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Tag: artificial intelligence

  • The AI Pioneer Who Turned Down a ₹13,000 Crore Proposal from Mark Zuckerberg: Meet Andrew Tulloch

    The AI Pioneer Who Turned Down a ₹13,000 Crore Proposal from Mark Zuckerberg: Meet Andrew Tulloch



    Andrew Tulloch: A Key Player in AI Talent Wars

    Andrew Tulloch: A Key Player in AI Talent Wars

    Andrew Tulloch, a prominent figure in the artificial intelligence sector and cofounder of Thinking Machines Lab, has become the focal point of Silicon Valley’s latest high-stakes battle for talent.

    Declining a Massive Offer from Meta

    Reports from The Wall Street Journal indicate that Tulloch recently turned down an astounding compensation package from Meta, valued at up to $1.5 billion (approximately ₹13,142 crores) over six years, despite his history with the firm and the personal engagement of CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

    A Respected Figure in AI

    Tulloch is accustomed to attractive offers. As a regarded name in artificial intelligence and cofounder of Thinking Machines Lab, he has developed a career at the centre of several influential AI projects over the last decade. However, the latest proposal he rejected was unprecedented, even for Silicon Valley.

    Meta’s Initial Bid

    The situation began when Mark Zuckerberg approached Thinking Machines founder Mira Murati with an reported acquisition offer of $1 billion, which she turned down. This prompted a concerted effort to recruit some of her most valuable personnel, with Tulloch at the top of their target list.

    Exceptional Compensation Package

    Meta’s proposal for Tulloch allegedly included a pay package reaching up to $1.5 billion over six years, encompassing salary, bonuses, and stock awards. For Zuckerberg, securing Tulloch would have represented a high-profile recruitment, while for Tulloch, it would mark a return to familiar ground. Having spent over a decade at Meta, he was instrumental in refining its machine learning capabilities and played a key role in the evolution of PyTorch, now crucial in global AI research.

    Career Moves and Recent Developments

    Following his departure in 2023, Tulloch joined OpenAI, contributing to the pre-training and reasoning models for GPT-4. He then collaborated with Murati to establish Thinking Machines Lab earlier this year. Despite the magnitude of Meta’s offer and outreach from former colleagues like Alexandr Wang, now leading Meta’s Superintelligence Lab, Tulloch opted to remain with his new venture. Murati later informed Wired that none of her team members accepted Meta’s proposals.

    Academic Background and Future Prospects

    Tulloch’s academic achievements are impressive alongside his professional accomplishments. He graduated from the University of Sydney with first-class honours and a University Medal in mathematics, holds a Master’s degree from Cambridge, and is working towards a PhD at UC Berkeley. Industry analysts speculate that his choice to stay could be connected to substantial equity in Thinking Machines Lab, which is already valued at over $30 billion.

    Meta’s Response

    Meta has contested both the figures and the extent of its recruitment initiatives. Spokesperson Andy Stone labelled the reported sums as “inaccurate and ridiculous,” noting that any compensation package would depend on stock performance.

    Standing Firm in the AI Talent Race

    In the escalating competition for AI talent, Tulloch’s decision is particularly notable as it exemplifies a rare occasion where even an extravagant offer was insufficient in deterring an engineer from pursuing his own vision.


  • IAMAI Advocates for AI Startups to be Exempt from Specific Data Privacy Regulations on Public Data Usage

    IAMAI Advocates for AI Startups to be Exempt from Specific Data Privacy Regulations on Public Data Usage

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    Legal Restrictions on Publicly Available Personal Data for AI Training in India

    The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has urged the central government to reduce legal barriers regarding the use of publicly accessible personal data for developing and refining artificial intelligence models.

    In a statement released on Thursday, IAMAI indicated that current data protection laws complicate the ability of AI firms to ascertain whether all publicly available personal data has been shared with user consent. According to the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act), it is the responsibility of companies to confirm whether such data was willingly provided.

