Latest news with #Indian-English
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tesla Executive Admits That Self-Driving Is Going Nowhere Fast
Nearly ten years ago in 2015, rising tech entrepreneur Elon Musk made a bold announcement: Tesla vehicles would be fully driving themselves by 2017. The billionaire was talking about vehicles with level 5 autonomy — a designation by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) commonly used as the benchmark for a full self-driving car that can drive where its passengers please with no intervention. He repeated those claims in January 2016, saying "summon should work anywhere connected by land and not blocked by borders" within two years. For example, if you're in Los Angeles and your Tesla is in New York, you'd be able to summon it to you from across the country — at least according to his vision, which many took as gospel. By June of that year, Musk called level 5 autonomy a "solved problem." He did so again in 2017. And again in 2018. Then the next year. And the year after that. You probably see where this is going. Now in 2025, Tesla isn't looking meaningfully closer to Level 5 autonomy than in 2015. Though Tesla rolled out its Autopilot features en masse that same year, it's only achieved SAE Level 2 — enough for a driver to "take their hands off the wheel and let their vehicle take control when driving in certain conditions." (That hasn't stopped numerous motorists from overestimating the system's capabilities and dying as a result.) That isn't likely to change anytime soon, according to an intriguing insider: Tesla's head of Autopilot and AI software, Ashok Elluswamy. The Tesla official was speaking on the Gobinath Podcast, an Indian-English interview show, where he admitted the EV company is still way behind its competitors — despite over a decade of self-driving development. "Technically, Waymo is already performing," Elluswamy admitted, referencing Google's autonomous vehicle program. "We are lagging by maybe a couple of years." This is despite Tesla's — also long-promised — fully self-driving Robocab service supposedly going live in Austin, Texas this coming June. It's not understood how this will work, as Tesla would need to demonstrate a vehicle capable of driving itself at SAE Level 4 to transport riders without the need for human intervention. So far, Musk has been uncharacteristically silent on the prospects of a Level 4 vehicle. Late in 2024, Greg McGuire, managing director of the autonomous vehicle research facility at the University of Michigan, told SAE Media that Tesla "is not — from what I've seen — ready for general Level 4 operation." "Will they be there by 2027? At [UofM], we still think there's a couple of key scientific barriers," McGuire said. That makes Musk's ever-stretching timeline for full self-driving — let alone a Robocab network — tenuous at best, and an absurd fantasy at worst. Still, a billionaire can dream. More on Tesla: Tesla's Head of Software Departs as Robotaxi Reveal Looms Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Hans India
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
MyVoice: Views of our readers 18th May 2025
The Bond who wields a magical pen This May 19 marks the 91st birthday of Ruskin Bond, the most prolific and popular Indian-English short- story writer. The writing genius is adored by all those who love literature, and young readers, especially so. This is my tribute to the writer par excellence on this momentous day. Ruskin Bond has won the hearts of the young and the old with his delightful and mesmerising short-fiction and wonderful narrations spread over seven dexterous decades. His body of work includes more than five hundred short-stories, non-fiction and novellas, which have won him the coveted Sahitya Academy award (1992), Padma Bhushan (2014) and countless literary prizes. He is not a writer with political leanings and activism but one who sees beauty in the small things around us and weaves stories about simple, common and ordinary things that he finds in nature. The amazing flora and fauna occupy a major and prominent space in his stories. Anecdotes, everyday incidents and happenings, birds, animals, trees, flowers, butterflies, rivers, streams, rivers, friendly ghosts, plays and adventures of children from his keen observations and reflections form the thematic mosaic of his stories. While reading his stories, the reader can 'hear' the chirping of birds, enjoy the fragrant blossoms, fluttering butterflies, swaying of trees, and flowing streams, besides getting insights about the simple lives of rural folk. This makes for a welcome rejuvenation from today's complex, busy, routine-ridden, chaotic modern life that we all are subject to. A unique feature of Bond is that unlike most writers, who narrate their stories in third person, he chooses to be subjective and narrates his stories in first person in his simple, warm, gentle, witty and inimitable style making the readers feel as though he was actually talking to them. That is the fictional magic of Ruskin Bond, who, through his writings, urges people to preserve the natural habitat, while expressing concern at the unbridled urbanisation and industrialisation in the name of development. A befitting example