government 15 - The Latremie Post

US government approves Meta’s LLaMA for official use

**US Government Approves Meta’s LLaMA for Official Use**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 22, 2025, 06:31 PM*

The US government has officially approved the use of Meta Platforms’ artificial intelligence (AI) system, LLaMA, as part of its ongoing effort to integrate commercial AI tools into federal operations.

Josh Gruenbaum, the General Services Administration (GSA)’s procurement lead, confirmed that LLaMA will be added to the list of approved AI tools available for use by federal agencies.

### About LLaMA and Its Capabilities

LLaMA is a family of large language models (LLMs) capable of processing diverse data types including text, video, images, and audio. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for various government tasks.

In recent months, the GSA has also approved AI solutions from other major tech companies such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI. These providers have committed to offering their paid AI products at discounted rates while ensuring compliance with government security standards.

### Enhancing Government Efficiency

The GSA has verified that LLaMA meets all necessary security and legal requirements, allowing federal agencies to experiment with this free tool confidently.

This approval aligns with a broader initiative to boost efficiency and productivity across multiple government departments. Agencies will now be able to leverage LLaMA to expedite contract reviews, resolve IT issues more quickly, and streamline various administrative processes.

By incorporating advanced AI tools like LLaMA, the government aims to modernize operations and deliver faster, more effective public services.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/us-government-can-now-use-meta-s-ai-tool-llama/story

India`s GST reforms ignite clash between PM Modi and Congress

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari on Monday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent speech on Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms implementation, suggesting that the PM should have issued an apology to the nation.

Accusing the Narendra Modi-led central government of “looting” poor and middle-class citizens, Tiwari stated that Congress and the opposition had been demanding a single GST slab based on the concept of ‘One Nation, One Tax’.

“The question that needs to be asked is who increased the GST? Who put a burden on the country by increasing it for eight years? You (PM Modi) should have apologised to the nation yesterday. Congress and the Opposition had been demanding only one slab on the basis of ‘one nation, one tax’. However, you looted the poor and middle-class citizens,” Tiwari told ANI.

The Congress MP further criticized PM Modi for referring to the GST rate rationalisation as a “festival,” pointing out that it was the government who had imposed GST at midnight.

“Yesterday, the Prime Minister said that this is a festival. He said that we should celebrate because GST has been reduced. You imposed GST at 12:00 in the night in Parliament. You spoke similarly then. People of this country have paid over Rs 50 lakh crore in GST. The MSMEs have almost shut down,” Tiwari added.

“Now, you (PM Modi) have the courage to ask people to celebrate the ‘Utsav’. Only you could have shown this courage. Your face was telling that your words lacked self-confidence and courage,” he further remarked.

Meanwhile, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri commented on the GST reforms, saying they have brought a wave of happiness and celebration among people and could potentially boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 0.8%.

The new GST reforms came into force from Monday. Puri stated, “Apart from Navratri, the budget utsav has begun. There is a wave of happiness and celebration among people wherever you see. GST rates have been reduced, which will benefit all sections of society. But we are celebrating something else. These reforms can boost the GDP by 0.8%.”

He emphasized that the country’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat (developed India) depends on self-reliance.

“It has been welcomed by all sections of society,” Puri added. He noted that all groups, particularly the lower middle class and economically weaker sections, will benefit as GST rates on various consumption items have been reduced.

From the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking a significant step forward in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the implementation of Next Generation GST reforms marks the beginning of a “GST Bachat Utsav” (Savings Festival) across India. He emphasized that this celebration will enhance savings and make it easier for people to purchase their preferred items.

PM Modi noted that the benefits of this savings festival will reach the poor, middle class, neo middle class, youth, farmers, women, shopkeepers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike.

*This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or the data in the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/indias-gst-sparks-political-row-as-congress-pramod-tiwari-says-pm-modi-should-have-apologised-23595243

‘Give up…foreign jet’: Kejriwal jabs Modi on buy Swadeshi call

**‘Give up foreign jet’: Kejriwal jabs Modi on Buy Swadeshi call**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 22, 2025, 02:11 pm*

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has taken a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call to buy indigenous products. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader questioned why PM Modi does not follow his own advice by using Swadeshi products himself.

