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In a momentous event that has electrified the 2024 U.S. Presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States. This historic occasion, marked by thunderous applause and emotional resonance, took place at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago’s United Center. With this nomination, Harris stands on the brink of making history as the first woman—and the first person of Indian descent—to potentially lead the nation.

Accepting the nomination, Harris delivered a powerful speech that resonated with the theme of unity, inclusivity, and a vision for a better future. “On behalf of every American, regardless of party, race, gender, or the language your grandmother speaks… I accept your nomination for President of the United States of America,” she declared. Her words were met with an overwhelming wave of support from the audience, symbolizing the deep sense of hope and anticipation that her candidacy brings.

Harris did not shy away from addressing the critical stakes of this election, emphasizing the need to move beyond the divisiveness of the past. She highlighted the opportunity before the nation to “chart a New Way Forward, not as members of any one party or faction, but as Americans.” This call for unity is central to her campaign, as she aims to bridge the gaps that have long polarized the country.

A Stark Warning and a Rallying Cry

In her speech, Harris took aim at her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, warning of the dangers his return to the White House could pose. She described the election as one of the most consequential in the nation’s history, underscoring the potential risks of a Trump presidency without the checks and balances that previously existed. “Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails,” Harris cautioned. “He would use the immense powers of the presidency, not to improve your life, but to serve the only client he has ever had… himself.”

Harris’s critique of Trump was both sharp and pointed, as she reminded the nation of the “chaos and calamity” that marked his previous term, including his role in the January 6th Capitol insurrection. She condemned Trump’s actions, stating, “Donald Trump tried to throw away your votes. When he failed, he sent an armed mob to the United States Capitol where they assaulted law enforcement officers.”

A Tribute to Joe Biden and a Vision for the Future

In a heartfelt moment, Harris paid tribute to President Joe Biden, whose leadership and character she praised. “Joe, I am filled with gratitude. Your record is extraordinary as history will show. Your character is inspiring,” she said, acknowledging the significant contributions Biden has made during his presidency. Biden, who had previously given an emotional farewell at the convention, reciprocated the sentiment, expressing pride in Harris and confidence in her ability to lead the nation.

As Harris embarks on this historic journey, she is joined by her running mate, Tim Walz, who has been described as a dynamic leader capable of inspiring the next generation. Together, they represent the future of the Democratic Party—a future that seeks to unite the nation and steer it towards progress and inclusivity.

The 2024 election is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in U.S. history, with Kamala Harris at the forefront of a movement that promises to redefine the nation’s trajectory. Her nomination is more than a personal achievement; it is a symbol of the progress the country has made and the work that still lies ahead. As the race intensifies, all eyes are on Harris as she leads the charge for a more united and equitable America.

The tech industry is bracing for impact as governments around the world intensify their antitrust investigations into major companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta. This latest wave of scrutiny comes as lawmakers seek to curb the power of these tech giants, which have been accused of monopolistic practices and stifling competition.

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reportedly close to filing a new lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the e-commerce giant of unfairly dominating the market. Meanwhile, the European Union is advancing its Digital Markets Act, which aims to impose stricter regulations on “gatekeeper” companies that control essential digital services.

These developments could lead to significant changes in how these companies operate, potentially breaking them up or forcing them to alter their business practices. The tech industry, which has enjoyed relatively light regulation for years, is now facing a pivotal moment. As governments push for more accountability, the future of Big Tech hangs in the balance, with implications that could reshape the digital landscape for years to come.

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In a highly anticipated interview that drew millions of listeners, former President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk sat down for a candid discussion that quickly became a trending topic across social media. Hosted on Musk’s platform, X (formerly Twitter), the event experienced significant technical issues, delaying the start by 40 minutes. Musk attributed the delay to a “massive” Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack, although this claim remains unconfirmed.

Despite the glitches, the interview garnered over a million listeners, with Trump kicking off the conversation by congratulating Musk on “breaking every record in the book.” The interview, however, was not without its controversies, as Trump’s remarks on climate change and immigration sparked debates.

