ISRO's (Indian Space Research Oragnisation) commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) announced on Wednesday (January 3) that it will use Elon Musk-led SpaceX's Falcon-9 for one of its mission launches later this year.

The mission to launch GSAT-20, has been slated for a launch in second quarter of this year. This mission will be the first time ISRO will be using a SpaceX rocket to launch one of its satellites.

On Wednesday, NSIL made the announcement in an official press release which was also posted on X, formerly Twitter,&nbsp;the social media platform owned by Elon Musk.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/storm-on-mars-uae-probe-detects-significant-dust-mobilisation-676267">Storm on Mars: UAE probe detects significant dust mobilisation</a>

In its post, NSIL has said that GSAT-20 [GSAT-N2] will be ISRO's second 'demand driven satellite mission' aimed at meeting India's communication needs.

"NSIL is releasing GSAT-20 satellite through Isro and will be launched on board Falcon 9 under a launch service contract between M/s NSIL and M/s SpaceX, USA," NSIL said in its press release.

Watch | India plans two Gaganyaan unmanned flights in 2024 | ISRO Chief S Somanath speaks to WION

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-plans-two-gaganyaan-unmanned-flights-in-2024-isro-chief-s-somanath-speaks-to-wion-676051/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

NSIL's first demand-driven mission GSAT-24 was launched in June 2022. The capacity of this satellite was fully secured by Tata Play.

“On similar lines, during the second of 2024, NSIL will be undertaking the GSAT-20 satellite mission to offer cost-effective Ka-Ka band HTS capacity primarily for meeting the Broadband, as well as IFMC and cellular backhaul service needs. The bulk of the HTS capacity on-board GSAT-20 satellite has already been secured by Indian service providers,” said NSIL in its press release.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As part of Space Sector reforms announced by Govt. of India in June 2020, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSIL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSIL</a> is undertaking its 2nd Demand-driven satellite mission GSAT-20 [GSAT-N2] during 2nd quarter of 2024, for meeting the broadband communication needs of the country. <a href="https://t.co/QfGbuZWPgh">https://t.co/QfGbuZWPgh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> <a href="https://t.co/UY7A753GTp">pic.twitter.com/UY7A753GTp</a>
— NSIL (@NSIL_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSIL_India/status/1742410765657936067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>What exactly is Falcon 9 rocket?</h2>

Falcon 9 rocket has been described as world's first 'orbital class reusable rocket'. Till date, it has carried out 285 launches, 217 re-flights and 243 landings. Experts have been quoted in media reports as saying that although collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX open up many possibilities for future, use of Falcon 9 rocket underlines need for ISRO to develop rockets that send heavier satellites into space.

(With inputs from agencies)

ISRO's (Indian Space Research Oragnisation) commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) announced on Wednesday (January 3) that it will use Elon Musk-led SpaceX's Falcon-9 for one of its mission launches later this year.

ISRO's (Indian Space Research Oragnisation) commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) announced on Wednesday (January 3) that it will use Elon Musk-led SpaceX's Falcon-9 for one of its mission launches later this year. The mission to launch GSAT-20, has been slated for a launch in second quarter of this year. This mission will be the first time ISRO will be using a SpaceX rocket to launch one of its satellites. On Wednesday, NSIL made the announcement in an official press release which was also posted on X, formerly Twitter, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk. Also Read | Storm on Mars: UAE probe detects significant dust mobilisation In its post, NSIL has said that GSAT-20 [GSAT-N2] will be ISRO's second 'demand driven satellite mission' aimed at meeting India's communication needs. "NSIL is releasing GSAT-20 satellite through Isro and will be launched on board Falcon 9 under a launch service contract between M/s NSIL and M/s SpaceX, USA," NSIL said in its press release. Watch | India plans two Gaganyaan unmanned flights in 2024 | ISRO Chief S Somanath speaks to WION × NSIL's first demand-driven mission GSAT-24 was launched in June 2022. The capacity of this satellite was fully secured by Tata Play. “On similar lines, during the second of 2024, NSIL will be undertaking the GSAT-20 satellite mission to offer cost-effective Ka-Ka band HTS capacity primarily for meeting the Broadband, as well as IFMC and cellular backhaul service needs. The bulk of the HTS capacity on-board GSAT-20 satellite has already been secured by Indian service providers,” said NSIL in its press release. As part of Space Sector reforms announced by Govt. of India in June 2020, #NSIL is undertaking its 2nd Demand-driven satellite mission GSAT-20 [GSAT-N2] during 2nd quarter of 2024, for meeting the broadband communication needs of the country. https://t.co/QfGbuZWPgh@isro pic.twitter.com/UY7A753GTp — NSIL (@NSIL_India) January 3, 2024 × What exactly is Falcon 9 rocket? Falcon 9 rocket has been described as world's first 'orbital class reusable rocket'. Till date, it has carried out 285 launches, 217 re-flights and 243 landings. Experts have been quoted in media reports as saying that although collaboration between ISRO and SpaceX open up many possibilities for future, use of Falcon 9 rocket underlines need for ISRO to develop rockets that send heavier satellites into space. (With inputs from agencies)

ISRO to tie up with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to launch satellite

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has lost 71.5 per cent of its value since the platform's takeover by the billionaire, said a disclosure made by mutual fund Fidelity accessed by Axios. Fidelity owns stake in X Holdings and has reportedly estimated that its stake has lost 71.5 per cent of its value.

The proportional effect on the total value of the social media platform brings its worth to about USD 12.5 billion. Musk had acquired Twitter at a price of USD 44 billion in October 2022.

The platform has faced many upheavals since Musk's takeover. Within weeks of taking control, Musk fired top management of Twitter including the then CEO Parag Agrawal.

The company then carried out a huge job cut exercise during which nearly 50 per cent of its total staff was sacked. This had raised doubts about the stability of the platform.

Watch | Elon Musk has new content moderation rule for X, staff told not to remove problematic content

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-has-new-content-moderation-rule-for-x-staff-told-not-to-remove-problematic-content-wion-670873/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Reported increase in hate speech on X has seen advertisers shunning the platform. Musk's own posts, including some which were were reported to be 'endorsing anti-Semitic theory' created outrage and did little to boost the image of the platform.

