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Alibaba releases AI model it says surpasses DeepSeek

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BEIJING, Jan 29 (Reuters) – Alibaba Group (9988.HK) has launched its latest AI breakthrough, the Qwen 2.5-Max model, claiming it outperforms the highly acclaimed DeepSeek-V3, a cutting-edge model that has recently disrupted the tech industry.

Unprecedented Release Timing Highlights Intense Competition

The Qwen 2.5-Max was released during the Lunar New Year, when most Chinese employees are off work. This timing highlights the pressure Alibaba faces due to DeepSeek’s rapid rise.

Qwen 2.5-Max: A Major Leap in AI Technology

Alibaba’s cloud unit announced that the Qwen 2.5-Max model not only outperforms DeepSeek-V3 but also competes with other AI giants, including GPT-4o and Llama-3.1-405B. The model introduces significant advancements, offering improved performance across key benchmarks that measure AI’s ability to understand and execute complex tasks.

Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max AI Surpasses DeepSeek-V3: Key Updates

DeepSeek’s Rise Forces a New AI Arms Race in China

DeepSeek’s AI models, particularly DeepSeek-V3 and its follow-up, DeepSeek-R1, have sent shockwaves through the global AI landscape. The Chinese startup’s low development costs and high performance have raised concerns in Silicon Valley. AI companies in the U.S. now face increasing pressure to reassess their cost structures, emphasizing innovation and efficiency. In response, Chinese tech companies, including Alibaba, have upgraded their own AI models to stay competitive.

ByteDance and Others Follow DeepSeek’s Footsteps

After DeepSeek’s rapid rise, ByteDance and Baidu swiftly updated their AI models to stay in the game. ByteDance claimed its latest model outperformed OpenAI’s o1 in the AIME benchmark, mirroring DeepSeek’s assertion that its R1 model competes closely with OpenAI’s o1 on several fronts.

DeepSeek’s Lean, Agile Approach Challenges Industry Norms

Despite the rising competition, DeepSeek’s founder, Liang Wenfeng, has emphasized the company’s long-term goal: achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)—AI that surpasses human intelligence in valuable tasks. DeepSeek operates with a lean structure, primarily composed of young graduates and doctoral students.Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max AI Surpasses DeepSeek-V3: Key Updates

The Future of AI: AGI and Beyond

As both DeepSeek and Alibaba continue to innovate, the focus is shifting increasingly toward AGI—AI systems that think and reason like humans. Alibaba’s introduction of Qwen 2.5-Max demonstrates its commitment to advancing AI and sets the stage for further breakthroughs in this highly competitive field.

As competition heats up and prices continue to drop, the future of AI in China—and globally—appears set for rapid transformation. The big question now is: which company will lead the way into the next era of AI?

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Google Pixel 9a Launch Date, Price & Features Leaked

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Pixel 9a Launch Date and Pricing Leaked: Everything We Know So Far

The Google Pixel 9a is making waves online with multiple leaks revealing key details about its upcoming launch. As the much-anticipated successor to the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a is set to arrive earlier than expected, with pre-orders starting on March 19, 2025. According to the leaks, shipping will begin on March 26, marking an early entry into the market. This comes as a surprise since previous Pixel A-series models typically launched in May.

Pixel 9a Pricing: Competitive and Affordable for Consumers

In terms of pricing, the Pixel 9a will start at $499 (around Rs 43,200) for the base 128GB model. The 256GB variant is expected to be priced at $599 (roughly Rs 51,900). Compared to the Pixel 8a, this is a slight increase, but it remains an affordable option in the mid-range segment. Additionally, Verizon’s mmWave model will see an added $50 cost, making it a bit more expensive.

The Indian pricing is still a mystery but could be similar to the Pixel 8a, which launched at Rs 52,999 and Rs 59,999 for the 128GB and 256GB models. Since the Pixel 9a is expected to launch earlier, local pricing could align with the new timeline and offer a competitive deal for Indian consumers.

