With the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) set to resume on Saturday, TimesofIndia.com delves deep into the lives of the individuals who manage everything from booking flights, hotels, and cabs to ensuring the safety and comfort of players and their travelling families, especially in extraordinary situations like the one that unfolded on May 8 in Dharamsala.
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The Supreme Court heard arguments regarding the Waqf Amendment Act. Senior advocates challenged the law's constitutionality. They raised concerns about denotification powers and board composition. The Centre defended the Act, calling Waqf a secular concept. Arguments centered on religious freedom and property rights. The court reserved interim orders after hearing all sides. The decision is pending.
The NASA Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuit is a vital piece of equipment for astronauts performing spacewalks. It protects them from the harsh environment of space, providing thermal insulation, radiation shielding, and impact resistance. The EMU also includes a life support system with oxygen, carbon dioxide removal, water, and temperature control, ensuring astronauts' survival during long EVAs.
Despite India's strong opposition, the IMF has approved fresh assistance to Pakistan, raising concerns about potential risks. The IMF highlighted that heightened tensions with India could impede Pakistan's reform efforts. It also cautioned about reputational risks due to possible fund diversion, echoing India's concerns about the misuse of funds for rebuilding terror bases.
An expelled Pakistan High Commission staffer, identified as an ISI officer, attempted to recruit Indian nationals by targeting visa applicants and their relatives. He aimed to gather sensitive information and promote pro-Pakistan narratives online. This incident follows a pattern of Pakistani intelligence operatives using the high commission for espionage, leading to previous expulsions and staff reductions.
Neeraj Chopra achieved a personal best of 90.23m at the Doha Diamond League, finally crossing the 90m threshold, but finished second to Germany's Julian Weber, who threw 91.06m. Despite the 'bitter-sweet' result, Chopra is optimistic, crediting his coach Jan Zelezny and feeling fitter after groin issues. Chopra credited the favourable conditions in Doha for helping him unleash the big throw and shared that Zelezny had predicted a 90m effort even before the competition.
The BCCI is yet to confirm the venues for the IPL 2025 playoffs and final, with Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium emerging as a strong contender to host the title clash. While Kolkata's Eden Gardens was initially scheduled, weather concerns and the need to avoid further delays are influencing the decision.
Dilip Vengsarkar expressed surprise at Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Test retirements, expecting them after the England tour. He acknowledged their significant contribution and the void they leave. Vengsarkar highlighted the opportunity for domestic players to step up and praised Shreyas Iyer's consistent performance across formats, deferring to selectors on replacements.
Indian ports are set to benefit from the global China+1 strategy as companies diversify manufacturing beyond China, according to Moody's Ratings. This shift could significantly boost port activity in India.
Dwyane Wade celebrated Gabrielle Union on Mother's Day with heartfelt Instagram posts, showcasing their love and family bond. Union, deeply touched, reposted the messages with emotional emojis. Amidst Wade's health recovery and raising their daughter, Union also shared her experiences with racism in Hollywood, highlighting the challenges she faced regarding beauty standards and opportunities.
The Lawrence Bishnoi group claimed responsibility for the murder of Harjit Singh Dhadda, a Sikh businessman, in Mississauga, Ontario. Rohit Godara, an associate of Bishnoi, stated that Dhadda was killed for allegedly assisting Khalistan Tiger Force chief Arsh Dalla with bail. Godara, a wanted man by Interpol, accused Dhadda of supporting their enemies despite prior warnings.