With Ganesh Chaturthi set to begin on September 14, idol makers across Raipur are working round the clock to complete thousands of Ganesh idols. However, one notable trend has emerged this year—most artisans are deliberately avoiding idols based on artificial intelligence (AI)-generated designs, citing concerns over religious sensitivities and the controversy that erupted during last year's festival.

More than 15,000 small and large Ganesh idols are expected to be installed across homes, neighbourhoods and community pandals in the city during the festival.

Traditional Forms Dominate

This year's collections prominently feature traditional depictions of Lord Ganesha, including Shiva-inspired Ganesha, Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Bal Ganesh, Balaji and Ardhanarishwar-themed idols.

Artisans say devotees continue to prefer conventional representations rooted in religious tradition rather than experimental designs.

Last Year's Dispute Influences Artisans

The decision to avoid AI-generated idol designs follows a controversy during the previous Ganesh festival in Raipur's Lakhe Nagar, where a Ganesh idol created using AI-inspired artwork drew objections from Hindu organisations.

The dispute escalated into protests and police complaints, prompting many idol makers to reassess their approach to designing religious idols.

According to artisans, the incident highlighted the need to exercise greater caution while creating idols intended for public worship.

Customers Bring AI Images

Idol maker Yashwant said customers often approach workshops with AI-generated images sourced from social media, requesting similar idols.

While acknowledging that such designs may appear visually appealing, he said religious idols must conform to established traditions and devotional sentiments.

"We avoid creating designs that could lead to controversy later. Religious faith should take precedence over experimentation," he said.

Strong Demand for Conventional Idols

Artisans reported that bookings for Shiva, Shri Ram, Shri Krishna, Bal Ganesh, Ardhanarishwar and Balaji forms have been particularly strong this year.

Workshops across the city have extended working hours, with craftsmen engaged late into the night painting, decorating and giving finishing touches to idols ahead of the festival season.

Many artisans said business has improved compared to last year as orders from Ganesh festival committees continue to increase.

Hindu Organisations Issue Advisory

Representatives of Hindu organisations have also appealed to idol makers and festival committees to avoid AI-generated depictions of Lord Ganesha.

Vishwadini Pandey, state president of the Hindu Swabhiman Organisation, said the group has requested organisers not to install AI-generated Ganesh idols similar to those that became the subject of controversy last year.

She said the organisation would oppose any depiction that it believes hurts religious sentiments.

Legal Position on Religious Sentiments

Senior advocate Virat Verma said that if someone intentionally insults a religion, deity or religious symbol, or performs an act that deliberately hurts religious sentiments, legal action may be initiated under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

He said police examine complaints on a case-by-case basis, and an FIR may be registered if a prima facie offence is established during the investigation.

A Festival with Deep Roots

Historians trace Raipur's public Ganesh festival tradition back nearly 125 years. The earliest community celebrations were organised in Purani Basti, Gudhiyari and Baniyapara, before expanding to Golbazar, Sadar Bazar, Ramsagarpara and other parts of the city.

During India's freedom movement, public Ganesh celebrations also served as platforms for social unity and nationalist mobilisation, making the festival an enduring symbol of faith, tradition and community participation.

US President Donald Trump has announced that artificial intelligence (AI) will be one of the central topics of discussion when Chinese President Xi Jinping visits the United States on September 24.

The meeting follows Trump's visit to Beijing earlier this year, where the two leaders held talks and Trump extended an invitation for Xi to visit the White House.

Speaking on Thursday, Trump said the issue of AI had already been discussed during his China visit and would remain high on the agenda.

"President Xi is coming over on September 24, and we talked about it when I was over in Beijing, and we'll be talking about it again," Trump said.

AI Expected to Be a Major Agenda Item

Artificial intelligence has emerged as one of the most strategically important areas in US-China relations, with both countries competing for global leadership in advanced technologies.

The upcoming summit is expected to cover issues related to AI development, technological cooperation, security concerns, and regulatory frameworks, although neither side has released a detailed agenda.

The announcement came a day after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held discussions aimed at preparing for what officials described as a "very positive visit."

According to statements from both governments, the two diplomats emphasized the importance of identifying areas of cooperation while managing ongoing differences.

