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McDonald's Launches Media Network, Eyes $1 Billion Ad Business

McDonald's is building its own advertising network, following Amazon and Walmart, and hopes it could grow into a $1 billion business. McDonald's said on Wednesday that it will build its own media network, selling advertising space across its restaurant system in a move that copies the playbook of retail giants Amazon and Walmart. The company made the announcement at its investor day, held at its Chicago headquarters. The program is already in a pilot phase. In August, 450 company-owned U.S. restaurants began showing advertisements for other companies on their digital drive-thru order boards. The pilot has not yet reached the franchisees who run most of the chain's roughly 14,000 U.S. locations. Even so, McDonald's said the venture could eventually become a $1 billion business. Morgan Flatley, the company's global chief marketing officer and executive vice president of new business ventures, framed the timing around a fast-expanding market. "Commerce media is one of the fastest-growing areas in advertising, and it's expected to reach more than $100 billion in the U.S. alone by 2028," she said during an investor presentation. Flatley described the appeal in blunt financial terms. "It's an opportunity to generate revenue for the system with little in the way of additional cost, no operational complexity and no disruption to our customer experience," she said. The potential for high-margin revenue arrives as McDonald's faces rising costs. Prices for key inputs such as beef are climbing, and the chain plans to spend billions of dollars on restaurant upgrades over the next decade. A steady advertising income stream could help offset those pressures. A first for the restaurant industry Within the restaurant business, McDonald's would be a pioneer in running its own media network. Chief Financial Officer Ian Borden told CNBC that the company's scale sets it apart from other advertisers. "We have one of the most valuable brands of any company of our size and scale in any industry," Borden said. He pointed to the chain's reach as its main advantage: "We serve about 85% of the U.S. population at least once a year, so we have reach that's quite unique, and we have 14,000 locations across the U.S., which means we're in every community, and we're connecting with every consumer." That reach is the core asset McDonald's is now trying to sell to advertisers. The drive-thru boards in the pilot put brand messages in front of customers at the point of purchase, a moment retailers have found valuable. What Amazon and Walmart have shown McDonald's is drawing on a model that has already proven lucrative for large retailers. Amazon reported $68.6 billion in advertising service sales in 2025, a figure that accounted for just under 10% of the company's total revenue. Amazon's ads appear across its shopping pages, on Prime Video, on its delivery lockers and on its live streaming platform Twitch, as well as on third-party apps and websites. Walmart has built a similar operation. The retailer does not disclose specific sales figures for its advertising arm, but it said Connect, its U.S. ad business, grew sales 43% in its fiscal second quarter. Walmart runs ads on its app, on its website and inside its more than 4,600 U.S. stores, and it also places them on outside platforms such as Instagram. In late 2024, Walmart bought television maker Vizio, a deal aimed partly at expanding its advertising business. These networks tend to be high-margin operations, which is a large part of their appeal. For McDonald's, the same logic applies: it can charge advertisers to use screens and space it already owns, without adding significant expense. The media network was not the only initiative McDonald's laid out at its investor day. Executives also detailed plans to lift sales through costly restaurant upgrades and improvements to food quality. The advertising venture, however, marks the company's clearest attempt yet to turn its enormous physical and customer footprint into a new source of revenue rather than relying solely on selling food. McDonald's media network, commerce media, McDonald's advertising, retail media, Morgan Flatley, Ian Borden, drive-thru ads, McDonald's investor day  