Under Musk, X reinstated controversial accounts including those of former US president Donald Trump and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musks-tesla-to-set-up-first-indian-manufacturing-plant-in-gujarat-674748">Elon Musk's Tesla to set up first Indian manufacturing plant in Gujarat: Report</a>

Trump faces a barrage of legal cases which include civil fraud allegations and those connected to the attack on US Capitol building in January 2021. He also faces rape charges which have been held as substantial. During his time as US president, Trump was a prolific tweeter and many of his tweets caused controversies. Even when his supporters attacked the US Capitol building he was criticised for not making an appeal to calm down soon enough.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-x-fails-in-its-bid-to-block-californias-content-moderation-law-674519">Elon Musk's X fails in its bid to block California's content moderation law</a>

His Twitter account was suspended after the capitol building attack. This was before Musk acquired the platform.

Musk, the world's richest man, had said that he was buying Twitter “to try to help humanity”.

Under him, X also reinstated account of Alex Jones, the right-wing conspiracy theorist and host of InfoWars. He got into trouble for saying that a 2012 shootout at a school was a hoax perpetrated just to bring gun control laws.

Jones was ordered by a court to pay USD 1.5 billion to families of the victims of one of the deadliest shootouts in US history.

(With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has lost 71.5 per cent of its value since the platform's takeover by the billionaire, said a disclosure made by mutual fund Fidelity accessed by Axios.

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has lost 71.5 per cent of its value since the platform's takeover by the billionaire, said a disclosure made by mutual fund Fidelity accessed by Axios. Fidelity owns stake in X Holdings and has reportedly estimated that its stake has lost 71.5 per cent of its value. The proportional effect on the total value of the social media platform brings its worth to about USD 12.5 billion. Musk had acquired Twitter at a price of USD 44 billion in October 2022. The platform has faced many upheavals since Musk's takeover. Within weeks of taking control, Musk fired top management of Twitter including the then CEO Parag Agrawal. The company then carried out a huge job cut exercise during which nearly 50 per cent of its total staff was sacked. This had raised doubts about the stability of the platform. Watch | Elon Musk has new content moderation rule for X, staff told not to remove problematic content × Reported increase in hate speech on X has seen advertisers shunning the platform. Musk's own posts, including some which were were reported to be 'endorsing anti-Semitic theory' created outrage and did little to boost the image of the platform. Under Musk, X reinstated controversial accounts including those of former US president Donald Trump and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. Also Read | Elon Musk's Tesla to set up first Indian manufacturing plant in Gujarat: Report Trump faces a barrage of legal cases which include civil fraud allegations and those connected to the attack on US Capitol building in January 2021. He also faces rape charges which have been held as substantial. During his time as US president, Trump was a prolific tweeter and many of his tweets caused controversies. Even when his supporters attacked the US Capitol building he was criticised for not making an appeal to calm down soon enough. Also Read | Elon Musk's X fails in its bid to block California's content moderation law His Twitter account was suspended after the capitol building attack. This was before Musk acquired the platform. Musk, the world's richest man, had said that he was buying Twitter “to try to help humanity”. Under him, X also reinstated account of Alex Jones, the right-wing conspiracy theorist and host of InfoWars. He got into trouble for saying that a 2012 shootout at a school was a hoax perpetrated just to bring gun control laws. Jones was ordered by a court to pay USD 1.5 billion to families of the victims of one of the deadliest shootouts in US history. (With inputs from agencies)

After Elon Musk’s takeover, X has lost 71 per cent of its value: Report

Chinese company BYD is poised to dethrone Tesla as the world's top-selling electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, reporting stellar fourth-quarter sales, according to&nbsp; Financial Times report.&nbsp;BYD's record 526,000 battery-only vehicles sold in the quarter, especially a December surge, present a formidable challenge to Tesla's supremacy.

<h2>BYD's milestone quarter</h2>

BYD, emblematic of China's prowess in clean technology, achieved a historic milestone by selling 526,000 battery-only vehicles in Q4, marking a more than 70 per cent&nbsp;increase in December sales. The surge positions BYD as a formidable contender to overtake Tesla as the leading EV manufacturer.

Tesla must surpass analyst expectations and deliver a robust fourth quarter to maintain its status as the largest seller of pure electric vehicles. Estimates project Tesla's Q4 sales around 483,000 vehicles, with official production figures awaited on Tuesday (Jan 2).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musks-tesla-to-set-up-first-indian-manufacturing-plant-in-gujarat-674748">Also read |&nbsp;Elon Musk's Tesla to set up first Indian manufacturing plant in Gujarat: Report</a>

At the end of Q3, BYD and Tesla each held a 17 per cent global market share for fully electric cars. While BYD outpaced Tesla in Q2 by including plug-in hybrid vehicles in the "new energy vehicles" category, it now presents a significant challenge to Tesla in the pure electric vehicle segment.

BYD has secured a 35 per cent market share in China's "new energy vehicles" segment, primarily on home turf. Despite expanding into international markets, the group's stronghold in China remains a key driver of its success.

Founded in the mid-1990s by Wang Chuanfu, BYD initially focused on rechargeable batteries before venturing into the automotive industry. With Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway as a shareholder, BYD has evolved into a leader in EV technology, emphasising cost-efficiency and vertical integration.

Also watch |&nbsp;Tesla robot malfunctions, brutally attacks engineer

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-robot-malfunctions-brutally-attacks-engineer-674093/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As BYD and Tesla engage in fierce competition, the broader industry shift towards cleaner vehicles has adversely affected traditional automakers slow to adapt. BYD's emphasis on innovation and cost-effective production processes positions it as a significant player in the evolving automotive landscape.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese company BYD is poised to dethrone Tesla as the world's top-selling electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, reporting stellar fourth-quarter sales, according to Financial Times report.

Chinese company BYD is poised to dethrone Tesla as the world's top-selling electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, reporting stellar fourth-quarter sales, according to Financial Times report. BYD's record 526,000 battery-only vehicles sold in the quarter, especially a December surge, present a formidable challenge to Tesla's supremacy. BYD's milestone quarter BYD, emblematic of China's prowess in clean technology, achieved a historic milestone by selling 526,000 battery-only vehicles in Q4, marking a more than 70 per cent increase in December sales. The surge positions BYD as a formidable contender to overtake Tesla as the leading EV manufacturer. Tesla must surpass analyst expectations and deliver a robust fourth quarter to maintain its status as the largest seller of pure electric vehicles. Estimates project Tesla's Q4 sales around 483,000 vehicles, with official production figures awaited on Tuesday (Jan 2). Also read | Elon Musk's Tesla to set up first Indian manufacturing plant in Gujarat: Report At the end of Q3, BYD and Tesla each held a 17 per cent global market share for fully electric cars. While BYD outpaced Tesla in Q2 by including plug-in hybrid vehicles in the "new energy vehicles" category, it now presents a significant challenge to Tesla in the pure electric vehicle segment. BYD has secured a 35 per cent market share in China's "new energy vehicles" segment, primarily on home turf. Despite expanding into international markets, the group's stronghold in China remains a key driver of its success. Founded in the mid-1990s by Wang Chuanfu, BYD initially focused on rechargeable batteries before venturing into the automotive industry. With Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway as a shareholder, BYD has evolved into a leader in EV technology, emphasising cost-efficiency and vertical integration. Also watch | Tesla robot malfunctions, brutally attacks engineer As BYD and Tesla engage in fierce competition, the broader industry shift towards cleaner vehicles has adversely affected traditional automakers slow to adapt. BYD's emphasis on innovation and cost-effective production processes positions it as a significant player in the evolving automotive landscape. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese firm BYD nears overtaking Tesla as world's leading electric vehicle manufacturer