Fresh Tariffs Ahead of the Summit

Trump's announcement also came shortly after his administration imposed an additional 12.5% tariff on Chinese imports as part of a broader trade action affecting several countries.

The new tariffs, introduced over concerns related to forced labour, raise the effective US tariff burden on many Chinese goods, adding another layer of complexity to bilateral economic ties.

Despite the latest trade measures, both Washington and Beijing have continued diplomatic engagement, signaling a willingness to prevent trade disputes from escalating further.

Trade Relations Showing Signs of Improvement

The planned summit takes place amid gradual improvement in US-China relations following last year's intense tariff confrontation.

At one stage, US tariffs on Chinese products had climbed to as high as 145%, significantly disrupting trade between the world's two largest economies.

However, a one-year trade understanding, reached after a previous Trump-Xi meeting in South Korea, helped ease tensions by suspending some tariffs, relaxing restrictions on rare-earth exports, and pausing certain investigations involving Chinese industries.

That agreement is scheduled to expire in November 2026, making the September summit particularly significant for both governments.

Xi Likely to Push for Tariff Relief

Analysts believe President Xi is expected to seek further easing of US trade restrictions during his visit.

China has consistently called for greater stability in bilateral economic relations, while the United States continues to press Beijing on trade practices, technology, market access, and national security concerns.

Whether the two sides can reach new agreements remains uncertain, but the meeting is expected to shape the future direction of US-China relations.

Why the Meeting Matters

The Trump-Xi summit is likely to be one of the most closely watched diplomatic events of the year, given the importance of the US-China relationship to the global economy.

Beyond trade, discussions are expected to cover:

• Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
• Bilateral trade and tariffs
• Supply chain resilience
• National security concerns
• Global economic stability
• Areas of future cooperation

The outcome of the meeting could influence international technology policies, global trade flows, and strategic competition between the world's two largest economies.

In a significant step toward improving early cancer diagnosis, Gandhi Medical College (GMC), Bhopal, has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based oral cancer screening technology designed to identify signs of oral cancer at an early stage. The innovation includes an AI-powered screening device and a mobile application called Mukh Aarogya, both of which are intended to strengthen community-level cancer detection.

The Government of India has granted a design patent for the screening device, marking an important milestone for the institution's research and innovation efforts. Medical experts believe the technology could play a crucial role in reducing delays in diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes for patients.

AI-Based Screening for Early Detection

Developed by the Department of Dental Surgery at GMC Bhopal, the Mukh Aarogya App uses artificial intelligence to analyze photographs of the inside of a patient's mouth. The application is designed to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities that could indicate the presence of oral cancer.

After analyzing the images, the AI system provides an initial assessment of whether the patient may require further medical evaluation. If signs of possible cancer are detected, the app can facilitate prompt referral to specialist healthcare centers for detailed examination and treatment.

According to the college, the technology is the first initiative of its kind in Madhya Pradesh aimed at supporting AI-assisted oral cancer screening on a wider scale.

Designed for Rural Healthcare

One of the key objectives of the project is to improve access to cancer screening in rural and remote regions, where specialist healthcare services may not always be readily available.

The Mukh Aarogya App has been developed for use by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Community Health Officers (CHOs), and healthcare workers at Primary Health Centres (PHCs). Using a smartphone, frontline health workers can capture oral images during routine health visits and upload them for AI-based analysis.

Patients identified as potentially high-risk can then be referred to specialist hospitals without unnecessary delays, helping speed up diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Cancer Remains a Major Health Challenge

Oral cancer continues to be a significant public health concern in India. According to the information shared by the institution, the country records approximately 150,000 new oral cancer cases every year.

In Madhya Pradesh, the incidence among men is estimated to be around 25 cases per one lakh population, while Bhopal is considered one of the cities with a relatively higher burden of the disease.

Medical experts note that many patients seek treatment only after the disease has reached an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment. Early diagnosis is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to improve survival rates and reduce treatment complexity.

AI Analysis Can Support Faster Diagnosis

Professor and Head of the Department of Dental Surgery, Dr. Anuj Bhargava, said the application is capable of detecting suspicious lesions within the oral cavity using AI-assisted image analysis.

He explained that once the photographs are analyzed, the system identifies whether there is a potential risk that warrants further clinical evaluation. An integrated referral mechanism has also been built into the platform to ensure patients receive timely specialist care when required.