Abdul El-Sayed Becomes First Muslim Elected to US Senate

Abdul El-Sayed defeats Mike Rogers in Michigan, becoming the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate in a historic victory. By News National Editorial Team Washington, November 5, 2026 Abdul El-Sayed has made history by winning Michigan's US Senate election, becoming the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate. The Democratic candidate defeated Republican Mike Rogers in a closely watched contest, marking a significant milestone in American political representation. The victory is also a major development for progressive Democrats, who have been seeking greater influence in national politics. Who Is Abdul El-Sayed? El-Sayed is a physician and former public health official. He is the son of Egyptian immigrants and previously served as director of the Detroit Health Department. He entered the Senate race with a campaign focused on healthcare reform, economic inequality, reducing corporate influence in elections and foreign policy. He also attracted attention for his criticism of US military assistance to Israel. A Major Political Breakthrough Michigan is an important battleground state in American elections. El-Sayed's victory against Republican Mike Rogers represents a significant Democratic gain. His election also marks a historic moment for Muslim Americans, who have increasingly participated in political campaigns and public service across the country. What Comes Next? As a newly elected senator, El-Sayed will face the challenge of translating his campaign promises into legislation. His positions on healthcare, economic policy, campaign financing and international affairs are likely to attract attention as he prepares to take office. His victory adds a new chapter to the history of Muslim representation in American federal politics. Sources: Associated Press and Michigan Public.AP News+1

Iran Exempts Indian, Chinese, Iraqi and Qatari Ships from Hormuz Restrictions

Iran says ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar are exempt from Strait of Hormuz restrictions, although fees and security risks remain. By News National Editorial Team Iran has announced exemptions from shipping restrictions in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz for commercial vessels from India, China, Iraq and Qatar, according to a senior Iranian lawmaker. The announcement comes amid continuing military tensions and disruptions to international shipping in the Persian Gulf. Amir Hayat-Moghaddam, deputy chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, announced the exemptions in an interview with Iran's semi-official Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA) on November 3. He said the exemptions were based on Iran's economic and diplomatic interests and would allow vessels from the four countries to pass through the strategic waterway. However, the announcement does not mean that all vessels can automatically pass without restrictions, fees or security checks. Why Iran Is Allowing Indian Ships to Pass According to Hayat-Moghaddam, the exemption for Indian vessels is intended to facilitate the import of medicines from India. India is an important trading partner for Iran, particularly in pharmaceuticals and other essential goods. Allowing Indian commercial vessels to use the Strait of Hormuz could help maintain the movement of essential supplies despite restrictions affecting other shipping. The Iranian lawmaker also said that Indian and Chinese vessels would continue to pay transit fees. The reported exemption therefore does not amount to completely free passage for Indian ships. China, Iraq and Qatar Also Included Iran has also included China, Iraq and Qatar in the exemption arrangement. Hayat-Moghaddam said the exemption for Chinese vessels was intended to secure political support from Beijing. Qatari ships, meanwhile, would be allowed to pass without transit charges, according to the lawmaker. He did not clarify whether Iraqi vessels would also be required to pay fees. The reported arrangements suggest that Tehran is using access to the Strait of Hormuz as part of its broader economic and diplomatic strategy. The specific conditions governing the exemptions, including vessel eligibility and security procedures, have not been independently confirmed through a published official directive. Why the Strait of Hormuz Is Important The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world's most important energy shipping routes, carrying a substantial share of internationally traded crude oil, petroleum products and liquefied natural gas. The waterway is particularly important for India because a significant portion of its energy imports, including liquefied petroleum gas and liquefied natural gas, travels through the region. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the strait can affect energy supplies, transportation costs and international oil prices. Shipping Risks Continue Despite the Exemptions The announcement comes amid continuing restrictions and security threats affecting commercial shipping in the region. According to reports published on November 4, attacks on vessels and military tensions have continued to raise concerns about the safety of ships and seafarers operating near the Strait of Hormuz. The reported exemptions could provide some relief to commercial operators from the four countries. However, they do not guarantee that every vessel will be able to pass safely or without delays. Shipping companies must continue to assess security conditions, transit requirements and applicable charges before sending vessels through the waterway. What It Means for India For India, the reported exemption could help maintain trade with Iran and facilitate the movement of essential goods. The arrangement may also provide some relief to Indian shipping operators during a period of heightened regional uncertainty. However, the exemption does not establish that India's energy imports are fully protected from disruptions. The actual impact will depend on how the arrangement is implemented, whether transit conditions change and how the regional security situation develops. India has consistently called for the safe and unimpeded movement of commercial vessels through international waterways. The latest announcement offers a possible opening for selected shipping movements, but the broader situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain. Source: Anadolu Agency, The Hindu, Hindustan Times and The New Indian Express.