Tesla will soon be entering the Indian market and the first manufacturing plant of the electric carmaker is likely to be set up in the Indian state of Gujarat next year. 
 
The ongoing negotiations for establishing the EV maker's first manufacturing unit in India are in their final leg and are likely to reach a conclusion soon, as per media reports. The announcement regarding the establishment of a Tesla manufacturing unit in the state will most probably take place in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit which is scheduled to be held in January 2024, Ahmedabad Mirror reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robot-at-teslas-texas-factory-attacked-engineer-leaving-a-trail-of-blood-report-673845">Robot at Tesla's Texas factory attacks engineer, leaving a 'trail of blood': Report</a>

The west Indian state of Gujarat has been a strategic location for setting up businesses for years now. Already, the state is home to manufacturing units of automakers like Maruti Suzuki. The Tesla manufacturing plant's possible location can be Sanand, Becharaji, and Dholera, as per the report. 
 
Till now, no official announcement has been made by the state government or the EV on this matter.

<h2>Minister hints at Musk's investment in Gujarat</h2>

Gujarat Health Minister and government spokesperson Rushikesh Patel had recently expressed optimism regarding Elon Musk's chances of making an investment in Gujarat. 
 
Speaking at a Cabinet briefing on Thursday (Dec 28), Gujarat Minister Rushikesh Patel said that awareness and alignment of Gujarat run parallel with the overarching goals of Tesla. 
 
He further emphasised that the government has been actively discussing with Tesla the finalisation of the deal for the establishment of the manufacturing plant in Gujarat.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Safety concerns over Tesla's robot attack &amp; fatal car malfunctions mount

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-safety-concerns-over-teslas-robot-attack-fatal-car-malfunctions-mount-674466/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per media reports, Gujarat has been the top destination for setting up Tesla's manufacturing plant not just because of the policies adopted by the state government but also because it boasts of proximity to ports which enables the export of the EV maker's products. 
 
Tesla can easily increase its exports from India from locations like Sanand because they are at a short distance from Kandla-Mundra port in Gujarat. 
 
In 2003, the vibrant Gujarat Global Summit was conceptualised, and the&nbsp;tenth edition to be held in January 2024&nbsp;will celebrate "20 years of Vibrant Gujarat as the Summit of Success".

The summit serves as a global platform for knowledge sharing, business networking and strategic partnerships for sustainable development and inclusive growth.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla will soon be entering the Indian market and the first manufacturing plant of the electric carmaker is likely to be set up in the Indian state of Gujarat next year.

Tesla will soon be entering the Indian market and the first manufacturing plant of the electric carmaker is likely to be set up in the Indian state of Gujarat next year. The ongoing negotiations for establishing the EV maker's first manufacturing unit in India are in their final leg and are likely to reach a conclusion soon, as per media reports. The announcement regarding the establishment of a Tesla manufacturing unit in the state will most probably take place in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit which is scheduled to be held in January 2024, Ahmedabad Mirror reported. Also read: Robot at Tesla's Texas factory attacks engineer, leaving a 'trail of blood': Report The west Indian state of Gujarat has been a strategic location for setting up businesses for years now. Already, the state is home to manufacturing units of automakers like Maruti Suzuki. The Tesla manufacturing plant's possible location can be Sanand, Becharaji, and Dholera, as per the report. Till now, no official announcement has been made by the state government or the EV on this matter. Minister hints at Musk's investment in Gujarat Gujarat Health Minister and government spokesperson Rushikesh Patel had recently expressed optimism regarding Elon Musk's chances of making an investment in Gujarat. Speaking at a Cabinet briefing on Thursday (Dec 28), Gujarat Minister Rushikesh Patel said that awareness and alignment of Gujarat run parallel with the overarching goals of Tesla. He further emphasised that the government has been actively discussing with Tesla the finalisation of the deal for the establishment of the manufacturing plant in Gujarat. Watch: Gravitas: Safety concerns over Tesla's robot attack & fatal car malfunctions mount As per media reports, Gujarat has been the top destination for setting up Tesla's manufacturing plant not just because of the policies adopted by the state government but also because it boasts of proximity to ports which enables the export of the EV maker's products. Tesla can easily increase its exports from India from locations like Sanand because they are at a short distance from Kandla-Mundra port in Gujarat. In 2003, the vibrant Gujarat Global Summit was conceptualised, and the tenth edition to be held in January 2024 will celebrate "20 years of Vibrant Gujarat as the Summit of Success". The summit serves as a global platform for knowledge sharing, business networking and strategic partnerships for sustainable development and inclusive growth. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk's Tesla to set up first Indian manufacturing plant in Gujarat: Report

In large part because of the devoted followers of Elon Musk and Tech-savvy early adopters Tesla is anticipated to announce on Tuesday that it had another record-breaking year for deliveries in 2023. The business is now trying to appeal to a wider audience.

Tesla's new strategy after winning over EV lovers

2023 was a comeback year for the world's wealthiest. The Bloomberg billionaires index states the collective net worth of the 500 richest increased by $1.5 trillion in 2023. to put that into context: the gains in 2023 is about half the GDP of UK, the world's sixth largest economy.

2023 marks $1.5 trillion in gains for the world's wealthiest

If reports are to be believed, Tesla is all set to open a manufacturing plant in the Indian state of Gujarat and Tesla is expected to make an official announcement at the vibrant Gujarat Summit which will take place in January next year.

Report: Tesla to set up manufacturing plant in Gujarat, India

Wars are no longer limited to planet Earth. They have reached space. Musk's Starlink satellites made that clear in the Ukraine war. Now they have a competitor. China is set to launch its own satellite network. What are its capabilities?

Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms.

In September, Musk's microblogging platform sued California seeking to undo the content moderation law, however, a judge dismissed the request.