Trump’s Climate Change Comments: More Controversy Than Substance

One of the most discussed moments came when Trump mocked concerns about climate change, suggesting that rising ocean levels would lead to “more oceanfront property.” This remark was particularly striking given Musk’s well-known stance on environmental issues. Musk, who previously left Trump’s presidential advisory councils in protest of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris climate accords, chose not to challenge Trump’s climate change denial during the interview. This silence has led to speculation about Musk’s current position on environmental matters, especially since he has previously stated that “Tesla exists to help reduce the risk of catastrophic climate change.”

Immigration and Assassination: Trump’s Claims Take Center Stage

The conversation also took a dramatic turn when Musk asked Trump about a recent assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally. Trump recounted the harrowing experience, claiming that his stance on immigration may have made him a target. In a lighter moment, Trump joked that “illegal immigration saved my life,” referring to a chart he was discussing when shots were fired.

Trump’s Vision for Education: A Department on the Chopping Block

During the interview, Trump reiterated his desire to shut down the Department of Education, arguing that education should be managed at the state level. Musk, who expressed interest in joining a potential Trump administration to help cut government waste, was praised by Trump as “the greatest cutter.”

Technical Issues and Cybersecurity Concerns

The interview’s rocky start due to technical issues led to widespread speculation about the cause. While Musk suggested a DDoS attack was responsible, this has not been verified. The event’s glitches were reminiscent of a similar situation in May 2023 when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faced issues during his presidential campaign announcement on the same platform.

EU Reacts: Concerns Over Harmful Content

The conversation between Trump and Musk also caught the attention of European regulators. Thierry Breton, the European Union’s commissioner for the internal market, raised concerns about the potential amplification of harmful content following the interview. In response, Trump’s campaign spokesman criticized the EU’s involvement, defending the interview as a matter of free speech.

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India, one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, faces a daunting challenge as the World Bank projects it will take 75 years for its per capita income to reach a quarter of U.S. income levels if current trends persist. This stark warning was issued as part of the World Bank’s ‘World Development Report 2024,’ which highlights the risks of the “middle income trap” for 108 countries, including India and China.

The Middle-Income Trap and India’s Economic Aspirations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set an ambitious vision for India to become a developed economy by 2047, marking the centennial of its independence. However, the World Bank’s report casts a shadow over this vision, suggesting that achieving such a transition in the next 25 years, akin to Korea’s economic miracle, would be extraordinarily challenging.

Indermit Gill, the World Bank’s chief economist, emphasized that many middle-income countries, including India, still rely on outdated economic policies focused primarily on expanding investment. He likened this to “driving a car just in first gear and trying to make it go faster,” warning that without a shift in strategy, these countries are unlikely to achieve the prosperity they aspire to by mid-century.

A Grim Outlook for Middle-Income Economies

According to the World Bank’s analysis, nations like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa face significant hurdles in their quest to join the ranks of high-income countries. Historically, countries tend to hit a “trap” at about 10% of annual U.S. GDP per capita, currently around $8,000. This threshold often marks the point where growth stalls, and only a select few nations have managed to break through it since 1990, often due to unique circumstances like EU integration or the discovery of new natural resources.

The Need for a New Economic Playbook

The World Bank’s report stresses that the traditional playbook for economic development, which relies heavily on investment, is no longer sufficient. Instead, Mr. Gill advocates for a phased approach: starting with a focus on investment, followed by the integration of new technologies from abroad, and finally adopting a balanced strategy that includes investment, technology infusion, and innovation.

This new approach is essential given the myriad challenges facing middle-income countries today, including aging populations, rising debt, geopolitical tensions, and the need for sustainable development. “With growing demographic, ecological, and geopolitical pressures, there is no room for error,” Mr. Gill cautioned.

Conclusion

As India aims to transform itself into a developed economy by 2047, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The World Bank’s sobering analysis underscores the need for a radical shift in economic strategy to avoid the middle-income trap and achieve long-term prosperity. By embracing a balanced approach that combines investment, technological adoption, and innovation, India and other middle-income countries can hope to overcome these obstacles and secure a brighter economic future.

