The Economic Times

GT vs PBKS Pitch Report: The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is known for its batsman-friendly pitches, especially those with red soil offering true bounce. For the IPL 2026 match between Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings on May 3, batters are expected to enjoy good conditions while spinners may struggle. Slight dew in the evening could favour the team batting second.

The Asian Development Bank has launched a new facility to boost critical minerals supply chains. This initiative aims to help developing economies in Asia and the Pacific move into higher-value clean energy and advanced technology industries. Japan and the United Kingdom are providing initial grants. Korea Eximbank and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation are contributing to a catalytic finance window.

Hezbollah has suffered significant casualties and territorial losses in its conflict with Israel. Despite facing domestic opposition, the group aims to leverage its alliance with Iran to secure a favorable regional outcome. Lebanon's government is pursuing direct talks with Israel, a move Hezbollah opposes. The situation remains tense with ongoing exchanges of fire.

Delhi Police apprehended three individuals, including a bank assistant manager, for a Rs 45 lakh investment scam. The trio allegedly used a fake trading app to dupe a retired government officer by promising high returns on IPOs. Investigations revealed the money was laundered through mule accounts, with the bank official accused of facilitating the process.

Hezbollah vows to disrupt Lebanon-Israel peace talks, with a lawmaker stating the group will not implement any agreements. Despite a ceasefire, Israel continues strikes in southern Lebanon. The negotiations, aimed at ending decades of conflict and securing Israeli withdrawal, face strong opposition from Hezbollah, which insists on guarantees against future attacks.

The Congress party has demanded the withdrawal of a Rs 10,000 airfare increase for Haj pilgrims. The party alleges the Modi government has made the pilgrimage unaffordable for average Indian families. The Haj Committee of India cited rising global fuel prices for the one-time revision. The Congress calls for immediate withdrawal of the circular and structural reforms for future seasons.

A Sydney family was devastated by an alleged triple murder on Saturday, May 3, 2026. Police discovered the bodies of parents Charles Feng and Ruvena Lam, and their youngest son Justin, at their Rosemeadow home. The eldest son, Jacky Feng, has been charged with their murders and the attempted murder of another brother.

A video of a man vandalizing a train seat for a social media reel has gone viral, sparking outrage. The man, identified as Ankit Toppo, was seen tearing cushions and upholstery in a moving Indian train coach, and his friends recorded the act. Netizens are demanding strict action under the Railways Act and a user even tagged his Instagram account.

Chandigarh and parts of Punjab and Haryana experienced rain, strong winds, and dust storms on Sunday, bringing down temperatures. The weather disruptions caused power outages, uprooted trees, and injured an industrialist in Hoshiarpur. Despite initial chaos, skies cleared in the afternoon, offering relief from the heat.

Srinagar is getting a makeover. Roads and walkways are being repaired and painted. The Civil Secretariat will reopen here on Monday. This marks the return of the Darbar Move. This tradition shifts the government between Jammu and Srinagar. It ensures governance benefits for both regions. The practice dates back to 1872. It was stopped and then restored.

India's space sector is advancing with GalaxEye's Mission Drishti launch. This mission features the world's first OptoSAR satellite, integrating electro-optical and radar sensors. The satellite will provide reliable data for defense, agriculture, and disaster management. GalaxEye plans a constellation of ten satellites by 2030, enhancing India's earth observation capabilities.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has issued a stern warning to the Indian government regarding her safety at the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament. She expressed apprehension about potential biased officiating at the Gonda venue, which she believes is influenced by former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Phogat seeks a fair competition environment for her comeback event.

Delhi is set to introduce a fully digital and time-bound traffic challan system. Violators will face mandatory timely resolution of fines. Serious offenders with multiple violations risk licence suspension. E-challans will be delivered within three days. Citizens will have 45 days to pay or challenge challans online. Non-compliance will lead to vehicle service restrictions.

Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK has raised concerns about potential disruptions on May 4. The party alleges plans by the BJP to create disturbances at vote counting centres and sensitive areas. The DMK has urged election authorities to implement preventive measures. These actions aim to ensure peace, public order, and the integrity of the counting process across Tamil Nadu.