According to Dr. Bhargava, detecting oral cancer in its early stages can make treatment more effective, less complicated, and comparatively affordable while significantly improving recovery prospects.

Building a Smarter AI Model

Dr. Bhargava said the long-term goal is not only to develop innovative technology but also to place AI tools in the hands of frontline healthcare workers across the state.

He expressed hope that the application would eventually be adopted across all districts of Madhya Pradesh. As screening data grows, the AI model is expected to become increasingly accurate, enabling better detection of suspicious cases and expanding access to preventive healthcare.

Research Backed by Institutional Support

The research was carried out under the guidance of Dean Dr. Kavita Ain Singh, whose support for innovation and medical research helped the project progress.

The development team also included Dr. Richa Sharma, Medical Officer in the Department of Dental Surgery, and Dr. Animesh Barodiya, Assistant Professor in the department. Both researchers played a key role in the conceptualization, development, implementation, and testing of the AI-powered screening device and the Mukh Aarogya App.

Medical experts believe such AI-assisted innovations could strengthen India's preventive healthcare ecosystem by enabling faster identification of oral cancer, particularly in underserved communities.

In today's corporate world, layoffs have become almost as common as quarterly earnings announcements. Every few weeks, another global technology giant, startup, manufacturing firm, or multinational company announces plans to reduce its workforce. The reasons vary—economic uncertainty, slowing demand, restructuring, automation, artificial intelligence, or the pursuit of higher profitability. Yet behind every corporate statement lies a human story that rarely receives equal attention.

Companies often describe layoffs as "strategic realignment," "workforce optimization," or "organizational restructuring." These terms may sound professional in boardrooms and investor presentations, but for employees, they translate into lost income, uncertainty, emotional distress, and disrupted careers. The growing normalization of mass layoffs demands a deeper conversation about whether businesses are relying too heavily on workforce reductions instead of fixing deeper operational problems.

Corporate leaders argue that layoffs are sometimes unavoidable. Markets change rapidly, consumer demand fluctuates, and businesses must remain competitive. In certain situations, reducing costs becomes essential for survival. No responsible observer would deny that extraordinary economic circumstances may require difficult decisions.

However, the concern arises when layoffs become the first solution instead of the last.

In recent years, many companies have reported record revenues or healthy profits while simultaneously announcing thousands of job cuts. Share prices often rise after such announcements because investors interpret lower employee costs as improved efficiency. This creates an uncomfortable reality: financial markets sometimes reward companies for reducing jobs, even when the business itself remains fundamentally strong.

This raises an important question—are layoffs increasingly being driven by shareholder expectations rather than genuine business necessity?

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence has further complicated the employment landscape. AI-powered automation is transforming customer service, software development, finance, marketing, logistics, and manufacturing. While technological innovation has always changed the nature of work, the current pace of transformation is unprecedented.

The challenge is not technology itself. Innovation has historically created new industries and opportunities. The real issue is how organizations manage the transition. If companies invest billions in AI while making little effort to retrain employees whose roles are changing, they risk creating a workforce that views technology as a threat rather than an opportunity.

Reskilling should become a corporate responsibility rather than a public relations slogan.

Businesses frequently emphasize that employees are their "greatest asset." If that statement is to carry meaning, investment in workforce development must continue even during periods of transformation. Providing training, internal mobility programs, career counseling, and phased transitions can often reduce the need for abrupt job losses.

Leadership also plays a crucial role.

Many organizations aggressively hire during periods of rapid growth, only to reverse course months later through mass layoffs. This cycle reflects poor workforce planning rather than unpredictable market conditions alone. Sustainable hiring strategies may not generate dramatic headlines, but they help create resilient organizations that are less likely to resort to repeated workforce reductions.

Employee trust is another casualty of frequent layoffs.

When workers constantly fear losing their jobs, productivity often suffers. Innovation requires confidence, collaboration, and long-term thinking. A culture dominated by uncertainty encourages risk avoidance instead of creativity. Talented professionals may begin searching for more stable opportunities even before layoffs occur, increasing voluntary attrition and weakening organizational knowledge.

