oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | biometrics, digital authentication, facial recognition, identity verification, technology
New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): The AI and ML-based Aadhaar facial authentication solutions, created internally by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), have been developed.
UIDAI
It has experienced significant expansion, as more than 78 percent of all transactions occurred through this platform during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, according to an announcement made by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Tuesday.
Since the
face authentication
The solution was launched in October 2022.
UIDAI
Has logged a total transaction count exceeding 130.5 crore, with nearly 102 crores transacted within the fiscal year 2024-25. This reflects the increasing utilization and acceptance of this service, smoothly enhancing benefits for Aadhaar number holders.
Over the last three months (January-March), approximately 39.5 crores were involved.
face authentication
Transactions have been logged. Specifically, in March, facial authentication solutions documented over 15.25 crores of transactions, marking a 21.6 percent increase from the prior month.
This accomplishment highlights the confidence and widespread use of this novel biometric verification method across various industries such as financial technology, banking, and telecoms.
Many governmental services provided by central and state authorities utilize this system for efficiently delivering benefits to specific recipients. Numerous key initiatives such as PM Avas (Urban), PM E-Hrushti, PM-JAY, PM-Ujjwala, PM-Kisan, and PM Internship Program rely on Aadhaar for their operations.
face authentication
.
Facial recognition is also serving as a reliable substitute and assisting elderly individuals and anyone facing difficulties with fingerprint quality because of various factors such as physical labor or health problems.
Currently, 102 organizations from both governmental and private sectors are utilizing Aadhaar.
face authentication
This AI-driven feature functions across both Android and iOS platforms. It safeguards against video replay attacks and static image verification efforts from malicious individuals. Additionally, it operates without physical contact and can be accessed at any time and location, according to the announcement.
This authentication modality enables users to verify their identity with just a face scan, ensuring convenience while upholding stringent security standards, the release added. (ANI)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | agriculture, biotech & biomedical, biotechnology, technology, technology trends
During the latter part of the 20th century, genetic material from various organisms was inserted into seeds, resulting in what we now call Genetically Modified Organisms, or GMOs. This technological approach aims at cultivating plants that are more robust and capable of higher yields.
Roughly twenty years ago, the European Union established stringent regulations governing authorization, labeling, and risk evaluation. However, recently it has suggested loosening these controls regarding New Genomic Techniques, which alter the genetic makeup of plants themselves.
“The European Commission has opted to establish two classifications: one for items derived from these advanced methods and another for those produced using traditional approaches, which will adhere to current regulations. Nevertheless, certain individuals believe that these novel forms of genetically modified organisms may pose similar hazards as their predecessors, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences for the ecosystem,” says Robert Hodgson, reporting on this topic for Euronews.
The dispute is expected to heat up once more since the governments from the 27 member countries have come to an accord regarding the proposition this month. Now, these ministers must achieve a unified stance alongside the European Parliament, despite differing viewpoints on contentious topics like patents and labeling.
During a brief visit to multiple cities, Euronews gathered some European viewpoints. “I am not entirely opposed to it. Conducting comprehensive studies to assess whether it has any adverse effects would be crucial,” remarked a person from Berlin.
“Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in this technology, yet we still lack complete mastery over it,” stated another individual from Warsaw (Poland).
“It is essential for them to be labeled so that consumers can make an informed decision. Personally, I would not purchase them,” stated a pedestrian in Lyon (France).
Experts in biotechnology contend that these plant varieties will exhibit greater resilience against drought, pests, and necessitate reduced use of fertilizers. They are also addressing health concerns like allergies by developing low-gluten grain options, for instance.
Critics highlight the dangers: interference with pollinators, potential pollution of organic crops, limited seed availability for small-scale farmers, and unknown impacts on human well-being.
Could patents result in the exclusion of small farmers?
