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From Mayanti Langer to Sahiba Bali: Complete list of star presenters for IPL 2026


The Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcast team is set to dazzle both on and off the field, with a formidable line-up of presenters and commentators. From seasoned anchors to fresh new faces, the list promises engaging analysis and vibrant studio coverage throughout the tournament.

Star-studded lineup of presenters for IPL 2026

With the 19th edition of the IPL set to kick off on March 28, the official broadcaster has assembled an eclectic roster of presenters to guide viewers through the two‑month cricketing carnival. The list blends experienced sports anchors with popular digital content creators, ensuring a dynamic mix of expert analysis and relatable fan engagement.

Among the prominent names, Mayanti Langer returns as one of the faces of IPL coverage, bringing her vast experience of hosting high‑profile cricket events. Joining her is former Tamil Nadu cricketer Abhinav Mukund, who has carved a niche as a sharp analyst in the studio. Tanay Tiwari, known for his articulate Hindi commentary, will add depth to the vernacular coverage, while Anant Tyagi features both as a presenter and commentator, offering versatility across formats.

Mayanti Langer (PC: X)

The lineup also includes a strong contingent of female presenters. Bhavana Balakrishnan, Swedha Singh Bahal, Sahiba Bali and Nidhi Dugar will be part of the broadcast team, each bringing their unique style.

Bhavna Balakrishnan
Bhavna Balakrishnan (PC: X)

Sahiba Bali, a popular digital creator, is expected to connect with younger audiences through behind-the-scenes content and fan interactions.

Sahiba Bali
Sahiba Bali (PC: X)

Also READ: IPL 2026 Squads – Complete list of Indian and overseas players in all 10 teams

Behind the scenes voices

The broadcasters have also recalled fresh talent to keep the coverage vibrant. Sameena Anwar, Suren Sundaram, Navneeth Krishna, and Nashpreet Singh Kaur round out the presenter group, adding regional flavor and youthful energy. Many of these names have risen through digital cricket platforms and are now making their mark on mainstream television.

Nashpreet Kaur
Nashpreet Kaur (PC: X.com)

Beyond traditional pre-match and post-match shows, the presenters will also be featured in innovative digital segments, including interactive fan polls, dugout conversations and exclusive team access. The emphasis is on making the broadcast experience more immersive, catering to both die-hard cricket enthusiasts and casual viewers.

Sameena Anwar
Sameena Anwar (PC: X.com)

As the tournament unfolds over 74 matches across 18 venues, these presenters will be the voice of the IPL, breaking down key moments, interviewing stars, and keeping millions of viewers connected to the action. Their energy and insight will be as crucial as the performances on the field in making IPL 2026 a memorable season.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries



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Fuel pump ops hit by new rules for dealer payments, see long queues | Mumbai News


MUMBAI: Rumours of fuel shortage and a change in dealer payment rules led to long queues at petrol pumps across MMR on Friday.Motorists crowded outlets in Mumbai, Kalyan, Badlapur, Thane, Koparkhairne, Vashi and Belapur, pushing up sales by over 40%, especially at smaller stations in the city with limited storage. Some pumps faced partial dryouts, while a few were close to shutting until fresh stocks arrived. Oil company officials and petrol dealers clarified that refinery operations and fuel dispatches remained normal across Maharashtra, including MMR. They said tankers continue to deliver supplies to pumps since early morning and there is no statewide shortage of petrol or diesel. The disruption, they said, was linked to a new advance payment system.