comes in one of his stories-Death of trees-where he writes, "Never mind. Men come and go. The mountains remain". As has been his wont for years together, Bond has always launched a new book of stories every birthday much to the delight of his legion of fans. This year's birthday gift is 'Another Day in Landour: Looking down from my window'. The title is a tribute to Landour in Mussoorie, where he has been staying since 1980 with his adopted family and their children. I am sure I am speaking for millions of his fans while wishing that he should be blessed with many more healthy, happy and creative years so that he can continue to enrich us with his lucid writings and continues to churn out joyful short-stories! Ruskin Bond is a class apart. Dr Venugopala Rao Kaki, Kakinada Presidential reference is illogical President Droupadi Murmu's reference has sparked a renewed discussion on the delicate balance between the executive's discretionary powers and the imperatives of timely governance within India's federal framework. However, the Presidential reference to the Supreme Court on the timeline prescribed for Governors and the President to act on state Bills has betrayed the Modi government's scant regard for a state's rights and the will of its people is illogical. The apex court would not have been approached, and it would not have felt the need to set a certain time-limit had the Governor's in opposition-ruled states taken decision on Bills within a reasonable time. However, the Supreme Court is not obligated to answer all the 14 questions that have been raised as it may provoke more deliberations regarding boundaries between executive and judicial powers. Indians hope and expect that the Supreme Court will stand its ground and enlighten the President about the situation, rightness, and correctness of the landmark judgement. Dr. Ch. Anand Kumar Movva, AP Trump's claims are bizarre It is important to critically evaluate the claims surrounding India's counter-terrorism military offensive, code-named Operation Sindoor, which ended rather abruptly. The US President Donald Trump has claimed credit for brokering the truce between India and Pakistan. He tweeted, 'After a long night of talks mediated by the US, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire.' Despite India's claim that the ceasefire was a bilateral agreement, Trump has asserted again, 'Just days ago, my administration successfully brokered a historic ceasefire to stop the escalating violence between India and Pakistan.' The President of America would have us believe that he dangled the offer of trade to buy peace, and the nations at war used 'common sense and great intelligence' to secure it and end the conflict. This is intriguing. Haridasan Rajan Kozhikode Stay away, Mr Trump India has been consistently rejecting third-party intervention in Kashmir right from 1947. New Delhi's position has remained unwaveringly firm on this issue. As such, US President Donald Trump's sudden assertion that he could resolve the J&K issue is not only diplomatically inappropriate but also deeply offensive to Indian sovereignty. In this context, the so-called ceasefire brokered by him under questionable circumstances has little operational relevance because India is certainly not a pawn on America's geopolitical chessboard. While Trump may have miscalculated the optics, the real culprits in this diplomatic mess are the Pakistani generals whose duplicity has rendered their country incapable of upholding even a basic agreement. On the other hand, if Trump wants to rebuild credibility across the world, he would do well to stop meddling in matters that don't concern him or the United States. In fact, the Modi government's bold move to abrogate Articles 370 and 35A from the Constitution has fully integrated J&K into the Indian Union ending decades of ambiguity. Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made his intentions clear about reclaiming Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). Apparently, it is abundantly clear that Trump has no role to play. US Vice-president J D Vance has rightly said that the India-Pakistan issue is none of America's business. It will be in the fitness of things, if Trump respects our Lakshman Rekhas and stays away from this issue. K R Srinivasan, New Bhoiguda Secunderabad-3 Incorporate 'Op Sindoor' in school textbooks History has been a good recorder of facts and serves as a worthy educational subject. Incorporating glorious events and taking children into the past by adding them in textbooks helps the young minds to understand the country's greatness. In keeping with his sentiment, I think the authorities must include 'Operation Sindoor' as an inspirational chapter in textbooks whereupon it can instil patriotism in our young generation. It highlights the bravery and sacrifices of our armed forces, fostering gratitude and understanding among the future leaders of our nation. Educating children about such events as part of the curriculum inspires hope and resilience for a stronger, united India. TS Karthik, Kilpauk, Chennai-10 A bold assertion of India's sovereign might Apropos, "Steel in the veins, fire in the skies," (The Hans India May 17). Operation Sindoor stands as a defining moment in