Writing in Hindi, Kejriwal said, “The foreign aircraft you travel on daily, why not give it up?” He further challenged the Prime Minister, saying people expect concrete action rather than just sermons.

Kejriwal pressed Modi on why, if he is serious about promoting Swadeshi, he has not taken steps to shut down American companies operating in India. “Why don’t you take some action too? People expect action from their prime minister, not sermons,” he added.

This critique comes shortly after PM Modi’s address to the nation on Sunday, where he urged citizens to embrace self-reliance and reduce dependence on foreign goods.

### GST 2.0 Announcement

During his address, PM Modi announced a significant overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, dubbed ‘GST 2.0.’ The new framework introduces two primary tax rates of 5% and 18%. Meanwhile, ultra-luxury and sin goods will attract a higher tax rate of 40%.

Describing the rollout as a “GST saving festival,” Modi emphasized that the reforms aim to ease consumer burdens while boosting domestic consumption and production.

### Navratri Message: Linking Festival with Self-Reliance

On Monday, PM Modi took to X once more to share his Navratri message, connecting the festival’s spirit to the theme of self-reliance. He wrote:

_”This time, the auspicious occasion of Navratri is very special. Along with the GST savings festival, the mantra of self-reliance will gain new energy during this period.”_

He called upon citizens to come together for the collective goal of building a developed and self-reliant India.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding political exchange and the implications of the new GST framework.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/give-up-foreign-jet-kejriwal-targets-pm-after-swadeshi-call/story

‘Give up…foreign jet’: Kejriwal jabs Modi on buy Swadeshi call

**‘Give up foreign jet’: Kejriwal Jabs Modi on Swadeshi Call**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 22, 2025 | 02:11 PM*

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has taken a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call for citizens to buy indigenous products. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader questioned why the Prime Minister does not lead by example by using Swadeshi products himself.

“Why don’t you give up the foreign aircraft you travel on daily?” Kejriwal wrote in Hindi, challenging Modi to practice what he preaches.

### Criticism: “People Expect Action, Not Sermons”

Kejriwal further urged PM Modi to back up his Swadeshi push with concrete actions. He questioned why the government hasn’t taken steps to shut down American companies operating in India if it is truly serious about promoting domestic products.

“Why don’t you take some action too? People expect action from their Prime Minister, not sermons,” Kejriwal added.

### Background: Modi’s Push for Self-Reliance

This critique comes in the wake of PM Modi’s recent address to the nation, in which he urged citizens to embrace self-reliance and reduce dependence on foreign goods. Modi’s call is part of a broader vision to make India more self-sufficient and promote domestic industries.

### GST 2.0 Announcement

During his address, PM Modi also announced a major overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), branded as “GST 2.0.” The new tax framework will have two main rates: 5% and 18%. Additionally, ultra-luxury and sin goods will attract a higher tax rate of 40%. The Prime Minister described this rollout as a “GST savings festival,” aimed at easing consumer burdens while boosting domestic consumption and production.

### Navratri Message: Linking Festival to Self-Reliance

On Monday, PM Modi took to X to share a special Navratri message that connected the festival’s spirit with the mantra of self-reliance. He wrote:

*”This time, the auspicious occasion of Navratri is very special. Along with the GST savings festival, the mantra of self-reliance will gain new energy during this period.”*

The Prime Minister called for collective efforts towards building a developed and self-reliant India during this festive season.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates on the GST reforms and the Swadeshi movement.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/give-up-foreign-jet-kejriwal-targets-pm-after-swadeshi-call/story

Gatwick second runway plan approved by transport secretary

**Gatwick Second Runway Plan Approved by Transport Secretary**

*By Katy Austin, Transport Correspondent and Jamie Whitehead, BBC News*

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved plans for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, marking a significant step as the government seeks new opportunities for economic growth.

The £2.2 billion privately-financed project essentially involves moving the current Northern Runway 12 metres to bring it into regular use, alongside other developments including terminal expansions. The airport says the plans will create jobs and boost the local economy.

