Aamir Khollam, Author at Exhibit Tech

Elon Musk’s brain implant company Neuralink wins FDA approval

Elon Musk’s ambitious brain-implant company Neuralink has been under controversy and public scrutiny ever since its inception. The much-talked-about company aims to implant human brains with a chip that can control electronic devices like computers and phones. The concept sounds something straight out of a Black Mirror episode and has been mercilessly trolled on the internet for being dystopian but that did not stop Elon and the company from working on it tirelessly. The company also entered some troubled waters when it was revealed that its animal testing is being needlessly rushed causing irresponsible deaths. Now, after years worth of controversies, Neuralink finally has the green light to begin human clinical trials.

FDA Approves Human Trials for Neuralink

Neuralink took to Twitter and announced that it has gained FDA approval for a first-in-human study. The company wrote – “We are excited to share that we have received the FDA’s approval to launch our first-in-human clinical study! This is the result of incredible work by the Neuralink team in close collaboration with the FDA and represents an important first step that will one day allow our technology to help many people. Recruitment is not yet open for our clinical trial. We’ll announce more information on this soon!”

Musk’s vision of brain implant chips could cure a number of human conditions such as obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia. The chip implant also aims at enabling web browsing and telepathy. The billionaire had previously made the statement that he was so confident in the device’s safety that he would be willing to implant them into his own children… I say let’s start with him getting chipped first (Maybe he already is?)

Musk has been hyping up Neuralink’s human trials since 2019 but the company only sought FDA approval in early 2022. The agency had previously rejected the approval application pointing out several concerns which needed to be addressed before sanctioning human trials. One of the major issues revolved around the lithium battery of the device and the possibility of the implant’s wiring migrating within the brain. FDA had also challenged the company’s safety of extracting the device without causing any brain damage. It will be interesting to see whether Neuralink’s efforts will come to fruition and the future where getting chipped is as common as getting vaccinated comes to reality but I surely hope for the opposite!

OnePlus Pad Review: Better Than The iPad?

Ever since the pandemic changed the way we communicate with technology, tablets have come to the forefront. In today’s time, we see basically every big tech player come up with their own tablets in order to give into the whole ‘Ecosystem’ trend set by Apple. However, OnePlus was quietly waiting for its time to shine to come up with its very own Tablet which has now made its way to the Indian market simply called the – OnePlus Pad. The first generation of the OnePlus Pad stands impressive when it comes to its design factor, but is that all that it has to offer? We beg to differ.

Design

Starting off with the design of this tablet which in itself is a style statement. This sleek machine comes with an ultra-portable form factor. OnePlus is venturing into the tablet arena for the first time and along with it has brought the 2.5D round-edge unified metal body design which hasn’t been done before. It comes with a small 6.7nm bezel which allows an 88% screen-to-body ratio for an immersive visual experience for the users. There is only one colour variant for this tablet which is called ‘Halo Green’ and is inspired by the natural world. It is an eye catchy colour which demands attention and is guaranteed to make some heads turn. One of the most unique aspects of the OnePlus Pad’s design is its camera placement. The camera here is placed at the centre as opposed to the usual top placement seen in tablets. The camera placement choice can be a hit or miss and breaks away from the staple design standard of the tablet. OnePlus claims that the camera placement saves users the hassle of having to adjust when holding the pad and clicking landscape images.

Performance

Android tablets have historically lagged behind when it comes to performance only with the exception of Samsung and Xiaomi’s premium offerings. The OnePlus Pad joins the league of high-performing tablets as the 4nm Dimensity 9000 processor powers it. Users get two RAM options here with 8 and 12GB variants and 128 or 256GB storage. The UFS3.1 LPDDR5 RAM powers through all your computational needs with ease. The tablet is snappy and smooth thanks to its maxed-out 144Hz refresh rate. It features a large 9510mAh battery which can be juiced up with a 67W SUPERVOOC charger. OnePlus claims that the tablet comes with a one-month standby life and just over 12 hours of video streaming. People should note that the tablet does not come with a standalone SIM card slot but comes with a unique feature known as cellular data sharing. This feature kicks in when the distance between a OnePlus phone and the Pad is around 1 to 5 meters and the Pad by default gains access to the 5G signal of a user’s smartphone. This looks like OnePlus is doubling down to the ‘ecosystem’ aspect with the new launch. The camera system here consists of an 8MP front camera and a 13MP back camera. Both lenses are capable of shooting in only 30 frames per second which can be restricting to some users.

