The intersection of technology and politics in the United States is undergoing a seismic shift, with the rise of Silicon Valley libertarians and their increasing influence on governance. At the center of this movement is David Sacks, recently appointed as the “AI & Crypto Czar” by President-elect Donald Trump. This development signals a new era where tech bros are reshaping both innovation and policy.

The Emergence of Tech-Libertarianism in Politics

Silicon Valley has long been home to a conservative-libertarian ideology that values deregulation and innovation over bureaucracy. With Sacks at the helm, the influence of tech bros in Washington is set to grow, potentially transforming America’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI), cryptocurrency, and digital governance.

Key Policy Shifts Under Sacks:

• AI Leadership: A focus on reclaiming dominance in AI by reversing Biden-era policies and accelerating innovation to compete with China.
• Crypto Regulation: Establishing a clear, pro-innovation framework to foster blockchain development.
• Free Speech Advocacy: Tackling allegations of bias in Big Tech platforms and promoting freedom of expression online.

David Sacks: The Face of the “Tech Bros for Trump” Movement

David Sacks, a member of the “PayPal Mafia” and a close associate of Elon Musk, brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and political experience to his new role. Beyond his business ventures with companies like SpaceX and Palantir, Sacks has leveraged his media presence and political connections to shape conservative narratives.

His Key Contributions:

• Media Influence: As a co-host of the All-In Podcast, Sacks critiques progressive policies and amplifies libertarian values.
• AI Innovation: Founder of Glue, an AI-driven communication platform positioned as an alternative to Slack.
• Political Impact: His fundraising efforts and alliance with figures like JD Vance exemplify the growing alignment between Silicon Valley libertarians and conservative populists.

Elon Musk’s Role in Amplifying Conservative Narratives

Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter marked a turning point in the digital culture wars. By transforming the platform into a “free speech haven,” Musk empowered tech bros like Sacks to push conservative agendas. The reinstatement of prominent conservative voices, including Donald Trump’s, was a game-changer.

Outcomes of Musk’s Twitter Revolution:

1. Counter-Narratives: Viral campaigns, like the “Kamala Doom Loop,” critiqued Democratic leadership with simple yet powerful messaging.
2. Populist-Tech Collaboration: Twitter became a digital battleground where tech bros championed Trump’s policies.
3. AI-Powered Messaging: Tools like Glue allowed for personalized campaign outreach, delivering content tailored to resonate with individual voters.

The Strategic Alliance: JD Vance and the Tech-Populist Movement

Sacks played a pivotal role in aligning JD Vance, a venture capitalist and Rust Belt populist, with Trump’s campaign. This partnership bridged the gap between Silicon Valley libertarians and grassroots conservatives, creating a broad coalition that redefined modern political strategy.

Highlights of the Alliance:

• Leveraged technology to amplify populist narratives.
• Strengthened ties between Silicon Valley and traditional Republican bases.
• Crafted messaging that resonated with disillusioned voters across demographics.

The Power of Narrative Engineering

One of the most striking examples of tech bros’ influence was the success of the “Kamala Doom Loop” narrative. By highlighting Vice President Kamala Harris’s missteps, this viral campaign reinforced conservative critiques and energized their base.

Key Strategies:

• Simplified Messaging: Presented complex criticisms in easily digestible formats.
• Viral Content: Memes and videos spread rapidly, creating a self-reinforcing feedback loop.
• Digital Propaganda: Personalized AI tools ensured the message reached its target audience effectively.

Tech Bros and the Future of Governance

With figures like Mark Zuckerberg warming to Trump’s administration and the tech bros gaining political leverage, America’s political landscape is at a crossroads. Sacks’s role as AI and Crypto Czar will likely prioritize:

• Minimal Regulation: Encouraging innovation by removing bureaucratic hurdles.
• Strategic Advantage: Leveraging emerging technologies to secure global competitiveness.
• Cultural Influence: Using digital platforms to amplify conservative values.

Challenges and Ethical Concerns

While the rise of tech bros promises innovation and efficiency, it also raises questions about conflicts of interest and the potential misuse of technology. Policymakers must address:

• Transparency in AI and digital governance.
• Ethical use of personalized data for political campaigns.
• Safeguards against the monopolization of influence by Silicon Valley elites.

