems has established 25 technology innovation hubs supporting work in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, quantum technology and other emerging fields.

Data Centres and AI Infrastructure

India's data-centre capacity has expanded alongside the growth of AI and digital services.

Installed data-centre capacity has increased from around 375 MW in 2020 to approximately 1,575 MW currently. Major data-centre locations include Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR and Gujarat.

The sector is also expanding into states such as Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, which are emerging as new destinations for data-centre investments.

India’s Global AI Position

The government cited the Stanford Global AI Vibrancy Report 2025, which ranked India third globally in AI competitiveness and ecosystem vibrancy.

India was also the second-largest contributor to AI projects on GitHub in 2025, according to the government.

The India AI Impact Summit held in February 2026 attracted delegations from more than 100 countries and 20 international organisations. Ninety-two countries and organisations adopted the summit declaration.

India also joined the Pax Silica coalition at the summit, aimed at strengthening global silicon supply-chain cooperation with the United States and other partner countries.

Chips and AI Drive Next Phase

The government's semiconductor and AI strategy is moving beyond project approvals towards manufacturing, commercial deployment and domestic intellectual property.

Semicon India 2.0 is expected to place greater emphasis on equipment, materials, advanced packaging, research, semiconductor IP and skilled manpower. At the same time, the IndiaAI Mission is building shared computing infrastructure and supporting AI applications across government, industry, academia and startups.

Together, the two sectors are emerging as key components of India's broader push for technology self-reliance, resilient supply chains and a globally competitive digital economy.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been blocked in India, alleging that social media platform Meta was restricting accounts of people raising questions over the Centre's ethanol policy and paper leak issues.

In a post on X, Kejriwal said Meta had failed to provide any clear explanation despite repeated attempts to seek clarification. He also urged users facing similar restrictions to contact him.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

Kejriwal alleged that the Central Government was pressuring Meta to block the accounts of individuals speaking against the ethanol blending policy and recent examination paper leak controversies.

He appealed to Meta not to succumb to what he described as government pressure and urged the company to operate independently.

The AAP leader also shared a screenshot from his Instagram account status page, which displayed the message "Unavailable in some locations."

Claims Meta Confirmed Restriction

According to Kejriwal, after approaching Meta's India office, he was informed that his Instagram account had been restricted and was currently unavailable for users in India.

He criticised the platform for not offering any detailed explanation regarding the action, describing the company's response as inadequate.

As of Thursday, Meta had not issued an official public statement regarding Kejriwal's claims or clarified the reason behind the reported restriction.

Users Report Similar Issues

Kejriwal said several social media users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had also become inaccessible.

He invited affected users to reach out so that the issue could be documented collectively, suggesting that the reported restrictions were not isolated incidents.

Row Comes Amid Meta-Government Dispute

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Meta in India following the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook video related to examination reforms and paper leaks.

The video, posted on July 23, briefly became unavailable before being restored by Meta.

The incident prompted the government to seek an explanation from the company, with parliamentary leaders questioning the platform's content moderation practices.

Government Engages Meta

According to government sources cited by PTI, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the Indian government on Wednesday over the temporary removal of the Prime Minister's video.

The company also reportedly acknowledged concerns relating to content moderation, deepfake content and child sexual abuse material on its platforms during discussions with government officials.

The controversy has intensified the ongoing debate over the role of social media platforms, intermediary responsibilities and content regulation in India.

No Official Response Yet

While Kejriwal has publicly alleged that his account has been restricted in India, Meta has not officially confirmed whether any action has been taken against his Instagram profile or the reasons behind it.

The matter is expected to draw further political attention as debates over platform accountability, digital regulation and freedom of expression continue.

New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been restricted for users in India. He said he has repeatedly sought clarification from Meta, but has not received any official explanation so far.

Kejriwal also alleged that several other users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had faced similar restrictions. He appealed to affected users to get in touch with him and share their experiences.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

In a post on social media platform X, Kejriwal claimed that the government was pressuring Meta to restrict the accounts of people speaking about issues such as the ethanol policy and the paper leak controversy.