A New Design for the Pixel 9a: Clean and Sleek

The design of the Pixel 9a will feature notable changes. Unlike previous models, it will ditch the camera bar and switch to a more streamlined, flush back design. This shift is likely due to the addition of a larger 5,100mAh battery. With this improvement, the phone will still maintain a compact and ergonomic form factor, offering a more refined look compared to its predecessors.

Although the new design might seem subtle, it is a significant departure from the traditional look of Pixel A-series devices. This change could attract users looking for a fresh and modern design, all while improving functionality.

Pixel 9a Display: Bright and Smooth Performance

The Pixel 9a will boast a 6.28-inch display with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits and an HDR brightness of 1,800 nits. This will make outdoor viewing much easier, even in direct sunlight. Additionally, the 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate will make scrolling, gaming, and general navigation incredibly smooth.

With such impressive specs, the display of the Pixel 9a promises to compete with other mid-range devices. Users can expect vibrant colors, clear visuals, and smooth interaction, which are essential for an enjoyable smartphone experience.

Google Pixel 9a

Performance: Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 Chipset

Under the hood, the Pixel 9a will feature Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, making it one of the most powerful mid-range smartphones. Paired with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM, it will handle multitasking and demanding apps with ease. This powerful combination ensures a responsive, lag-free experience for users.

For storage, the Pixel 9a will offer two options: 128GB and 256GB. Both configurations will use UFS 3.1 technology, which will allow for faster data transfer speeds, making apps load faster and reducing waiting times.

Software: Android 15 and Long-Term Updates

The Pixel 9a will come with Android 15 out of the box. This ensures that users will enjoy the latest features and improvements, along with enhanced security. Additionally, Google’s commitment to providing up to seven years of software and security updates gives the Pixel 9a a distinct advantage in terms of longevity.

This long-term support is a key selling point for users looking to keep their device up-to-date with the latest software. It also ensures that the Pixel 9a will remain secure and functional for years to come.

Camera Capabilities: Dual Setup for Impressive Photography

The camera setup on the Pixel 9a will consist of a 48-megapixel primary sensor and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide lens. On the front, a 13-megapixel sensor will take care of selfies and video calls. As with previous Pixel devices, the camera will be equipped with Google’s renowned software features, including Night Sight, Astrophotography, and Super Res Zoom, ensuring top-tier photography.

Whether in low light or daylight, the Pixel 9a promises to deliver clear, detailed images. The camera’s AI-powered features will enhance user experience and make it one of the best in its category.

Charging and Battery: A Solid Performance with Minor Limitations

While the Pixel 9a is expected to sport an impressive 5,100mAh battery, its charging speeds may not stand out. The device will support 23W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging. While these speeds are decent, they are slower compared to other devices that offer faster charging options.

Despite this, the large battery size should provide more than enough power for all-day use. The device’s battery life could make up for slower charging, offering a longer usage time per charge.

Color Variants: A Choice for Every User

The Pixel 9a will launch in four color variants: Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony. These colors will cater to a variety of preferences, from classic to vibrant. The range of choices will ensure that users can pick a shade that suits their personal style.

The addition of new color options is likely to appeal to consumers who want a phone that stands out or one that fits seamlessly into their everyday life.

Google phone

Conclusion: A Mid-Range Powerhouse for 2025

In conclusion, the Pixel 9a looks set to be a strong competitor in the mid-range smartphone market. With a competitive price, powerful features, and an early release, it’s positioned to attract a wide audience. Whether you’re looking for a powerful camera, fast performance, or a sleek design, the Pixel 9a has something to offer.

With the launch just around the corner, consumers will soon be able to experience what promises to be one of the best mid-range smartphones of 2025. Keep an eye on the official release for more details and updates.

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Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max Challenges OpenAI & DeepSeek in AI Race

AI Battle Intensifies: Alibaba Unveils Qwen 2.5-Max to Challenge OpenAI and DeepSeek

The artificial intelligence race is escalating as Alibaba, China’s e-commerce giant, makes a bold move with its latest AI model, Qwen 2.5-Max. The announcement positions Alibaba in direct competition with domestic rival DeepSeek and global leaders like OpenAI and Meta.