    IAMAI highlighted that publicly available data can sometimes be shared again without consent from the original user, particularly in cases where data was disclosed to meet legal obligations and subsequently disseminated by others. This situation poses a challenge for AI developers as they struggle to validate user consent for each data point.

    “The Union Government may, as a temporary solution, think about exempting data fiduciaries from the DPDP Act’s requirements when they are handling personal data exclusively for AI model training or enhancement,” the association suggested.

    Furthermore, IAMAI communicated with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) about potential ambiguities within the DPDP Act that could lead to practical challenges for AI enterprises, especially those that rely on extensive datasets. The association cautioned that imposing limitations on access to publicly available personal data could result in considerable compliance costs, hinder innovation, and disproportionately impact smaller firms and startups involved in AI model development.

    The DPDP Act represents India’s all-encompassing data privacy legislation, aimed at reconciling individuals’ rights to safeguard their personal data with the necessity for lawful data usage. It mandates accountability for data fiduciaries in the event of breaches and calls for the implementation of suitable technical and organisational safeguards.

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  • “Tariff Surge to 50%: CureFit’s Founder Urges Urgent Scientific Innovation for India’s Future”

    “Tariff Surge to 50%: CureFit’s Founder Urges Urgent Scientific Innovation for India’s Future”



    Transforming Science and Technology in India – Mukesh Bansal’s Call to Action

    Transforming Science and Technology in India – Mukesh Bansal’s Call to Action

    Mukesh Bansal, the Founder of CureFit, has made a compelling appeal for India to fundamentally overhaul its strategies concerning science and technology. He cautions that the current global geopolitical environment does not allow for any form of complacency.

    In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Bansal remarked that the ongoing geopolitical climate should serve as a significant indication for India to take its scientific and technological ecosystem seriously. He emphasised that this situation should be considered more than a mere warning; it is a matter of existential importance.

    Urgent Action Needed for an Innovation Ecosystem

    Bansal stressed that as the world approaches a transformative technological era, especially with advancements in artificial intelligence, India must prioritise the establishment of a future-ready innovation ecosystem.

    He stated that this moment calls for a shift towards embracing science and research driven by curiosity, constructing elite research infrastructure, encouraging leading Indian scientists to return, and fostering the spirit of ‘Discover in India’ and ‘Invent in India’.

    The Vision of a Developed India

    Bansal firmly believes that the goal of “Viksit Bharat” — a developed India — will remain unachievable without robust scientific and technological foundations.

    This call for action arrives in response to the United States introducing new punitive tariffs on Indian exports, a decision that has unsettled Indian industries and brought to light the dangers of relying on global supply chains and foreign technology.

    Importance of Self-Reliance in Critical Technologies

    The previous 25% tariffs are expected to increase to 50% by August 27, underscoring the urgent requirement for India to cultivate self-reliance in essential technologies and to diminish its reliance on external ecosystems.

    As India prepares to navigate an ever-changing global landscape, advocates like Bansal are highlighting the essential need for sovereign innovation—not just as an economic strategy, but as a crucial national priority.


  • Meta Approaches 24-Year-Old AI Whiz Matt Deitke with ₹2,196 Crore Offer: Who is He?

    Meta Approaches 24-Year-Old AI Whiz Matt Deitke with ₹2,196 Crore Offer: Who is He?



    Matt Deitke Joins Meta’s Superintelligence Lab in AI Talent Race


    Matt Deitke Joins Meta’s Superintelligence Lab in AI Talent Race

    At just 24, Matt Deitke has emerged as a key figure in Silicon Valley’s competitive AI talent landscape. The gifted researcher, who once declined a $125 million proposal from Meta, has now reportedly accepted an astonishing $250 million (₹2,196 crore) compensation package from the tech giant, thanks in part to a personal intervention by CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

    Matt Deitke’s Role at Meta

    Deitke is anticipated to be part of Meta’s Superintelligence Lab, an ambitious division dedicated to the creation of next-generation AI models. His compensation includes up to $100 million in the first year alone, showcasing Meta’s commitment to attracting the brightest minds in the realm of artificial intelligence.

