US lawmakers debate rapid spread of AI in schools

IANS | February 25, 2026 7:09 AM

Washington, Feb 25 (IANS) US lawmakers debated the rapid spread of artificial intelligence in American classrooms, with teachers embracing time-saving tools but warning of risks to learning, privacy, and academic integrity.

AI’s power race hits US permit wall

IANS | February 25, 2026 7:05 AM

Washington, Feb 25 (IANS) The US push to lead in artificial intelligence is colliding with a hard constraint: power — and a permitting and litigation system lawmakers said can take “five years, sometimes ten years” just to connect new data centres to the grid.

US democracy push in developing nations framed as national security tool

IANS | February 25, 2026 6:48 AM

Washington, Feb 25 (IANS) The United States is using democracy promotion as a strategic instrument of national security, lawmakers and Trump Administration officials said, describing the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) as a frontline tool for advancing American interests abroad.

India seen as pivotal in US strategy to counter China on AI, critical minerals

IANS | February 25, 2026 6:29 AM

Washington, Feb 25 (IANS) The United States is positioning India as a strategic pillar in its effort to loosen China’s dominance over rare earth minerals and advanced technology supply chains, a top State Department official told lawmakers during a high-stakes Congressional hearing on economic security.