He alleged that social media platforms should operate independently and should not come under political influence. According to him, Meta should provide a transparent explanation if any action has been taken against his account.

Screenshot Shared on Social Media

To support his claim, Kejriwal shared a screenshot of his Instagram account status. The screenshot displayed the message "Unavailable in Some Locations," which, according to him, indicates that his account is not accessible in certain regions, including India.

He said officials at Meta's India office informed him that his account was unavailable in the country, but he added that the company had not provided any formal clarification regarding the reason behind the restriction.

Meta Yet to Respond

As of now, Meta has not issued any official statement regarding Kejriwal's claim or the alleged restriction on his Instagram account.

The company has also not commented on the allegations that accounts discussing specific public issues are being selectively limited.

What Does "Unavailable in Some Locations" Mean?

According to Instagram's account status system, the message "Unavailable in Some Locations" generally indicates that certain content—or, in some cases, an account—may not be visible in specific countries or regions because of local legal requirements or platform policies.

It does not necessarily mean that the account has been suspended or permanently removed. In many cases, the account continues to remain active and accessible in other parts of the world, while access is restricted only in selected locations.

Issue Sparks Fresh Debate

Kejriwal's claim has triggered a fresh discussion on the role of social media platforms in content moderation and regional access restrictions. While the AAP leader has questioned the alleged restriction and sought an explanation from Meta, the company's official position on the matter is still awaited.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has partnered with Coursera to introduce a free online course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethics, giving learners, educators and institutions worldwide access to practical training on the responsible use of AI.

Named the Global MOOC on the Ethics of AI, the course has been developed in collaboration with LG AI Research and is designed to help participants understand the ethical challenges associated with AI technologies and apply internationally recognised principles in real-world situations.

Focus on Responsible AI Development

The course is designed to help learners identify ethical risks associated with artificial intelligence, evaluate competing priorities and make informed decisions regarding the design, deployment and governance of AI systems.

Participants will explore critical topics such as:

• Privacy and data protection

• Transparency and accountability

• Human autonomy

• Fairness and inclusion

• Environmental sustainability

• Responsible AI governance

The programme combines theoretical concepts with practical case studies and hands-on learning activities.

Developed with Global Academic Experts

The curriculum has been created with contributions from leading AI experts and researchers from globally recognised institutions, including:

• Carnegie Mellon University

• University of Toronto

• Alan Turing Institute

• Other international AI policy and ethics specialists

The course aims to bridge the gap between ethical AI principles and their practical implementation across industries.

Available in 11 Languages

To improve global accessibility, the course is offered in 11 languages, including:

• English

• Hindi

• Arabic

• Chinese (Mandarin)

• French

• Spanish

• Russian

• Korean

• Italian

• Portuguese

• Bahasa Indonesian

The multilingual format allows learners from diverse regions to access the programme in their preferred language.

No Technical Background Required

One of the key highlights of the programme is that no advanced technical knowledge is required.

The approximately nine-hour course has been designed for a wide audience, including:

• University students

• Teachers and educators

• Researchers

• Policymakers

• Government officials

• Technology professionals

• Business leaders

• Anyone interested in responsible AI

UNESCO's Vision for Ethical AI

UNESCO Director-General Prof. Khaled El-Enany said the initiative represents an important step toward transforming global AI ethics principles into practical education.

According to UNESCO, the course seeks to equip learners with the knowledge and tools needed to apply ethical principles throughout the entire AI lifecycle—from development to deployment and governance.

Growing Need for AI Ethics Education

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into education, healthcare, finance, government services and businesses, experts believe ethical literacy is becoming as important as technical skills.

The course aims to prepare learners to understand the social, legal and ethical implications of AI while encouraging responsible innovation and informed decision-making in both professional and academic settings.

 A father-son duo in Hyderabad has drawn attention after building a functional robotic arm for a school technology fair with the help of Anthropic's AI assistant Claude, showcasing how generative artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming a practical tool for learning and innovation.

The project, shared by the father on social media platform X, highlighted how AI assisted in designing, coding and troubleshooting the robotic arm, transforming what could have been a complex engineering task into an engaging learning experience.