The social consequences extend beyond individual employees. Every layoff affects families, local businesses, housing markets, and consumer spending. Large-scale workforce reductions in major industries can ripple through regional economies, particularly in cities heavily dependent on technology, manufacturing, or financial services. Policymakers therefore have a legitimate interest in ensuring that labor market transitions remain fair and manageable.

Governments also have a role to play. Strong unemployment support, accessible reskilling programs, vocational education, and public-private partnerships can help displaced workers transition into emerging industries. As automation reshapes employment, labor policies must evolve alongside technological progress.

Corporate transparency deserves greater attention as well.

Employees deserve honest communication about business challenges instead of vague restructuring announcements. Early dialogue, clear timelines, and fair severance policies cannot eliminate the pain of layoffs, but they can preserve dignity and trust during difficult periods. Organizations that treat departing employees with respect are more likely to maintain their reputation among current staff, customers, and future talent.

The business case for responsible workforce management is stronger than many assume. Companies with engaged employees often experience higher productivity, stronger customer satisfaction, and greater innovation. Protecting institutional knowledge and retaining experienced professionals can also reduce recruitment and training costs when market conditions improve.

Ultimately, layoffs should remain an emergency measure—not a routine management strategy or an instrument for boosting short-term financial metrics.

Businesses exist to generate profits, but sustainable success depends equally on people, trust, and long-term vision. As artificial intelligence, automation, and global economic uncertainty continue to reshape industries, the companies that invest in their workforce rather than repeatedly reducing it are likely to build stronger, more resilient organizations.

The future of business should not be defined by how efficiently companies eliminate jobs. It should be measured by how successfully they create opportunities, adapt responsibly, and ensure that economic progress benefits both shareholders and the people whose work makes that progress possible.

Across the world, AI-powered applications are increasingly influencing decisions related to fitness, nutrition, sleep and mental wellness. What was once the domain of personal trainers, dieticians and wellness experts is now being supplemented by algorithms capable of analyzing habits and offering personalized recommendations in real time.

The shift has become particularly visible among urban professionals who are looking for convenient ways to manage health while balancing demanding work schedules. Fitness apps powered by AI can now create customized workout plans based on age, body type, activity levels and personal goals. Many platforms continuously adjust these plans by analyzing user performance, making recommendations more dynamic than traditional one-size-fits-all programs.

Nutrition is another area witnessing rapid transformation.

AI-based meal-planning tools are helping users build diet charts tailored to calorie requirements, medical conditions and food preferences. Some applications can scan food items, estimate nutritional values and suggest healthier alternatives. Others use data from fitness trackers and smartwatches to recommend changes in daily food intake based on physical activity.

The growing popularity of wearable devices has accelerated this trend. Smartwatches and fitness bands now monitor heart rate, sleep patterns, stress levels and exercise performance. AI systems process this information to provide insights that were previously available only through professional consultations or medical assessments.

For many users, the appeal lies in personalization.

Instead of following generic advice, people receive recommendations designed around their own habits and lifestyle. A user who regularly sleeps late may receive suggestions aimed at improving sleep quality, while someone training for a marathon could receive specialized fitness and recovery guidance.

The technology is also expanding into mental wellness.

Several wellness platforms now use AI-driven chat tools and behavioral analysis to help users manage stress, build healthy habits and maintain mindfulness routines. While these systems are not substitutes for professional mental health care, they have become popular among individuals seeking everyday support and self-monitoring tools.

Travel and hospitality businesses are also embracing the trend.

Hotels and wellness resorts have started integrating AI-powered health assessments and personalized wellness programs into their services. Guests can receive customized fitness schedules, dietary recommendations and sleep optimization plans during their stay, reflecting the broader integration of technology into lifestyle experiences.

However, the rapid adoption of AI in personal wellness has also raised questions about privacy and data security.

Experts point out that many applications collect sensitive health information, including biometric data and behavioral patterns. As AI-driven services become more common, concerns about how this information is stored, shared and protected continue to grow. Regulators in several countries are examining ways to strengthen safeguards around personal health data.

Another challenge is accuracy.

While AI systems can provide useful guidance, healthcare professionals caution against relying entirely on automated recommendations, especially for individuals with serious medical conditions. Many experts stress that technology should complement professional advice rather than replace it.