West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has raised concerns about election protocol breaches. He alleges officers are disclosing their counting day duties to associations. This could lead to undue influence and intimidation. BJP MP Saumitra Khan also flagged similar issues involving officials. Security has been heightened outside strongrooms in Kolkata ahead of the May 4th vote counting.

Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh shared profound thoughts on faith and detachment during his Calgary concert. He spoke of not fearing death and completing his earthly duties. Dosanjh emphasized love and forgiveness, expressing no animosity towards anyone. His upcoming film, 'Main Vaapas Aaunga', is slated for a June 12 release. Fans are discussing his remarks online.

Formula One is set to embrace V8 engines by 2031, with a potential shift to 2030. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed the move, aiming for simpler, louder engines. This change follows current V6 hybrid units. The sport seeks less complexity and improved sound. Manufacturers' approval could bring the V8s forward.

The Samrudhi SM-53 lottery results have now been released, offering participants a chance to win prizes ranging from a 1 crore jackpot to smaller amounts. Ticket holders can check their numbers for the draw, which features multiple prize tiers. The Kerala State Lotteries Department ensures transparency in the announcement and claiming process.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: TMC workers in Bhabanipur alleged BJP cars entered the EVM strongroom. This incident follows Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's protest over strongroom security. Both TMC and BJP are closely watching EVM security across West Bengal. Allegations of malpractice and tampering have been raised by the TMC. The Election Commission has denied these claims, stating surveillance was continuous.

Tamil Nadu awaits election results on May 4th, with a record 443 women contesting Assembly seats. Despite historical highs and lows in female representation, the state's journey towards gender parity in politics remains complex. The upcoming results will gauge if Tamil Nadu can surpass its past achievements and move closer to truly representative governance.

P C George, a BJP candidate, expressed strong confidence in winning the Poonjar Assembly seat. He also predicted his son Shone George's victory in Pala. George anticipates a hung Assembly in Kerala, with the UDF as the largest front. He projected the NDA securing approximately 11 seats in the state. The election results are due on Monday.

Olivia Rodrigo kicked off her Saturday Night Live hosting debut with a humorous monologue, recalling her early days on Disney's Bizaardvark. She playfully jabbed at former co-star Jake Paul, contrasting her musical aspirations with his boxing career. Rodrigo also shared a funny anecdote about her first acting job and teased her new album with a lengthy, comedic title.

Nishant Kumar launched his 'Sadbhav Yatra' from Patna, aiming to strengthen the JD(U) organization and connect with people across all communities. The outreach program seeks to foster unity and understanding, with leaders expressing high expectations for Kumar to engage with the public and convey party policies. The yatra will cover various phases across Bihar, starting with Bagaha and Vaishali.

The Election Commission of India has ordered a complete repoll in West Bengal's Falta Assembly constituency. The April 29 election was declared 'seriously vitiated' due to widespread procedural lapses and EVM tampering. Fresh polling will now take place on May 21. This drastic step follows reports of masked EVM buttons and other irregularities.

Israel has approved a plan to purchase two new combat squadrons of F-35 and F-15Ia fighter jet aircraft from Lockheed Martin and Boeing in a deal worth tens of billions shekels.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized the opposition's response to a four-year-old girl's rape and murder, calling their criticism laughable given their past cash-for-transfers scandals. The incident, involving a 65-year-old accused with prior similar cases, has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition leaders like Sanjay Raut, who questioned the government's competence and priorities.

The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board will announce Class 10 and Class 12 results on May 4 and May 6, 2026, respectively. Students can access their marksheets on the official website, gseb.org, or via SMS and WhatsApp. A minimum of 33% in each subject and overall is required to pass.

Stay cool without overspending with these six budget-friendly Indian fruits. From the jelly-like Tadgola and gut-cleansing Bael to the classic Watermelon, this story explains how local, affordable produce acts as a natural air conditioner for your body, keeping you hydrated and refreshed through the hottest months of 2026.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on Monday concerning Aadhaar card issuance. The petition seeks new Aadhaar cards only for children up to six years old. It also requests strict guidelines for adolescents and adults. This aims to prevent infiltrators from obtaining Aadhaar and posing as Indian citizens.