Display

One of the primary reasons why people invest in tablets is to consume content on a larger screen. The OnePlus Pad puts heavy emphasis on entertainment by boasting an 11.61-inch screen and the industry’s first-ever 7:5 screen ratio. The display resolution here is 2800×2000 making it a 2K display. However, it is not an AMOLED screen but an IPS LCD one. As mentioned before, it comes with a 144Hz refresh rate with the capability of toggling between 30, 60, 90 and 120Hz.

Accessories

OnePlus is offering two accessories with the OnePlus Pad namely the OnePlus Magnetic Keyboard and the OnePlus Stylo. Both the accessories are implemented well with the Pad and add-on for a seamless overall tablet experience.

In Comparison

Let’s be honest, the tablet market is saturated right now and people have a lot to choose from. Where the OnePlus Pad stands when it comes to the price point is in direct comparison with the iPad. However, the Xiaomi Pad comes somewhat close to the OnePlus Pad’s performance in the Android arena. However, users will lose out on bigger battery life and the smooth 144Hz display on that one.

Verdict

OnePlus’ first-ever venture into the tablet arena is a triumphant knock out of the park. it‘s got everything you expect from a tablet coupled with some never seen before features which put it in the top spectrum of the tablets available in the market today.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Also Check Out Our Video Comparing OnePlus Pad and Xiaomi Pad 5

Pixel 7a – Best Android Midranger?

Google Pixel devices have often delivered the best of Android money can buy. Emphasis on the ‘money’ part cause these devices DO NOT come at a cheaper price tag. However, Pixel’s A series phones have been a delight as they bring you all the Android greatness at a considerably cheaper rate. This year around, the Google Pixel 7a undoubtedly brings more value for your money with a higher refresh rate, solid camera setup, and wireless charging. But is that all? Let’s find out –

A Notable Upgrade

Google has definitely built upon the complaints of the Pixel 6a and introduced better features in its latest midrange offering. This time around, we have a higher 90Hz refresh rate and wireless charging which was missing in the Pixel 6a. Now, we understand that the competition offers a 120Hz refresh rate at this price point but we’ve got to give credits where credit is due. Surprisingly, the higher refresh rate is turned off by default in the settings and users need to it on manually. The display is vibrant and watching content on it is a treat for sure. What is new is also the face unlock feature which was missing in the Pixel 6a. There’s also an under-display fingerprint sensor that is snappy and works like a charm.

Moving on, the back of the device is unapologetically plastic but looks and feels premium to hold. The colour variant we’re using is called ‘Charcoal’ with other variants like Sea and Snow available too. It looks similar to the Pixel 7 which could confuse a lot of consumers out there.

Superior Cameras

The camera placement is now similar to the flagship Pixel 7 devices and the sensors here might as well be the best in performance in this price range. The Pixel 7a is capable of clicking some amazing shots with an upgraded 64MP primary lens as compared to the 12.2MP lens in the 6a. The beast of a primary lens is coupled with an ultrawide 13MP lens. In front, we have a 13MP selfie lens which is a winner. The camera setup is capable of clicking some stellar images even in low light conditions which will leave you pleasantly surprised. There’s no telephoto lens here and the device relies solely on digital zoom for its pictures which starts to lose details beyond 3x and 4x. Overall, the camera setup is sweet, capturing crisp images in almost every condition. Check out the samples below –

Inside the hood

The right side of the device features a volume rocker and a lock button which click really well so all of us anxious folks can legit spend their time clicking them, though I wouldn’t advise that. One drawback could be the absence of a dual or hybrid slim slot as it features a single slot. Users can use an e-sim in case they want to use two numbers, but no physical slot for the same.