Gatwick currently handles around 280,000 flights annually. The new plan would increase this number to approximately 389,000 flights by the late 2030s. A government source described the plan as a “no-brainer for growth,” adding that it is possible planes could be utilising a new full runway at Gatwick before the next general election.

Located in West Sussex, London Gatwick is currently Europe’s busiest single-runway airport, serving over 40 million passengers a year. The approved plans would add 40,000 more flights before the second runway opens, rising to 70,000 additional flights—nearly 190 per day—once the runway is fully operational. This expansion could see passenger numbers rise to as many as 80 million.

Currently, the Northern Runway is used only for taxiing or as a backup. The new second runway will primarily serve short-haul flights, while freeing up capacity on the main runway for more long-haul services.

The decision to approve the expansion was anticipated in February, when the transport secretary expressed that she was “minded to grant consent” for the Northern Runway planning application. Planning inspectors had raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposals on the surrounding area, including traffic congestion and noise pollution.

In response, in April Gatwick Airport agreed to implement stricter noise controls, an enhanced insulation scheme for nearby residents, and a target of having 54% of air passengers use public transport before the Northern Runway opens. To achieve this, the airport acknowledged that third parties, including the Department for Transport, would need to support the delivery of necessary infrastructure improvements—such as reinstating the full Gatwick Express rail service.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gatwick Express offered four non-stop trains per hour between the airport and London Victoria. This was reduced to two trains per hour in 2022.

To address road congestion concerns, Gatwick Airport has also proposed a cap on cars on the road if the 54% public transport target is not met prior to the runway’s first use. If neither the target nor the road traffic limit can be achieved, the runway plans would be delayed until £350 million in road improvements are completed. The airport stated this would ensure additional traffic flows can be accommodated without causing congestion.

A government source said, “This government has taken unprecedented steps to get this done, navigating a needlessly complex planning system, which our reforms will simplify in future.” They added, “Any airport expansion must be delivered in line with our legally binding climate change commitments and meet strict environmental requirements.”

However, there is strong opposition to the expansion, particularly from climate campaigners. Following the approval announcement, new Green Party leader Zack Polanski called it a “disaster for the climate crisis.”

In February, Greenpeace UK policy director Douglas Parr argued the extension would not drive economic growth. “The only thing it’s set to boost is air pollution, noise, and climate emissions,” he said.

Alex Chapman, senior economist at the left-leaning think tank New Economics Foundation, also contended the expansion would not create new jobs but rather shift them from other parts of the country. “People are already perfectly able to catch cheap flights on holiday or travel for business,” he added.

Unite the Union general secretary Sharon Graham voiced support for Gatwick having a second runway but cautioned it must come with “guarantees of well-paid, unionised jobs and proper facilities for workers.”

—

*This article will be updated as further developments occur.*
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9v7rz24z23o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

H-1B visa fee hike: Beneficiaries like Musk, Nadella, Pichai silent

**H-1B Visa Fee Hike: Beneficiaries Like Musk, Nadella, Pichai Remain Silent**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 06:25 PM*

Silicon Valley’s tech giants, including Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, and Satya Nadella, have remained notably silent following the announcement of a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. The fee hike was introduced by the Trump administration last Saturday, sparking surprise given that some of these leaders, notably Musk, have previously expressed strong opposition to changes in the H-1B visa system.

**Musk’s Previous Stance on H-1B Visa Changes**

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has been vocal about the importance of the H-1B visa program. In December, Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight that many critical contributors to his companies are beneficiaries of the H-1B visa. He went as far as threatening to “go to war” if the system was altered in a way that could harm these professionals.

**Details of the New Rule**

The recent regulation, signed by President Trump, imposes a hefty $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. According to the administration, the goal is to ensure that only “extraordinarily skilled” individuals enter the U.S. workforce, preventing companies from using foreign professionals to replace American workers.

This fee hike predominantly affects Indian professionals, who make up approximately 71% of all H-1B visa holders.