David Sacks and the broader tech bros movement represent a paradigm shift in how technology intersects with governance. By blending innovation with political strategy, this coalition is crafting a future where Silicon Valley disruptors wield unprecedented power in Washington. Whether this leads to a golden age of progress or exacerbates existing divides remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the influence of tech bros on America’s political and technological landscapes is only beginning to unfold.

Source:: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Growing Influence of Chinese Technology: A Global Concern

Emerging technologies are transforming how individuals make decisions and interact with the digital world. Among these advancements, Chinese Emerging  technology is raising significant national security and ethical concerns due to its persuasive potential. With tools capable of influencing behavior and shaping beliefs, understanding their implications is critical for global policymakers, businesses, and society.

The Power of Persuasive Technology

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced a new era of persuasive tools, capable of subtly nudging decisions and altering perceptions. These technologies leverage vast amounts of personal data to create tailored experiences, influencing user behaviors. While some applications, such as maintaining streaks on apps like Snapchat or Duolingo, seem benign, the underlying mechanisms have far-reaching implications.

Research highlights the potential for Chinese Emerging  technology  to deploy persuasive tools with “unprecedented capabilities,” sparking fears that these innovations could be weaponized for propaganda, social manipulation, or political interference. This reflects the concept of “subduing enemies without fighting,” a tactic rooted in the philosophies of Sun Zi (孫子).

National Security Concerns and Propaganda Risks

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute recently reported that Chinese Emerging  technology  is at the forefront of persuasive tools, spanning generative AI, virtual reality, and neurotechnology. These technologies are being tailored to align with Beijing’s military and propaganda goals. Their ability to exploit cognitive vulnerabilities poses a significant threat to democratic societies, allowing bad actors to sway public opinion or foment unrest.

China’s private sector has rapidly adopted techniques for analyzing personal data and customizing interactions to influence users. However, the origins of these tactics can be traced to practices established by US tech giants. Addressing the risks posed by Chinese Emerging  technology therefore requires a broader examination of how persuasive technologies have become integral to modern digital platforms.

Global Implications of Persuasive Technologies

While concerns about Chinese Emerging  technology are growing, the issue of persuasive tools is not confined to one nation. These technologies are a double-edged sword. On the positive side, studies show that AI can reduce belief in conspiracy theories through personalized dialogue, demonstrating its potential for positive behavior change. However, these same tools can be misused for nefarious purposes, raising questions about regulation and ethical deployment.

Policymakers and tech leaders must address the following challenges:

• Ensuring transparency in how content is tailored to influence behavior.
• Expanding data protection laws to limit targeted manipulation.
• Prioritizing digital literacy to help users recognize and counteract persuasive tactics.

The Role of Transparency and Digital Literacy

Demanding greater transparency from tech companies is essential. Clear disclosures when content is tailored for behavioral influence could empower users to make informed choices. Additionally, robust data protection laws would restrict the ability of persuasive tools to exploit personal information.

Digital literacy programs are another critical component. By educating users on how algorithms and personalized content work, individuals can better understand and resist manipulative tactics. This proactive approach can mitigate the risks associated with Chinese Emerging  technology and other persuasive tools.

Collaborative Solutions for a Global Challenge

To combat the misuse of persuasive technologies, companies and policymakers must work together:

• Tech firms, including those in Chinese Emerging  technology , should prioritize ethical AI development and share findings with regulators.
• Policymakers should establish global standards for transparency and data protection.
• Research into safeguarding against manipulative tools must be expanded.
• 

Companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have set examples by leading initiatives on AI safety. Such collaborative efforts are vital to prevent adversaries from exploiting these technologies.

The Urgency of Action

The risk of Chinese Emerging  technology  evolving to manipulate beliefs and decisions on a large scale might seem like a distant concern, but the stakes are too high to ignore. Proactive measures to regulate and understand these technologies are essential. Policymakers, researchers, and tech companies must join forces to ensure that persuasive tools are used ethically and transparently.