India's military history. It was executed with surgical precision, while the world watched in stunned silence as Indian forces showcased unparalleled professionalism, efficiency, and tactical brilliance. This resounding success is a testament to the country's robust defence capabilities and the astute leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Handled with maturity and strategic deftness, the operation reaffirmed Modi's unwavering commitment to national security. His resolute stance and shrewd decision-making sent a clear message: India will not hesitate to defend its sovereignty. Patriotism surged, with unwavering civilian support for the armed forces and the government reaching unprecedented heights. Operation Sindoor wasn't just a military victory—it was a national moment of pride, unity, and unshakeable resolve. India has drawn a red line, and the message is clear: provocation will be met with power. Crucially, the military clash exposed the hollowness of Pakistan's aggressive posturing and rhetoric. Brought to its knees, Pakistan was left scrambling for justification and international sympathy. Operation Sindoor is a bold assertion of India's sovereign might. N Sadhasiva Reddy, Jnanabharathi, Bengaluru-56 Dawn of a new era of justice The appointment of Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as the 52nd Chief Justice of India marks a significant milestone in Indian judicial history. As the first Buddhist to occupy this esteemed position, Justice Gavai brings with him a reputation for being "fiercely independent" and a judge who plays by the rule book. His track-record speaks volumes about his commitment to fairness and integrity. With several high-profile cases pending, including the Places of Worship Act and the Wakf Act, the CJI's tenure is expected to be eventful. Let's hope he strikes a balance between judicial restraint and progressive thinking, paving the way for a more just society. Sridevi Tejaswani. K Secunderabad CJI begins office with sensational judgement The first Buddhist Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gaval gave a sensational verdict, his first judgement since assuming office, by calling the 1998 forest land allotment by the Maharashtra government as illegal. He also hit out at the nexus between politicians, bureaucrats and builders. It is time all states and UTs check if any forest land was given to any private parties for non-forest activity and initiate remedial measures to stem the rot. We must minimise or use alternatives to wooden products that are made by felling trees like paper and wood, among others. This can significantly reduce global warming related weather extremities and save lives, properties and assets. PVP Madhu Nivriti Boudhnagar Secunderabad-61 India ranks poorly in the World Press Freedom Index Ranked 151 from among 180 countries, India has been placed in the 'very serious' category in the World Press Freedom Index, according to the latest report by the Reporters Sans Frontières (RSF). Ironically, this report emerged a day after Bahubali Shah, co-owner of the influential Gujarati daily Gujarat Samachar, was detained by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on charges of financial irregularities. RSF, which has been publishing the index since 2002, flagged growing concerns over the concentration of media ownership in India, warning that the dominance of political influence over the media landscape is eroding media plurality. On average, two to three journalists are being killed in India for over 30 years. In India, politicians undermine the legitimacy of journalists and journalism in order to serve their agenda, while economic fragility is a leading threat to press freedom. It has been observed that the country's media effectively slipped into an "unofficial state of emergency. There has been a rise of what is now widely called 'godi (lap) media' news outlets that are accused of blending populism with unabashed pro-government propaganda. Bhagwan Thadani, Mumbai Giving gadgets to kids is not love but an escapist act In many homes today, giving children a mobile phone or tablet has become the easiest way to keep them quiet. However, this practice is not a gesture of love, per se but an escapist act, if viewed pragmatically. Parents are so caught up in work or distractions that spending real time with their kids is becoming increasingly rare. Screens are replacing bedtime stories, conversations, and even outdoor activities in the playground. This has become an addiction of sorts as gradually children are getting hooked on gadgets due to which emotional bonding with parents is fading away. Love and caring implies giving time, attention, and guidance, which no expensive devices can achieve. If we don't change this habit now, we'll raise a generation connected to Wi-Fi and completely disconnected from family. Muhammad Arshad, Chagalamarri Students in villages still trek miles to write exams Even in 2025, many students in villages still walk several kilometres just to reach their exam centres. This annual struggle is rarely spoken about despite the fact that it deeply affects their motivation and performance levels. While students in cities enjoy well-connected centres and transport facilities, those from the interiors face fatigue, lack of restrooms, and loss of time even before they enter the exam hall. One can imagine their plight on such life-changing days. For a country that dreams of providing quality education, this gap is unacceptable. The authorities must consider setting up more local exam centres or provide free transport options. Lest one forgets, talent doesn't only live in cities. There should be equal support to students, especially those from government schools, in every nook and corner. Shaik Arshad, Mumbai