Chandrababu Naidu Calls for National Consensus on Exam Reforms

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu urges national consensus on examination reforms, focusing on skills, transparency and student well-being. By News National Editorial Team Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for a national consensus on examination reforms, stressing the need to incorporate the perspectives of all states and prioritise students' overall development rather than marks and rankings. Naidu made the remarks following an interaction with Nandan Nilekani, chairman of the High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reforms, and its members. In a statement following the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasised that India's examination system must evolve to nurture creativity, critical thinking, practical skills and employability while reducing unnecessary stress on students. Focus on Skills and Student Well-being Naidu said examination reforms should move beyond conventional assessments that primarily measure marks and rankings. He stressed the importance of developing an education system that encourages students to think independently, acquire practical skills and prepare for future employment opportunities. The Chief Minister also highlighted the need to reduce unnecessary examination-related pressure on students, ensuring that assessments support learning rather than create excessive stress. Andhra Pradesh Focuses on Technology-Driven Reforms Highlighting the state's initiatives, Naidu said Andhra Pradesh was working to strengthen examination integrity through technology-driven reforms, robust cybersecurity, greater transparency and data-driven governance. These measures are intended to improve the reliability of examinations and build confidence among students, parents and educational institutions. The Chief Minister stressed that safeguarding the future of students must remain the central objective of every examination reform. National Consensus Essential Naidu called for a collaborative approach involving all states to ensure that examination reforms reflect the diverse educational needs and challenges across the country. He said the future of students should never be compromised and emphasised the importance of building an examination system that students can trust, parents can believe in and the nation can be proud of. The interaction comes amid continuing discussions on improving India's examination framework, with growing emphasis on transparency, fairness, student well-being and the development of skills required for the future. The Chief Minister said the ultimate objective of reforms should be to protect the aspirations of young people and secure their future. Source: Statement by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Agniveers Get Two-Year Service Extension Under New Cabinet Decision

Union Cabinet approves a two-year extension for 75% of Agniveers, creating a longer service opportunity under the revised arrangement. By News National Editorial Team New Delhi, November 5, 2026 The Union Cabinet has approved a significant change to the Agnipath military recruitment scheme, allowing 75 per cent of Agniveers who would otherwise leave the Armed Forces after completing their initial four-year service to receive an additional two-year engagement. The announcement was made following a Cabinet meeting in New Delhi. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan? No. The briefing was delivered by Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, according to Akashvani News. The decision comes as the first batch of Agniveers approaches the completion of its initial four-year service period. What Has Changed? Under the original Agnipath recruitment framework, Agniveers serve for four years, including training. Previously, up to 25 per cent of each batch could be selected for permanent enrolment in the regular Armed Forces, based on organisational requirements and performance. Under the newly announced arrangement: Up to 25 per cent will continue to be eligible for regular enrolment under the existing selection framework. The remaining 75 per cent will be offered an additional two-year engagement. After the extended period, those willing to continue will be eligible for enrolment into the Armed Forces, subject to the announced conditions. The extension will include higher remuneration. The government says the change follows positive feedback from the performance evaluations of Agniveers. Why Has the Government Made the Change? The first batch of Agniveers is nearing the end of its four-year tenure. The new arrangement is intended to provide a longer service opportunity while allowing the military to assess recruits over an extended period. The government has also highlighted the expansion of recruitment across districts and improvements in the recruitment process. What It Means for Young Aspirants The announcement could change the career planning of thousands of young people considering military service. A longer engagement period provides additional time for training, experience and assessment. However, candidates should carefully examine the official implementation guidelines, eligibility conditions, remuneration details and selection procedures before making decisions. The Agnipath scheme was introduced on June 14, 2022. The latest decision represents a major development in the way the initial service period and subsequent military recruitment opportunities are structured. Source: Akashvani News.Akashvani News

Cyclone Murasu has crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole, bringing powerful winds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph.

Cyclone Murasu has crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole, bringing powerful winds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph.Another reminder of how vulnerable India's eastern coastline is to tropical cyclones.Praying for everyone's safety. Stay indoors, follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.Stay safe, Andhra Pradesh!