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Washington D.C., July 21 — In a surprising political move, U.S. President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic candidate of choice. Although it remains unclear whether other senior Democrats will challenge Harris for the party’s nomination, Biden has endorsed her as the preferred candidate.

The India Connection

Kamala Harris, who made history in 2020 as the first Indian-American and African-American woman to become Vice President, now aims to achieve another milestone by running for President. If she secures the Democratic nomination, Harris will be seeking to become the first Indian-American and African-American woman to hold the highest office in the United States.

Harris’s Indian roots trace back to her mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a cancer researcher and civil rights activist from Tamil Nadu. Raised by her single mother, Harris often speaks about the significant influence her Indian heritage has had on her life and values.

Family Ties and Cultural Roots

Kamala Harris’s maternal uncle, Gopalan Balachandran, a former consultant at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis (IDSA) in Delhi, and her grandfather, P.V. Gopalan, who worked on refugee rehabilitation in India and later served as an advisor to the Zambian President, have both contributed to her deep connection with India. Her grandfather’s wife, Rajam, was also known for her social work.

Harris’s visits to Chennai, where she immersed her mother’s ashes in the sea according to Hindu traditions, and her fond memories of walks with her grandfather discussing Indian freedom fighters, highlight her strong ties to her Indian heritage.

Celebrating Indian Culture

During her vice-presidential campaign in 2020, Harris often reminisced about her mother’s love for good idli, an Indian dish, and even participated in cooking masala dosas with Indian-origin actor Mindy Kaling. These moments underscored her pride in her Indian roots and her desire to honor her heritage.

A Celebrated Victory

Harris’s ancestral village of Thulasendrapuram in Tamil Nadu celebrated her 2020 victory alongside Biden with traditional festivities, including bursting crackers, distributing sweets, and drawing colorful kolams. Special pujas were performed at the Sri Dharma Sastha Temple to thank the deity for answering their prayers for her success.

As Kamala Harris steps into the spotlight as a potential presidential candidate, her journey reflects a blend of rich cultural heritage and a commitment to public service, drawing inspiration from both her Indian and American identities.

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In a series of recent posts on his social media site X, Elon Musk joined the discourse on the US government’s financial aid package to Ukraine. Musk expressed support for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war and suggested redirecting funds towards American infrastructure projects.

In response to various user opinions on venture capital founder David Sacks’ thread, Musk emphasized that a peace deal should have been reached earlier, lamenting the loss of lives and the weakening position of Ukraine. Agreeing with a user’s suggestion to allocate $60 billion to US infrastructure, Musk envisioned projects like a high-speed rail from LaGuardia to midtown.

This isn’t the first time Musk has shared such sentiments. In a recent X Spaces forum with US Republican senators, he stated that there was “no way in hell” that Russian President Vladimir Putin could lose the war in Ukraine. Musk, who has a personal stake in the conflict easing off due to its impact on his Starlink satellite venture, criticized the spending bill for another country over bills directly benefiting the US.

During the forum, Musk agreed with Ron Johnson’s statement that those expecting a Ukraine victory were “living in a fantasy world.” He expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s ability to win the war, and his comments align with doubts about seeking Putin’s ouster. Musk emphasized the importance of stopping the deaths on both sides and highlighted the impact of his companies, such as SpaceX’s provision of Starlink internet service to Ukraine.

Musk’s views contrast with US President Joe Biden and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who argue that aiding Ukraine’s defense is in America’s interests. While Biden and lawmakers urge the House to consider a $95.34 billion military aid package for Ukraine and allies, Musk emphasizes stopping the conflict’s human toll and questions the wisdom of seeking regime change in Russia.

Musk’s participation in the discourse reflects the broader debate over allocating funds to international crises versus domestic priorities, contributing his perspective on the ongoing conflict and potential infrastructure investments in the US.