**Clarifications on the Fee**

The administration clarified that this new rule only applies to *new* visa petitions and does not impact existing H-1B visa holders who are re-entering the country. Karoline Leavitt, White House spokesperson, explained on X that “this is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies only to the petition.”

A petition refers to a company’s request to bring a skilled foreign worker to the U.S. workforce.

—

The response—or lack thereof—by influential tech leaders continues to draw attention as the industry assesses the impact of this significant policy change on talent acquisition and innovation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/h-1b-visa-s-100-000-fee-what-are-silicon-valley-ceos-saying/story

GST rate cuts take effect tomorrow: What’s getting cheaper

**GST Rate Cuts Take Effect Tomorrow: What’s Getting Cheaper**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 03:39 PM*

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council’s decision to cut rates on nearly 375 items will come into effect from tomorrow, September 22. This move is set to make a wide range of products—including kitchen staples, electronics, medicines, and automobiles—more affordable for consumers across the country.

### Sectoral Impact: Price Cuts Expected Across Consumer Goods

The GST rate cut will benefit multiple sectors. Daily-use food items such as butter, namkeen, ketchup, jam, dry fruits, coffee, and ice cream are expected to become cheaper. Electronics like TVs, air conditioners, and washing machines will also see price reductions. Several FMCG companies have already begun revising their prices in anticipation of the lower tax burden on these products.

### Healthcare: Medicines to Become More Affordable

The healthcare sector stands to gain significantly. Most medicines, formulations, and medical devices—such as glucometers and diagnostic kits—will now attract a GST rate of 5%. This reduction is expected to ease medicine costs for households. Pharmacies have been directed to either revise maximum retail prices or sell medicines at rates reflecting the new lower tax.

### Construction, Automotive Sectors to Benefit

Builders and homebuyers will also benefit from the GST rate cut, with cement’s tax rate reduced from 28% to 18%. The automobile sector is among the biggest beneficiaries: buyers of small cars will now pay 18% GST, while bigger models will attract 28%, a notable reduction from previous rates. This move is expected to boost demand in the automotive market.

### Services: Tax Cuts for Everyday Services and Household Staples

The services sector will also see benefits. Salons, beauty parlors, yoga studios, gyms, and health clubs will now be taxed at 5% without input credit, down from the earlier 18% with credit. Household staples such as hair oil, soaps, shampoos, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are also expected to become more affordable due to the lowered tax rate.

### Simplified GST Structure: Moving to a Two-Rate System

Alongside the rate cuts, the GST Council has simplified the tax structure into a largely two-rate system — 5% and 18%. Ultra-luxury goods will continue to attract a higher tax of 40%, while tobacco and related products will remain in the 28% slab with an additional cess. This marks a shift from the current four-slab system of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%, simplifying compliance and rate management.

—

Overall, the GST rate cuts coming into effect tomorrow aim to lighten the tax burden on consumers and businesses alike, promoting affordability and stimulating demand across various sectors. Stay tuned for more updates on pricing changes as companies revise their rates in line with the new GST norms.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/new-gst-rates-on-375-items-come-into-effect-tomorrow/story

Leaving Hamas in power would be a cowardly betrayal of the Israeli people – opinion

**Leaving Hamas in Power Would Be a Cowardly Betrayal of the Israeli People**

As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, those who have sacrificed in the conflict are growing increasingly frustrated with both Israeli and US officials. Many believe that allowing Hamas to remain in power is not only unacceptable but also a betrayal of the Israeli people who have endured tremendous hardship.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue their operations in the Gaza Strip, aiming to dismantle Hamas’s capabilities and protect Israeli civilians. For example, on September 19, 2025, the IDF intensified their efforts as part of this ongoing campaign. *(Photo credit: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)*

This prolonged conflict highlights the urgent need for decisive action. Leaving Hamas unchecked could empower a group responsible for consistent attacks against Israel, undermining the safety and future of its citizens.

— Jonathan Pollard
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868170

Leaving Hamas in power would be a cowardly betrayal of the Israeli people – opinion

**Leaving Hamas in Power Would Be a Cowardly Betrayal of the Israeli People – Opinion**

As the Israel-Hamas war drags on, those who have sacrificed in this conflict are growing increasingly frustrated with both Israeli and US officials. The ongoing hostilities continue to take a heavy toll on the Israeli population, leading many to question the current strategies and approaches.