Supreme Court Rejects Plea to Shift Tirupati Laddu Case Trial

The Supreme Court has rejected a plea to move the Tirupati laddu ghee case trial outside Andhra Pradesh, keeping proceedings in the state. By News National Editorial Team The Supreme Court of India has rejected a petition seeking to transfer the trial in the alleged Tirupati laddu ghee adulteration case from Andhra Pradesh to another state. The decision, delivered on November 5, keeps the proceedings within Andhra Pradesh, where the case has attracted considerable public attention because of its connection to the preparation of the sacred Tirumala laddu prasadam. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi dismissed the petition filed by Machindra Shantaram Lanke, a Maharashtra-based dairy businessman and managing director of Malganga Milk and Agro Products Pvt Ltd. The petitioner had argued that the political atmosphere surrounding the controversy could affect his right to a fair trial. Why the transfer was requested The petitioner's counsel, senior advocate Siddharth Dave, argued that statements made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan had created a politically hostile environment. The defence also raised concerns about the language difficulties that some accused persons from northern India might face during proceedings in Andhra Pradesh. The petition further referred to a forensic report that, according to the defence, had ruled out the presence of animal fat in the ghee. The counsel argued that continued political statements about the controversy could prejudice the accused. The Supreme Court, however, was not persuaded that the trial should be moved to another state. Why the court declined the request The bench noted that several witnesses were from Andhra Pradesh and that shifting the trial could cause inconvenience. The court also referred to the independent Special Investigation Team constituted under its supervision to investigate the allegations. During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant indicated that the court had already addressed concerns about public statements and the investigation. The bench ultimately dismissed the plea, stating that it was not inclined to transfer the trial. The decision does not amount to a final determination of the allegations against the accused. It concerns the location of the trial, rather than the merits of the criminal case. Background of the controversy The controversy began in September 2024, when Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged that animal fat had been used in the preparation of Tirumala laddus during the previous YSR Congress Party government. The allegations triggered a political dispute and widespread public concern because the laddu is a sacred offering associated with Lord Venkateswara at the Tirumala temple. The YSR Congress Party disputed the allegations, while the ruling Telugu Desam Party cited laboratory findings in support of its position. In October 2024, the Supreme Court constituted an independent five-member Special Investigation Team to investigate the matter. The panel included officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation and Andhra Pradesh Police, along with a senior official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The investigation was placed under the supervision of the CBI director. The court had also cautioned against turning the controversy into a political battleground. With the transfer request rejected, the trial remains in Andhra Pradesh. The case will continue through the legal process, where evidence and arguments will be examined in accordance with the law. The Supreme Court's decision reinforces the distinction between allegations, investigation findings and a final judicial determination. For devotees and the public, the controversy remains sensitive because it concerns the preparation of a religious offering. However, the legal proceedings must establish the facts through evidence and due process. The latest ruling does not conclude the underlying case, and the allegations must not be treated as proven merely because the transfer petition was dismissed.

Cyclone Murasu Weakens in Andhra Pradesh Two Dead and Crop Damage Reported

Cyclone Murasu weakens over Andhra Pradesh after causing two deaths, damaging crops across 52,459 hectares and affecting coastal districts. By News National Editorial Team Amaravati, November 5, 2026 Cyclone Murasu has weakened after bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and widespread disruption to parts of Andhra Pradesh. The storm caused at least two reported deaths, damaged houses and affected thousands of hectares of agricultural land, according to preliminary government assessments. The India Meteorological Department reported that the severe cyclonic storm weakened into a cyclonic storm over south coastal Andhra Pradesh on November 3. At the time of the reported update, the system was located approximately 40 km west-northwest of Bapatla, 60 km north of Ongole and 80 km southwest of Vijayawada. The weather system was moving north-northwestwards and was expected to weaken further. Two Deaths Reported, Thousands Shifted to Safety According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, at least two people died in cyclone-related incidents. Authorities arranged temporary accommodation for approximately 12,230 people in rehabilitation centres as a precautionary measure. Government officials and disaster response teams were deployed to monitor vulnerable areas and assist affected communities. Agricultural Damage and Flooding Preliminary estimates indicated damage worth approximately ₹344 crore. Standing crops across 52,459 hectares were reported damaged due to heavy rainfall. Around 312 houses also suffered damage. Officials placed 776 minor irrigation tanks on high alert and continued monitoring hundreds of water bodies. The rainfall was particularly heavy in coastal districts. Bapatla recorded 222.4 mm of rainfall during the 24-hour reporting period, followed by Narasapur with 198.6 mm and Ongole with 120.2 mm. Odisha Remains on Alert Although the cyclone weakened over Andhra Pradesh, neighbouring Odisha also remained alert to possible weather-related impacts. The Odisha government deployed senior officials to vulnerable southern districts and arranged temporary shelters. More than 1.65 lakh people had reportedly been moved to safety as a precaution. Authorities Continue Relief Operations With the cyclone weakening, attention has shifted towards assessing damage, restoring essential services and supporting affected families. Farmers whose crops have been damaged may require government assistance, while authorities will need to assess losses before final compensation decisions. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to follow official weather and disaster-management instructions. The full extent of the damage will become clearer after detailed field assessments. Sources: India Meteorological Department, Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and The Indian Express.India News - The Indian Express

