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Canadian Lawsuit Challenges OpenAI’s Data Scraping Practices Under Copyright Law

OpenAI is facing a legal challenge in Canada over allegations of breaching copyright laws through unauthorized data scraping from news websites. Several Canadian news organizations have filed a lawsuit claiming OpenAI violated their terms of service by bypassing protective measures, such as the Robot Exclusion Protocol, and using their content for commercial purposes. The plaintiffs argue that by scraping their material, OpenAI copied their work without authorization and infringed upon terms limiting use to “personal, non-commercial” purposes. This dispute centers on whether data scraping constitutes reproduction protected by copyright or falls under the fair dealing exception. Under Canadian and U.S. copyright law, fair dealing or fair use allows limited unauthorized copying for purposes like education or research. OpenAI contends its practices qualify as transformative use, similar to Google’s digitization of books for searchable databases. Legal scholars and groups like Creative Commons support this view, noting that AI models abstract metadata rather than reproducing original works, creating outputs that do not compete with the original content. In response to earlier lawsuits, OpenAI has taken steps to allow news organizations to opt out of its training processes and has pursued licensing agreements. However, the Canadian case raises broader questions about the balance between innovation in AI and the financial interests of media companies. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the AI industry. If OpenAI’s actions are deemed fair dealing, it may weaken the licensing market for news content. On the other hand, a settlement or licensing arrangement could set a precedent for future AI training practices. As Canadian and U.S. courts prepare to hear these cases, the decisions will likely shape the future interplay between AI development and intellectual property rights.

MediBuddy Launches BuddyCare to Revolutionize Cashless Healthcare

MediBuddy has unveiled BuddyCare, a networking platform under the India Health Care Collaborators (IHCC) initiative, to strengthen India’s cashless primary healthcare infrastructure. This innovative platform connects insurance companies, healthcare providers, and intermediaries, fostering a robust ecosystem in alignment with India’s ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ vision. BuddyCare offers comprehensive services for insurers, including pre-policy issuance, real-time risk quantification, and seamless post-policy health and wellness service delivery. By integrating advanced fraud-resilient systems like the ‘Sherlock’ Fraud Detection System, BuddyCare enhances transparency and efficiency in outpatient department (OPD) processes. Satish Kannan, Co-founder and CEO of MediBuddy, emphasized the platform’s significance, stating, “IHCC marks a transformative step in redefining healthcare delivery in India. By integrating innovation, collaboration, and quality, we aim to create a universally accessible, cashless, and insurance-integrated healthcare model.” With a network of over 100,000 doctors, IHCC bridges gaps between life, health, and wellness insurance. Leveraging AI-driven tools, the platform improves risk management and service delivery while offering medical consultations, diagnostics, medicine delivery, and concierge support. MediBuddy also extends its reach to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), ensuring inclusive healthcare solutions. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the company runs paramedical training programs to bolster healthcare infrastructure nationwide. This initiative not only supports MediBuddy’s mission but also aligns with national policy objectives. By integrating technology and strategic partnerships, BuddyCare is set to redefine healthcare delivery across urban and rural India, ensuring greater accessibility, affordability, and efficiency. Source: expresshealthcare Photo Credit: expresshealthcare

Hospitals Secure 50% Share in Healthcare FDI, Driving Sector Growth

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in India’s healthcare sector has seen a significant shift, with hospitals now commanding 50% of the total FDI in FY24, amounting to $1.5 billion. This marks a substantial rise from 24% in FY21, signaling a growing investor preference for hospitals over the traditionally dominant pharmaceuticals sector. Post-Covid, hospitals and diagnostics have emerged as key areas for investment, driven by rising demand for quality healthcare, increased insurance coverage, and untapped potential in underserved regions. The surge has led to high-profile transactions such as Temasek’s $2 billion acquisition of an additional 41% stake in Manipal Hospitals, valuing the chain at $4.8 billion. “The Indian market’s size, high disease burden, and growing insurance penetration make it an attractive destination for investors,” said Sujay Shetty, Global Health Industries Advisory Leader, PwC India. “The hospital sector’s reinvestment in infrastructure further supports its robust growth trajectory.” Prominent hospital chains like Max Healthcare are spearheading expansion plans, with the group investing over ₹5,000 crore to double its capacity in the next three years. Abhay Soi, CMD of Max Healthcare, emphasized the capital-intensive nature of the sector and its critical role in achieving India’s $5 trillion economy target. Investor interest has also been buoyed by successful primary market transactions, including IPOs of six hospital chains, raising around ₹3,600 crore through IPOs and qualified institutional placements (QIPs). This influx of funds is expected to boost bed capacity among the 10 listed hospital firms by 47% over FY24-27, with expansions concentrated in north and south India, according to BNP Paribas analyst Tausif Shaikh. The momentum highlights a transformative era for India’s healthcare landscape, with hospitals at the forefront of FDI-driven growth, paving the way for enhanced healthcare access and infrastructure development nationwide. Source: Times of India Photo Credit: Times of India

Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill Aims to Strengthen Governance and Enhance Customer Experience

The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha, introduces significant reforms to enhance governance in the banking sector and improve customer convenience. The bill proposes 19 amendments across key legislations, including the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934; the Banking Regulation Act, 1949; and acts governing the State Bank of India and public sector banks. Key changes aim to: Strengthen Governance: Improve audit quality, reporting consistency, and depositor protection. Enhance Customer Convenience: Allow account holders up to four nominees and redefine ‘substantial interest’ limits for directorships, raising the threshold from ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore. Safeguard Investor Interests: Transfer unclaimed dividends, shares, and bond-related interests to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) with provisions for claims or refunds. Sitharaman highlighted the evolving banking sector’s need for robust reforms. “These amendments will improve governance, safeguard investors, and provide enhanced customer convenience,” she said. For cooperative banks, the amendments increase director tenure from 8 to 10 years, align with constitutional reforms, and grant Central Cooperative Bank directors eligibility to serve on State Cooperative Bank boards. Additional proposals include: Auditor Remuneration Flexibility: Empowering banks to decide statutory auditor payments. Regulatory Compliance Simplification: Redefining reporting dates to the 15th and last day of every month, replacing the current second and fourth Fridays. These reforms are poised to ensure better protection for depositors, streamline regulatory frameworks, and improve operational efficiency across India’s banking landscape. Source: Indian Express Photo Credit: Indian Express

“Insights from Mayur Ashok on Education, Community Impact, and the Role of Technology”

Kathawate Mayur Ashok, IAS Joint Collector & Addl. DM, Visakhapatnam expressed “Skilling is essential because there’s often a gap between what students learn in college and what is required in the workplace” Can you tell us about the significance of forums like these and how they help the community? Education is very complex, involving a large number of stakeholders. Conducting such conferences helps because, from the government’s point of view, we get to know the perspectives of each stakeholder, the challenges they face, and their contributions. With new technologies and stakeholders emerging, it’s crucial to adapt policies and improve implementation strategies, which these forums help us understand better.  Under your leadership, you’ve worked on various administrative tasks. Could you highlight any community initiatives that have had a significant impact? One of our key initiatives has been involving parents in government schools through mega parent-teacher meetings, as parental involvement is generally less in government schools. We also started educational tourism in Vishakhapatnam, where students visit heritage sites in the city to learn about the local history and contributions to India’s legacy. This initiative helps make students more curious and innovative.  How do skilling and employability programs play a role in community development, and have you implemented any sustainable programs? Skilling is essential because there’s often a gap between what students learn in college and what is required in the workplace. We focus on skilling marginalized sections through government programs like PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, skill hubs, and skill colleges. We involve local companies for internships and direct skill training, helping students get absorbed into these companies. What role do new technologies, like digital transformations, play in improving sectors like education and governance in Vishakhapatnam? Technology plays a huge role. During elections, we use technology to communicate directly with citizens about their voting rights. The government of Andhra Pradesh is also planning to bring more services through WhatsApp and online platforms, making it more accessible to citizens. We also run awareness campaigns on cyber fraud, educating the public about prevention methods.  The event is named ‘New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Award.’ What does the term “New Normal” mean to you? The term “New Normal” refers to the rapid changes we are witnessing. What used to take 20-30 years for change is now happening within 2 years due to advancements in technology like AI, machine learning, and big data. For me, the New Normal is technology—whenever new technology emerges, it becomes the new normal.  