Fuel pump ops hit by new rules for dealer payments, see long queues

Till March 16, dealers could lift fuel on short-term credit and make payment a day or two later. That cushion has now gone. Dealers must first deposit the full amount and only then can they place an order for delivery. For larger pumps with stronger cash flow and reserve storage, the shift is manageable. For smaller dealers, especially during sudden spikes in demand, it has become difficult. Bank holidays compound the problem. Dealers said that if payments are not deposited before bank closures, some pumps may not be able to place fresh orders in time. With bank holidays on Saturday and Sunday and more closures lined up next week for Mahavir Jayanti as well as the annual bank closing, some outlets could face temporary dry spells next week if they miss the payment window. Similar pressure may arise around Good Friday. Sources said that a few pump owners in Mumbai have managed to get fuel on credit from an oil marketing company during the holiday period, although this privilege was not extended to all pump owners across MMR. A typical pump procures around 12,000 litres of petrol and 8,000 litres of diesel. Bigger stations often maintain a 50% buffer, allowing them to keep selling while waiting for the next tanker. Smaller pumps usually have less storage and less financial flexibility. So, their stocks get exhausted faster if sales surge unexpectedly. Another factor is diesel demand from heavy goods vehicles. Some trucks that are unable to refuel on highways enter Mumbai to top up, adding to the load on city pumps. Dealers’ associations have urged citizens not to panic. They said affected pumps are likely to receive supplies within six to 24 hours or at most in two days. Chetan Modi, Petrol Dealers’ Association president, said, “Fuel is available, supply lines are working, and the queues are largely the result of panic buying colliding with advance payment and bank closure constraints.” In Thane, apart from one petrol pump in Kapurbawdi, where a long queue was seen (which is a regular occurrence at that location), petrol pumps within the city did not witness any unusual rush. The owner of BabuBhai Petrol Pump in Thane appealed to motorists not to form unnecessary queues or stock excess fuel. Citizens were also requested not to carry bottles or containers for extra fuel. A motorist at the spot said he did not want to take any chance in the face of uncertainty. (With inputs from Nishikant Karlikar)



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Rs 30 crore Mumbai furniture scam: Court rejects DRI plea to cancel businessman’s bail | Mumbai News


Court rejects DRI plea to cancel bail in Rs 30 crore furniture scam (Representative image)

MUMBAI: The Sessions Court rejected the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) plea seeking cancellation of bail granted to accused Falgun Yogendra Shroff in Rs 30 crores imported furniture scam.The case pertains to August last year when the DRI arrested businessman Shroff for allegedly importing high-end Italian luxury furniture by grossly undervaluing goods and evading customs duties.The DRI had moved the Session court challenging the earlier bail order dated August 2, 2025, passed by the ACJM, Esplanade Court, Mumbai.The DRI argued that the bail order was illegal, perverse, and failed to consider the seriousness of the offence. According to the agency, the case involved a significant economic offence requiring deep and continuous investigation. It was contended that custodial interrogation of the accused was necessary in light of new developments during the investigation.The prosecution further alleged that the accused had not cooperated fully, claiming he withheld crucial documents such as original invoices and login credentials linked to the alleged undervaluation scheme. The agency submitted that the accused had breached bail conditions and that his custody was necessary to confront him with evidence and identify other members of the syndicate.The defence lawyer Sujay Kantawala for Shroff strongly opposed the plea, terming it false and misconceived. It was argued that there were no supervening circumstances warranting cancellation of bail. The accused maintained that he had complied with all bail conditions and had cooperated with the investigation.The defence highlighted that the accused had appeared before investigating officers whenever summoned, submitted relevant documents, and even provided login credentials of multiple email accounts. It was also pointed out that the trial court had permitted him to travel abroad on multiple occasions after hearing both sides, and he had returned to India in compliance with court orders. His passport was eventually returned permanently, indicating no flight risk.Additionally, the defence submitted that the accused had deposited Rs. 5 crore with the government treasury as a mark of bona fides and had not attempted to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses. After hearing both sides and examining the record, the court reiterated the settled legal position that cancellation of bail is distinct from rejection of bail and requires “cogent and overwhelming circumstances.Relying on Supreme Court rulings including Daulat Ram vs State of Haryana and Dipak Yadav vs State of Uttar Pradesh, the court noted that bail once granted should not be cancelled in a routine manner unless there is clear evidence of misuse of liberty. The court found no material to show that the accused had violated any bail conditions, attempted to abscond, or interfered with the investigation. On the contrary, the record indicated that he had cooperated with the investigating agency and complied with court directions.The judge also observed that if the prosecution was aggrieved by the original bail order, it should have challenged it before the appropriate appellate forum instead of seeking cancellation at a later stage. The delay in filing the application was also noted. Holding that no supervening circumstances were made out and that the accused had not misused the liberty granted to him, the Sessions Court dismissed the DRI’s application.The court, however, clarified that the investigating agency is at liberty to approach the trial court for appropriate relief, including custodial interrogation, in accordance with law.