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Nvidia, the leading AI chipmaker, has outpaced Google-parent Alphabet, securing the coveted spot as the third most valuable company in the United States. The remarkable ascent occurred as Nvidia’s share price surged by 2.46%, driving its market capitalization to an impressive $1.825 trillion. In contrast, Alphabet experienced a more modest 0.55% increase, reaching a market value of $1.821 trillion.

This development follows Nvidia’s recent milestone of surpassing Amazon in market capitalization just a day earlier. Amazon, with a market cap of $1.776 trillion, saw its stock rise by 1.39% on the same day. Nvidia’s rise is emblematic of its exceptional performance in the stock market, witnessing a 47% surge in share price this year after a remarkable triple-fold increase in 2023. The surge is attributed to robust demand for Nvidia’s chips, solidifying the company’s dominance with control over approximately 80% of the high-end AI chip market.

The company is currently contending with shortages of its premium components, posing challenges for customers seeking Nvidia’s top-of-the-line products. AI developers are reportedly facing extended waiting lists to access Nvidia’s processors through cloud-computing providers, underscoring the soaring demand for the company’s offerings.

Notably, technology-focused companies such as Microsoft and Meta Platforms have experienced surges in their stock values, reaching record highs amid heightened optimism surrounding artificial intelligence.

Investors are now eagerly anticipating Nvidia’s upcoming quarterly earnings report scheduled for next Wednesday. Analysts are optimistic about the company’s performance, expecting another stellar quarter and a positive outlook. Forecasts for Nvidia’s January fiscal quarter revenue project a staggering triple-fold increase to $20.37 billion, fueled by the relentless demand for its high-end AI chips. Adjusted net profit estimates suggest a remarkable surge of over 400% to $11.38 billion.

It’s important to mention that Microsoft, valued at over $3 trillion, previously overtook Apple in January to become the world’s most valuable company. The current standings list Saudi Aramco as the world’s third most valuable publicly-listed company, as per the London Stock Exchange Group. Nvidia’s ascent further underscores the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, driven by the escalating demand for advanced AI solutions.

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Donald Trump Secures Iowa Caucus Victory, Firming Grip as Leading Republican Contender for Presidential Showdown with Joe Biden

In a decisive triumph on Monday, Donald Trump claimed victory in Iowa’s caucuses, marking the initial ballot in the US presidential race and solidifying his position as the likely Republican nominee to challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming November election. Despite facing legal challenges, the former president’s overwhelming support in Iowa suggests that he has successfully turned his legal issues into a rallying point, galvanizing his followers.

Although Trump has consistently led in polls for over a year, the Iowa caucus was viewed as a crucial indicator of his ability to translate this advantage into a formidable return to the White House. Within just half an hour of the polls opening, major US networks projected Trump as the winner, securing nearly three-quarters of the early vote.

Questions lingered regarding the impact of Trump’s legal troubles, including multiple civil and criminal trials across various jurisdictions. However, the Iowa victory implies that the 77-year-old, who left office amid the fallout from the 2021 Capitol assault, has successfully transformed these legal challenges into a rallying cry for his supporters.

As the opening vote in the primary season, Iowa plays a pivotal role in narrowing the field and providing a launchpad for contenders in the subsequent race. Trump’s commanding lead as he heads into New Hampshire in eight days suggests that his rivals have been unable to diminish his momentum.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, Iowa residents turned out to more than 1,600 voting locations, with Trump’s victory declared early in the voting process. The margin of his win over closest rivals, former UN ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, remains uncertain, but it could surpass the 12-point win considered a successful outcome by Trump’s aides.

While Iowa contributes less than two percent of the nationwide delegates in the candidate selection process, a strong performance is crucial for candidates seeking momentum before facing subsequent primaries in New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina. The Trump campaign, better organized than in 2016, showcased its ground presence throughout the state, underscoring the former reality TV star’s determination to secure victory this time around.

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In a rare display of bipartisan cooperation, the United States Congress has successfully passed a ‘stopgap funding bill’ to avert a potentially damaging government shutdown. With just hours to spare before federal agencies were set to run out of funding, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly in favour of the 45-day stopgap measure, with a final tally of 335-91, according to AFP reports.