Exploring the Role of AI in Education: Insights from an Engaging Forum

Ashok Varma, Managing Director, Fort City School, Vizianagram emphasised on “AI makes teaching easier and more effective. It helps students by providing real-time results in a graphical format, showing where they need improvement”  What is your overall impression of the forum? I’m very pleased to be here. It’s a very nice forum, and I appreciate the opportunity to come together and explore how AI can be used in schools and colleges. I’ve learned a lot of new things, and this experience will help me ensure that I pass on this knowledge to my subordinates and train the teachers well.  How do you think AI can be incorporated into education? The key is to focus on the basic ethics that children should learn. Some people are concerned that AI might cause the loss of human interaction, but I believe by engaging more with parents and involving them in small projects with their kids, it fosters communication. Additionally, working in groups teaches students how to interact, depend on each other, and help their peers.  How can teachers support ethical learning in students? Teachers play a crucial role by demonstrating good body language, communication skills, and treating children with respect. They can also encourage students to treat one another well. This way, ethics can be taught through the actions of the teacher and the classroom environment.  How does AI assist in teaching and assessing students? AI makes teaching easier and more effective. It helps students by providing real-time results in a graphical format, showing where they need improvement. Teachers can see which students are struggling and adjust their approach accordingly. AI helps both teachers and students track progress efficiently.  What are your thoughts on the growth and impact of ArdorComm third year? ArdorComm is doing great. I encourage more initiatives like this that inspire people to communicate and do good for society. I appreciate the hard work put into organizing this forum, and I look forward to seeing more of these events in the future. Keep up the great work!

Foreign Firms Invest £7.8 Billion in UK Businesses Amid Decline in Overall M&A Activity

Foreign firms invested £7.8 billion in acquiring UK businesses during the latest quarter, reflecting a £1.1 billion increase compared to the previous period, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This rise in inward mergers and acquisitions (M&A) occurred despite an overall reduction in the number of deals within the UK. Key transactions during the quarter included Carlsberg’s £206 million buyout of its brewing joint venture with Marston’s and Quanex Building Products’ £788 million acquisition of FTSE 250-listed doors and windows specialist Tyman. These high-value deals highlight growing international interest in UK companies. However, the ONS report revealed a decline in outward M&A activities, where UK companies purchased overseas firms. These deals amounted to £4 billion, a £200 million drop from the previous quarter. Among the notable outward investments was AstraZeneca’s acquisition of Amolyt Pharma for $1.05 billion (£830 million), aimed at expanding its portfolio in endocrine disease treatments. Domestic M&A activity also saw a decrease, with UK firms acquiring other UK businesses for a total of £2.1 billion, down from £3 billion in the prior quarter. Overall, the quarter recorded 436 M&A deals, a 10% decline compared to the second quarter of 2024. While the value of foreign investments surged, the reduction in the number of transactions signals a potential slowdown in broader M&A activity within the UK. The latest figures underline a trend of increasing foreign ownership in UK businesses, even as domestic and outbound deal-making activity faces headwinds. The data reflects shifting priorities in the global investment landscape amidst economic uncertainties. Source: minutehack Photo Credit: minutehack

Punjab’s Education Strategy Highlights Teacher Empowerment and Global Learning: Minister Harjot Bains at UNESCO Forum

Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains underscored the state’s transformative education strategy during the UNESCO international forum ‘Futures of Education-2024’, held at the Suwon Convention Center in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Speaking on December 3, 2024, Bains emphasized Punjab’s focus on teacher empowerment, global learning, and innovative infrastructure to create robust educational ecosystems. Highlighting education as a cornerstone for addressing global challenges like climate change, terrorism, and social inequities, Bains outlined Punjab’s multi-pronged mission to modernize its education system. The strategy includes constructing thousands of classrooms, providing student bus services, installing school-wide Wi-Fi, and ensuring safety with boundary walls and security guards. “We are creating a secure and technologically enabled learning environment for our students,” Bains said. He added that the state has prioritized comprehensive teacher training, sending educators to globally renowned institutions. Initiatives include training principals at the Singapore Principals Academy and elementary teachers in Finland, bringing cutting-edge pedagogical practices to Punjab. The minister also unveiled innovative school concepts designed to break traditional educational norms. The ‘Schools of Eminence’ focus on professional training, while ‘Schools of Applied Learning’ emphasize vocational skills. The uniquely conceptualized ‘Schools of Happiness’ promote child-psychology-based learning for joyful educational experiences. “Punjab’s approach ensures that no child is left behind, and every child has access to quality education,” Bains stated. These initiatives reflect the state’s ambition to prepare students for global challenges while empowering educators to lead the transformation. The forum marked a platform for Punjab to showcase its education reforms, aligning local initiatives with global best practices for sustainable development and innovation. Source: The Hindu Photo Credit: The Hindu