Revealed on the first day of the Lunar New Year, Alibaba’s launch underscores its urgency to counter DeepSeek’s rapid advancements. Over the past few weeks, DeepSeek’s AI breakthroughs have disrupted the tech industry, impacting Silicon Valley and triggering fluctuations in tech stocks. The debut of DeepSeek’s AI assistant on January 10, followed by its R1 model on January 20, has intensified competition, prompting a swift response from industry players.

Alibaba AI advancements

Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5-Max Takes on OpenAI, Meta, and DeepSeek in AI Showdown

Alibaba’s cloud division has thrown down the gauntlet, claiming its latest AI model, Qwen 2.5-Max, surpasses OpenAI’s GPT-4o, Meta’s Llama-3.1-405B, and DeepSeek’s V3 “almost across the board.” This bold assertion highlights the intensifying competition within China’s AI sector as companies vie for dominance.

DeepSeek’s rapid rise has not only disrupted global AI leaders but has also sparked fierce rivalries within China. In response to DeepSeek-R1’s launch, ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, scrambled to release an upgraded version of its flagship AI model just two days later. ByteDance now claims its latest model outperforms OpenAI’s o1 in AIME, a key benchmark for AI comprehension and accuracy.

Despite being founded just 20 months ago in Alibaba’s home city of Hangzhou, DeepSeek has shaken the industry with its low-cost, high-performance AI models. Established giants like Alibaba, Tencent, and Baidu are now under mounting pressure to accelerate innovation and maintain their foothold in the fast-evolving AI landscape.

Alibaba AI model release 2025

DeepSeek Faces Scrutiny as Audit Reveals Accuracy Issues in AI Chatbot

Despite its rapid rise, DeepSeek is facing fresh challenges after a recent audit by NewsGuard flagged concerns over the accuracy and reliability of its AI chatbot. The review found DeepSeek’s model trailing behind Western competitors, ranking tenth out of eleven AI systems tested.

According to the report: 

  • DeepSeek’s chatbot achieved just 17% accuracy in delivering news and factual information. 
  • It repeated false claims 30% of the time and provided vague or unhelpful responses in 53% of cases, leading to an overall failure rate of 83%.

These findings cast doubt on DeepSeek’s ability to compete with AI heavyweights like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, raising questions about its readiness for the global AI race.

As the AI landscape evolves, businesses must navigate complex legal and regulatory frameworks to stay compliant and competitive. Vakilsearch offers expert legal support for AI startups, tech firms, and innovators, ensuring smooth business operations, intellectual property protection, and regulatory compliance. Whether you’re launching a new AI model or securing patents for groundbreaking technology, our legal experts are here to assist.

8th Pay Commission: Expected Rise, Fitment Factor, & Pay Matrix

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The 8th Pay Commission, eagerly awaited by nearly 50 lakh central government employees and 65 lakh pensioners, is expected to bring transformative changes to salaries and allowances. With the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission serving as a significant precedent, the upcoming proposals are anticipated to build on the existing framework. The 7th Pay Commission, implemented on  1 January 2016, introduced several pivotal reforms that set new benchmarks for pay structure, allowances, and pension systems. 

Maximum Fitment Factor Under the 8th Pay Commission?

 8th Pay Commission  fitment factor is projected to range from 2.28 to 2.86. Under the 7th Pay Commission, the fitment factor was set at 2.57, leading to significant increases in salaries and pensions. For example, pensions rose from ₹3,500 to ₹9,000, and the minimum basic pay increased from ₹7,000 to ₹18,000.

The maximum pension was raised to ₹1,25,000, and the maximum pay to ₹2,50,000. As per this calculation the minimum basic pay is increased from ₹18,000 to between ₹41,000 and ₹51,480, depending on the final fitment factor.