11-Year-Old Egyptian Girl Wins ₹1.2 Crore in Dubai Arab Reading Challenge

Egypt's 11-year-old Mayar Othman wins AED 500,000 in Dubai's Arab Reading Challenge after an inspiring reading journey. By News National Editorial Team An 11-year-old girl from Egypt has achieved international recognition after being crowned the champion of the 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge, one of the world's largest student reading competitions, held in Dubai. Mayar Mohammed Ragab Othman was honoured by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, during the competition's grand finale on October 29, 2026. The young student received a prize of AED 500,000, equivalent to approximately ₹1.2 crore, for securing first place in the competition. Her achievement has attracted attention across the Arab world and highlighted the importance of encouraging reading among children. From Reading 60 Books to Becoming a Champion Mayar's success followed a remarkable reading journey that included reading at least 60 books as part of the challenge. Her performance helped her progress through the competition's selection stages and eventually represent Egypt at the international final in Dubai. According to reports, she qualified from a field of more than 17.6 million participants in Egypt before competing against national champions from other countries. Speaking after her victory, Mayar explained how reading had influenced her personality, thinking and ambitions. She also expressed her intention to use part of her prize money to establish a small library at her school, giving other students greater access to books. Her decision has added another meaningful dimension to the achievement, turning a personal success into an opportunity to encourage reading among fellow students. Sheikh Mohammed Honours the Young Winner The award ceremony took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday, October 29. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally crowned Mayar as the 10th Arab Reading Challenge champion. The event was attended by senior UAE officials and representatives of the participating countries. The competition also recognised outstanding achievements in several other categories, including the Best School, Outstanding Supervisor, Community Champion and People of Determination Champion awards. Mayar's victory placed Egypt at the centre of the international celebration of reading and education. More Than 40 Million Students Participated The 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge recorded its largest participation since the initiative began. According to the organisers, the 2026 competition attracted: 40,286,428 students from 60 countries. 138,426 schools participating worldwide. 161,507 supervisors supporting students. 74,062 participants in the People of Determination category. The participation represented a 24% increase compared with the previous edition. The competition was organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), an organisation that supports educational, humanitarian and community development initiatives. Other Winners Recognised The final also celebrated students who secured the second and third positions. Palestinian student Ghazal Rashad Adel Tayyem won second place and received AED 100,000, while Saudi Arabian student Rayan bin Adeeb Ali Al Zakeri secured third place with a prize of AED 70,000. Tunisia's Sidi Amer School received the Best School award, which carried a prize of AED 1 million. Jordan's Fakhri Mahmoud Mayyas was recognised in the Outstanding Supervisor category. These awards highlighted the contributions of students, schools and educators in promoting literacy and a culture of learning. A Reading Initiative That Has Reached Millions Launched in 2015 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Arab Reading Challenge aims to encourage children and young people to develop a lasting habit of reading. The initiative promotes Arabic-language reading, strengthens comprehension and communication skills, and encourages students to explore knowledge beyond their school textbooks. Across its first ten editions, the challenge has reached more than 203 million student participants, according to the organisers. Mayar's achievement demonstrates how reading can help young people develop confidence, knowledge and ambition. Her plan to build a school library also sends an important message: the benefits of reading become greater when knowledge is shared. For millions of participating students, her victory is an inspiring reminder that books can open doors to opportunities far beyond the classroom.