<h2>The law and X's argument against it</h2>

California's content moderation law requires social media companies with a sizeable gross annual revenue to issue semi-annual reports describing their content moderation practices. It also requires them to provide data on the number of objectionable posts moderated and how they were addressed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-surge-in-pet-surgeries-to-resemble-mickey-mouse-ears-raises-alarms-674446">Concerns mount as China witnesses surge in pet surgeries to mimic 'Mickey Mouse ears'</a>

However, the social media website argues that the California law infringes upon its free speech rights under the US Constitution's First Amendment and California's state constitution.

<h2>The Judge's ruling</h2>

In the eight-page decision, US District Judge William Shubb dismissed X's request and said: "While the reporting requirement does appear to place a substantial compliance burden on social media companies, it does not appear that the requirement is unjustified or unduly burdensome within the context of First Amendment law."

Shubb, as per Reuters, also held the "terms of service" requirement as integral and said that their presence could be a major deciding factor for users.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/microsofts-steve-ballmer-to-be-paid-usd-1-billion-in-2024-for-doing-nothing-674491">Microsoft's Steve Ballmer to be paid USD 1 billion in 2024 for 'doing nothing': Report</a>

The "terms of service requirement" mandates a social media company to post the contact information users can use to ask questions about terms of service. A description of the process users must follow to flag content; and a list of potential actions the platform may take against objectionable content or the user posting it.&nbsp;

Following the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, social media platforms, including X were flooded with fake images and misleading information.

Since Elon Musk's takeover of the social media giant in October 2022, X has been under fire for its moderation rules. Many major advertisers have even paused their advertisements on the platform due to this.&nbsp;

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms.

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms. In September, Musk's microblogging platform sued California seeking to undo the content moderation law, however, a judge dismissed the request. The law and X's argument against it California's content moderation law requires social media companies with a sizeable gross annual revenue to issue semi-annual reports describing their content moderation practices. It also requires them to provide data on the number of objectionable posts moderated and how they were addressed. Also read | Concerns mount as China witnesses surge in pet surgeries to mimic 'Mickey Mouse ears' However, the social media website argues that the California law infringes upon its free speech rights under the US Constitution's First Amendment and California's state constitution. The Judge's ruling In the eight-page decision, US District Judge William Shubb dismissed X's request and said: "While the reporting requirement does appear to place a substantial compliance burden on social media companies, it does not appear that the requirement is unjustified or unduly burdensome within the context of First Amendment law." Shubb, as per Reuters, also held the "terms of service" requirement as integral and said that their presence could be a major deciding factor for users. Also read | Microsoft's Steve Ballmer to be paid USD 1 billion in 2024 for 'doing nothing': Report The "terms of service requirement" mandates a social media company to post the contact information users can use to ask questions about terms of service. A description of the process users must follow to flag content; and a list of potential actions the platform may take against objectionable content or the user posting it. Following the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, social media platforms, including X were flooded with fake images and misleading information. Since Elon Musk's takeover of the social media giant in October 2022, X has been under fire for its moderation rules. Many major advertisers have even paused their advertisements on the platform due to this.

Elon Musk's X fails in its bid to block California's content moderation law

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission.&nbsp;

The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays. It unfolded at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:07 pm Eastern Time (0107 GMT Friday). A real-time live stream of the launch was shared on SpaceX's website.

<h2>Where is the spacecraft headed?</h2>

A veil of secrecy surrounds the uncrewed and autonomously functioning X-37B spacecraft, and it is unknown where exactly it is headed on its seventh mission.

The Pentagon has shared minimal insights into the spacecraft and its latest endeavours. Initially, it was scheduled for launch on December 7.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rewind-2023-straight-out-of-science-fiction-moments-from-this-year-674373">Rewind 2023: Moments this year that seemed straight out of science fiction</a>

In&nbsp;its statement, SpaceX only referred to it by the Pentagon's mission code name — USSF-52, and said "Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A."

<h2>What do we know about the heavily secret mission?</h2>

While the Pentagon remains tight-lipped about the specifics, it did disclose that the X-37B's seventh mission involves "multiple cutting-edge experiments."&nbsp;

Last month, the US Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office in a statement said: "These tests include operating the reusable spaceplane in new orbital regimes, experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies, and investigating the radiation effects on materials provided by NASA."

Significantly, this marks the first time the X-37B has hitched a ride on the Falcon Heavy, renowned as one of the most powerful operational rockets, capable of ferrying payloads up to 26,700 kilogrammes (around 58,900 pounds) into the depths of space.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-new-year-gift-xposat-will-lift-off-on-january-1-will-study-black-holes-674375">ISRO’s New Year’s gift: XPoSat will lift-off on January 1, will study black holes</a>

As per AFP, the X-37B US space drone resembles a downsized version of the now-retired manned space shuttles and has dimensions akin to a small bus. With a length of 30 feet (nine meters) and a wingspan of 15 feet (4.57 m), it harnesses solar panels for propulsion. Previous missions of the X-37B have involved conducting tests for NASA, including an exploration of the impact of radiation on seeds and other materials.

The Falcon Heavy's launch comes just two weeks after China deployed its enigmatic robotic space plane, Shenlong on December 14.&nbsp;

According to China's state news agency, Xinhua, "During this period, reusable technology verification and space science experiments will be carried out as planned to provide technical support for the peaceful use of space."

(With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission. The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays.

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the highly secretive rocket, blasted into space carrying the US military's clandestine X-37B drone to a research mission. The eagerly anticipated lift-off happened after weeks of delays. It unfolded at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:07 pm Eastern Time (0107 GMT Friday). A real-time live stream of the launch was shared on SpaceX's website. Where is the spacecraft headed? A veil of secrecy surrounds the uncrewed and autonomously functioning X-37B spacecraft, and it is unknown where exactly it is headed on its seventh mission. The Pentagon has shared minimal insights into the spacecraft and its latest endeavours. Initially, it was scheduled for launch on December 7. Also read | Rewind 2023: Moments this year that seemed straight out of science fiction In its statement, SpaceX only referred to it by the Pentagon's mission code name — USSF-52, and said "Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A." What do we know about the heavily secret mission? While the Pentagon remains tight-lipped about the specifics, it did disclose that the X-37B's seventh mission involves "multiple cutting-edge experiments." Last month, the US Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office in a statement said: "These tests include operating the reusable spaceplane in new orbital regimes, experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies, and investigating the radiation effects on materials provided by NASA." Significantly, this marks the first time the X-37B has hitched a ride on the Falcon Heavy, renowned as one of the most powerful operational rockets, capable of ferrying payloads up to 26,700 kilogrammes (around 58,900 pounds) into the depths of space. Also read | ISRO’s New Year’s gift: XPoSat will lift-off on January 1, will study black holes As per AFP, the X-37B US space drone resembles a downsized version of the now-retired manned space shuttles and has dimensions akin to a small bus. With a length of 30 feet (nine meters) and a wingspan of 15 feet (4.57 m), it harnesses solar panels for propulsion. Previous missions of the X-37B have involved conducting tests for NASA, including an exploration of the impact of radiation on seeds and other materials. The Falcon Heavy's launch comes just two weeks after China deployed its enigmatic robotic space plane, Shenlong on December 14. According to China's state news agency, Xinhua, "During this period, reusable technology verification and space science experiments will be carried out as planned to provide technical support for the peaceful use of space." (With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy spacecraft takes off with highly secretive US military drone