 8th Pay Commission salary updates

Expected Revised Basic Pay Under 8th Pay Commission 

The expected revised basic pay under the 8th Pay Commission is anticipated to bring significant improvements for government employees. The expected revision is as follows:

Pay Level Current Basic Pay (7th CPC) Expected Revised Basic Pay (8th CPC) Increase (Approx) Role Description
Level 1 ₹18,000 ₹51,480 ₹33,480 Peons, Attendants, MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff) performing essential support tasks.
Level 2 ₹19,900 ₹56,914 ₹37,014 Lower Division Clerks (LDCs) managing clerical and routine administrative duties.
Level 3 ₹21,700 ₹62,062 ₹40,362 Constables and Skilled Trades Staff in police, defense, or public services.
Level 4 ₹25,500 ₹72,930 ₹47,430 Stenographers (Grade D) and Junior Clerks managing transcription and documentation.
Level 5 ₹29,200 ₹83,512 ₹54,312 Senior Clerks, Assistants, or Technical Staff providing higher-level administrative or technical support.
Level 6 ₹35,400 ₹1,01,244 ₹65,844 Inspectors, Sub-Inspectors, and Junior Engineers (JEs) in technical or supervisory roles.
Level 7 ₹44,900 ₹1,28,414 ₹83,514 Superintendents, Section Officers, or Assistant Engineers (AEs) handling project management or complex administrative tasks.
Level 8 ₹47,600 ₹1,36,136 ₹88,536 Senior Section Officers or Assistant Audit Officers, managing audits or higher administrative functions.
Level 9 ₹53,100 ₹1,51,866 ₹98,766 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) or Accounts Officers, responsible for operational or financial management.
Level 10 ₹56,100 ₹1,60,446 ₹1,04,346 Group A Officers, such as Assistant Commissioners or entry-level officers in services like IAS, IPS, and IFS.

 

Implementation Timeline of the 8th Pay Commission

The 8th Pay Commission is set to be implemented on 1 January 2026. As is customary, the government will form the Pay Commission 18 months before the implementation date to review and suggest revisions. This means the commission is likely to be established by mid-2024.

 What is the Pay Matrix of the 8th Pay Commission?

The Pay Matrix is a structured table that defines salary levels based on positions and seniority. It simplifies the process of salary determination and career progression. With the anticipated fitment factor, the Pay Matrix will be updated to reflect new pay levels across different ranks.

Example 1:
An employee at Pay Matrix Level 1, currently earning a basic salary of ₹18,000, could see their salary rise to approximately ₹41,000 with a fitment factor of 2.28.

Example 2:
At Pay Matrix Level 6, where the current basic salary is ₹35,400, the revised pay could increase to around ₹1,01,244, assuming a higher fitment factor, enhancing the compensation for employees in technical or supervisory roles. These updates will ensure proportional salary increases across all levels, promoting fair and structured pay progression.

7th Pay Commission Highlights:

  • Fitment Factor: Introduced a uniform fitment factor of 2.57, boosting pay scales 
  • Annual Increment: Retained 3% for consistent salary growth 
  • House Rent Allowance (HRA): Adjusted based on revised basic pay (24%, 16%, 8% for Class X, Y, Z cities). HRA rates rise automatically when DA crosses 50% and 100%.
  • CGEGIS: Enhanced insurance coverage from ₹15,00,000 for entry-level to ₹50,00,000 for higher levels 
  • Performance Related Pay (PRP): Linked bonuses to performance and reformed Annual Performance Appraisal Reports to promote efficiency.

When Will The Government Appoint Members to the 8th Pay Commission?

Following the announcement of the 8th Pay Commission on 16 January Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the government will soon appoint a chairman and two members to lead the panel. However, he did not specify a timeline for these appointments.

Conclusion

As the 8th Pay Commission approaches, these reforms will likely influence its recommendations. Central government employees and pensioners anticipate further enhancements to the fitment factor, HRA, and CGEGIS, along with broader salary revisions. The focus is expected to remain on ensuring fair compensation, fostering productivity, and addressing evolving socio-economic realities. By building on the successes of the 7th Pay Commission, the 8th Pay Commission has the potential to set new standards for employee welfare and governance efficiency in India. For more legal clarity get in touch with Vakilsearch experts today. 

Hero Karizma XMR Combat Edition Teased: New Features Revealed

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Hero MotoCorp recently teased the upcoming Karizma XMR Combat Edition on its social media, building excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts. The bike first debuted at EICMA 2024, and Hero promises that this new variant will come with several exciting upgrades.