Google Expands Employee Buyout Offers to Five Countries in 2026

Google has expanded voluntary employee exit offers to Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Switzerland amid rising AI investment. By News National Editorial Team Google has expanded its voluntary employee exit programme to five additional countries as its parent company, Alphabet, seeks to manage operating costs while continuing to invest heavily in artificial intelligence (AI). The company confirmed to Reuters that it began offering voluntary exit packages to some employees in Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Switzerland in June 2026. The expansion comes as major technology companies reassess workforce requirements and redirect resources towards AI development and other strategic priorities. The number of employees who have accepted the latest offers has not been disclosed. Five countries included in the latest programme The latest expansion covers selected employees in: Canada France Germany Japan Switzerland Google said some teams had introduced voluntary exit programmes with severance arrangements in 2025. The company expanded the programme to a few countries in June 2026, describing the move as part of its effort to support its future priorities. The programme is voluntary. It is not the same as announcing compulsory job cuts across the company's workforce. Why is Google offering buyouts? Alphabet has been increasing investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, products and research. At the same time, the company is seeking to manage costs and allocate employees and resources to areas it considers strategically important. Google executives have identified AI and cloud computing as major priorities for future growth. The company is also facing intense competition from other technology businesses investing in AI systems, computing infrastructure and cloud services. The voluntary exit programme gives certain employees an option to leave the company with a severance package if they no longer feel aligned with its pace or direction. Google has previously introduced similar voluntary exit arrangements in selected divisions in the United States and the United Kingdom. Details from Switzerland Switzerland provides some of the clearest reported details about the latest programme. According to Reuters, Google employees in Switzerland were offered packages covering multiple divisions, while its DeepMind AI research unit was excluded. The company employs approximately 5,000 people in Switzerland, including staff at its Zurich engineering hub. Employees who accepted the offer reportedly received one month's salary for each year of service, subject to a maximum payment equivalent to 12 months' salary. Applications were reportedly assessed by mid-July, and some employees began leaving in August. Reuters reported that at least four people in one team of approximately 50 employees had accepted the offer, based on information from people familiar with the matter. These reported Swiss terms should not be assumed to apply identically to employees in all five countries. AI investment and workforce restructuring Google's decision reflects a wider shift taking place across the technology industry. Companies are attempting to balance large investments in AI with the need to control costs and improve operational efficiency. AI is changing how technology companies organise engineering, product development, customer support and other business functions. As businesses increase spending on advanced computing infrastructure and AI talent, some existing teams and roles may also be reassessed. Google's voluntary programme is one example of how a major technology company is managing workforce changes while prioritising selected areas for future hiring. Is India included? India was not among the five countries named in the Reuters report about the June expansion. The report does not establish that Google has introduced the same latest programme for employees in India. The company has also not publicly disclosed the total number of employees who accepted the latest round of offers across the five countries. The bigger picture: Google's move highlights the growing pressure on global technology companies to balance workforce costs with aggressive investment in artificial intelligence. The coming months may provide a clearer picture of how these companies reshape their teams as AI becomes central to their business strategies.