Himanta Biswa Sarma is poised for a second term as Assam Chief Minister. The Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to win, bringing Sarma back to lead. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has emphasized the party's commitment to deporting infiltrators. Unlike the previous election, there is no uncertainty regarding the Chief Ministerial choice this time.

SIS Ltd targets Rs 20,000 crore revenue by FY27. The security and facility management firm anticipates strong growth fueled by network expansion and new labour codes. The company is also embracing AI for enhanced customer service and operational efficiency. SIS plans to increase its workforce significantly by 2030.

As the counting of votes for Assam's 126 assembly seats gets underway this Monday, the stakes have never been higher. Will the BJP-led NDA achieve a historic third term or will the Congress party stage a remarkable comeback? With over 722 candidates, including key figures from various parties, on edge for the final results, the air is charged with anticipation.

The Iran war's impact on energy prices is forcing central banks to reassess policy. Robeco anticipates the Fed will cut rates twice this year, while the ECB might hike in June and September if Brent crude stays near $80. Asia faces significant exposure, with Japan's economy running hot and inflation risks prompting potential tightening.

Air India is reducing international flights until July. This decision stems from a sharp increase in jet fuel prices. The airline's CEO cited these rising costs and airspace restrictions as reasons for the cuts. Domestic flights are also affected, though to a lesser extent. Air India has increased fares and added fuel surcharges to manage costs.

Garena Free Fire MAX players can snag free in-game items on May 3, 2026, by using special 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes. These codes, released regularly, offer a limited-time opportunity to claim rewards. Players must act fast to redeem them on the official Garena website before they expire. Log in and enter your code to claim your prizes.

The Indian Army is procuring 159 bullet-proof troop carriers for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to enhance soldier mobility in challenging terrains. The vehicles will support Rashtriya Rifles operations, offering protection and mobility up to 5,000 meters altitude, aligning with the Make in India initiative.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections: The Election Commission of India has released the final roadmap for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly General Elections. A significant 85.10 per cent voter turnout was recorded. Women voters outnumbered men, a notable trend. Counting of votes will take place on May 4. Arrangements are finalized for efficient, transparent, and secure processing of over 48 million voters' mandates.

Petrol price today :Indian petrol prices change daily. This dynamic pricing depends on global crude oil costs, the rupee's value against the dollar, and market supply and demand. Taxes, dealer commissions, and refining expenses also affect the final price. Consumers in cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Kolkata pay varying rates per litre.

Pakistan's economy faces a grim future with inflation expected to stay high. Soaring oil prices and regional conflict are straining the nation's finances. Analysts predict economic growth will slow significantly. The country's stock market is already among the world's worst performers. Imports are a major concern, potentially widening the current account deficit and depleting foreign reserves.

The Himachal Pradesh School Education Board (HPBOSE) will release the Class 12 results for Science, Commerce, and Arts streams on May 4, 2026, at 11 AM. Students can check their scores and download mark sheets from the official website, hpbose.org, by entering their roll number.

A commission revealed the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams procured millions of kilograms of ghee without required quality checks. This systemic failure allowed suppliers to provide adulterated ghee. Officials allegedly ignored safety tests and suppressed lab reports confirming vegetable fats. The commission held TTD officials and board members responsible for these governance failures and procedural lapses.

Fifty-eight people, including 27 children, were hospitalized in Odisha's Jajpur district after falling ill from consuming 'Cuttack Dahibara' from a local vendor. Preliminary reports indicate food poisoning, prompting the collection of food and water samples for testing. The state government has formed three teams to investigate the incident and ensure patients receive adequate medical care.

Assembly Election Results 2026 date and time: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry await their Assembly election results on May 4th. Vote counting begins at 8 AM, with initial trends expected within two hours. High voter turnouts were recorded across states, setting the stage for crucial contests, including the direct face-off in West Bengal and the UDF vs. LDF battle in Kerala.

Japan has ended its long-standing ban on exporting lethal weapons. This move aims to position the nation in the global defense market. While challenges exist, including capacity and workforce shortages, Japan's focus on high-tech sectors could be advantageous. At a time when the international defence market is offering more opportunities, Japan's strategic shift has drawn attention.