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Candidates Chess 2026: Why are Indians not starting as favourites? | Chess News


Candidates Chess 2026: Why are Indians not starting as favourites?
R Praggnanandhaa, Divya Deshmukh, and R Vaishali (Image credit: Agencies)

NEW DELHI: Two years ago, when Dommaraju Gukesh stormed the Candidates in Toronto, the chess world called it a miracle. By the time he dismantled Ding Liren in Singapore to become the youngest-ever World Champion, that “miracle” had become something else entirely, more like a seismic shift.Yet, as the marathon to find his next challenger begins this Saturday in Cyprus, a curious silence hangs over the Indian camp.

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Despite Gukesh’s own recent admission that he would not mind an all-Indian matchup against R Praggnanandhaa for the title, the pre-tournament buzz indicates that Indians are not the leading favourites in both open and women’s categories.The American wall: Why Nakamura and Caruana leadThe primary reason for the tempered expectations lies in the sheer mathematical dominance of the American duo, World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura and World No. 3 Fabiano Caruana.In an era of teenage phenoms, the veterans have recalibrated. Nakamura, at 38, remains a freak of nature, maintaining a 2800-plus rating while balancing a full-time streaming career.

Hikaru Nakamura (Photo by Lennart Ootes and FIDE)

“One cannot rule out Nakamura’s best chances,” veteran Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay told TimesofIndia.com. “He is the only player keeping above 2800 all these years. Nakamura is a serious contender mainly because of his cleverness in specific opening preparations against specific players.”Caruana, 33, presents a different kind of hurdle with his “unbeatable” factor.“He is very solid,” Thipsay noted. “He doesn’t necessarily wish to win in the opening itself, but he’s always on solid ground. It’s possible Caruana ends up unbeaten in the event. The only problem he faces is being able to score heavily enough.”The Pragg puzzleWhile the world has been waiting for Praggnanandhaa to take the final leap, recent months have represented a period of consolidation rather than conquest. After a blistering run in the first half of 2025, the Chennai prodigy found the air slightly thinner at the very top during the latter half of the year. And his start to 2026 hasn’t carried much positivity either.“Praggnanandhaa had very good years, but recently, he has not been really good,” Thipsay observed. To win the Candidates, Pragg must revert to his roots as a cold-blooded attacker.

R Praggnanandhaa (Photo by Lennart Ootes)

“He must concentrate on getting the initiative with the white pieces. His strength is mainly attack against the enemy king… he’s good at tactics and combinations,” the veteran GM added.The challenge for the 20-year-old Indian is tactical bravery. In a field that includes Wei Yi and the unpredictable Javokhir Sindarov, who Thipsay warns “may cause upsets but has a habit of making simple mistakes”, Praggnanandhaa cannot afford to play for safe draws if he wants to set up that dream all-Indian World Championship match.The Women’s field: Divya Deshmukh’s edgeIf the Open section feels like a climb, the Women’s Candidates offers a brighter silver lining. With the withdrawal of the legendary Koneru Humpy due to safety concerns in West Asia, the spotlight has shifted entirely to the 20-year-old World Cup winner, Divya Deshmukh, and 24-year-old Vaishali Rameshbabu, winner of the 2025 Women’s Grand Swiss.Despite being rated lower than top seed Zhu Jiner, Divya carries a psychological edge that most female players lack, as she regularly hunts in the Open (dominated by men) circuit.

Divya Deshmukh (Tata Steel Chess Photo)

“The wisdom Divya shows in playing men’s events has made her very strong against the best defence,” Thipsay remarked. “When you’re playing a strong field, you should be able to tackle good defence. In the past, no Indian except Humpy had ever beaten Chinese players in a match, but 2025 was different. Divya and Humpy defeated four Chinese players among themselves.”Thipsay believes the title is a straight shootout: “I would say the top position is expecting to go to either Zhu Jiner or Divya. Vaishali has an outside chance, but probably only for second or third,” he added.As the clocks start on Saturday, the narrative is clear. The “Gukesh effect” has made the world wary of Indian prodigies, but it has also forced the old guard to sharpen their steel.For Nakamura and Caruana, this is likely their final realistic shot at a World Championship match before the door is bolted shut by the next generation.For India, the task is to prove that Gukesh wasn’t a standalone miracle, but the first of many.Whether Praggnanandhaa can find his attacking initiative or Divya can dismantle the Chinese wall, the next three weeks in Cyprus will decide if the World Championship remains an internal Indian affair or a global tug-of-war.