Chinese Emerging  technology  represents both an opportunity and a challenge in the digital age. While its advancements hold promise, the risks of misuse cannot be overlooked. By addressing transparency, enhancing digital literacy, and fostering global collaboration, societies can harness the benefits of emerging technologies while safeguarding against their potential harms.

Source:: taipeitimes.com

The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles UAVs has grown rapidly due to advancement in technology and hence needs countermeasures. With the advancement in technology, the deployment of new counter drones (C-UAS) systems has emerged as a central issue for protection against UAV threats. In this article, the author discusses the current trends in the counter drones sector, including new technologies and approaches to counter UAV threats.

The Emergence of counter-drone systems 

The advancement in drone technology and the falling costs of the technology due to the commercial application have seen the drones gain a much wider use in different areas such as military conflicts in areas like Ukraine and the Middle East. The use of off-the-shelf consumer drones and improvements in swarm technology have increased the threat levels, and thus require the use of advanced counter drone systems.

Current and future investments on defensive C-UAS systems are increasing rapidly especially in countries like Russia, China and the United States as they seek to outdo each other in drone technology. They are a clear indication that it is high time that C-UAS systems are designed to incorporate new threats.

Technologies that are defining the counter-drone systems Industry

1. GPS-Denied Operations

Another important trend in the counter-drone systems  space is that UAVs can fly in areas where GPS is unavailable. This capability also challenges conventional GNSS jamming strategies, thus requiring the use of PNT systems based on advanced technologies such as quantum radar. These advancements put pressure on the current C-UAS systems and bring new ideas to the detection and interdiction domain.

2. Kinetic Solutions

Tactical kinetic solutions still remain the foundation of C-UAS activities. This is because while traditional SAMs are useful for bringing down large UAVs, they are expensive for small drones. Less costly models such as the machine guns, cannons and collision drones are preferred largely due to their cost effectiveness. The new trends include the use of artificial intelligence in improving target acquisition, advanced fuses for proximity, and multiform RWS that can incorporate various effectors.

3. DEW systems: Directed Energy Weapons

High-energy lasers (HEL) and high-power microwave (HPM) weapons are emerging as the newcounter-drone systems . HEL systems provide pinpoint accuracy with cheap marginal costs per shot while HPM weapons destroy drones through interference with their electronics. These solutions are especially useful in countering drone swarms which could be dealt with severely using conventional kinetic approaches.

4. Swarm Countermeasures at a higher level

Swarm drones, flying in groups, on their own, and in coordination with other drones, are a challenge to C-UAS systems. DEWs are gaining popularity as the solution to counter swarms because they are area denial systems that can engage multiple targets. However, kinetic solutions are still applicable in smaller and less complicated swarm applications.

5. AI and Autonomous Operations

AI is entering UAV and counter-drone systems . Swarms of UAVs that are self-driven and self-controlled by artificial intelligence can maneuver away from projectiles that are fired at them making interception difficult. These intelligent UAVs have to be countered by C-UAS systems that will have to integrate sophisticated AI algorithms. AI also improves target identification, tracking, and engagement time, which are critical components of today’s C-UAS systems.

New Approaches to Detection and Prevention

Multi-Sensor Integration

The integration of radar, acoustic, and EO/IR systems improves C-UAS systems’ accuracy. This enables the operators to make better differentiation of actual threats posed by drones from false alarms which in turn increases efficiency of counter-drone systems   measures.

Countermeasure Resilience

New approaches to inertial and visual navigation have reduced the efficiency of the jamming strategy. Currently, C-UAS developers are looking for GNSS-independent solutions such as quantum radar to counter highly developed UAV equipment.

Flexible and Affordable Systems

Modularity has become common in counter drone systems due to the need to achieve a cost effective solution. Current and future C-UAS systems are being created as multi-mission systems, such as those offered by Electro Optic Systems (EOS) that can include kinetic and directed energy weapons depending on the threat. This is well illustrated by EOS’s Slinger counter-drone systems that use radar to track and destroy the targets with a 30mm cannon, which has both high lethality and reasonable cost.

Partnerships and Multi Collaborations

The development of counter drone solutions requires cooperation between technology suppliers. AI and RF sensing technology coupled with jamming and advanced weapon systems in a single C-UAS package enables a client-oriented approach, where each complete solution is designed based on the requirements of military and critical infrastructure clients.