Where Pixel 7a wins is with its Tensor G2 chipset which is the same chip powering the higher variants – Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. We have 8GB RAM and 128GB Storage. That’s it… No Virtual RAM, no 256GB or 512 GB storage options. Just the simple 128GB Storage – take it or leave it!

Inside the hood, we have a 4385mAh battery running the game which might sound small to people but performs real well in real-time usage. I could easily get through my day with a single charge and moderate usage on the Pixel 7a. However, what’s underwhelming is the 18W charging support which lags way behind the competition and takes too long to charge from single to triple digits. It takes me around 2 hours on average to juice this device up to a 100 which is not ideal in the current scenario where some devices survive a day with just half an hour of charge. While we have wireless charging here it clocks out at 7.5W which Is underwhelming but alright.

Just one concern

Now that we have established that this indeed is one of the best midrange devices available in India right now, Let’s jump on something that does not work with the Pixel 7a. It Heats Up! It heats up to the point where it is noticeable.. On average usage and clicking photos, the device becomes considerably hot on the sides which will alarm the users. Sometimes the device was also noticed getting warm on standby which was surprising. However, it cools down as quickly as it heats up.

Verdict

The Pixel 7a is one of the best midrange devices you can buy right now. It squeezes a premium smartphone experience into a much smaller and cheaper device which genuinely gives the standard Pixel 7 a run for its money. It’s got Google’s premium chipset, and a bigger 90Hz screen. The original Android experience with Google’s homegrown OS and also five years of support. If you’re interested in a no-nonsense device which does not overwhelm you with bloatware and performs wholeheartedly then the Pixel 7a is indeed the one for you. At 43,999 the Pixel 7a is a winner!

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Meta fined €1.2 billion by EU over European data transfer

Meta, the parent company of Facebook has been fined a record whopping €1.2 billion by the Irish regulator for breaching EU data protection rules. The Irish Data Protection recently announced that Meta has violated General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by moving data between Europe and the US. Regulators added that Meta failed to protect European users from having their data used under US law.

Meta fined record €1.2 billion

Meta will now be fined €1.2 billion and also be required to delete the Facebook data or move it back to Europe. This fine is the most EU has levied upon any company under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulations. The previous record was held by Amazon. The Jeff Bezos-owned company was fined a hefty €746 million by regulators in Luxembourg. However, the four biggest fines after Amazon have been paid by Meta itself as a part of issues revolving around Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

Meta has issued a statement calling the fine ‘unjustified and unnecessary’ adding that it will appeal the ruling. It also stated that there will be immediate disruption to the way Facebook operates. The company has been vocal about how the new limits on data transfer to the US could cause the company to shut down operations in the EU. This could lead to Facebook and Instagram shutting down in Europe entirely.

Meta’s president of global affairs Nick Clegg and chief legal officer Jennifer Newstead said in a statement that the company feels disappointed to have been singled out. The ruling was called unjustified and a dangerous precedent for countless other companies. This marks the third fine imposed on Meta so far just this year in the EU and its fourth in six months. With Meta always being in the news in recent times over company-wide layoffs and budget cuts, the big fine only puts the company down furthermore.

Benefits of wearable tech: Tracking your way to fitness

We all have been there… summer rolls around and we feel it is the right time for us to resume our fitness regimes. Our fitness goals take a backseat throughout the year where we simply indulge in pleasing our taste buds as opposed to serving our bodies. I do blame the fad of ‘Summer Beach Bodies’ going around on social media right when summertime hits which triggers the fitness enthusiast inside us and makes us hop on a treadmill. However, we have long based our fitness goals on a mundane regime sticking to simple exercises and diet. What if we could make it a little more indulgent?