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Nor’Wester Odisha: 3 killed, 3 injured as Nor’wester wreaks havoc in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj, Puri districts | Bhubaneswar News


3 killed, 3 injured as Nor'wester wreaks havoc in Odisha's Mayurbhanj, Puri districts

BARIPADA/PURI: At least three people were killed and three others injured as Nor’westers battered Odisha’s Mayurbhanj and Puri districts, police reported on Saturday.Strong winds accompanied by thunderstorms struck Baripada, the headquarters of Mayurbhanj district, around 11 pm on Friday, an officer said.“Two people were killed, and three others were injured. The deceased were travelling on motorcycles when the Nor’wester hit the region. Due to the storms, they lost control of their two-wheelers and hit the roadside trees,” he said.The deceased have been identified as Ramdas Hansada from Asanayoda and Nagen Murmu from the Khunta area in Mayurbhanj district.The three injured are currently receiving treatment at Baripada district headquarters.In Puri district, a man named Jagannath Behera from Alis village, under the jurisdiction of Pipili Police Station, died when a coconut tree fell on him during the storms on Friday night, an officer said.Strong winds also caused damage to several houses in Kanas, Delanga, and Satyabadi areas of Puri district, he added.(With agency inputs)



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IPL 2026: MS Dhoni out for 2 weeks, Sanju Samson to open; big changes as ex-CSK star reveals Playing XI | Cricket News


IPL 2026: MS Dhoni out for 2 weeks, Sanju Samson to open; big changes as ex-CSK star reveals Playing XI
MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson (Image credit: CSK/IPL)

Chennai Super Kings have been dealt a major blow after their talismanic player MS Dhoni was ruled out for the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain.“MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026,” the franchise said in a statement.

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Soon after Dhoni was ruled out, former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, who has also represented CSK in the past, picked his strongest playing XI with Impact Player options for the five-time champions.Ashwin selected Sanju Samson as the wicketkeeper-batter and also named him as an opener alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.The former CSK player slotted three attacking batters in the next positions – Urvil Patel at No. 3, Dewald Brevis at No. 4, followed by India’s T20 World Cup 2026 all-rounder Shivam Dube at No. 5.Ashwin provided two options for the No. 6 spot – Sarfaraz Khan as his first choice, with India U19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre as the alternative. He overlooked Prashant Veer and picked Kartik Sharma for the No. 7 position.In the bowling department, Ashwin chose Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad as the main spinners, with Hosein also offering batting depth at No. 8.For the pace attack, he went with Matt Henry and Khaleel Ahmed. Ashwin also listed four Impact Player options – Anshul Kamboj, Shreyas Gopal, Ramakrishna Ghosh, and Rahul Chahar.Ashwin’s CSK playing XI:Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Sarfaraz Khan/Ayush Mhatre, Kartik Sharma, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Matt Henry, Khaleel AhmedImpact Player: Anshul Kamboj/Shreyas Gopal/Ramakrishna Ghosh/Rahul ChaharCSK will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 at Baraspara Stadium in Guwahati.The 19th edition of the tournament is set to begin on Saturday, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad in the curtain-raiser at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.



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Top 10 countries with the highest water quality: Germany, UK, Italy and other top-ranked nations ranked globally | World News


Water quality has emerged as one of the vital aspects that define how a country is able to successfully manage its environment, infrastructure, and health. In various developed nations around the world, access to clean and pure drinking water is not left to chance. Rather, various aspects such as water sources and environmental protection policies help define water quality. In various nations that enjoy excellent water quality, advanced engineering solutions are used in conjunction with resource management to ensure that water remains pure and free of any contamination at every stage. Understanding how such systems work can help define how various nations are able to achieve near-perfect water quality and how they manage to sustain such results over time.According to the World Population Review, check below the list of the top 10 countries with the best water quality in 2026, which is measured as part of the annual Environmental Performance Index (EPI)

List of top 10 countries ranked by water quality

Global water quality rankings highlight countries like Switzerland and New Zealand, where strong policies, infrastructure, and natural resources ensure clean, safe drinking water for citizens.