A Bold New Look with Unique Design Elements

The Karizma XMR Combat Edition brings a fresh grey paint scheme paired with vibrant yellow accents. This bold color combination gives the bike a more sporty and aggressive appearance. As a result, the Combat Edition looks even more eye-catching than the standard model. Furthermore, Hero MotoCorp has added golden-colored USD front forks, replacing the standard telescopic forks. These forks not only enhance the bike’s aesthetic appeal but also improve its handling and suspension, offering a smoother and more responsive ride.

Advanced Technology with TFT Screen

The Combat Edition also boasts an upgraded TFT screen. This high-tech feature improves the bike’s interface, providing crucial information like speed, fuel levels, and trip data in a clear, easy-to-read format. Compared to the basic display in the standard model, this TFT screen offers a more modern and intuitive experience for riders. Moreover, this addition shows Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to integrating technology and enhancing the overall riding experience.

Retaining the Classic Karizma Design

Despite the new upgrades, the Karizma XMR Combat Edition retains the core design features that make the Karizma instantly recognizable. The center-set twin projector LED headlight continues to offer excellent visibility while maintaining the bike’s bold look. The angular body panels and ergonomic design ensure comfort, whether for short commutes or long rides. While the bike has received some significant updates, it still remains true to the original model’s iconic style.

Hero Karizma

Engine and Performance: No Changes Under the Hood

The Karizma XMR Combat Edition uses the same engine found in the standard version. It is powered by a 210cc liquid-cooled engine, producing 25bhp and 20Nm of peak torque. Additionally, the bike features a six-speed gearbox, ensuring smooth and seamless gear shifts. This consistent performance allows the Combat Edition to offer a reliable and enjoyable riding experience. Even though the Combat Edition adds new features, the engine and performance remain unchanged to ensure the bike delivers power and efficiency.

Core Components Stay the Same

Despite the design changes and new technology, many of the Karizma XMR Combat Edition’s components remain the same as the base model. The brakes, wheels, and tires are identical to those on the standard Karizma XMR, ensuring consistent handling and performance. This helps maintain the bike’s reliability, which has made the Karizma XMR a trusted name in the market. Consequently, riders can expect the same quality and performance, even with the added features.

Pricing and Launch Expectations

The standard Hero Karizma XMR is currently priced at ₹1.81 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Given the new features and components, the Combat Edition is likely to be priced higher. Although Hero MotoCorp has not yet confirmed an exact launch date, the teaser suggests that the Combat Edition will be available soon. Fans are eagerly awaiting the official reveal, as the new features and design make it one of the most anticipated bikes of the year.

Hero

Conclusion: The Next Step for the Karizma XMR

With the Karizma XMR Combat Edition, Hero MotoCorp brings exciting upgrades and fresh features without compromising on the core design. The new paint scheme, golden front forks, and TFT screen elevate the bike’s appeal, making it a standout in the 200cc segment. While the performance remains consistent with the original model, these new additions ensure the Combat Edition delivers a premium experience. As the launch approaches, the Karizma XMR Combat Edition is set to become a top contender in the competitive motorcycle market, offering a blend of style, performance, and advanced technology.

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Kris Gopalakrishnan Among 18 Booked Under SC/ST Atrocities Act

Introduction

A case has been filed against Infosys co-founder Senapathy Kris Gopalakrishnan, former IISc Director Balaram, and 16 others under the Prevention of SC/ST Atrocities Act. The Sadashiva Nagar police initiated the case following orders from the 71st city civil and sessions court (CCH), as reported by PTI.

The complainant, a member of the tribal Bovi community and former faculty member at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), claims to have faced caste-based harassment. In 2014, he alleges that a honey trap case was falsely used to dismiss him from service.

Allegations of Casteist Abuse

The complainant accuses the defendants of casteist slurs and threats. According to him, this abuse stemmed from his tribal background and worsened while he worked at the IISc’s Centre for Sustainable Technology. As a result, he faced increasing mistreatment.

The involvement of prominent individuals has drawn widespread attention. Along with Gopalakrishnan and Balaram, the list of accused includes Govindan Rangarajan, Sridhar Warrier, Sandya Vishwswaraih, and others.