Despite these concerns, industry analysts believe the role of AI in everyday wellness will continue to expand.

The global health and wellness sector has increasingly embraced digital solutions, and consumer demand for personalized experiences remains strong. Advances in machine learning, wearable technology and predictive analytics are expected to make recommendations even more precise in the coming years.

For users, the appeal is simple: convenience, customization and instant feedback.

Whether it is planning meals, tracking workouts, improving sleep or managing stress, AI is becoming a daily companion in the pursuit of healthier lifestyles. As technology evolves, the relationship between artificial intelligence and personal wellness is likely to become an even more significant part of modern life.

The signature black leather jacket worn by NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has fetched nearly ₹9.4 crore ($960,000) at a Sotheby’s auction, making it one of the most valuable pieces of modern tech memorabilia ever sold.

The jacket, which was initially expected to sell for $40,000–$60,000 (around ₹33 lakh–₹50 lakh), achieved a final price nearly 16 times higher than its estimated value. The auction highlights Huang’s growing influence in the global technology industry, where his signature look has become as recognizable as his company's AI leadership.

According to reports, the entire auction proceeds will be directed toward supporting young innovators, scientific research and fellowship programs. The funds will benefit an initiative backed by Long Journey Ventures, which works with the Edge Institute, a non-profit organization that brings together experts from technology, science, culture and society to develop breakthrough ideas.

A Signature Style in Silicon Valley

Jensen Huang’s black leather jacket has become one of Silicon Valley’s most recognizable fashion statements, much like Steve Jobs’ black turtleneck and Mark Zuckerberg’s grey T-shirt and hoodie.

The auctioned jacket is a Tom Ford leather jacket that Huang wore during Hon Hai Tech Day in Taipei on October 18, 2023. Sotheby’s authenticated the jacket by matching it with event photographs, while Huang’s signature was verified by James Spence Authentication.

Huang has often joked about his trademark appearance. During a 2016 Reddit "Ask Me Anything" session, he humorously referred to himself as "that guy in the leather jacket." The iconic outfit has since become closely associated with NVIDIA’s product launches, AI conferences and keynote presentations, including his Time magazine cover appearance in 2021.

Luxury Meets Technology

Fashion experts note that Jensen Huang is a long-time admirer of Tom Ford leather jackets, with many pieces in his wardrobe reportedly costing several thousand dollars, and some valued at over $10,000.

According to the Forbes Real-Time Billionaires List, Huang is currently among the world's wealthiest individuals, with an estimated net worth of $175 billion (around ₹16.8 lakh crore), driven by NVIDIA's rapid growth in the artificial intelligence sector.

India's ambition to become a global artificial intelligence (AI) powerhouse is facing a significant challenge as an increasing number of its top AI professionals are choosing to build their careers in the United States. Higher salaries, access to advanced AI research and a mature startup ecosystem are emerging as the primary factors driving this migration.

According to a Forbes India report, many Indian AI researchers working in Silicon Valley say they have little incentive to return home. The trend has also encouraged several Indian entrepreneurs to establish AI startups in the US instead of India, raising concerns over the country's long-term competitiveness in the global AI race.

Despite being regarded as one of the world's largest hubs for enterprise AI talent, India continues to lose highly skilled professionals to overseas markets. Experts believe that while the country produces a large number of engineering graduates, retaining advanced AI talent remains a growing challenge.

The demand for AI specialists is also reshaping India's technology hiring landscape. According to the JobSpeak June 2026 report, AI-related job opportunities have increased by 16%, even as overall hiring in the IT sector declined by 3%. Companies are prioritising recruitment of AI experts while investing in reskilling existing employees to meet changing industry demands.

The talent gap is expected to widen further in the coming years. NASSCOM estimates that India could face a shortage of more than 6 lakh AI professionals by 2027. Although over 90% of early-career technology professionals use AI tools, only 23% possess the technical expertise required to independently develop and deploy AI systems.

Industry leaders say the issue is not merely a shortage of graduates but a lack of industry-ready skills. According to Anand Mahurkar, CEO of Findability Sciences, many graduates are familiar with machine learning concepts and Python programming but lack hands-on experience with real-world AI applications, creating a significant gap between academic learning and industry expectations.