    Why Silicon Valley Values Deitke

    Recognised as one of the most promising young talents in AI, Deitke was previously a PhD candidate at the University of Washington before transitioning to applied research at the Allen Institute for AI (AI2) in Seattle. During his tenure, he spearheaded the development of Molmo, a state-of-the-art multimodal chatbot capable of interpreting not just text but also images and audio, positioning it at the forefront of contemporary AI research.

    Acknowledgements for Groundbreaking Work

    His contributions to Molmo earned him the prestigious Outstanding Paper Award at NeurIPS 2022, a leading conference in the field. Following this recognition, his name gained traction among major tech companies. Meta had sought to recruit him since late 2023 but faced initial challenges as Deitke was focused on developing autonomous AI agents through Vercept.

    Personal Intervention by Zuckerberg

    This scenario changed when Zuckerberg personally intervened, reportedly meeting Deitke to present a revamped offer. This strategic move proved effective, as Deitke is now on track to join an elite team at Meta, which includes Ruoming Pang, the former leader of Apple’s AI models team, who has been offered over $200 million to make the transition.

    The Larger Strategy of Meta

    This recruitment effort is part of a broader strategy by Meta to create what it refers to as an “all-star” Superintelligence Lab, already supported by more than $1 billion in funding. This initiative aims to compete with industry rivals such as OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and xAI.

    The Future of Artificial Intelligence

    As the most influential players in the industry strive to shape the future of artificial intelligence, Matt Deitke’s career move represents a significant moment, not only for Meta but also for the trajectory of the AI sector as a whole.


  • “Harsh Goenka on AI’s Transformation of Work: Embracing Change and New Opportunities”

    “Harsh Goenka on AI’s Transformation of Work: Embracing Change and New Opportunities”


    AI’s Impact on Jobs: Insights from Harsh Goenka

    AI has become a significant force in transforming employment landscapes, prompting RPG Enterprises Chairman Harsh Goenka to address the increasing anxiety surrounding potential job losses. He also highlighted the emerging opportunities that AI is set to create.

    Goenka noted, “Everyone is concerned: Will AI take my job? What new roles will AI generate?” He believes that AI will revolutionise workplaces and create new positions such as Prompt Engineers, AI Product Managers, and AI Ethics Specialists. The competitive edge will belong to those who are most adaptable and intelligent.

    His comments sparked a lively debate on social media, with mixed reactions. One user endorsed Goenka’s perspective, stating that AI does not inherently eliminate jobs, as guiding AI will still be essential. They emphasized, “AI has actually expanded the job market, which is why companies like Capgemini are now hiring fresh graduates. The role of AI Ethics Specialists is vital in distinguishing reality from artificial constructs, and it is humans who will guide AI’s development.”

    Another individual shared a broader perspective, reflecting on the profound consequences of AI: “AI will undoubtedly disrupt our lives while introducing new applications. However, human emotions and connections will always remain crucial. In 20 or 30 years, when humanity has evolved further, there may be a desire to return to simpler village life.”

    Additionally, a recent study by Microsoft Research provides an in-depth analysis of how AI could shape the future of work.

    The research identifies 40 job categories that are most susceptible to disruption by AI and another 40 that are least likely to be affected. While this study focuses on roles within the U.S., experts suggest that the findings apply to both developed and developing nations.

    Kiran Tomlinson, a Senior Researcher at Microsoft, explained, “Our research investigates which job categories can effectively utilise AI chatbots. It introduces an AI applicability score that assesses the alignment between AI capabilities and job responsibilities, illuminating areas where AI could alter work practices, rather than eliminate roles.”

  • AI: A Game Changer for Healthcare, But Nurses Remain Unmatched, According to Google DeepMind’s CEO Demis Hassabis

    AI: A Game Changer for Healthcare, But Nurses Remain Unmatched, According to Google DeepMind’s CEO Demis Hassabis


    The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Work

    As artificial intelligence continues to advance rapidly, its influence on the future of work is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. Prominent tech companies, including Amazon and Nvidia, have started to publicly acknowledge that AI will significantly transform the global workforce. However, Demis Hassabis, the CEO of Google DeepMind, asserts that not all professions face the same level of risk.

