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Google Launches Universal Commerce Protocol to Power AI-Driven Retail

January 13, 2026

Open Standard UCP Aims to Reshape Digital Commerce with Agentic AI

Google has introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new open standard designed to redefine digital commerce in the artificial intelligence era. The initiative seeks to empower retailers to better connect with consumers who are increasingly using AI agents for product discovery, price comparison, and making purchase decisions.

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G7 Ministers Convene in Washington to Address Critical Minerals Supply Chain Security

January 13, 2026

Amid China-Japan Tensions, G7 Talks Focus on Reducing Rare Earth Dependence

Amid escalating tensions between China and Japan over export controls, the United States is convening a high-level gathering of Group of Seven ministers this week to deliberate on rare earths and critical raw materials. The meeting underscores mounting apprehensions among leading industrialized nations regarding over-reliance on Chinese-dominated supply chains, which are fundamental to defense, clean energy, and advanced technology sectors.

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Indian Army Officer Major Swathi Honoured with UN Secretary-General's Award 2025

January 13, 2026

Gender-Inclusive Peacekeeping: Major Swathi's UNMISS Initiative Wins Global Acclaim

An Indian Army officer serving with a United Nations peacekeeping mission has been globally honoured for her exceptional contributions to advancing gender-inclusive operations. Major Swathi Shantha Kumar has been conferred the prestigious United Nations Secretary-General’s Award 2025 in recognition of her pioneering leadership and tangible impact in promoting gender parity and community engagement within a conflict zone.

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ISRO PSLV-C62 Mission Faces Anomaly Technical Analysis Underway

January 13, 2026

India's First 2026 Space Launch Encounters Third-Stage Disturbance

India's inaugural space mission of 2026, the PSLV-C62 launch, commenced successfully but subsequently encountered a technical anomaly. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) initiated the mission, which faced an unexpected disturbance near the conclusion of its third-stage burn, leading to a comprehensive review of flight data.

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Malaysia Blocks Grok AI: Joins Indonesia in Restricting Chatbot Over Ethical Misuse

January 13, 2026

Regulatory Scrutiny Rises as Southeast Asia Cracks Down on Generative AI Platforms

Malaysia has instituted a temporary ban on Grok, the generative AI chatbot created by Elon Musk's xAI, citing its alleged use in producing and distributing sexualized and non-consensual imagery. This action follows closely on the heels of a similar restriction imposed by Indonesia, highlighting increasing regulatory caution against generative AI tools across Southeast Asia.

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