Counter drone technology: current and future

One cannot help but notice that the threats of drone technology also change with time. The future of counter-drone systems is going to be based on integrated systems that use AI, kinetic solutions, and directed energy weapons. Through the acquisition of new technologies, countries will be able to develop adequate security systems that will be helpful in countering UAV threats with the aim of protecting valuable resources as well as stand out in the modern world warfare systems.

source:: army-technology.com

Delivering his keynote address at a workshop on emerging technologies in cyber security, T.V Ravichandran, Deputy NSA noted that new age technologies provide the antidote to the escalating complexity of threats to the nation’s security. Ravichandran underlined the importance of developing new strategies concerning the issues related to cyber threats during the discussion on Bharat National Cybersecurity Exercise (Bharat NCX) 2024 hosted by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) with the support of Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU).

Cyber Security Through Bharat NCX 2024

Bharat NCX 2024, a milestone initiative, comprised two key events: The two events are the Bharat CISO’s Conclave and the Bharat Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition. These events proved that India is ready to enhance its cyber defense using cooperation and creativity. Participants who are professionals from government agencies, sectors in the critical infrastructure and private entities, exchanged best practices and explored more innovative solutions on the trends in  emerging technologies in cyber security.

In his keynote address, IPS officer from Tamil Nadu cadre, Ravichandran called for emerging technologies in cyber security  for the security of the nation. Similar opinions were expressed by Lt. Gen. M.U. Nair (Retd), National Cyber Security Coordinator who emphasized the need for preventive action and inter-industry cooperation in the face of new threats.

Building India’s Digital Wall

The Bharat CISO’s Conclave was held to discuss the ways to build a better and secure digital India. Brought together CISOs, CTOs, CROs and other similar professionals and executives to share ideas on how to meet some of the most important cyber threats. From the discussions it emerged that leadership required cohesion and the approach to cyber security had to be strategic.

Further, the National Cybersecurity Reference Framework (NCRF) and the introduction of the National Cyber Range 1.0 (NCR-1.0) were also big steps for India’s cyber security strategy. These efforts are to promote best practices, and conduct exercises in which organizations can learn how they would fare in the event of an attack.

Innovations in the Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition

The Bharat Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition revealed the great opportunities of India as an entrepreneurial country by presenting the most innovative solutions from the leading startups. Points of interest were threat intelligence, OT security, and advanced analytics. These innovations showed that new emerging technologies in cyber security  can offer strong protection from complex attacks and put India amongst the leaders in cyber technology.

Collaboration: One of the pillars of cyber security success

Another interesting topic of Bharat NCX 2024 was the idea of synergy. It focused on the fact that the fight against cyber threats should involve representatives of the state and business, scientists, and young innovators. Through collaboration, India can harness the complete potential of new emerging technologies in cyber security  to create a more secure environment.

According to Lt. Gen. Nair, fighting cyber threats is a multi-sector task. Preventive action, sustained development, and the capacity to predict and counter emerging threats are essential to protect key structures and data.

The Role of Emerging Technologies for Strategic Management of Cyber Security

The advancement in new emerging technologies in cyber security  has shifted the way countries engage in cyber security threats. From artificial intelligence to blockchain, these technologies provide perhaps the best solutions to identifying, managing, and eradicating cyber threats. For example, AI analytic helps to work in real-time identification of threats and the usage of blockchain technology for secure data exchange and transactions’ safety.

Deputy NSA Ravichandran highlighted that using these technologies is not a luxury but a necessity for the security of a nation. Thus, by learning modern technologies and encouraging trends, India can take its position in the cyber war and maintain the sovereignty of the Indian information space.

A Vision for the Future

Bharat NCX 2024 has laid down a vision for the future of cyber security in India in a very positive way. The event highlighted the importance of emerging technologies in cyber security in the ability to fashion a more secure digital environment. By concepts like the National Cyber Range and strategic frameworks, the Indian is preparing for an organized defense against cyber foes.

Therefore the incorporation of the new technologies in cyber security is crucial in order to confront challenges of the present generation. Through embracing innovation, collaboration and preventive measures, India is in the right direction to chart a course of a secure cyberspace to protect national interests and promote global confidence.