AI Became a Virtual Engineering Mentor

According to the social media post, the project began when the student's school announced a technology fair. After exploring ideas on YouTube, the father turned to Claude to help convert the concept into a workable prototype.

The AI assistant reportedly helped create the robotic arm's 3D design, suggested programming logic and later assisted in identifying and fixing software bugs during development.

The father described Claude as a "virtual engineering guide" throughout the project.

Local Vendors and Rapid Delivery Helped Complete Project

Once the design was finalised, the required components were sourced from local markets in Hyderabad.

The robotic arm's 3D-printed parts were ordered from Tolichowki, while electronic components, including motors, chips, capacitors, resistors and wiring, were purchased from the city's Koti Market.

The family also used the Rapido delivery platform to quickly transport components, helping speed up the assembly process.

Coding and Testing Completed with AI Assistance

After assembling the hardware, the father and son relied on Claude once again to write portions of the control code and resolve programming errors that emerged during testing.

The AI-assisted workflow enabled the pair to complete the project from home while gaining practical experience in electronics, coding and robotics.

Project Wins Praise Online

The story has attracted attention on social media, with many users praising the creative use of artificial intelligence in education.

Several users described the project as an example of how AI can complement traditional learning by helping students understand complex engineering concepts rather than simply providing ready-made answers.

The experience also highlighted the growing accessibility of AI-powered development tools for hobbyists, students and parents working on STEM projects.

AI Becoming Part of Classroom Learning

Generative AI platforms are increasingly being used by students, educators and developers for coding assistance, design support, research and problem-solving.

Education experts, however, continue to stress that AI should be used as a learning aid that encourages creativity and understanding, while ensuring students remain actively involved in the development process.

A father in China's Henan province has filed a lawsuit against four major gaming companies after alleging that his teenage son's gaming addiction contributed to a serious health incident in which the boy consumed 18 fever tablets.

The lawsuit targets 39 Interactive Entertainment.

Rather than seeking substantial financial compensation, the father has asked the court for a symbolic payment of 10 yuan, saying the case is aimed at strengthening protections for minors using online gaming platforms.

Health Scare Triggers Investigation

According to media reports, the 18-year-old student was hospitalised on May 23 after swallowing 18 fever tablets despite not having a fever. Doctors diagnosed him with drug poisoning, and timely medical treatment saved his life.

The family said the teenager has not explained why he consumed the medication.

Following the incident, his father began reviewing his son's digital activity and discovered what he described as years of excessive online gaming.

Gaming Records Raise Concerns

The father alleged that his son spent long hours playing mobile games, often staying awake until three or four in the morning during weekends.

According to gaming records reviewed by the family, the teenager had accumulated 1,868 hours of gameplay since March 2024, averaging more than two hours a day, with significantly longer sessions during holidays and weekends.

The father also claimed his son's health had deteriorated, alleging he lost around 10 kilograms over several months.

Account Allegedly Created Using Sister's Identity

The lawsuit further alleges that the teenager registered gaming accounts using his elder sister's identity card, allowing him to bypass China's restrictions on minors' gaming hours.

China enforces strict online gaming rules for players under 18, limiting access to one hour between 8 pm and 9 pm on Fridays, weekends and public holidays.

The father argued that despite gaming companies having technologies such as facial recognition, stronger identity verification measures should have prevented the misuse of another person's identification.

Companies Face Legal Challenge

The father has asked the court to direct gaming companies to strengthen their anti-addiction systems and prevent minors from accessing games using someone else's identity.

He has also sought a public hearing, saying the issue extends beyond his own family and concerns the safety of children across the country.

Hearing Deferred

The first court hearing was scheduled for July 6, but has been postponed after the companies challenged the court's jurisdiction.

According to reports, the firms argued that because their headquarters are located in different cities, the court must first determine which jurisdiction is authorised to hear the case before proceedings can continue.

The case has sparked widespread debate on Chinese social media, with many users calling for stronger safeguards against gaming addiction, while others argued that parental supervision also plays a crucial role in managing children's screen time.