    AI’s Growing Role in Healthcare

    Hassabis shared insights during a recent interview with Wired, highlighting how AI systems are already proving beneficial in healthcare by interpreting medical scans, assessing lab reports, and even recommending treatment plans. He noted that the future might see AI playing a crucial role in diagnosis, particularly due to its proficiency in analysing vast amounts of complex data. This capability could position AI as an invaluable partner to healthcare professionals in the years ahead.

    Nursing: A Unique Human Profession

    When discussing artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the potential for machines to take over human roles entirely, Hassabis underscored the distinction for nurses. He argued that while AI might assist and even surpass doctors in specific technical tasks, it cannot emulate the empathy, trust, and emotional intelligence that nursing demands. He remarked that while individuals might be open to receiving care from an AI doctor, the same might not hold true for a robotic nurse.

    Hassabis articulated that nursing is deeply rooted in human connection. Beyond mere physical care, nurses provide comfort, reassurance, and support to patients during vulnerable moments—qualities that no level of technological advancement can genuinely replicate. He elaborated that although a robotic nurse might showcase efficiency, it would fundamentally lack the warmth and compassion that are vital to quality caregiving.

    Industry Perspectives on AI’s Workforce Impact

    This differentiation arises as industry leaders express concerns regarding widespread disruption. Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon, recently indicated that AI would contribute to workforce reductions, while Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, warned that every job would be influenced—some would disappear, but many new roles would emerge.

    Hassabis concurs that AI will usher in significant changes to employment within the next five to ten years. He regards the current phase of technology as an “additive force,” but acknowledges that transformative shifts are unavoidable, particularly as AI takes over repetitive and time-consuming tasks across various sectors.

    Optimism for Human-AI Collaboration in Healthcare

    Despite the challenges, the DeepMind chief remains hopeful about the prospects of human-AI collaboration in healthcare. He envisions AI as a tool that will enable doctors and nurses to dedicate their efforts to more complex, human-centric activities, leading to quicker diagnoses, tailored treatment plans, and ultimately improved patient outcomes.

    However, as AI capabilities expand, experts are cautioning that vigilance is necessary. Geoffrey Hinton, often dubbed the “Godfather of AI,” has voiced concerns that advanced AI systems may begin to form internal “thought processes” beyond human comprehension, raising vital questions about transparency and accountability in the technology.

    In conclusion, while the path forward for AI in healthcare is laden with opportunities for breakthroughs, it is evident that not all professions hold the same status in the era of machines.

  • “Driving Innovation: Sundar Pichai’s Vision for Elevating AI Productivity at Google”

    “Driving Innovation: Sundar Pichai’s Vision for Elevating AI Productivity at Google”



    Google’s Internal AI Initiative: Boosting Productivity

    Google’s Internal AI Initiative: Boosting Productivity

    Google is significantly enhancing its focus on artificial intelligence (AI), pushing employees to integrate AI tools more effectively and swiftly into their daily activities. A report from CNBC details that this message was conveyed at a recent all-hands meeting where CEO Sundar Pichai and Vice President of Core Development and Product Management, Brian Saluzzo, were present.

    Shifting Mindsets Around AI Utilisation

    The tech behemoth is realigning its operational approach, requesting teams to achieve greater results with reduced resources by utilising AI to enhance productivity. Pichai indicated to the workforce that while the company is embarking on a significant investment phase, it must also maintain a “frugal” stance and concentrate on efficiency. He emphasised, “In times of substantial investment, the usual response is to increase headcount. However, during this AI era, it is essential to leverage this transition to drive greater productivity instead.”

    Alignment with Alphabet’s Capital Expenditure Plans

    This revamped strategy corresponds with Alphabet’s growing capital expenditure forecasts, which are expected to reach £85 billion by 2025, an increase from the earlier estimate of £75 billion. This expenditure will mainly focus on infrastructure necessary to facilitate AI development and implementation.