Background of the Case

The incident traces back to 2014 when the complainant was allegedly implicated in a honey trap case. He believes the case was fabricated with the intention of ruining his reputation and removing him from his position. Additionally, he accuses the governing board of failing to take appropriate action and discriminating against him.

The Prevention of SC/ST Atrocities Act is being used to ensure justice in this case. This legislation protects marginalized communities from discrimination, abuse, and violence.

SC/ST Atrocities Act

Reactions to the Case

The case has sparked debates across social media platforms and legal circles. Former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai expressed his concern on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “This is very wrong. The government should ensure that innocent people in governing boards are not wrongly charged. The rights of all should be protected.”

Pai’s statement brings attention to potential misuse of legal provisions and emphasizes the need for fairness in such cases.

Legal Implications and Next Steps

The involvement of such high-profile individuals raises questions about governance and accountability within institutions. Legal experts expect a comprehensive review of the case, especially due to the SC/ST Atrocities Act’s strict provisions.

The Sadashiva Nagar police have already initiated investigations. The accused are expected to present their defenses, and the court will evaluate the evidence before moving forward.

Broader Concerns on Caste Discrimination

This case highlights the persistent caste-based discrimination in India. Despite legal safeguards, marginalized communities continue to face systemic challenges. The involvement of well-known figures further underscores these issues.

Activists and legal experts argue that this case could set a crucial precedent. It emphasizes the need to safeguard the rights of marginalized individuals while ensuring legal provisions are not misused.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

Public and media reactions have been mixed. While many have expressed outrage over the alleged caste-based harassment, others caution against rushing to judgment. The ongoing debate stresses the importance of balanced reporting and ensuring judicial fairness.

As the case continues, it is likely to impact future discussions on workplace discrimination, governance, and accountability. The judiciary’s role in delivering justice will remain closely scrutinized.

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Supreme Court: Domicile-Based PG Medical Reservations Unconstitutional

Introduction

On January 29, 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that domicile-based reservations in PG medical courses violate Article 14 of the Constitution. A three-judge bench, including Justices Hrishikesh Roy, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and SVN Bhatti, emphasized that state quota seats must be filled based on NEET merit. Therefore, states cannot grant reservations solely based on residence.

Merit-Based Selection Must Prevail in PG Medical Admissions

The Supreme Court clarified that all Indian citizens share a common domicile – the domicile of India. Since the Constitution allows people to reside and work anywhere in the country, limiting PG medical admissions based on domicile would contradict the principle of equality. Thus, the ruling reinforces merit as the key criterion.

Supreme Court Reiterates Key Legal Precedents

The judgment reaffirmed principles from several past cases, including:

  • Pradeep Jain v. Union of India (1984)
  • Saurabh Chaudri v. Union of India (2003)
  • Jagadish Saran v. Union of India (1980)

Earlier, these rulings established that domicile-based reservations could be allowed at the MBBS level but not in PG courses. The Supreme Court once again upheld this stance, stating that higher education requires a stronger focus on merit.

Supreme Court

Limited Domicile Reservations Allowed Only in MBBS

Justice Dhulia, delivering the reasoning, stated that undergraduate (MBBS) admissions may accommodate some domicile-based reservations. However, specialized PG medical education demands the best talent, making merit-based admissions essential. Since healthcare services depend on skilled professionals, reservation in PG courses based on residence would compromise quality.

Existing PG Medical Students Will Not Be Affected

The Supreme Court assured that students already enrolled in PG medical courses under domicile-based quotas will continue their studies without issues. Similarly, those who have already graduated under such quotas will not face any adverse effects. This clarification provides relief to thousands of students.

Punjab and Haryana High Court’s Verdict Led to This Appeal

This case originated from an appeal challenging the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s decision to strike down domicile-based reservations in PG medical courses at Government Medical College, Chandigarh. In 2019, a two-judge Supreme Court bench referred the issue to a larger bench, leading to this crucial judgment.