The European Council was split regarding the approval of patents, with discussions centered around potential limitations these might impose on farmers’ options and the possibility of forming monopolies. It required nearly a year before they reached an agreement to permit patents, provided that certain specified reporting conditions were fulfilled.
One of the shadow rapporteurs overseeing the legislation stated that the European Parliament’s stance is to entirely prohibit patents.
“If several major global agricultural chemical companies monopolize seed production, farmers will face higher costs, lose their ability to make choices, and worst of all, genuine innovation in crop varieties will come to an end,” stated Christophe Clergeau, a French centre-left MEP.
Only a few member states have demonstrated significant interest in GM crops, with Spain being an outlier. Many nations have gone so far as to ban these technologies outright, allowing governments to exercise their choice to opt out. However, this might not remain possible for every category of such products.
Approximately ten years back, this matter turned into a significant political concern, particularly with considerable public resistance across Europe. The governments called for an exemption and received one,” clarifies Hodgson, further stating: “Since the plants in this new classification will essentially mirror typical naturally occurring plants, authorities won’t have the choice to prohibit their growth anymore.
Politician Clergeau emphasizes that they are just starting with this innovative technology, asserting that the EU needs to proceed cautiously since “intervening in nature can lead to chains of alterations which might threaten biodiversity.”
A whole new realm of opportunities is quickly emerging in the field of food production, as scientists are now investigating the application of generative artificial intelligence to this sector. As expected, this development has sparked some debate!
Watch the video here!
Journalist: Isabel Marques da Silva
Content creation: Pilar Montero López
Video production: Zacharia Vigneron
Graphism: Loredana Dumitru
Editorial coordination: Ana Lázaro Bosch and Jeremy Fleming-Jones
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, flights, flying, Travel
From the cabin temperature to disruptive passengers sitting nearby, various factors can cause anxiety among nervous fliers, according to a recent survey.
Larger seating, meditation applications, and calming music are alternative features that could assist in easing travelers’ anxieties.
Selecting the appropriate airline can significantly impact your experience. By examining safety records and onboard amenities, a luggage storage company
Bounce
has listed the top airlines suitable for passengers who experience anxiety during flights.
Three of the top 10 spots were held by European airlines.
What causes discomfort for passengers during flights?
Bounce polled more than 2,000 travelers to identify which elements of air travel have the biggest effect on passengers during their trips.
More than 50% of travelers mention loudchildren as an issue.
turbulence
Make their flight experience unpleasant. This figure is more than twice as high as the number of individuals who find crowded airplane restrooms distressing.
Randomly assigned seats make nearly one in every three individuals uneasy. Women are more prone to feeling discomfort about this arrangement, with over 31 percent expressing unease, as opposed to fewer than a quarter of men.
While serving too much
alcohol
Only approximately one in five individuals find this issue troubling. Concerns over heavy alcohol serving increase more than twofold as people get older. About one in every six persons within the 18-24 age group feels uncomfortable because of this, whereas nearly a third of those aged 65 and above share these worries.
The top airlines globally for anxious flyers
Based on the survey findings, Bounce identified the aspects within an airline’s control that contribute to enhancing passenger comfort.
The firm evaluated leading airlines based on various criteria such as Skytrax rating for assessing the performance of flight attendants, data related to seating arrangements, and the level of assistance provided to travelers.
Singapore Airlines tops the list with flawless reviews.
safety
One notable aspect is its economy class seat width of 47 cm, the broadest among the top 10, providing greater space for comfort during lengthy trips.
Although Singapore Airlines does not have a specific nervous flier support program, it still offers various amenities.
in-flight
Meditation Playlists: Our selections feature specially crafted Spotify playlists with natural soundscapes along with calming instrumental collections known for their gentle beats.
In the second position, Korean Air offers one of the most spacious economy class seats with a pitch of 82.5 cm. Additionally, it shares top honors with Singapore Airlines for safety, achieving a flawless 7/7 score, along with receiving a commendable 5/5 rating from airlines reviews.