Source::republicworld.com

Growth Technology to create 2.7 Million AI related jobs in India by 2028

India being one of the most rapidly growing economies in the world, is expected to expand its workforce significantly owing to the disruptive power of emerging technology. According to the recent research by ServiceNow – an AI platform for business transformation, new emerging tech will generate 2.73 million new AI relevant jobs in India by 2028. The working population of the nation is expected to rise in number from 423.73 million in 2023 to 457.62 million in 2028 and added employment is estimated at 33.89 million.

The retail industry takes the mantle of job generation in the country.

This sector shows that the retail sector will be one of the biggest beneficiaries of this rise, and it is set to generate an additional 6.96 million jobs. Given the encouraging result achieved through the use of the new technologies like AI, e-sales, and automation, the retail industry has shifted towards digitalisation. This shift is a great chance for retail employees to gain new skills such as Software Application Development or Data Engineering. They will be ready for the new environment and able to seize opportunities resulting from new technologies augmented by these skills.

Next in line is the manufacturing industry to generate 1.5 million jobs, education and healthcare sectors to generate 840,000 and 800,000 jobs respectively. These sectors will require a highly skilled human resource to drive this change given the emerging technology  and expected future economic growth.

How AI Can Help Boost Employment

AI will be expected to drive this growth especially in industries that demand high technical skills. Sumeet Mathur, Senior Vice President & Managing Director at ServiceNow India Technology & Business Center also insists that AI will act as a job multiplier across the India economy. By focusing on such emerging technology, the platform will not only create high value employment opportunities but also ensure workers obtain the digital tools required to foster sustainable careers in tech. With ‘RiseUp with ServiceNow’ the company has furthered its efforts to close the skills gap through partnerships with universities and government programs.

Rising Demand for Tech Talent

There is a growing requirement for technology staff irrespective of the field. Some of the industries that are experiencing this surge include; Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Manufacturing, and Telecommunications. Some of the new jobs are expected to be created for positions such as Software Application Developers of which more than 109,700 new positions are expected to be available. Other high demand jobs include Systems Software Developers at 48 800 jobs, Data Engineer at 48 500 jobs and Web developers Data Analysts and software testers who are expected to record an addition of over 140, 000.

Besides, there will be a constant growth of such positions as Data Integration Specialists, Database Architects, and Data Scientists: the number of new positions to be created will be approximately 43,000. With the current trends of emerging technology, there will be a need for highly skilled individuals in data science, cloud computing, and AI.

New Technologies Changing the Face of IT Positions

The effects of emerging tech are also reflected in the IT industry. Competencies related to generative AI and automation will drastically change as the technologies develop in the future, as applied to particular tech positions. For example, Systems Administrators are estimated to have 39 percent of their tasks automated or augmented by emergent technologies, including artificial intelligence, and should spend 6.9 hours per week on them. The above automation will help to create more time for other various and creative aspects of these tasks.

AI Systems Engineers will stand to gain significantly with 50% of their weekly tasks being affected by emerging technology freeing up their time to solve higher level engineering problems. Likewise, implementation consultants should be able to save 1.9 hours per week as AI takes over administrative work, leaving the actual work of analysis and planning.

Even less exposed roles like Platform Owners will also see efficiency improvements with up to 30 minutes of their week being freed by automation. These changes illustrate how new technologies can assist with improving efficiency in many different sectors of the IT industry, allowing practitioners to work on more valuable projects.

A Future that is Driven by Emerging Tech

Emerging technology  is evolving at a very fast rate and the result is that industries are changing, new opportunities are being created, and there is a growing need for specialized skills. The current and future growth of India’s workforce, as well as industries’ ability to integrate and respond to technological change, will continue to be driven by emerging technologies. In all fields, be it retail, manufacturing, Information Technology, professionals who adopt such technologies will be well-positioned for the future economy.

Last but not the least, the world of emerging technology  is not only going to open millions of opportunities but also redefine existing positions in different industries. Through skills development, technology can be adopted and used by the coined Indian workforce to advance economical growth as well as ensure a place in this new technological sphere.

Source:; deccanherald.com