States Must Revise Admission Policies to Comply with the Ruling

Now that the Supreme Court has ruled against domicile-based reservations, state governments must modify their admission policies. By doing so, they will ensure compliance with constitutional principles. Moreover, this change will promote a fair and transparent selection process in PG medical courses.

Apex Court

Impact on Medical Education and Healthcare

The judgment is likely to improve the fairness of PG medical admissions. By eliminating domicile-based quotas, the ruling ensures that the most qualified candidates secure seats. As a result, India’s healthcare system will benefit from better-trained specialists.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision marks a significant step toward fairness in medical education. By removing domicile-based reservations, the ruling ensures that merit remains the top priority. This approach not only upholds constitutional equality but also fosters a more competent medical workforce for the nation.

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Chinese and Iranian Hackers Using AI to Boost Cyberattacks; Report Finds

Hackers from China, Iran, and other nations are increasingly using US-made artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly Google’s Gemini chatbot, to bolster their cyberattacks. A report by Google, released on Wednesday, highlights the growing role of generative AI in cybercrimes. Chinese and Iranian hackers are tapping into these AI technologies to improve the speed and scale of their attacks.

While AI tools like Gemini have not fundamentally changed the types of attacks mounted by these hackers, they have allowed them to work faster and more efficiently. Chinese hackers, in particular, are using AI to craft phishing emails, develop malicious code, and exploit vulnerabilities in targeted organisations.

AI Powers Cyberattacks by Chinese and Iranian Hackers

Google’s research indicates that hackers are actively using AI to enhance their operations. The Gemini chatbot has been leveraged for tasks like reconnaissance, scripting, and technical concept development. AI enables hackers to process large amounts of data quickly and identify vulnerabilities faster, making it easier to compromise networks and steal sensitive information.

Unlike traditional cyberattacks, Chinese hackers using AI can execute attacks at a much higher volume, targeting more organisations with greater precision. The speed and efficiency AI tools provide are crucial for state-backed actors looking to gain an edge in cyber espionage and intellectual property theft.

Chinese and Iranian Hackers

AI: A Tool for Cyber Espionage and Disinformation

In addition to Chinese hackers, Iranian hackers have also heavily used AI for cyber espionage and disinformation. Iranian state-backed actors use Gemini to gather intelligence, conduct research, and craft content to influence public opinion. Chinese hackers focus more on reconnaissance and targeted attacks rather than large-scale disinformation campaigns.

Chinese hackers are utilising AI to pinpoint vulnerabilities and develop exploits to bypass traditional cybersecurity defences. This makes AI a valuable tool for infiltrating high-value targets.

Generative AI and Its Role in Information Operations

While Chinese hackers use AI to enhance cyber espionage, Iran has focused on using the same technology for information operations. Iranian hackers leverage Gemini to manipulate online content and sway public opinion. Google’s report reveals that Iran accounts for 75% of detected Gemini usage related to information operations, creating language-specific content to further political and strategic goals.

China, though not as active in information operations as Iran, has used AI tools for research and content creation, particularly regarding national interests. Hackers use AI to gain insights into international relations, defence, and policy matters.

Chinese and Iranian Hackers

The Future of AI in Cybersecurity

Experts believe the use of AI by hackers, including Chinese and Iranian hackers, will continue to evolve. Caleb Withers, a researcher at the Center for a New American Security, noted that AI’s role in cybersecurity could lead to an arms race. As both attackers and defenders adopt AI to find vulnerabilities, the balance between them will remain dynamic.

While AI has given hackers a productivity boost, the report suggests it has not yet revolutionised the nature of cyberattacks. The fundamental tactics of cyber espionage and hacking remain unchanged, though AI advancements could reshape the way these attacks are carried out.

Government and Industry Response

Kent Walker, President of Global Affairs at Google’s parent company Alphabet, urged greater collaboration between the US government, tech industry, and international allies to address the threat posed by AI-powered cyberattacks. Walker emphasised that the US must maintain its leadership in AI technology and streamline defence efforts to protect national security.

“America holds the lead in the AI race, but our advantage may not last,” Walker said, calling for a unified approach to counter these threats.