Rounding out the top three is Cathay Pacific, headquartered at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).
Similar to the leading airlines, this carrier does not have a specific program for anxious fliers, but it provides calming playlists on board to assist with stress relief.
Nevertheless, this airline stands out among the top three as the sole one with an official collaboration with the mental health application called Headspace. This alliance enables them to offer meditation services aimed at alleviating anxiety for their passengers.
passengers
while in the sky.
The top European air carriers suitable for anxious fliers
The London Luton Airport-headquartered easyJet secured the sixth spot in the ranking. The airline’s seat width is only slightly narrower than that of the top-ranked carrier, Singapore Airlines, which has a width of 45 cm.
EasyJet stands out with its support program for anxious fliers. The Fearless Flyer course can be taken online and is conducted by both a specialist in phobias and an experienced easyJet captain.
British Airways ranks ninth. Despite having a review score of just 3 out of 5, it boasts a flawless safety record.
The
airline
Additionally, it provides a support program. The Flying with Confidence courses, conducted at various locations globally, are led by British Airways pilots and cabin crew members, assisted by a clinical psychologist.
SWISS concludes the list at number 10. The airline boasts spacious seats in economy class and holds a rating of 4 out of 5. Although SWISS lacks a specific program for anxious fliers, passengers can utilize the meditation and sleep app called Headspace.
In what ways can airlines enhance passengers’ comfort levels?
Alongside these features,
airlines
can take steps to make passengers feel more comfortable in the air, the report found.
According to the survey, most travelers do not concern themselves with physical facilities such as noise-canceling headphones or pillows and blankets.
Rather, amiable cabin crew are at the top of passengers’ preference list for comfort, with seat choice coming in as a close second.
Availability of Wi-Fi and in-seat power outlets are highly appreciated, particularly among younger travelers.
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, commerce, news, oil, petroleum
Accra, April 1 – Christian Li has been named as the new Managing Director at Vivo Energy Ghana, which handles Shell-branded fuel and lubricant products.
Following the departure of ex-Managing Director, Jean-Michel Arlandis, this has occurred.
Christian, who hails from Mauritius, boasts close to three decades of expertise in general management, business expansion, and sales and marketing across over 20 African nations.
Starting from 2022, he has taken up the position of Head of International Business at Engen. In this role, he oversees and supports Engen’s activities outside South Africa, which encompass operations in various countries such as DRC, Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Before this, he spent four years as the Managing Director of Engen Namibia, during which he was consistently ranked among the top 10 executives for three consecutive years.
Christian has also previously taken on various leadership positions in South Africa, Mauritius, and the Republic of Congo.
He was associated with Chevron for approximately eight years prior to moving to Engen Mauritius in 2011.
When announcing his appointment, Franck Konan-Yahaut, the Executive Vice President for West and Central Africa at Vivo Energy, showed faith in Christian, stating: “With his extensive expertise, dedication to achieving outstanding results, and drive for ongoing enhancement, Christian will be a highly valuable asset to our team.”
Thankful for his nomination, Christian committed to collaborating with the team and various stakeholders such as industry leaders to foster innovation and achieve excellence within the downstream sector.
“Given my experience spanning several industries, I’m confident that we can raise our already strong business to unparalleled levels,” states Christian.
GNA
GRB
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | armed forces, incident, military, news, soldiers
![]()
On Monday, the U.S. military reported that they had discovered three of their soldiers deceased inside an armored vehicle. This occurred when the vehicle was retrieved from a marshy area close to the town of Pabradė in eastern Lithuania.
The identities of the three soldiers from the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, have remained undisclosed until their families were informed, officials stated.
The fourth soldier from the same battalion remains unaccounted for as search and rescue operations persist.
Here’s what we currently understand regarding the event and the ongoing search for the final remaining U.S. service member.
At what point did the soldiers disappear?