This is where wearable fitness tech comes into the picture. Gone are the days when one would get on a running track and simply compete with their own previous records. Now, we can compete with our friends sitting in a different city thanks to fitness communities. The implementation of fitness and technology has become seamless and here’s how one can benefit from wearable tech while achieving their summer fitness goals –

Tracking Physical Activity

One of the primary benefits of wearable tech is its ability to track physical activity. During the summer months, many people spend more time outdoors, and wearable devices can be a great way to monitor their activity levels. By tracking metrics such as steps taken, distance travelled, and calories burned, users can get real-time feedback on their progress and stay motivated to achieve their fitness goals. Personally, I am the happiest when I receive a notification from my fitness watch about the completion of my steps goal for the day.

Monitoring Sleep Quality

Another significant benefit of wearable tech is its ability to monitor and improve sleep quality. Many devices can track sleep duration, as well as the quality of sleep, such as how many times you wake up during the night or how much time you spend in each stage of sleep. By tracking these metrics, users can identify patterns in their sleep behaviour and make adjustments to improve the quality of their rest. Wearable tech is also capable of alerting you to go to sleep earlier to keep up with a healthy sleeping pattern.

Personalized Coaching and Feedback

Wearable tech can also be helpful for providing users with personalized coaching and feedback. Many devices have built-in coaching features that can provide users with tailored advice based on their individual needs and goals. For example, if a user wants to improve their running performance, a wearable device may provide suggestions for how to adjust their running form or cadence to achieve this goal. Additionally, many devices offer reminders and encouragement to help users stay on track with their goals.

Staying Connected and Engaged

Another benefit of wearable tech is its ability to help users stay connected and engaged with their health and fitness journey. Many devices offer social features that allow users to connect with friends and family who are also using wearable tech devices. This can provide a sense of accountability and support, as well as a fun way to compete and motivate each other towards achieving health and fitness goals.

Supporting Overall Health and Well-being

Finally, wearable tech can help support overall health and well-being by providing users with insights into their body’s functions and needs. For example, many devices can track heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs, allowing users to monitor their health and make informed decisions about their fitness and nutrition. Additionally, wearable tech can help users identify areas where they may need to make lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress or improving their posture.

In conclusion, wearable technology can be an incredibly useful tool for achieving summer health and fitness goals. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking to improve your fitness level, wearable tech can provide the tools and support you need to achieve your summer health and fitness goals.

Summertime Binge Watch: Best Summer Classic Films

Ah, summer – a time for long, lazy days, sun-kissed skin, and ice-cold lemonade (with some gin or vodka in it if you’re an adult). It’s also the perfect season for kicking back and watching some classic films that take you back to a simpler time. Whether you’re looking for a trip down memory lane or just a chance to escape the heat, these timeless movies are sure to make your summer unforgettable.

From beach parties to road trips, from first loves to summer jobs, these films capture the essence of the season with all its ups and downs. So grab your popcorn, settle into your favourite spot, and get ready to relive the best summers of your life. Here are our top picks for the best summer classic films – guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a warm glow to your heart along with some thrills and scares down the line.

Jaws (1975)

Over 40 years down the line and this film still surprises the audience with its practical special effects. Jaws is a classic summer movie that is sure to get your heart racing. The film tells the story of a great white shark that terrorizes a beach community. It is a perfect film to watch on a hot summer day, as it captures the excitement and danger of being near the ocean.

The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is a coming-of-age film that takes place during the summer of 1962. It follows a group of kids who spend their days playing baseball on a vacant lot. The film is a nostalgic look at summer days spent with friends and captures the feeling of endless possibility that comes with the season.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Time of My Life is a song that still sits at an honorary position in my playlist. One can easily call it the summer romance film which defined a cinematic generation. Dirty Dancing is a classic summer romance that takes place at a resort in the Catskills. It follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a dance instructor. The film captures the spirit of summer love and the thrill of trying new things.