Tesla is facing serious safety concerns following a spate of troubling incidents, including a robot attack on an engineer and fatal car malfunctions. The incident at Tesla's Giga Texas factory, where a robot attacked an employee, remained. This event, alongside reports of increasing fatal crashes linked to Tesla's Autopilot feature and allegations of using defective car parts, raises significant questions about the company's commitment to safety.

Gravitas: Safety concerns over Tesla's robot attack & fatal car malfunctions mount

Robots are the future, yet, many warn that the technology is a danger to humans. Lending weight to this warning, in a shocking incident, at Tesla's Giga Texas factory near Austin, a malfunctioning robot reportedly attacked an engineer.

As per a Daily Mail report, the incident occurred on November 10, 2021, in the section of the factory floor where the vehicle chassis is initially assembled.

The incident adds to concerns about workplace safety and the risks associated with automation.&nbsp;

<h2>The injuries</h2>

Witnesses reported that the robot, designed to grab and move freshly cast aluminium car parts, pinned the Tesla engineer, who was programming software for other robots nearby. The engineer suffered injuries to his back and arm, leaving a "trail of blood" on the factory surface.&nbsp;

The incident happened a couple of years back and was disclosed in a 2021 injury report filed by Tesla with the Travis County and federal regulators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-team-converts-human-cells-into-bots-that-repaired-tissue-damage-673808">Research team converts human cells into ‘bots’ that repaired tissue damage</a>

The injury report, submitted to maintain tax breaks in Texas, claimed that the engineer did not require time off work.

A brief entry makes mention of a "laceration, cut, open wound" suffered by an "engineer", and identifies the "cause object" as a "robot".

<h2>Is it all good?</h2>

As per the report, an attorney representing Tesla's Giga Texas contract workers has flagged concerns about under-reported injuries at the factory.&nbsp;

In an interview with Daily Mail, attorney Hannah Alexander stated that Tesla's reports to the authorities did not accurately reflect instances of injuries. Alexander, who works with the non-profit Workers Defense Project, cited her conversation with factory workers as proof.

As&nbsp;per Alexander, the under-reporting stretches to a worker's death on September 28, 2021. However, as per a report from the Travis County medical examiner, the worker, a contractor named Antelmo Ramírez, died of heat stroke. This reportedly happened while the construction worker was helping build Tesla's over 2,000-acre-long Giga Texas factory.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-wireless-charger-that-can-be-fitted-inside-human-body-673045">Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later</a>

"My advice would be to read that report with a grain of salt," she said.

"We've had multiple workers who were injured," said Alexander, adding, "and one worker who died, whose injuries or death are not in these reports that Tesla is supposed to be accurately completing and submitting to the county in order to get tax incentives."

Tesla is yet to release a statement on the issue.

<h2>Tesla's sub-par safety standards</h2>

Last year, the Workers Defense Project filed a complaint on behalf of workers at Giga Texas&nbsp;with the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It alleged that Tesla's contractors and subcontractors gave some hires false safety certificates.

Previously, state regulators and investigative journalism non-profits have also voiced similar concerns about Tesla under-reporting cases.

An earlier report by the Center for Investigative Reporting's Reveal team found that to evade state regulators, Tesla had misclassified a number of on-the-job accidents and injuries as 'personal medical' cases.

Another report by California OSHA investigators found that, in 2018 alone, the company left out 36 injuries in its mandatory government filing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Robots are the future, yet, many warn that the technology is a danger to humans. Lending weight to this warning, in a shocking incident, at Tesla's Giga Texas factory near Austin, a malfunctioning robot reportedly attacked an engineer.

Robots are the future, yet, many warn that the technology is a danger to humans. Lending weight to this warning, in a shocking incident, at Tesla's Giga Texas factory near Austin, a malfunctioning robot reportedly attacked an engineer. As per a Daily Mail report, the incident occurred on November 10, 2021, in the section of the factory floor where the vehicle chassis is initially assembled. The incident adds to concerns about workplace safety and the risks associated with automation. The injuries Witnesses reported that the robot, designed to grab and move freshly cast aluminium car parts, pinned the Tesla engineer, who was programming software for other robots nearby. The engineer suffered injuries to his back and arm, leaving a "trail of blood" on the factory surface. The incident happened a couple of years back and was disclosed in a 2021 injury report filed by Tesla with the Travis County and federal regulators. Also read | Research team converts human cells into ‘bots’ that repaired tissue damage The injury report, submitted to maintain tax breaks in Texas, claimed that the engineer did not require time off work. A brief entry makes mention of a "laceration, cut, open wound" suffered by an "engineer", and identifies the "cause object" as a "robot". Is it all good? As per the report, an attorney representing Tesla's Giga Texas contract workers has flagged concerns about under-reported injuries at the factory. In an interview with Daily Mail, attorney Hannah Alexander stated that Tesla's reports to the authorities did not accurately reflect instances of injuries. Alexander, who works with the non-profit Workers Defense Project, cited her conversation with factory workers as proof. As per Alexander, the under-reporting stretches to a worker's death on September 28, 2021. However, as per a report from the Travis County medical examiner, the worker, a contractor named Antelmo Ramírez, died of heat stroke. This reportedly happened while the construction worker was helping build Tesla's over 2,000-acre-long Giga Texas factory. Also read | Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later "My advice would be to read that report with a grain of salt," she said. "We've had multiple workers who were injured," said Alexander, adding, "and one worker who died, whose injuries or death are not in these reports that Tesla is supposed to be accurately completing and submitting to the county in order to get tax incentives." Tesla is yet to release a statement on the issue. Tesla's sub-par safety standards Last year, the Workers Defense Project filed a complaint on behalf of workers at Giga Texas with the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It alleged that Tesla's contractors and subcontractors gave some hires false safety certificates. Previously, state regulators and investigative journalism non-profits have also voiced similar concerns about Tesla under-reporting cases. An earlier report by the Center for Investigative Reporting's Reveal team found that to evade state regulators, Tesla had misclassified a number of on-the-job accidents and injuries as 'personal medical' cases. Another report by California OSHA investigators found that, in 2018 alone, the company left out 36 injuries in its mandatory government filing. (With inputs from agencies)