    Embedding AI into Daily Workflows

    Saluzzo, who heads the teams managing Google’s core technical frameworks, reiterated the pressing need for AI to be included in more routine workflows, particularly for software engineers. He noted, “There is a pressing need to hasten the incorporation of AI into various coding practices to meet key demands and facilitate a significantly quicker increase in productivity.”

    Expanding Access to AI Tools and Training

    To facilitate this transition, Google is broadening employee access to internal AI resources and educational programs. One of these resources is Cider, an AI-supported coding assistant that, according to Saluzzo, is currently being utilised weekly by half of the users with access. Additionally, the initiative AI Savvy Google provides employees with toolkits, courses, and sessions designed to enhance their proficiency in using AI. Google has also partnered with DeepMind to create a training programme called “Building with Gemini,” which is expected to be launched shortly.

    A Broader Industry Trend Toward AI Adoption

    This internal transformation mirrors a wider trend in the tech sector, with companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Shopify also emphasising the necessity of AI adoption. Microsoft’s Julia Liuson has remarked that “AI usage is now mandatory,” while Shopify’s CEO Tobi Lutke has stated that teams must prove they cannot complete a task with AI before considering hiring additional personnel.

    Google’s total workforce has seen a slight decrease from its peak in 2023. While the company remains optimistic about its future performance, leadership has made it clear: the focus moving ahead will be on increased productivity, a leaner workforce, and AI at the heart of operations.


  • Tesla’s Billion Plan to Keep Elon Musk at the Helm Until 2027

    Tesla’s $29 Billion Plan to Keep Elon Musk at the Helm Until 2027



    Elon Musk’s Stock Award: A Strategic Move for Tesla’s Future

    Elon Musk’s Stock Award: A Strategic Move for Tesla’s Future

    Tesla has put forward a plan to offer CEO Elon Musk a restricted stock award of 96 million shares, valued at approximately £29 billion, with the intention of securing his leadership role through 2027. This initiative arises as the company contests a Delaware court ruling that invalidated Musk’s initial £50 billion compensation package established in 2018, deemed flawed and excessively influenced by Musk himself.

    Legal Battles and Shareholder Approval

    Although shareholders approved the original agreement on two occasions, the court prohibited it earlier this year. Tesla is now appealing to the Delaware Supreme Court while simultaneously seeking shareholder approval for this new award. The board maintains that Musk’s ongoing involvement is vital as Tesla advances into the realms of artificial intelligence and robotics.

    Board’s Confidence in Musk’s Leadership

    The board chair, Robyn Denholm, alongside board member Kathleen Wilson-Thompson, conveyed in a communication to shareholders that, “While we acknowledge Elon’s various business ventures and the numerous demands on his time, we believe this award will motivate him to concentrate on enhancing shareholder value for Tesla and on attracting and retaining top talent within the company.”

    Condition of the New Grant

    If the Delaware courts reinstate Musk’s 2018 compensation package entirely, the interim grant may either be forfeited or adjusted to prevent what the board refers to as a “double dip.” Accepting the new award would require Musk to remain as CEO until at least 2027. Shareholders are set to vote on this proposal during Tesla’s annual meeting on November 6.

    An Uncertain Climate for Tesla

    This proposal surfaces during a challenging period for Tesla. The company’s sales have decreased significantly, amidst national protests concerning Musk’s political affiliations, including his backing of former President Donald Trump and his role in federal workforce reductions. Consequently, Tesla’s stock has dropped more than 20 percent in 2025. The only new product introduced since 2020, the Cybertruck, has faced substantial criticism, and the recently launched robotaxi service in Austin failed to meet Musk’s prior expectations.

    Musk’s Vision for Control

    Musk, who is Tesla’s largest shareholder with a 13 percent ownership stake, emphasised his desire for increased control over the company to protect its mission. He remarked, “This is a significant concern for me, as I’ve indicated previously, and I hope it is discussed at the upcoming shareholders’ meeting. I believe my influence over Tesla should be sufficient to ensure its positive trajectory, yet not to the extent that I cannot be removed if my judgement falters.”