The Parent Trap (1998)

The Parent Trap is a fun and lighthearted film about two identical twins who were separated at birth and reunite at summer camp. The film captures the magic of summer camp and the joy of making new friends. It is a great film to watch with the whole family.

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a coming-of-age film that follows four friends who spend their summer apart but stay connected through a pair of magical pants. The film captures the joy of summer adventures and the power of friendship.

Independence Day (1996)

The film that made Will Smith a household name! Independence Day is a classic summer blockbuster that takes place on the 4th of July. It follows the story of a group of people who band together to save the world from an alien invasion. The film captures the excitement and patriotism of the holiday and is a great film to watch with friends. Too bad, its legacy sequel titled Independence Day: Resurgence could not recreate the same magic on screen and at the box office!

Stand by Me (1986)

Stand by Me is a classic coming-of-age film that takes place during the summer of 1959. It follows a group of friends who set out on a journey to find a dead body. While the synopsis might sound a little off-putting, the film charms the audience with its whole friendship values.

The Great Outdoors (1988)

Family vacations are only fun when you are a kid, but are a hassle when you’re an adult due to added responsibilities. The Great Outdoors is a classic summer comedy that captures the essence of a crazy family holiday as it follows a family on a vacation to a lake resort. The film captures the chaos and hilarity that can come with family vacations and is a great film to watch with the whole family.

Dazed and Confused (1993)

Matthew McConaughey ‘Alright, Alright, Alright!’ his way into our hearts with this film! Dazed and Confused is a classic film that takes place on the last day of high school in 1976. It follows a group of students as they celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. The film captures the excitement and rebelliousness of youth and is a great film to watch with friends.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

Another classic family vacation movie! National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic summer comedy that follows the Griswold family on a cross-country road trip to a theme park. The film captures the chaos and mishaps that can happen on family vacations and is a great film to watch with the whole family.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a classic comedy that takes place on a sunny spring day in Chicago. It follows Ferris Bueller, a high school student who fakes an illness to skip school and spend the day exploring the city with his best friend and girlfriend. The film captures the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with skipping school and enjoying the sunshine.

The Way, Way Back (2013)

THE WAY, WAY BACK……©WWBSP LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The Way, Way Back is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that takes place during a summer vacation at a beach house. It follows 14-year-old Duncan, who feels out of place among his family and finds refuge at a water park where he meets a new friend and gains confidence. The film captures the feeling of being an outsider and the joy of discovering oneself during a summer vacation.

Netflix Reportedly Planning To Cut Spending by $300 Million

Netflix is known to spend a big chunk of its money on content generation which has been wildly criticized by both the trades and fans over the years. Netflix dropped $200 million for the film Red Notice which featured Ryan Reynolds and The Rock in prominent roles back in 2021 making it the most expensive direct-to-stream film of that year. This was followed by The Gray Man which was yet another humungous project budget-wise with its $200 million budget in 2022. Now, it looks like Netflix is finally getting a hold of its expenses and winding down its spending for 2023.

Netflix cuts costs

Netflix is reportedly planning to implement extensive budget cuts in 2023 in order to make the streaming platform more profitable. It was not long ago when Netflix revealed that it will be taking down the password-sharing option in order to increase profits. The Wall Street Journal reported that the streaming mogul is planning to cut down its spending by $300 million in 2023. The cost-cutting methods are limited to just cutting down expenses for now and the company is not expected to venture out to any layoffs at least for now.

Back in 2022, Netflix lost a sizeable chunk of subscribers amounting to 1 million which has prompted the company to cut costs and maximize profits. The streaming giant’s recent actions towards the password-sharing crackdown hints that the company is still seeking an increase in subscriptions.

The company’s decision to cut down costs means that the platform will likely produce lesser original content this year. Netflix has already been in troubled waters over canceling fan-favorite original shows. Halting or canceling shows furthermore in order to cut costs could result in greater fan scrutiny. Netflix stands at an interesting spot right now with increasing fan disappointment and decreasing costs for production. It undoubtedly has to charter these troubled waters with efficiency in order to go past this phase.