Robot at Tesla's Texas factory attacks engineer, leaving a 'trail of blood': Report

Elon Musk says prototypes are easy, production is hell. And when it comes to the long-awaited Cybertruck, Tesla's hell is its pioneering 4680 battery. Tesla delivered the first of its futuristic stainless steel-plated electric pickups last month and CEO Musk said in October that it would probably hit an annual production rate of a quarter of a million vehicles at some point during 2025.

Tesla Cybertruck deliveries hostage to battery production hell

Tesla recently recalled over 2 million Vehicles across its model lineup to fix a defective Software System. That's nearly all the Tesla vehicles sold in the US till now. It's alleged that Elon Musk and Tesla Executives knew about Tesla's faulty Parts but blamed Tesla customers instead.

Tesla blamed customers to avoid repairs and recalls

Reports: Tesla knew about flawed suspension and blamed drivers for its faulty parts

Are you not able to use X? Outage reported across the world. The social media platform X down for thousands of users globally. Watch to know more!

Social media platform X down for users globally; links reveal error messages | World News | WION

Social Media platform 'X' down for users globally

In a burgeoning controversy, Brazil's First Lady, Rosangela da Silva, popularly known as Janja, has found herself at complete odds with the owner of the social media platform X, Elon Musk. The dispute stemmed from a recent hacking incident that targeted Janja's account, leading to lewd content and insults being posted on it.&nbsp;

The breach on December 11 drew national attention in Brazil as the hacker targeted Janja's account, which boasts 1.2 million followers, posting lewd images and derogatory remarks directed at President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as well as&nbsp;misogynistic slurs against her.&nbsp;

In response, Janja accused Musk of downplaying the severity of the hack, and criticised his handling of the situation.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-he-hasnt-read-hitlers-mein-kampf-after-backlash-on-remarks-against-migrants-671963">Trump insists he hasn’t read Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’ after backlash on remarks against migrants</a>

"He minimises a serious event that doesn't just affect me, but thousands of women on his platform every day," Janja asserted, highlighting the broader implications of such security breaches.

<h2>Janja threatens X of legal action, Musk reacts&nbsp;</h2>

Janja expressed her dissatisfaction with X's response, stating that the platform was slow to address her requests to freeze the account, remove the offensive posts, and assist in regaining access.

She even threatened legal action against the company.

Musk, who acquired the platform last year, dismissed any responsibility for the breach in a post, stating, "It is not clear how someone guessing her email password is our responsibility." This response further fueled the feud, with Janja terming it as "symptomatic" of Musk's approach to critics on the platform.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cyclonic-events-in-indian-ocean-throw-rare-venomous-creatures-off-chennai-coast-671945">Cyclonic events in Indian Ocean throw Blue Sea Dragon, Blue Button off Chennai coast</a>

In a live broadcast alongside President Lula, Janja announced her intention to sue the Musk-owned social media platform.&nbsp;"I still don't know if I have to sue them in the US or in Brazil, but I will sue them," Janja declared during the broadcast, underscoring her commitment to seeking accountability.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trudeau-on-pannun-murder-plot-us-indictment-triggered-a-change-world-news-wion-671971">Trudeau on Pannun Murder Plot: US indictment triggered a change | World News | WION</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trudeau-on-pannun-murder-plot-us-indictment-triggered-a-change-world-news-wion-671971/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Janja calls for increased regulation</h2>

Moreover, Janja also called for increased regulation of social media platforms, holding them responsible for the actions of their users. President Lula acknowledged the global need for social media regulation and said,&nbsp;"It's a challenge to know how we could deal with it without imposing censorship."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a burgeoning controversy, Brazil's First Lady, Rosangela da Silva, popularly known as Janja, has found herself at complete odds with the owner of the social media platform X, Elon Musk.

In a burgeoning controversy, Brazil's First Lady, Rosangela da Silva, popularly known as Janja, has found herself at complete odds with the owner of the social media platform X, Elon Musk. The dispute stemmed from a recent hacking incident that targeted Janja's account, leading to lewd content and insults being posted on it. The breach on December 11 drew national attention in Brazil as the hacker targeted Janja's account, which boasts 1.2 million followers, posting lewd images and derogatory remarks directed at President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as well as misogynistic slurs against her. In response, Janja accused Musk of downplaying the severity of the hack, and criticised his handling of the situation. Also Read | Trump insists he hasn’t read Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’ after backlash on remarks against migrants "He minimises a serious event that doesn't just affect me, but thousands of women on his platform every day," Janja asserted, highlighting the broader implications of such security breaches. Janja threatens X of legal action, Musk reacts Janja expressed her dissatisfaction with X's response, stating that the platform was slow to address her requests to freeze the account, remove the offensive posts, and assist in regaining access. She even threatened legal action against the company. Musk, who acquired the platform last year, dismissed any responsibility for the breach in a post, stating, "It is not clear how someone guessing her email password is our responsibility." This response further fueled the feud, with Janja terming it as "symptomatic" of Musk's approach to critics on the platform. Also Read | Cyclonic events in Indian Ocean throw Blue Sea Dragon, Blue Button off Chennai coast In a live broadcast alongside President Lula, Janja announced her intention to sue the Musk-owned social media platform. "I still don't know if I have to sue them in the US or in Brazil, but I will sue them," Janja declared during the broadcast, underscoring her commitment to seeking accountability. Watch | Trudeau on Pannun Murder Plot: US indictment triggered a change | World News | WION × Janja calls for increased regulation Moreover, Janja also called for increased regulation of social media platforms, holding them responsible for the actions of their users. President Lula acknowledged the global need for social media regulation and said, "It's a challenge to know how we could deal with it without imposing censorship." (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil's first lady Janja, Elon Musk lock horns after hacker posts lewd images and insults on X

Tesla has informed salaried employees that the company will not be offering merit-based equity awards this year. While no explicit reason was provided for this deviation from the norm, insights from four employees across different departments suggest a widespread impact, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;