Country
Score
Germany 100
United Kingdom 100
Italy 100
Greece 100
Switzerland 100
Finland 100
Ireland 100
Norway 99.9
Luxembourg 99.8
Canada 99.7

*The highest score reveals the greater availability of safe drinking water.Source: World Population Review

Countries with best water quality

Germany

In Germany, water quality standards are determined through a federal regulatory framework based on the EU Water Framework Directive. The municipal water supply relies on groundwater sources, which are naturally filtered through geological strata prior to pumping. Water treatment plants utilise a multi-step purification process involving activated carbon filtration and oxidation.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the management of water quality involves the supervision of agencies like the Environment Agency. Sources of water include reservoirs, rivers, and aquifers, which undergo extensive treatment before consumption. Technologies used include membrane filtration and ultraviolet treatment.

Italy

The quality of water in Italy is improved by the combination of alpine water sources and the regulated water treatment systems in the municipalities. The mountain water sources have relatively low contamination, which helps in lowering the required intensity in the water treatment process.

Greece

In Greece, high water quality is assured by natural filtration, especially in areas of limestone geology, such as island and coastal aquifers. Desalination plants are used to augment freshwater resources in areas where there is a scarcity of nat

Switzerland

One of the nations with the most controlled water system in the world is Switzerland. The country has a strong reliance on natural sources such as alpine lakes and springs. A substantial part of drinking water is not required to be treated as it is naturally pure.

Finland

Thousands of lakes in Finland serve as an abundant source of freshwater resources. Both groundwater and surface water resources are being utilised in Finland, with appropriate treatment processes being implemented.

Ireland

Ireland sources much of its drinking water from rivers and lakes, supported by treatment plants designed to address organic matter and microbial risks. Infrastructure improvements in recent years have focused on upgrading older systems to meet stricter standards.

Norway

Norway benefits from glacial and mountainous landscapes that naturally protect water sources from contamination. Surface water, particularly from lakes, forms the primary supply.

Luxembourg

Despite its small size, Luxembourg maintains highly efficient water management systems. Groundwater is the primary source, supplemented by surface reservoirs.Regulatory frameworks enforce strict quality standards, while modern treatment facilities ensure compliance. Investment in infrastructure has minimised losses and maintained system reliability.

Canada

In Canada, vast freshwater reserves provide a strong foundation for high water quality. Lakes and rivers, including the Great Lakes system, serve as major sources. Water treatment standards are governed at both federal and provincial levels. Advanced filtration and disinfection systems are widely used in urban centres.



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Here’s why MS Dhoni will miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026



In a significant early setback for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), legendary cricketer MS Dhoni is expected to miss the opening two weeks of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The development comes just days before the tournament kicks off, leaving fans and the franchise adjusting to life without their talismanic leader at the start of the campaign.

Reason why MS Dhoni will miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026

The franchise issued an official statement on the morning of their season opener, confirming that Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. The update indicated that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter will likely remain sidelined for at least the first fortnight of the competition.

In a message shared on social media, CSK extended their support to the iconic cricketer, wishing him a speedy recovery. While the injury is not believed to be long-term, the timing is far from ideal, especially with a packed schedule awaiting the five-time champions.

“Official Statement . MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala!” wrote CSK on X.

Crucial matches ahead without MSD

CSK’s campaign begins with a clash against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 in Guwahati. However, Dhoni’s absence is expected to stretch beyond just the opener. The team is set to face Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals within the first two weeks—fixtures that could play a key role in shaping their early momentum.

Without Dhoni’s on-field leadership and finishing prowess, CSK may need to rethink their combinations and strategy. His calm presence behind the stumps and tactical acumen have often been decisive in tight encounters, making his temporary absence a considerable challenge.

Despite the setback, CSK do have multiple wicketkeeping options in their ranks. The squad includes Sanju Samson, who recently joined from Rajasthan Royals, along with Kartik Sharma and Urvil Patel. Samson, with his experience and leadership credentials, could be a frontrunner to take up additional responsibilities during Dhoni’s absence. Team management will now be tasked with identifying the right balance, not just in terms of personnel but also leadership on the field. Filling Dhoni’s shoes, even temporarily, is no easy task given his influence on the team over the years.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Squads: Complete list of Indian and overseas players in all 10 teams

Dhoni’s legacy and fitness concerns

At nearly 45, Dhoni remains one of the most enduring figures in the IPL. With 278 matches to his name, he holds the record as the most capped player in the tournament’s history. Over recent seasons, he has managed persistent knee issues but continued to feature regularly, showcasing remarkable resilience.