Things That Will Make You Nostalgic About Your Summer Vacations In India!

Summer vacations were crazy times! Before the responsibilities of the world took over our lives, a prominent time which we all looked forward to were the summer vacations. The mere mention of those days is enough to take me back to my childhood when my days consisted of sunshine, ice cream, and endless hours of playing outdoors with friends.

As I sit here reminiscing about those long-gone days, I can’t help but feel a twinge of nostalgia creeping up on me. So, without further ado, here are some things that will make you nostalgic about your summer vacations in our vibrant country:

Mangoes

If you grew up in India, you know that summer vacations meant one thing – mango season. Those sweet, juicy, yellow fruits were the highlight of our summer days. We would devour them in all forms – raw, ripe, in shakes, and even as pickles. The mere sight of a basket of mangoes would make our mouths water, and we would spend hours arguing about which variety was the best. Luckily, the novelty of enjoying mangoes remains unchanged to this day.

Power cuts

Yes, you read that right. Power cuts may seem like an inconvenience, but they were an integral part of our summer vacations. When the heat became too much to bear, and the electricity went out, we would light candles and gather around to play games and share stories. It was like a mini-adventure, and we looked forward to it as much as we did our regular summer activities.

Road trips

Summer vacations meant long, meandering road trips with the family. We would pack our bags, fill up the car with snacks, and hit the road, singing songs and playing games all the way. Whether it was a trip to the hills or a visit to a relative’s place, road trips were always an adventure.

Summer camps

If you were lucky enough to attend a summer camp, you know how much fun they were. From learning new skills to making new friends, summer camps were an excellent way to spend your vacation. I still remember the thrill of sleeping in a tent, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, and going on long hikes in the woods.

Monsoon showers

The arrival of the monsoon showers was a much-awaited event during our summer vacations. We would eagerly wait for the first drops of rain to fall, and then rush outside to dance in the rain. The smell of wet earth, the sound of thunder, and the sight of lightning were all magical moments that we still cherish.

Family time

Perhaps the best thing about summer vacations was the quality time we got to spend with our families. With no school to worry about and no homework to do, we could relax and enjoy each other’s company. Whether it was playing board games, watching movies, or simply chatting, family time was always special. Most of my days in summer vacation were spent in the town of Hadapsar in Pune City where my grandparents used to live. The things they taught me have allowed me to become the person I am today, thus the importance of family time cannot be underestimated.

As I come to the end of this piece, I realize that I could go on and on about the things that make me nostalgic about my summer vacations, but that is also cause I do not get to enjoy them anymore. From the banters on the cricket field to the taste of roadside chaat, there are so many memories that I hold dear.

So, if you’re feeling nostalgic too, take a trip down memory lane, and relive those carefree days. Who knows, you might even rediscover some forgotten treasures that will bring a smile to your face.

Books to Enjoy During Your Downtime This Summer!

The summers are an excuse for many to hop out of their shell and try out new things. While some explore adventure sports, others hit the gym and bring out the fitness freak inside them. Similarly, some also spend the majority of their time being couch potatoes binge-watching their favourite shows and movies. While I am not against binge-watching as it may be my favourite thing to do during holidays, I cannot disagree about the fact that there are better ways to spend my downtime.

Summers are the season of sun, sand, and leisurely afternoons. So, what’s better than getting lost in a good book? One can enjoy a book while lounging on the beach, relaxing by the pool, or just soaking up some rays in the park. Also, reading books is the only legal way to hallucinate in real life thus embarking on a journey with larger-than-life characters all while sitting in your comfort does not feel like a bad proposition. So, if you’re new to the reading game, here are some of the best books you can enjoy during the lazy and hazy days of summer –

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

First on our list is “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams. This classic sci-fi novel follows the misadventures of Arthur Dent, an unwitting earthling who finds himself hurtling through space after his planet is destroyed to make way for an interstellar highway. Packed with absurd humour, wacky characters, and mind-bending plot twists, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide” is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a light, quirky read to enjoy while basking in the summer sun.