The four soldiers were initially reported as missing last Tuesday. The US Army learned that both they and their M88 Hercules vehicle had disappeared within the extensive “General Silvestras Žukauskas” training area in east Lithuania.
The M88 Hercules, manufactured starting in 1961 with multiple versions and deployed during conflicts such as those in Vietnam and Iraq, is an extensive armored unit created for recovering tanks and other substantial gear from combat zones.
The 1st Brigade was carrying out “gunnery tables,” which consist of various drills aimed at assessing a unit’s capability to execute a mission, when a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, also known as an Oshkosh, became immobile.
“The Hercules was sent to retrieve that vehicle,” stated Major Nicholas “Nuke” Chopp, a spokesperson for US Army Europe and Africa, to Euronews.
At some point during their journey towards the vehicle, they came across a body of water and went into it. What happened after that remains unknown.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte initially suggested that the four soldiers had been found deceased, however, the alliance later corrected his statement and announced that the search efforts were still continuing.
Following the disappearance of the soldiers, the Lithuanian armed forces and police initiated a collaborative search effort alongside the U.S. military.
Hundreds of rescuers searched through thick forests and swampy terrain around Pabradė, some 10 kilometres west of the border with Belarus.
How was the vehicle found?
Following a three-day search, an American soldier located the M88 Hercules that the troops had been traveling in, which was submerged beneath at least five meters of water, muddy clay, and silt.
A large number of both local and international forces along with other rescuers, featuring Polish engineering units and U.S. Navy divers, were dispatched to the location for recovering the trapped vehicle.
The Lithuanian divers arrived quickly as well, according to Chopp. He praised Lithuania saying, “It’s been absolutely incredible; it feels like the whole nation is working cohesively to bring their troops back.” Additionally, he mentioned that both the defense minister and the prime minister of this Baltic state visited the location to assist with supporting the rescue operation.
After the Hercules was located, rescuers needed to navigate through the thick mud to access the vehicle initially. Chopp mentioned, “The divers weren’t really swimming; instead, they were essentially grappling their way through.”
The M88 Hercules, weighing around 70 tons, charged into the bog with speed, as Chopp described. He added, “Due to both the velocity and gravity, it kept sinking deeper into the muck.”
The rescue operations subsequently centered on extracting the vehicle. Chopp stated, “We can’t claim we were certain we could do it; at first, they calculated that around 600 tons of force would be required to pull the Hercules out of the mire.”
The effort encountered difficulties once more when two Hercules units along with extra Lithuanian bulldozers attempted to extract the vehicle from the marsh. Additional heavy dozers were dispatched to enhance traction and assist in the operation.
The US Army stated that it was finally extracted from the bog during the early hours of Monday morning following a two-hour operation, at which point three soldiers were discovered.
What happens next?
The Defense Ministry of Lithuania stated that both Lithuanian law enforcement officers and U.S. investigators are collaborating at the scene to determine what occurred with the four soldiers.
The ministry stated on X, “We will stay patient and concentrated as additional details regarding the circumstance are collected.”
Chopp indicates that the focus of the rescue operations has shifted towards locating the missing soldier. Lithuania has dispatched a canine unit to assist at the location, and Estonia has also joined these endeavors.
Chopp mentioned that the handler and the working dogs work using an “inflatable rigid-hulled vessel, often referred to as a Zodiac.” They navigate through the marsh in a grid formation to determine whether the dogs can detect any scents.
“Urgently locating and rescuing our fourth soldier remains the top priority for this command,” stated Chopp, noting that the event has shaken the close-knit military unit.
A probe has been initiated to determine what occurred with the soldiers and how their vehicle ended up stuck in the marsh.
The landscape in the training zone is rough and demanding. According to Chopp, this setting mimics where combat might take place, noting that military vehicles often find themselves trapped here.
At times, the landscape prevails, essentially. What certainly isn’t ordinary is this sorrowful event. Fortunately for our troops, such occurrences are quite uncommon; however, even once is undeniably too often.