Despite the absence of merit-based stock grants, employees did receive modest cost-of-living increases and adjustments to their base salaries.&nbsp;

Typically, during annual performance reviews, employees expect both salary adjustments and merit-based stock grants. However, this year, even high-performing individuals were omitted from the merit-based grants, raising questions about whether this marks a one-time deviation or signals a broader shift in Tesla's compensation philosophy. &nbsp;

Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk, known for emphasising the significance of employee stock ownership, has often credited this compensation approach with maintaining competitive pay while preserving cash and fending off unionisation efforts. &nbsp;

Musk's concerns about retaining talented individuals in a competitive job market were voiced at the New York Times DealBook Summit last month, where he discussed the challenge of retaining employees amidst numerous alternative opportunities.&nbsp;

The alteration in compensation comes amid Musk's expressed worries about the global economy. Musk, currently the world's richest person, has been vocal about his concerns regarding high-interest rates and the state of commercial real estate. &nbsp;

On Tesla's recent earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja highlighted the company's focus on cost-cutting in response to the "challenging economic environment". The broader implications of this adjustment in Tesla's compensation strategy remain to be seen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Bloomberg)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Tesla has informed salaried employees that the company will not be offering merit-based equity awards this year. While no explicit reason was provided for this deviation from the norm, insights from four employees across different departments suggest a widespread impact, Bloomberg reported.

Tesla has informed salaried employees that the company will not be offering merit-based equity awards this year. While no explicit reason was provided for this deviation from the norm, insights from four employees across different departments suggest a widespread impact, Bloomberg reported. Despite the absence of merit-based stock grants, employees did receive modest cost-of-living increases and adjustments to their base salaries. Typically, during annual performance reviews, employees expect both salary adjustments and merit-based stock grants. However, this year, even high-performing individuals were omitted from the merit-based grants, raising questions about whether this marks a one-time deviation or signals a broader shift in Tesla's compensation philosophy. Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk, known for emphasising the significance of employee stock ownership, has often credited this compensation approach with maintaining competitive pay while preserving cash and fending off unionisation efforts. Musk's concerns about retaining talented individuals in a competitive job market were voiced at the New York Times DealBook Summit last month, where he discussed the challenge of retaining employees amidst numerous alternative opportunities. The alteration in compensation comes amid Musk's expressed worries about the global economy. Musk, currently the world's richest person, has been vocal about his concerns regarding high-interest rates and the state of commercial real estate. On Tesla's recent earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja highlighted the company's focus on cost-cutting in response to the "challenging economic environment". The broader implications of this adjustment in Tesla's compensation strategy remain to be seen. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tesla alters employee compensation strategy, opts out of merit-based stock awards 

The European Union (EU) has initiated its inaugural investigation under the Digital Services Act (DSA), focusing on social media giant X over suspected breaches, particularly related to posts following Hamas' attacks on Israel. <o:p></o:p>

The DSA, implemented in November last year, mandates large online platforms to take more robust measures against illegal content and threats to public security. The investigation will centre on combatting the dissemination of illegal content within the EU and assessing the effectiveness of measures, including X's recently introduced "Community Notes" feature for user-driven fact-checking, Reuters reported.<o:p></o:p>

The inquiry will scrutinise the data access X provides to researchers. Notably, over 100 studies on X, formerly known as Twitter, were altered or suspended due to restrictions imposed by its owner, Elon Musk, limiting access to the platform.<o:p></o:p>

While the investigation does not pronounce X guilty of any infringement, a senior EU official emphasised the grounds prompting the detailed scrutiny. X maintains its commitment to complying with the DSA and is actively cooperating with the regulatory process, asserting the importance of a non-politically influenced and law-abiding investigative process.<o:p></o:p>

In response to the EU's action, Elon Musk, owner of X, took to the platform, questioning EU industry chief Thierry Breton about similar actions against other social media platforms. Musk defended X's position, stating, "Because if you have those issues with this platform, and none are perfect, the others are much worse."<o:p></o:p>

The investigation stems from concerns raised by fake images and misleading information flooding X and other social media platforms following Hamas' attacks on Israel in October. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton reminded X, Meta, TikTok, and Alphabet of their DSA obligations. X, along with other platforms, highlighted steps to combat disinformation, while Musk challenged Breton over the disinformation charge.<o:p></o:p>

The EU Commission plans to conduct an in-depth investigation, involving additional information requests, interviews, and inspections. It will also review X's measures to enhance transparency and Blue check subscriptions. The DSA, imposing new rules on content moderation, user privacy, and transparency, holds the potential for fines up to 6 per cent of a firm's global turnover for any breach.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The European Union (EU) has initiated its inaugural investigation under the Digital Services Act (DSA), focusing on social media giant X over suspected breaches, particularly related to posts following Hamas' attacks on Israel.

The European Union (EU) has initiated its inaugural investigation under the Digital Services Act (DSA), focusing on social media giant X over suspected breaches, particularly related to posts following Hamas' attacks on Israel. The DSA, implemented in November last year, mandates large online platforms to take more robust measures against illegal content and threats to public security. The investigation will centre on combatting the dissemination of illegal content within the EU and assessing the effectiveness of measures, including X's recently introduced "Community Notes" feature for user-driven fact-checking, Reuters reported. The inquiry will scrutinise the data access X provides to researchers. Notably, over 100 studies on X, formerly known as Twitter, were altered or suspended due to restrictions imposed by its owner, Elon Musk, limiting access to the platform. While the investigation does not pronounce X guilty of any infringement, a senior EU official emphasised the grounds prompting the detailed scrutiny. X maintains its commitment to complying with the DSA and is actively cooperating with the regulatory process, asserting the importance of a non-politically influenced and law-abiding investigative process. In response to the EU's action, Elon Musk, owner of X, took to the platform, questioning EU industry chief Thierry Breton about similar actions against other social media platforms. Musk defended X's position, stating, "Because if you have those issues with this platform, and none are perfect, the others are much worse." The investigation stems from concerns raised by fake images and misleading information flooding X and other social media platforms following Hamas' attacks on Israel in October. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton reminded X, Meta, TikTok, and Alphabet of their DSA obligations. X, along with other platforms, highlighted steps to combat disinformation, while Musk challenged Breton over the disinformation charge. The EU Commission plans to conduct an in-depth investigation, involving additional information requests, interviews, and inspections. It will also review X's measures to enhance transparency and Blue check subscriptions. The DSA, imposing new rules on content moderation, user privacy, and transparency, holds the potential for fines up to 6 per cent of a firm's global turnover for any breach. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EU launches first probe under Digital Services Act, targets X over suspected violations

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers.&nbsp;

"I will never allow driverless cars to come into India because it will take away the jobs of several drivers, and I will not let that happen," Gadkari was quoted as saying by Business Today.