The Beach

Next up, we have “The Beach” by Alex Garland. This gripping novel follows the journey of Richard, a young backpacker who sets out to find an idyllic beach paradise rumoured to be hidden somewhere in Thailand. As he and his fellow travellers navigate through dangerous jungles and treacherous waters, they begin to realize that the beach may not be the paradise they’d hoped for. Filled with stunning imagery and a sense of adventure that will keep you on the edge of your beach towel, “The Beach” is the ultimate summer read for anyone looking for a thrilling escape.

The Alchemist

For those looking for something a bit more contemplative, we recommend “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. This uplifting tale follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago as he travels across the desert in search of his personal legend. Filled with powerful messages about following your dreams, the power of the universe, and the importance of listening to your heart, “The Alchemist” is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a thought-provoking read to enjoy while sipping a drink in the summer heat.

“Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah

Next up, we have “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. This memoir by the host of “The Daily Show” tells the story of Noah’s childhood growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. Filled with humour, heartbreak, and insights into the human condition, “Born a Crime” is the perfect book to read on lazy summer afternoons when you want to learn something new and be entertained at the same time.

Pride and Prejudice

If you’re in the mood for a classic romance novel, you can’t go wrong with “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen. This timeless tale of love and class in 19th-century England has been beloved by readers for generations, and it’s the perfect book to read while lounging on the beach or sitting in the garden with a glass of iced tea.

So there you have it, folks – my top picks for the best books to read during the summer months. Whether you’re looking for sci-fi, adventure, inspiration, or just a good old-fashioned romp, there’s sure to be a book on this list that will capture your imagination and help you make the most of your lazy summer days. So grab a book, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy the season in style!

Celebrating National Technology Day: How Operation Shakti Changed India’s Nuclear Landscape

In a world driven by technological advancements, it is essential to acknowledge the profound impact of technology on our lives. National Technology Day in India serves as a momentous occasion to commemorate the country’s scientific and technological achievements. This day not only honours the brilliant minds behind groundbreaking innovations but also highlights the significance of technology in shaping our future. Join us on a journey to explore the history and importance of National Technology Day, as we celebrate India’s triumphs in the realm of science and technology.

Why do we celebrate National Technology Day?

National Technology Day, celebrated annually on May 11th, marks the day when India conducted its first successful nuclear test in Pokhran, Rajasthan, in 1998. Codenamed “Operation Shakti,” this landmark event demonstrated India’s capabilities as a nuclear power. The success of this test placed India among the elite nations with nuclear capabilities and heralded a new era in the country’s scientific prowess.

Significance of Operation Shakti

Nestled in the arid landscape of Rajasthan, Pokhran has long been synonymous with India’s nuclear ambitions. Having conducted its first nuclear test in 1974, India recognized the need to enhance its technological prowess to secure its interests on the global stage. Operation Shakti served as a testament to India’s unwavering commitment towards ensuring a secure future.

Operation Shakti involved a series of nuclear tests conducted in May, under the utmost secrecy and meticulous planning. India’s scientific community worked tirelessly to develop and refine indigenous technologies, culminating in a display of cutting-edge advancements. The operation witnessed successful detonations of both fission and thermonuclear devices, propelling India into the exclusive club of nuclear powers capable of mastering such technologies.

Operation Shakti was a definitive statement, reflecting India’s resolve to counter regional threats and maintain strategic stability. By showcasing its nuclear capabilities, India reinforced its commitment to an independent foreign policy and a credible deterrent. The operation also served as a stark reminder that India’s security interests would not be compromised, fostering a climate of peace and security in the region.

Operation Shakti was not an endorsement of an arms race, but rather a strategic move to safeguard national security interests. India has consistently advocated for global nuclear disarmament and maintains a no-first-use nuclear weapons policy. Through Operation Shakti, India highlighted the need for nuclear powers to work together towards disarmament while ensuring an equitable and secure international order.