NTR, Pawan Kalyan Films To Vanishing Ameesha Patel

Ameesha Patel once shared the screen with NTR, Pawan Kalyan and Mahesh Babu in Telugu cinema. At 51, she left Tollywood for Bollywood - here's her story. She danced alongside Telugu's biggest heroes, then quietly slipped off the radar. The beauty behind the buzz is Bollywood star Ameesha Patel - and here is how her story unfolded. The Heroine Who Disappeared Once she teased Telugu audiences with a run of films and shared the screen with top heroes. Then, cut - she was gone. Ameesha Patel walked away from Tollywood and settled into Bollywood instead, becoming one of the actresses fans quietly wondered about after she stopped appearing regularly on Telugu screens. Still Glamorous At 51 Ameesha Patel is now 51 years old. Even at this age, she carries an undiminished glamour that keeps her in the spotlight. Rather than fading quietly, she has leaned into a striking, bold image - one that continues to draw attention and keep her name in circulation among fans across both film industries. She Shared Screen With The Biggest Ameesha Patel acted in films alongside some of Telugu cinema's biggest names. She appeared with Power Star Pawan Kalyan, Super Star Mahesh Babu and NTR - heroes whose projects put her firmly in front of Tollywood audiences and earned her real recognition during her early stretch in the industry. The Telugu Films Fans Remember Beyond her star co-actors, specific titles brought Ameesha Patel close to Telugu viewers. Films like *Badri*, *Nani* and *Narasimhudu* connected her to Tollywood audiences and marked her presence in the industry before her focus shifted elsewhere. These were the projects that made her a familiar face in Telugu homes. Why She Chose Bollywood After her Telugu run, Ameesha Patel put most of her focus on Bollywood. She worked steadily in Hindi cinema and built solid recognition there. That decision explains the disappearance Telugu fans noticed - she had not vanished from film altogether, but relocated her career to a different industry entirely. Gadar 2 Brought Her Back After a long spell away from the screen, Ameesha Patel bounced back with *Gadar 2*. The film returned her to the spotlight alongside hero Sunny Deol, making her a hot topic in Bollywood once again. It was the comeback that reignited attention around the actress after her extended absence. Ruling Social Media Instead Away from films, Ameesha Patel stays extremely active online. She regularly takes part in events and shares those updates with her followers. Her recent social media activity has trended near the top, and her glamour content in particular has turned into a hot talking point among fans following her every post. Strict On Bold Scenes Despite her strong glamour image off screen, Ameesha Patel keeps firm limits on screen. She reportedly sets strict conditions when it comes to bold scenes in her films. It is a clear line she draws - a glamorous public presence, balanced against tight rules about what she will and won't do in her movies. Ameesha Patel, Pawan Kalyan, Gadar 2, Sunny Deol, Tollywood heroines, Mahesh Babu films, Bollywood actress 51  

Virat Kohli Scores 74 as India Beat New Zealand by Five Wickets

Virat Kohli scores 74 off 51 balls as India defeat New Zealand by five wickets in the rain-affected first ODI at Eden Park, Auckland. By News National Editorial Team Auckland, November 5, 2026 Virat Kohli delivered a memorable batting performance as India defeated New Zealand by five wickets in the opening One Day International (ODI) at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4. Kohli scored 74 runs from just 51 deliveries, helping India chase a revised target of 143 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. The match was affected by rain, reducing India's second innings to 32 overs. India eventually reached 143 for five in 22.4 overs to secure victory and take a 1–0 lead in the ODI series. New Zealand Score 185 Runs India won the toss and elected to field first. New Zealand were bowled out for 185 runs in 40.2 overs. Tim Seifert contributed 38 runs from 43 balls, while Blair Tickner added 34 runs from 23 deliveries. India's bowling attack played an important role in restricting the hosts. Arshdeep Singh was among the leading wicket-takers, finishing with figures of four wickets for 70 runs. Kohli Leads India's Chase Chasing the revised target of 143, India got a strong contribution from Virat Kohli. The experienced batter scored 74 off 51 balls, combining controlled stroke play with aggressive boundary hitting. Shubman Gill also contributed with 37 runs from 56 deliveries. Kohli's innings helped India maintain control of the chase despite the rain interruptions and revised target. India reached 143 for five in 22.4 overs, winning the match by five wickets. Anshul Kamboj Named Player of the Match Anshul Kamboj was named Player of the Match, according to the Board of Control for Cricket in India's official match record. His contribution with the ball was part of India's overall bowling performance that restricted New Zealand to 185. India Take Early Series Lead The victory gives India an early advantage in the ODI series against New Zealand. The result also provides confidence to India's batting and bowling units ahead of the remaining matches. Kohli's performance was another reminder of his experience and ability to deliver in challenging match situations. India will look to carry the momentum into the next ODI as New Zealand seek to level the series. Sources: Board of Control for Cricket in India, India Today and match scorecard. Match Centre+2