Times of India

The US President's dismissal of the National Science Board and other scientific bodies has sparked concerns about the erosion of scientific norms. This move, alongside funding cuts and grant cancellations, is prompting foreign-origin scientists to consider leaving the US, with India actively recruiting talent.

Over 287 candidates, including Donald Trump, are vying for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee Secretary noted significant renewal among nominees, emphasizing the prize's enduring relevance amidst global conflicts. While nominations are confidential, leaders from Cambodia, Israel, and Pakistan have reportedly put Trump forward, though this doesn't guarantee an endorsement.

Buddha Purnima 2026, falling on Friday, May 1st, offers a much-needed pause from our hectic lives. This sacred day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautam Buddha. The article provides 60 thoughtful wishes, messages, and quotes to share, encouraging peace, kindness, and mindful reflection during the long weekend.

A spectacular diving catch by Jason Holder to dismiss Rajat Patidar sparked controversy, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru players and coach Andy Flower questioning the umpire's decision. Despite RCB's protests that the ball may have touched the ground, the umpires upheld the dismissal. This crucial wicket shifted momentum in the match, even as the debate over the catch's legitimacy continued.

The New Jersey Devils are also said to be scouting Minnesota Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson following a series of NHL playoff rulings that have cast doubt on his future. Gustavsson has recently renewed a $34 million contract, but his poor performances on the field during the postseason have added more fuel to the NHL trade rumors. As Jacob Markstrom grows older, and long-term issues in goalie Peterson persist, the Devils might consider Gustavsson to be a real offseason option.

Mike Vrabel, the New England Patriots’ head coach, and his wife, Jennifer Vrabel, have tried to stay out of the spotlight but were recently spotted at the Salt Lake City International airport separately on two consecutive days amid all the drama. While Dianna Russini and her husband have tried to disappear from the public eye, it seems not a lot has changed between Mike Vrabel and his wife.

KPMG has initiated layoffs impacting around 400 employees in its US Advisory division, a move stemming from a strategic restructuring due to shifting demand in consulting services. While regulatory risk, customer operations, and financial services are affected, growth areas like AI and strategy remain strong. This follows earlier workforce adjustments in the audit business.

Today's Chanakya exit polls predict a landslide victory for the BJP in Assam, indicating a second term for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. In Kerala, the projections show a close contest between the incumbent LDF and the UDF, with the BJP expected to secure a few seats. Projections for West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are still awaited.

Karisma Kapoor's children and Sunjay Kapur's mother have filed legal cases against his widow, Priya Sachdev Kapur, alleging a forged will. The Delhi High Court has granted interim relief, restraining Priya from creating third-party rights over Sunjay's estate and preserving assets pending trial.

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has gifted over $26 billion, maintaining her billionaire status. Her unique, no-strings-attached approach allows organizations flexibility, drawing praise and some criticism, notably from Elon Musk. Scott's substantial donations, including significant sums to universities and the UNCF, highlight her impactful giving strategy.

Delhi-NCR experienced a sudden weather change on Thursday afternoon with a hailstorm and rain offering relief from heatwave conditions. Dark clouds gathered as the storm began around 3:30 PM, even as the city remained under a yellow alert for heatwaves. This rainfall helped moderate average temperatures, which were lower than last year's April.

Farringdon station, a vital London transport hub, was evacuated this morning due to a suspected gas leak, causing widespread disruption. Emergency services responded after passengers reported feeling unwell. The incident led to the suspension of the Elizabeth line and significant delays on multiple Underground and Thameslink services, with the station closed until at least noon.

Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth shut down any hopes of opting out of the company's new AI tracking tool, telling employees directly that there's no choice in the matter. The Model Capability Initiative logs keystrokes, mouse movements, and screenshots on work computers to train Meta's AI agents—all while the company prepares to cut 8,000 jobs. Employees are calling it dystopian. Meta is calling it necessary.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic IPL 2024 turnaround from 1-7 to playoffs is contrasted with Mumbai Indians' current IPL 2026 struggles. Languishing in ninth place with two wins from eight matches, the Hardik Pandya-led side faces an uphill battle.

The Delhi High Court has ordered a freeze on the estate of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur. Children of Karisma Kapoor and Sunjay Kapur filed a plea. The court has restrained the creation of third-party rights over assets. It also directed the filing of account statements. Foreign bank accounts and cryptocurrency holdings are also restricted.

Bengaluru experienced severe disruption as heavy rains flooded streets, metro stations, and even the Vidhana Soudha. Thousands of books were destroyed at the iconic Bookworm store, with a significant financial loss. Uprooted trees caused internet outages and traffic snarls, with over 170 trees falling across the city. One woman was injured by a falling tree.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the 20-coach Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu and Srinagar, marking the first direct rail link between the two capitals of Jammu and Kashmir.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has been fined 25% of his match fee and received a demerit point for breaching IPL conduct rules. The incident, captured on live broadcast, involved Parag vaping in the dressing room during a match.