Tech: In a major boost to agri-tech, Vivek Raj, CEO of Panama Hydro-X, is investing ₹214 crore in AI-enabled hydroponic farming in Karnataka to cultivate high-value spices and medicinal plants.

The company has spent ₹146 crore on research and secured four AI patents in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia.

A 16-acre facility is being set up in Moodbidri and is expected to be ready by 2026, with the first harvest planned for June 2027. Trials showed ginger yields three times higher than traditional farming and enabled three crop cycles annually.

The company will also hire 37 engineers in Mangalore to support expansion.

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Raj turned to agricultural technology after losing his 5,000-acre ginger crop during a drought in Chikkamagaluru, transforming the setback into an innovation-led farming venture.

Mangaluru: The central government on Friday blocked access to 242 illegal betting and gambling website links, official sources said. The action comes as part of a wider crackdown on unlawful online gaming platforms.

This move follows the government’s decision to ban real-money gaming apps in August last year. Sources said that so far, more than 7,800 illegal betting and gambling websites have been blocked across the country. Enforcement has increased sharply after the Online Gaming Act came into effect.

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Officials said the step shows the government’s strong resolve to protect users, especially young people, and to prevent financial losses and social problems linked to illegal online betting and gambling.

Las Vegas : Samsung on Friday announced the global launch of the Freestyle+, its latest AI-powered portable projector. The new device was unveiled ahead of CES 2026 in Las Vegas.

The Freestyle+ comes with a compact cylindrical design and delivers up to 430 ISO lumens of brightness. It continues the design language of the original Freestyle but adds improved artificial intelligence features for smarter use.

The projector supports 180-degree rotation, allowing users to project content on walls, ceilings, or floors with ease. It is designed for flexible viewing in different environments.

The Freestyle+ offers built-in access to Samsung TV Plus and certified OTT streaming service partners. It also supports the Samsung Gaming Hub, enabling cloud-based gaming without the need for a console.

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With its portable design and smart features, the Freestyle+ is aimed at users looking for entertainment on the go. Samsung said the new projector reflects its focus on innovation and connected home experiences.