“Insights on Happy Learning and AI Integration in Education: An Interview with Miss DS Diva, Principal of DPS NAD”

DS Divya, Principal, Delhi Public School NAD said “AI is essential, but it should complement, not replace, human intelligence” What is the focus of your institution, DPS NAD? Our school, which started in 2023-24, is a budding branch. We strive for happy learning where children can learn joyfully without stress. We focus on value-based education, ensuring children not only acquire knowledge but also maintain strong ethical values. Can you explain more about the core values of your school? Happy learning is a core value of our school. We don’t support stressful or rote learning methods. Our belief in value-based education ensures that while our children explore modern learning tools like AI, they also uphold strong ethical principles. How do forums like today’s event help your institution and the community? Forums like today help by providing insights into the latest educational trends like AI integration, while also emphasizing the importance of human intelligence. It helps us learn how to effectively incorporate new technologies without letting them overshadow the role of teachers. What is your perspective on AI in education? AI is essential, but it should complement, not replace, human intelligence. It’s crucial that AI is used correctly, without dominating the role of teachers. We use visual learning tools in our school, but we believe that the teacher should remain at the center of the learning process. How does LinkedIn help in the educational sector? LinkedIn is an important platform for connecting globally. It allows educators and institutions to easily approach and interact with one another, sharing insights and building relationships across borders, which is crucial in today’s globalized world. What message would you like to give to ArdorComm Media on their anniversary? I would like to congratulate ArdorComm Media on their third anniversary. They’ve helped educate us through various platforms, and we look forward to attending more of their programs to continue learning and growing.  

“Embracing the New Normal in Education: Insights from Roja Ma’am, Principal of Meridian School”

Roja Paul K, Principal, Meridian School Uppal, Secunderabad emphasised “Teachers love being called the “proprietors of knowledge.”” What does the word “new normal” stand for you? The New Normal is not new; it is quite normal to me. It’s quite normal in such forums where policymakers, bureaucrats, e-tech people, and academicians come together to discuss the larger scale of community impacts. How does such a forum help you? This forum helps by creating awareness about what’s happening around the world. When we get caught up in school activities, we often lose sight of global developments. This opportunity gives us a chance to understand and learn how to deal with them since we are part of the world. Have any special initiatives been taken under your leadership for hygiene, safety, and security? Every school takes such measures, but we focus on ensuring that children are protected from the negative impacts of technology. I stay updated by attending forums like these and share the knowledge with my school staff and students. How easy is it to adopt new technology, and how do you train your teachers on it? COVID was the best example for teachers to understand the need to move with the times. If they hadn’t adapted, teaching would have completely stopped. The teaching profession is resilient, and teachers always rise to meet expectations, including embracing new technology. What measures have you taken to keep your teachers motivated? Teachers love being called the “proprietors of knowledge.” Shifting their focus from being a proprietor to a facilitator takes time and training. Initially, there’s resistance, but when teachers see how it benefits the students and engages them, they embrace it. What new technologies have been adopted in your school? My school is fully digitally enabled. All classrooms are connected to the internet, but we limit student access to devices to ensure they are supervised. Teachers control the use of technology, ensuring it’s beneficial for students. Can you briefly describe your institution? Our branch is only 3 years old, having opened during the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. The school survived thanks to technology. As we move forward, we focus on making students ready for future challenges while ensuring environmental sustainability for a better tomorrow. Would you like to give any advice to ArdorComm Media Group? Keep doing the good work. Organizations like yours help us stay connected with global developments and understand the changes happening around the world.