The Hindu
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
The racy pocket novel that entertained multitudes
In this age of digital content and books on Kindle, spending recreational time is rather easy. But there was a phase in the Madras of the 1980s and 1990s, when dipping into a tiny physical book was the norm. It was practical and, to use an Indian-English expression, a good time-pass! These Tamil novels would literally fit into a shirt pocket. However, because of the length they could jut out a bit; still, portability was easy. And it wasn't rocket science for these books to be called 'pocket novels'. The ease of accessing these little tomes was akin to holding on to a tabloid like a Mid-Day or The Afternoon Despatch & Courier in a packed suburban train in Mumbai. Rooted in mystery There were a group of writers who excelled in the craft of churning out pocket novels. Rajesh Kumar, Subha (a single name for the creative partnership between two authors, D. Suresh and A.N. Balakrishnan), Pattukottai Prabhakar, and many others were popular. Often the tenor of these books would be centred around a mystery. Murders and robberies were the spine and the perpetrators would be hunted down by the protagonists. Rajesh, for instance, leant on his lead pair of Vivek and Rubella, a detective couple. Vivek was in the Sherlock Holmes mode, while Rubella played the Watson persona, asking questions, and through the answers she ferreted, the readers gained clarity. A bus or train journey into the hinterland meant that these novels were deemed essential. If Tinkle was a favourite in childhood, adolescence meant a diversion towards these racy novels in the vernacular. Nearly all of them were well written, had a descriptive air, and every chapter concluded with a hook that left you seeking the next. It is like the trope you get in television serials these days but without the bulging eyes and excessive background score. Social commentary These books were not just whodunits; there was social commentary, too, and an awareness of how Madras was expanding. Some of these authors provided source-material for films. Often strung around in the neighbourhood vethilapakku kadai (corner shop), these books did not cost much and offered an afternoon of reading pleasure. They still exist, gathering dust, as readership has declined. Look around magazine corners to spot these pocket novels. And for those who cannot read Tamil, there is always the Blaft Anthology of Tamil Pulp Fiction in English to savour. It will transport you back to an era when there were instant thrills nestling within rustling pages.
Indian Express
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Desi netizens in splits as French man shares Indian-English phrases taught by his wife: ‘It's normal only'
Desi netizens in splits as French man shares Indian-English phrases taught by his wife: 'It's normal only' Sacha Arbonel, who lives in Amsterdam with his Indian wife Pratim Bhosale, recently posted on X about the quirky expressions he's adopted, thanks to her influence. Sacha Arbonel, a French man, has desi Twitter in splits after he shared a list of Indian-style English phrases he picked up from his Indian wife Pratim Bhosale. Arbonel, who lives in Amsterdam, posted the quirky expressions he has adopted, saying, 'New English phrases I learned from my Indian wife.' His post features a list of lines that anyone who has grown up in an Indian household will instantly recognise. Among the gems he mentioned were phrases like 'It's normal only,' 'Salt is less,' 'Do one thing,' 'I'm not mad okay,' and the classic 'He is my real brother'. But the phrase that took the cake was 'I can get this in India for 100 rupees.' Check out the post: New English phrases I learned from my Indian wife: 'It's normal only' 'I'm not mad okay' 'Salt is less' 'Do one thing' 'He is my REAL brother' And my most favorite 'I can get this in India for 100 rupees' — Sacha Arbonel (@sachaarbonel) April 20, 2025 The post blew up, with thousands of likes and X users flooding the replies with their own phrases. One user wrote, 'Your learning is incomplete if you don't know 'Nothing doing'.' Another pointed out how uniquely subcontinental it is to double up words, saying, 'I find the use of double-barrelled phrases like 'slowly-slowly' or 'different-different' to be uniquely specific to the Indian subcontinent.' A third person said, 'When I was in India, an admin lady asked me, 'Please do the needful'. I was confused and I asked her 'why would I do the needless?' We were both confused until my ROFL Indian American coworker explained.' A fourth individual said, 'lmao, I dated an American and he picked up 'by chance', and adding only and toh in every sentence.'