As global competition for AI talent intensifies, experts believe India will need stronger research infrastructure, better compensation, startup incentives and industry-academia collaboration to retain its best minds and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem.

A case highlighting the misuse of artificial intelligence in forging official documents has surfaced at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, where three devotees allegedly used an AI-generated fake VIP pass to gain entry into the temple premises.

According to police, the group managed to enter the temple using a forged pass resembling an official VIP entry permit before security personnel detected discrepancies during routine verification.

Fake Pass Raised Suspicion

The incident came to light when security staff noticed that the pass mentioned "Garbhagriha Darshan" (sanctum sanctorum entry). Officials immediately became suspicious because public access to the temple's sanctum has remained prohibited for nearly two-and-a-half years.

Further verification of the QR code, barcode and other details confirmed that the pass was counterfeit. Security personnel promptly detained all three individuals and informed the Mahakal police.

Accused Used AI Tool

Mahakal Police Station in-charge Gagan Badal said the main accused has been identified as Bharat Uikey (19), a resident of Kolar Road in Bhopal. He was accompanied by two juveniles.

During questioning, the accused allegedly admitted that they had created a VIP-style entry pass using an artificial intelligence tool on Tuesday afternoon before travelling to the temple.

Police initiated preventive legal action against Bharat Uikey, while proceedings involving the two juveniles are being carried out under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

Regular Darshan Allowed After Action

After completing legal formalities, authorities permitted the three devotees to offer prayers through the temple's regular public queue instead of granting any special access.

Officials said the incident was handled without disrupting temple operations.

Security Concerns Raised

The case has triggered fresh concerns over the security and digital verification mechanisms at one of India's most visited religious sites.

Experts believe the increasing availability of AI-based image generation and editing tools has made it easier to fabricate documents that closely resemble genuine government or institutional passes. They have stressed the need for stronger digital authentication systems, real-time QR verification and enhanced security protocols at sensitive religious and public institutions.

Authorities are expected to review the temple's pass verification process to prevent similar attempts in the future.

Education System vs Artificial Intelligence: Finding the Right Balance in Modern Classrooms

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept. It has become part of everyday college life. From writing assignments and solving coding problems to preparing presentations and conducting research, students are increasingly relying on AI-powered tools. While these technologies have made learning faster and more accessible, they have also raised a serious question: Is AI improving education, or is it slowly replacing the learning process itself?

Colleges around the world are witnessing a dramatic shift in how students approach academics. Instead of spending hours in libraries or discussing ideas with professors, many now turn to AI assistants for instant answers. Within seconds, AI can generate essays, explain complex theories, solve mathematical equations and even create project reports. This convenience has undoubtedly increased productivity, but it has also reduced the need for critical thinking in many cases.

The biggest concern is not that students are using AI—it is how they are using it. Technology has always been a part of education. Calculators changed mathematics, computers transformed research, and the internet revolutionized access to information. AI is simply the next step. However, unlike previous technologies, AI can think, write and create content that closely resembles human work. When students submit AI-generated assignments without understanding the subject, education shifts from learning to merely completing tasks.

This trend is creating a growing skills gap. Many graduates may possess impressive grades but lack problem-solving abilities, communication skills and creativity—qualities that employers continue to value the most. Companies are not just looking for candidates who can generate answers with AI; they need professionals who can ask the right questions, analyse situations and make informed decisions.

At the same time, blaming AI alone would be unfair. The current education system also needs to evolve. In many colleges, assessment methods still reward memorisation rather than innovation. If examinations continue to focus on information that AI can instantly generate, students will naturally depend on technology instead of developing independent thinking.

The solution is not to ban AI from classrooms. Such an approach would be unrealistic and ineffective. Instead, educational institutions should teach students how to use AI responsibly. AI should become a learning partner rather than a shortcut. Students should be encouraged to verify AI-generated information, question its accuracy and combine it with their own research and analysis.

Faculty members also need training to integrate AI into teaching. Rather than assigning repetitive written work, colleges can design assessments based on discussions, presentations, case studies, practical projects and real-world problem solving. These formats evaluate understanding instead of simple content generation.

Another critical aspect is ethics. Students must understand that academic honesty remains important even in the AI era. Transparency about AI usage and proper attribution should become part of institutional policies. Responsible use will help maintain trust while allowing learners to benefit from technological advancements.