While&nbsp;welcoming&nbsp;Elon Musk's Tesla to operate in India, Gadkari laid out a condition that could impact the electric vehicle giant's plans.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Self-driving cars: $100 billion bet gone wrong?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/self-driving-cars-100-billion-bet-gone-wrong-524031/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He specified that Tesla could not manufacture vehicles in China for sales in India, stating, "We will allow Tesla to come to India, but they cannot manufacture in China and sell it in India. That is an impossible thing to happen."

In the past, while Elon Musk has criticised what he claimed were India's high import taxes, New Delhi remains averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China.&nbsp;

<h2>Gadkari's remarks on driverless cars: What do they mean?</h2>

Gadkari's remarks highlight the intersection of technology, employment, and international trade policies in India's evolving automotive landscape.&nbsp;

The government's approach towards autonomous vehicles also reflects a policy of caution rather than a sense of excitement over innovation whose potential may impact human jobs in India where a large number of people are employed in the transportation sector.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ai-based-tech-start-up-develops-indias-first-autonomous-car-zpod-600898">AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod'</a>

In addition to addressing concerns about the future of transportation, Gadkari underlined the significance of hydrogen as the fuel of the future. He affirmed New Delhi's move to embrace advanced technology for improving public infrastructure.

"Hydrogen is the futuristic fuel, and we are working towards bringing the best technology to help in enhancing public infrastructure."

<h2>What's the bottom line?</h2>

As India navigates the evolving landscape of mobility and energy amid spree of innovations, the government's decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for both the automotive industry as well as the workforce.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers.

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, voiced strong opposition to the introduction of driverless cars in the world's fifth largest economy after the Member of Parliament from Maharashtra's Nagpur cited concerns over potential job losses for drivers. "I will never allow driverless cars to come into India because it will take away the jobs of several drivers, and I will not let that happen," Gadkari was quoted as saying by Business Today. While welcoming Elon Musk's Tesla to operate in India, Gadkari laid out a condition that could impact the electric vehicle giant's plans. Also watch | Self-driving cars: $100 billion bet gone wrong? × He specified that Tesla could not manufacture vehicles in China for sales in India, stating, "We will allow Tesla to come to India, but they cannot manufacture in China and sell it in India. That is an impossible thing to happen." In the past, while Elon Musk has criticised what he claimed were India's high import taxes, New Delhi remains averse to the idea of letting Tesla sell electric vehicles made in China. Gadkari's remarks on driverless cars: What do they mean? Gadkari's remarks highlight the intersection of technology, employment, and international trade policies in India's evolving automotive landscape. The government's approach towards autonomous vehicles also reflects a policy of caution rather than a sense of excitement over innovation whose potential may impact human jobs in India where a large number of people are employed in the transportation sector. Also read | AI-based tech start-up develops India's first autonomous car 'zPod' In addition to addressing concerns about the future of transportation, Gadkari underlined the significance of hydrogen as the fuel of the future. He affirmed New Delhi's move to embrace advanced technology for improving public infrastructure. "Hydrogen is the futuristic fuel, and we are working towards bringing the best technology to help in enhancing public infrastructure." What's the bottom line? As India navigates the evolving landscape of mobility and energy amid spree of innovations, the government's decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for both the automotive industry as well as the workforce. (With inputs from agencies)

Will driverless cars run on Indian roads? Minister Nitin Gadkari clears the air

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk is in the headlines again this time for uttering some pretty Choice words on a live television broadcast in America. Watch the video to know more.

Elon Musk has new content moderation rule for X, staff told not to remove problematic content | WION

Elon Musk's major policy shift for X

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet.

While speaking at a right-wing political gathering organised by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, Musk said, "I don't think we should demonise oil and gas, I think we should say look that is obviously necessary in the short term and the medium term too, and although it takes several decades to become sustainable, so I think if we just, without getting too worried about it, seek to have a sustainable energy future, gradually, then that's what will happen."

"Climate change alarm is exaggerated in the short term," he further added.

Musk said that it was important that industries began reducing billions of the carbon they take from Earth and releasing it into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels.

"We should not demonise oil and gas in the medium term," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a>

<h2>'Worried about Italy's low birth rate', says Musk</h2>

On being asked if his firms would invest in Italy, Musk said that he was worried about the country's declining birth rate.

"Italy is a great place to invest. It's a great, you know, a great country. But I do want to emphasise that I do worry about the low birth rate. And you know, if a company is to invest in Italy, they're like, well you have to say like, will there be enough people to work there?," he said.&nbsp;

"You know, it's a simple question. You know, if the workforce is declining, then if the workforce is declining, then. Then. Then who will work at the company? Simple. If there's no people, there's no people to work," he added.

He further urged the Italian government to create incentives for families to have more kids, adding that the country could simply not rely on immigration to fill that gap.

(With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet.

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday (Dec 16) said that oil and gas should not be demonised and that it was extremely critical to reduce carbon emissions to preserve the planet. While speaking at a right-wing political gathering organised by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, Musk said, "I don't think we should demonise oil and gas, I think we should say look that is obviously necessary in the short term and the medium term too, and although it takes several decades to become sustainable, so I think if we just, without getting too worried about it, seek to have a sustainable energy future, gradually, then that's what will happen." "Climate change alarm is exaggerated in the short term," he further added. Musk said that it was important that industries began reducing billions of the carbon they take from Earth and releasing it into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels. "We should not demonise oil and gas in the medium term," he said. Also read: UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' 'Worried about Italy's low birth rate', says Musk On being asked if his firms would invest in Italy, Musk said that he was worried about the country's declining birth rate. "Italy is a great place to invest. It's a great, you know, a great country. But I do want to emphasise that I do worry about the low birth rate. And you know, if a company is to invest in Italy, they're like, well you have to say like, will there be enough people to work there?," he said. "You know, it's a simple question. You know, if the workforce is declining, then if the workforce is declining, then. Then. Then who will work at the company? Simple. If there's no people, there's no people to work," he added. He further urged the Italian government to create incentives for families to have more kids, adding that the country could simply not rely on immigration to fill that gap. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change alarm is exaggerated, we should not demonise oil and gas: Elon Musk

elon-musk

Elon Musk, News on Elon Musk, stories on Elon Musk, articles on Elon Musk, Elon Musk stories at Wion, Elon Musk news, Elon Musk latest news

elon musk