Google’s report underscores the growing use of AI by Chinese and Iranian hackers and other state-backed actors to supercharge their cyberattacks. While the nature of cyber threats remains unchanged, AI has significantly increased the speed and scale of these attacks. As AI technology continues to evolve, both hackers and cybersecurity professionals must adapt. The US government and tech companies must collaborate to secure the nation’s digital infrastructure from malicious actors using AI to enhance their offensive capabilities.

For legal support in addressing cyber threats and data protection, Vakilsearch provides expert guidance on compliance and risk management. Contact us today.

DeepSeek vs ChatGPT: China’s AI Model Disrupts Global Market

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Introduction: DeepSeek Overtakes ChatGPT

Last week, Chinese startup DeepSeek launched a free AI assistant that uses less data at a fraction of the cost of services like ChatGPT. By Monday, the app had already overtaken ChatGPT in downloads on the Apple App Store, signaling a major shift in the AI landscape.

The Market Impact of DeepSeek’s Rise

DeepSeek’s rapid rise has caused major turbulence in the stock market. On January 27, Nvidia’s shares dropped nearly 17%, erasing around $600 billion in market value. This drop is partly due to concerns that DeepSeek’s low-cost model might disrupt established AI leaders like Nvidia.

What is DeepSeek?

DeepSeek is fully owned by the AI-driven quant fund High-Flyer, based in China. Its latest version, DeepSeek-V3, has been praised for using less than $6 million worth of Nvidia H800 chips for training. The app’s success has catapulted it to the top of the US App Store, surpassing ChatGPT in downloads.

The Creation of DeepSeek

Founded in Hangzhou, DeepSeek is controlled by Liang Wenfeng, the co-founder of High-Flyer. The fund pivoted in March 2023, shifting focus to creating a new independent research group to explore Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). DeepSeek was born from this effort later that same year.

DeepSeek vs ChatGPT: China’s AI Model Disrupts Global Market

Why DeepSeek is Causing a Market Rout

The success of DeepSeek’s AI model, which uses lower-cost chips and less data, has shaken investor confidence in the future demand for high-end chips. There are growing fears of price wars within the AI space, which could undermine the profitability of major chipmakers like Nvidia.

 

Implications on the AI Sector

DeepSeek’s emergence raises difficult questions about the long-term sustainability of current AI investments. With the market growing more skeptical, many investors are questioning the viability of expensive AI computing power, especially in light of DeepSeek’s efficient and affordable model.

Impact on Smartphones

Interestingly, DeepSeek’s smaller models could have a positive impact on smartphones. However, experts are cautious, noting that AI-driven smartphones have yet to gain significant traction among consumers. Moreover, upgrading hardware to run more powerful models could lead to higher costs, which may deter widespread adoption.

Bright Outlook for Chinese AI Market

DeepSeek’s cost-effective approach to AI could accelerate the broader adoption of artificial intelligence. According to UBS, DeepSeek’s technology could potentially bring AGI closer to reality while lowering costs, which in turn would drive further innovation and adoption in the AI market, especially in China.

Cyberattack on DeepSeek’s Website

As DeepSeek’s popularity surged, the company was hit by a cyberattack that caused significant outages on its website. The startup temporarily restricted new registrations but has since resolved the technical issues, ensuring that users can continue to access the service.

AI Stocks Take a Hit

In the wake of DeepSeek’s success, US tech stocks took a significant hit. Nvidia suffered a staggering loss of $593 billion in market value, the largest one-day loss ever for a company on Wall Street. Other tech giants like Microsoft and Alphabet also saw declines.

Trump’s Thoughts on DeepSeek

Former US President Donald Trump weighed in on DeepSeek’s rapid success, praising the cheaper and faster AI technology coming from China. Trump emphasized that US industries must now focus on competing to keep up with China’s advances in AI technology, urging a renewed focus on innovation.

Sam Altman’s Take on DeepSeek

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded to DeepSeek’s rise, calling the new AI model “impressive” for its price point. While Altman acknowledged DeepSeek’s achievement, he emphasized that OpenAI would continue to focus on delivering even better models in the future, further solidifying its position in the AI race.

 

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