Artificial Intelligence is not the enemy of education. In fact, it has the potential to personalise learning, assist students with disabilities, simplify research and make quality education accessible to millions. The real challenge lies in ensuring that technology complements human intelligence instead of replacing it.

The future belongs neither to AI alone nor to traditional education alone. It belongs to students who can combine technological efficiency with human creativity, emotional intelligence and ethical judgment. Colleges that embrace this balance will prepare graduates who are not only employable but also capable of leading innovation in an AI-driven world.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Monday inaugurated the MP Tech Growth Conclave 3.0 in Bhopal, outlining the state government's vision to transform Madhya Pradesh into a leading technology and innovation hub. The event brought together industry leaders, global investors, policymakers and academic institutions to explore investment opportunities in emerging technology sectors.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the conclave is expected to attract ₹40,000 crore in investments and generate nearly 35,000 employment opportunities through a series of investment proposals, partnerships and technology-driven initiatives.

Focus on Emerging Technologies

Dr. Yadav said the state is rapidly expanding beyond its traditional agricultural identity and is now emerging as a destination for advanced manufacturing and high-technology industries.

He highlighted that the four-day conclave will host 51 technology-focused activities, aimed at promoting investment in Global Capability Centres (GCCs), semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), data centres and digital infrastructure.

According to the Chief Minister, these initiatives will play a key role in positioning Madhya Pradesh as one of India's major technology destinations.

IT Infrastructure Expansion Announced

The state government also unveiled plans to strengthen IT infrastructure across major cities.

A new IT Park will be developed on Indore's Super Corridor, offering plug-and-play infrastructure to enable companies to begin operations without additional setup requirements.

In Bhopal, the existing IT Park will be expanded with a new four lakh square feet facility designed for digital and technology companies.

Additionally, another IT Park will be established on Kolar Road over five acres of land, providing office space for IT and digital businesses while creating fresh employment opportunities for local youth.

Investment Momentum Continues

The Chief Minister said Madhya Pradesh has been witnessing growing investor confidence in the technology sector.

Referring to his visit to Barcelona last year, he said companies from Spain, the United States and Canada have already invested ₹228 crore in the state following discussions held during the visit.

He also noted that an agreement signed in 2025 for setting up a 1 GW AI Data Centre has moved forward, with representatives of the concerned company now participating in the Bhopal conclave.

Industry and Academia Join Hands

The conclave features participation from several domestic and international companies, including CtrlS Datacenters, Kaynes Technologies, Fujiyama Power and Nyobolt Limited, which are expected to discuss future investment and collaboration opportunities in the state.

Leading academic institutions such as IIM Indore and IISER are also participating, with discussions focusing on research, innovation, skill development and stronger industry-academia collaboration.

Building on Previous Editions

Officials said the first two editions of the MP Tech Growth Conclave attracted significant investment commitments.

According to the state government, the inaugural edition secured investment proposals worth over ₹20,000 crore, creating around 75,000 employment opportunities, while the second edition attracted investments exceeding ₹12,000 crore, leading to nearly 48,000 jobs.

With its third edition, the government aims to accelerate investment in high-tech sectors and strengthen Madhya Pradesh's position as a preferred destination for technology-driven industries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that the United States and Israel are preparing to deepen their long-standing defence partnership through expanded collaboration in military technology, artificial intelligence and advanced research, following the inclusion of a new provision in the proposed US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2027.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said the relationship between the two allies is entering a new phase, with Israel transitioning from being primarily a recipient of American military assistance to becoming a strategic technology partner.

"The time has now arrived for us to move from aid recipient to partner," Netanyahu said, adding that both governments are working to align their defence frameworks to address future security challenges.

Technology Partnership Proposed

The proposed legislation includes Section 224, officially titled the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative, which seeks to institutionalise greater cooperation in next-generation defence technologies.

If approved, the initiative would encourage joint development and research in areas including artificial intelligence, autonomous military platforms, quantum computing, advanced drone systems and emerging defence technologies. The proposal also aims to expand cooperation between defence industries, research institutions and military agencies of both countries.

The draft further envisions enhanced sharing of defence-related data and broader collaboration in research, production and innovation programmes.