  • Jeh Aerospace Secures Million in Funding Led by Elevation Capital

    Jeh Aerospace Secures $11 Million in Funding Led by Elevation Capital


    Jeh Aerospace Secures Funding for Expansion

    Aerospace manufacturing startup Jeh Aerospace has successfully raised $11 million in its latest funding round, with Elevation Capital leading the investment. Existing investors, including San Francisco-based General Catalyst, also participated in this round.

    Before this funding, Jeh Aerospace garnered $2.75 million in a seed funding round led by General Catalyst, alongside support from angel investors such as Pratyush Kumar and Dwarkanath Srinivas. Additionally, last month, the startup received undisclosed funding from IndiGo Ventures.

    The raised funds will be directed towards enhancing its operations and expanding its workforce, as announced in a recent press release from Jeh Aerospace.

    About Jeh Aerospace

    Founded in 2022 by Vishal Sanghavi and Venkatesh Mudragalla, Jeh Aerospace provides manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain management services to the global aerospace and defence industry. The company specializes in aerostructures, aero-engine components, and assemblies, adhering to stringent quality standards.

    Innovative Manufacturing Solutions

    Jeh Aerospace employs software-defined manufacturing, which integrates automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced software to create adaptable and dependable production systems. This approach enables the production of high-quality aerospace components at scale.

    Operating on a hybrid model, some manufacturing is conducted in-house while maintaining flexibility in their supply chain.

    Future Investments and Goals

    The CEO of Jeh Aerospace, Vishal Sanghavi, emphasized their commitment to significant investments in operational capabilities and technology as a result of this funding round. The aim is to foster strong teams both in the US and India.

    Jeh Aerospace is dedicated to addressing the global supply chain challenges that the industry faces. The company offers ready manufacturing solutions to the aerospace and defence sector through scalable manufacturing facilities and a network of vetted suppliers that consistently meet or surpass international quality standards.

  • “AI’s Impact on 40 Million Indian Middle-Class Jobs: Insights from Saurabh Mukherjea”

    “AI’s Impact on 40 Million Indian Middle-Class Jobs: Insights from Saurabh Mukherjea”



    Artificial Intelligence and the Future of White-Collar Work

    Artificial Intelligence and the Future of White-Collar Work

    Artificial intelligence is not limited to low-skill roles; it is now poised to affect white-collar professions as well. Saurabh Mukherjea, the founder of Marcellus Investment Managers, has pointed out that even positions like his are at risk of being automated.

    The Rise of AI in Repetitive Knowledge Work

    During a recent podcast with iNRI, Mukherjea issued a significant alert: areas of repetitive knowledge work—including coding, financial modelling, HR activities, and equity research—are rapidly becoming outdated due to the evolution of AI technologies. He remarked that repetitive tasks are highly vulnerable, stating that AI is capable of performing them more cost-effectively.

    Adapting to Stay Relevant

    Mukherjea has begun to modify his role to remain competitive in the changing landscape. His current efforts are centred on tasks that cannot be automated, such as writing books, launching new ventures, speaking at international conferences, and seeking out new market opportunities.

    He believes that the continued relevance of professionals like him will depend on their ability to engage in activities that AI is unable to replicate.

    Impact on India’s Workforce

    While the adoption of AI may alleviate labour shortages in regions like Europe, Japan, and parts of the United States, Mukherjea warned that India could confront a much steeper challenge. He indicated that approximately 40 million middle-class jobs in India are endangered, identifying the rise of AI as “probably the defining challenge for India over the next decade.”

    Economy at Risk

    This warning coincides with growing apprehension that India’s service-oriented economy, which relies heavily on skilled yet repetitive tasks, may be particularly exposed. Positions in IT services, credit and insurance underwriting, extensive equity research, and basic HR functions are all regarded as at risk of being automated.

    Urgent Response Needed

    Mukherjea’s commentary—a perspective typically focused on long-term investments and economic reform—underscores the pressing need for India’s workforce and governmental policies to react effectively. As AI technology advances, the key to job security may lie in becoming irreplaceable.