The passage of this bill, however, has not come without political repercussions. Kevin McCarthy, the top Republican in the House, now finds himself facing a challenge to his role as speaker. Some party hardliners within his own caucus have expressed their dissatisfaction, claiming that the stopgap bill represents a victory for the so-called “Uniparty” of Washington, as reported by Reuters.

Republican Representative Andy Biggs, a prominent hardliner, openly questioned McCarthy’s fitness to remain as Speaker of the House on the social platform X, formerly known as Twitter. McCarthy’s decision to bring a measure to the floor that could garner Democratic support has, in essence, put his own leadership position at risk.

Amid this internal turmoil, there is a possibility of Democratic support for McCarthy in the event of an ouster attempt. Some Democrats have suggested that they could back a moderate Republican willing to share power within House committees. However, there are also those within the Democratic camp who remain steadfast in their support for House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries.

The spectre of a government shutdown loomed large, arriving at a precarious moment for President Biden. With already low poll numbers and concerns about the economy, the President is seeking a second term in office, emphasizing his ability to provide steady leadership in Washington. When questioned about whether President Biden should bear any responsibility for a potential shutdown, White House budget director Shalanda Young adamantly rejected any such notion, accusing Republicans of being indifferent to the well-being of ordinary citizens, as reported by AP.

The current crisis stems from a previous standoff earlier in the year over raising the debt limit. While the stopgap funding bill has averted an immediate government shutdown, it underscores the ongoing challenges and political divisions in the United States legislative landscape.

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Introduction:

As the spectre of a US government shutdown looms, the world holds its breath. This isn’t just a domestic showdown; it’s a global game-changer. Let’s dive into how a government shutdown could make waves in foreign policy, shaking the very foundations of diplomacy, international relations, and national security.

Shutdown Shockwaves:

Picture this: key players in foreign policy and national security, are furloughed or working without pay. Chaos, right? A shutdown would disrupt vital work, stalling US foreign policy initiatives and weakening the nation’s global impact.

Global Reputation on the Line:

In an era of global diplomacy, credibility is everything. With the Biden administration rallying allies to counter China, a shutdown could bruise America’s reputation. Can the US lead when it can’t keep its own lights on?

Diplomatic Dilemmas:

Embassies and consulates worldwide stay open, but key activities like official travel and speeches might take a hit. Diplomatic engagements, essential for global stability, could be thrown off course.

Aid in Jeopardy:

Foreign aid programs hang in the balance. Health initiatives tackling malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV-AIDS could see delays. Security assistance might stumble when it’s needed most.

Local Staff Legal Limbo:

The Department of State pledges to pay local staff, but it’s not that simple. Local employment laws often ban furloughs or unpaid work. Legal battles might add chaos to the mix.

Military Continues, Civilians Suffer:

The military soldiers on, but nearly half of the Pentagon’s civilian workforce could face furloughs. Efficiency takes a hit, and it’s a tough blow for these dedicated workers.

Conclusion:

A US government shutdown isn’t just a bureaucratic headache; it’s a diplomatic earthquake. It could shake America’s global role, leaving allies and rivals wondering: can the US lead when it can’t even fund itself?

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The US faces a possible government shutdown in four days, which could impact immigration services. Although US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is funded differently, certain immigration processes may still be affected. Here’s what could be at risk:

Labour Department Processing: Services for visas like H-1B and E-3, handled by the US Department of Labour (DOL), may see delays. This includes labour condition applications and wage processing.

Visa and Passport Operations: The State Department’s visa and passport operations may face disruptions due to office closures. Some services may only be available for diplomatic visas and extreme emergencies.

Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP): SEVP offices for visas like F-1 and J-1, funded by fees, are likely to stay open.

Immigration Review: Immigration court cases may proceed as scheduled for detained cases, but non-detained cases might be rescheduled.

CIS Ombudsman: The CIS Ombudsman’s office will close and stop taking inquiries during a government shutdown.

While USCIS aims to minimize issues, the shutdown raises concerns about potential immigration process delays, affecting individuals and employers.

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