No Unified Military Command

Despite the proposed expansion, the initiative does not seek to establish a unified military command or integrate the armed forces of the United States and Israel.

Instead, the focus remains on strengthening technological cooperation and accelerating the joint development of advanced military capabilities while preserving each country's independent command structure.

Supporters argue that closer collaboration will improve interoperability and help both nations respond more effectively to evolving regional and global security threats.

Political Debate in Washington

The proposal has also generated political debate in the United States.

Democratic Representative Ro Khanna introduced an amendment seeking to remove Section 224 from the defence bill, arguing that the measure could grant Israel excessive influence over American defence policy.

Following the rejection of his amendment during a voice vote, Khanna said many Americans wanted Washington to maintain greater control over its defence priorities rather than expand cooperation with Israel.

Supporters of the initiative, however, contend that the legislation merely formalises an already extensive strategic partnership while promoting innovation in defence technology and strengthening industrial collaboration between the two countries.

Part of Wider Strategic Cooperation

The proposed initiative reflects decades of close military cooperation between Washington and Jerusalem, including joint missile defence programmes, intelligence sharing and defence research.

Officials backing the measure believe emerging technologies such as AI-enabled defence systems, cyber capabilities and autonomous platforms will play an increasingly important role in future warfare, making deeper technological collaboration strategically significant.

The proposal also aligns with broader efforts by both countries to modernise defence capabilities amid evolving geopolitical and security challenges.

Legislative Process Still Pending

The defence technology cooperation initiative currently remains part of the draft 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.

Before becoming law, the NDAA must receive approval from both the US House of Representatives and the US Senate, followed by the President's signature.

Until the legislative process is completed, the proposed framework remains subject to debate, amendments and final congressional approval.

If enacted, the initiative could mark one of the most significant expansions of US-Israel defence technology cooperation in recent years, further strengthening collaboration in advanced military research and innovation.

Mana Jampala, a Grade 7 student based in Kelowna, British Columbia, is the founder of Voxa, an AI-powered virtual receptionist designed to handle customer calls around the clock. The platform was created to solve a real business problem and is now being used by businesses in Canada, India and Cambodia, according to reports.

Mana's journey into technology began much earlier than most aspiring entrepreneurs. She first explored programming through Scratch coding camps before teaching herself Python at the age of nine. By the time she turned 11, she had already started developing AI-based applications, eventually launching Voxa after identifying a recurring issue at her father's workplace.

The idea emerged from watching employees struggle to answer customer calls while attending to clients. Missed calls often translated into missed business opportunities, prompting Mana to build an AI voice assistant capable of answering calls, booking appointments, taking restaurant orders, responding to customer queries, sending follow-up messages and generating call summaries automatically.

According to information shared on the company's profile, Voxa focuses on service-based businesses where every missed call can directly affect revenue. The platform automates routine communication while helping businesses reduce staff workload and improve customer response times. Mana has said the startup is currently expanding pilot projects and live deployments, particularly for restaurants, pharmacies and other service providers.

Her work has also attracted wider attention within the global startup ecosystem. Business Insider recently reported that Voxa has already handled hundreds of customer calls, while Mana has expanded the platform with another product called "Voxa Agents," allowing users to build customised AI agents using simple text prompts instead of writing code. The report added that she hopes to continue growing the business through bootstrapping before eventually joining an accelerator programme and seeking venture funding.

Despite her age, Mana says building a startup has not been without challenges. During in-person meetings, potential customers often focused on how young she was rather than the product itself. She has since shifted much of her customer outreach online, where discussions tend to centre more on the technology and its capabilities than her age.

Her achievements extend beyond entrepreneurship. Reports indicate that she has participated in coding competitions, earned recognition for her technical skills and continues balancing school education with product development. While she spends time improving her software, she also remains active in extracurricular activities and is part of a growing community of young technology enthusiasts.

Mana's story comes at a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, with young innovators increasingly using accessible AI tools to solve practical business problems. Her startup reflects how early exposure to programming and problem-solving can translate into real-world innovation, even at a young age.

As AI adoption accelerates across sectors, stories like Mana Jampala's are highlighting a new generation of entrepreneurs who are turning everyday challenges into scalable technology solutions long before reaching adulthood.