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.

The Mittal family, in partnership with Adar Poonawalla, is set to acquire a controlling stake in Rajasthan Royals. This significant deal values the franchise at around $1.65 billion. The acquisition includes the team's global footprint. Existing investors will retain a small stake. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

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.

Vivek Vihar fire: Nine people died and 15 were rescued after a fire broke out in a four-storey residential building in Delhis Vivek Vihar early on Sunday. Iron grills on windows and a locked terrace turned the building into a death trap. The blaze started on the second floor, possibly due to a short circuit.

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.

A Polish woman residing in India for a decade has identified three daily life aspects she believes other nations should adopt. She highlighted India's incredibly fast delivery services for essentials, the convenience of attached bathrooms in homes, and the consumer-friendly MRP system ensuring transparent pricing. These features, she argues, significantly enhance daily convenience and practicality.

A four-year-old girl's rape and murder in Pune has prompted calls for the Shakti Act. NCP-SP MLA Rohit Pawar highlighted flaws in the current legal system, citing the accused's prior arrests and bail. The victim's father requested politicians refrain from visits until justice is served and the accused receives capital punishment.

A newly installed phone charging point for tourists in Himachal Pradesh's Manali quickly became a dumping ground for trash, sparking outrage online. Viral videos showed the facility littered with plastic and disposable items, highlighting a lack of civic sense. The video has again started the debate over civic sense in India.

Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals continue to hold the top three spots, while teams in the second half of the table will be eager to turn the tide. With key rematches lined up and plenty of unfinished business from earlier encounters, all of it sets the stage for a blockbuster next phase of the tournament.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday that the United States faced a choice between an impossible military operation or a ad deal with the Islamic republic. In a statement carried by state television, the Guards intelligence organisation said that Trump must choose between 'an impossible operation or a bad deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran'.

Authorities in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, have banned unauthorized assemblies of five or more people for two months, citing fears of public disturbance. This measure comes amid expectations of large gatherings for recently released AAP MLA Mehraj Malik's events. The ban aims to prevent untoward incidents and maintain public order in specific areas.

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.

Counting for the West Bengal Legislative Assembly election begins on May 4, 2026. Results will be declared across 77 centres. The election saw a historic voter turnout of 92.93 per cent. Ten constituencies are being closely watched, including Bhabanipur, Nandigram, and Diamond Harbour. Key leaders are contesting in these seats.

Once a Bollywood actress who debuted alongside Salman Khan, Pooja Dadwal now runs a modest tiffin service from a small Mumbai chawl. After a severe tuberculosis diagnosis and financial hardship, she received support from Khan for her medical treatment. Despite a brief career attempt, she continues to navigate life away from the spotlight.

The Guidance Document establishes, for the first time, a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of childhood diabetes. This initiative positions India among a select group of countries that have integrated childhood diabetes care into the public health system.

Political leaders are urging caution regarding exit poll predictions for Assam and West Bengal, questioning their accuracy and methodology. While some polls suggest a BJP victory, others are dismissed as commercialized. Voters are advised to await the official election results on May 4th for a definitive outcome.

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.

India has achieved a Guinness World Record for unfurling the largest Indian national flag underwater at Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A team of 223 divers participated in this remarkable feat, showcasing precision, courage, and national pride. This achievement is being hailed as a testament to the nation's ability to redefine milestones and push boundaries.

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.

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.

SRH vs KKR Pitch Report: Sunrisers Hyderabad are on a five-match winning streak. They face Kolkata Knight Riders at home. Hyderabad's batting is in strong form with key players scoring heavily. The pitch is expected to favour batsmen. Hyderabad's bowling has also been consistent. Kolkata Knight Riders are looking to improve their performance after recent wins.

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.

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.

Sivakasi Chess Master: Eight-year-old Tamizh Amudhan from Tamil Nadu sat in darkness with only a flickering candle and his laptop screen lit by a mobile torch. Outside, heavy rain had caused a power cut in Thiruthangal. Inside, the Class 3 student faced World No. 7 grandmaster Vincent Keymer in an online blitz tournament. Calm and focused, the young boy delivered a stunning upset victory that has left the chess world amazed.

Political parties across Kerala are gearing up for celebrations as election results approach. Congress and UDF workers in Malappuram are preparing biryani for thousands. The BJP is also organizing celebrations in Kochi with laddoos. Parties express confidence in their anticipated victories, with some expecting to win multiple seats.

Apple's next iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are set for a major refresh. Expect a redesigned display with Face ID sensors hidden under the screen. Camera capabilities will see significant enhancements, including a mechanical iris for better light control. Performance gains are also on the horizon with a new A20 Pro chip.

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.

West Bengal awaits election verdict on Monday after intense campaigning, with the TMC aiming to retain power against a BJP push for a historic win. The CPI(M) and Congress also hope to regain a foothold after the 2021 wipeout. Counting across 77 centres will determine the fate of 293 seats amidst tight security.

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.

Judicial officer Aman Kumar Sharma died by suicide in Delhi's Safdarjung area. His family alleges harassment and domestic disputes involving his wife and her sister. Sharma's father received a distress call before discovering his son's body. Police are investigating the incident, examining all angles. Sharma joined the Delhi Judicial Services in 2021.

Stop throwing away dark, oxidized dough with these seven simple fixes. By using natural barriers like lemon juice and oil, or mastering the art of air-tight wrapping, you can keep your chapati dough perfectly fresh, soft, and golden-white for days, making your meal prep easier and more efficient in 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.

SRH vs KKR Head-to-Head: Sunrisers Hyderabad, riding a five-match winning streak, are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026 Match 45 on May 3. The crucial encounter, starting at 3:30 PM IST, will see SRH aiming to solidify their top-three standing. The match will be held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Learn how to turn your room into an icebox without lowering your AC temperature. These 7 simple hacksincluding the reverse fan trick, pre-cooling ventilation, and mastering Dry Modehelp your air conditioner work more efficiently, cooling your space faster while saving on electricity bills throughout the summer.