On September 19, 2025, the IDF conducted operations in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the intense military engagements taking place. (Photo credit: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit)

By Jonathan Pollard
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868170

SC Clears New AIFF Constitution, Calls It A ‘New Beginning’ For Indian Football

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday approved the draft constitution of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) with certain modifications and directed the federation to adopt it within four weeks.

The top court described this development as a “new beginning for Indian football,” poised to take the sport to greater heights. It also ordered the AIFF to convene a special general body meeting to adopt the draft constitution, which was prepared by former Supreme Court judge L Nageswara Rao.

### Supreme Court’s Observations

A bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi stated, “We have approved the provisions of the constitution in the said terms. We direct the AIFF administration to call for a special general body meeting and adopt the draft constitution with the modifications in this judgment. This shall be done at the earliest, preferably within four weeks.”

The 78-page verdict, authored by Justice Narasimha, addressed 12 key issues including membership, suspension, age restrictions, and conflict of interest concerning both the AIFF and state football associations.

### Applicability to State Associations

The Supreme Court clarified that the draft constitution is applicable to state associations as well, despite their resistance. The bench emphasized, “The inclusion of eminent players, coaches, referees, and club representatives in the general body, with only further good governance, heralds transparency and fair play.”

The court further remarked that continuous monitoring of a sports federation by any external forum — including the Supreme Court — is inappropriate. “Having taken up the matter and ensured that the Constitution is brought to this stage, it is necessary to take it to its logical end. Our monitoring will only be that far and no further,” the bench said.

### Current Executive Committee Tenure

The court declined to interfere with the tenure of the current AIFF executive committee led by President Kalyan Chaubey. It noted that the committee was elected for a four-year term, set to expire in September 2026.

“The current executive committee can be treated as a permanent body which shall discharge its function in accordance with the relevant laws as well as the AIFF constitution,” the verdict added.

### Governance and Structure

On the issue of extending the AIFF constitution to state associations, the bench stressed the importance of maintaining the hierarchical pyramidical structure of Indian football. All constituent units and associations lower in hierarchy must observe the same discipline, transparency, fairness, and governance standards applied at the top level.

Referring to the FIFA statute and insights from Justice L N Rao, the court stated, “We are not inclined to accept the argument that the AIFF Constitution ought not to be extended to the state associations and local bodies.”

### Modifications to Eligibility Criteria

The Supreme Court modified the criteria for an “eminent player” eligible to be a member of the AIFF executive committee. The player must be retired for at least two years and have represented India’s senior national team in at least seven competitive matches for men or three for women sanctioned by FIFA/AFC.

However, the court proposed reducing these criteria to five matches for men and two for women to ensure a wider pool of participation by retired players who can serve as efficient administrators and mentors for Indian football.

### Definition of Office Bearers and Vice Presidents

The bench clarified that the term “office bearers” should be understood in the context of AIFF’s functioning and the reforms to be introduced. This definition directly affects the applicability of cooling-off periods, tenure, and age limits, aligning with the federation’s drive for vibrant governance.

Further, the court accepted AIFF’s proposal to increase the number of vice presidents to three, including at least one woman. “Such an amendment will enable women’s representation and, at the same time, confine the number of the executive committee to fifteen members,” the verdict noted.

### Disqualification Norms

Regarding disqualification criteria, the verdict incorporated provisions on criminal charges and convictions of AIFF and state association members. It aligned these norms with those applied in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) case.

The court modified the disqualification provision to focus on “conviction followed by a sentence of imprisonment,” rather than merely the framing of charges.

The bench also stated that public servants with necessary government approval should face no obstacles in becoming members of the football body.

### Other Modifications

Several other amendments were made to the draft constitution to align it with the National Sports Code, ensuring uniformity and compliance with national standards.

—

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/sc-clears-new-aiff-constitution-calls-it-a-new-beginning-for-indian-football