His leadership was instrumental in guiding CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest captains in franchise cricket. However, recurring fitness concerns have increasingly become part of his narrative in the later stages of his career.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries





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Noida International Airport inauguration: Delhi-NCR gets new airport – all you need to know


Noida International Airport inauguration: Delhi-NCR gets new airport - all you need to know
PM Modi inaugurates Jewar airport

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Phase I of the Noida International Airport at Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in India’s expanding aviation infrastructure.PM Modi was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel. Developed at an investment of around Rs 11,200 crore under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, the project is expected to enhance both regional and international connectivity for the National Capital Region (NCR).The airport is being positioned as a key addition to India’s aviation network, aimed at easing pressure on existing infrastructure while supporting the country’s ambition of becoming a global aviation hub.

Second international gateway for Delhi NCR

Noida International Airport has been developed as the second international gateway for Delhi NCR, complementing the existing Indira Gandhi International Airport, which currently handles the majority of the region’s air traffic.

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With rising passenger demand and capacity constraints at IGI Airport, the new facility is expected to play a crucial role in distributing traffic more efficiently.Together, the two airports will function as an integrated aviation system, helping reduce congestion, improve connectivity, and enhance the region’s standing among leading global aviation hubs.

Phase I capacity and future expansion plans

Phase I of the airport is designed to handle 12 million passengers per annum (MPPA), providing immediate relief to the region’s growing air travel demand.The project has been planned with scalability in mind, with provisions to expand capacity to 70 million passengers annually in subsequent phases. This long-term vision reflects the government’s strategy to future-proof infrastructure and accommodate sustained growth in air travel.

Modern infrastructure and all-weather operations

The airport features a 3,900-metre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft, making it suitable for both domestic and international long-haul operations.

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Equipped with advanced navigation systems such as the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and modern airfield lighting, the facility is designed to support efficient, all-weather, round-the-clock operations. These features ensure operational reliability even under challenging weather conditions.

Cargo hub and logistics ecosystem

In addition to passenger services, the airport includes a comprehensive cargo ecosystem aimed at strengthening logistics and trade.The Multi-Modal Cargo Hub comprises an Integrated Cargo Terminal and dedicated logistics zones, with an initial handling capacity of over 2.5 lakh metric tonnes annually. This capacity is expected to expand significantly to around 18 lakh metric tonnes in the future, positioning the airport as a major cargo and logistics centre in North India.

Dedicated MRO facility to enhance efficiency

A key component of the airport’s infrastructure is a 40-acre Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility.This dedicated facility is expected to improve operational efficiency by enabling airlines to service and maintain aircraft locally, reducing turnaround times and operational costs. It also strengthens India’s capabilities in aviation maintenance services.

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PM Modi To Inaugurate Noida International Airport Phase 1 On March 28: All You Need To Know

Sustainability and future-ready design

Noida International Airport has been designed as a sustainable and future-ready infrastructure project, with a focus on achieving net-zero emissions.The project incorporates energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible practices, aligning with India’s broader climate goals. The airport’s development reflects a growing emphasis on green infrastructure in large-scale projects.

Architecture inspired by Indian heritage

Blending modern infrastructure with cultural aesthetics, the airport’s architectural design draws inspiration from traditional Indian elements such as ghats and havelis.This approach aims to create a distinctive identity for the airport while offering passengers a sense of place rooted in Indian heritage.

Strategic location and multi-modal connectivity

Strategically located along the Yamuna Expressway in Gautam Buddha Nagar district, the airport is planned as a multi-modal transport hub.It will feature seamless integration with road, rail, metro and regional transit systems, ensuring smooth connectivity for passengers and cargo.This connectivity is expected to significantly improve accessibility for travellers across Delhi NCR and neighbouring regions.

Boost to India’s aviation ambitions

The inauguration of Phase I of Noida International Airport is being seen as a major step in strengthening India’s aviation ecosystem.By expanding capacity, improving connectivity, and integrating modern infrastructure with sustainability, the project is expected to play a key role in positioning Delhi NCR as a major global aviation hub while supporting economic growth and regional development



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Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being ‘not 14 anymore’ is a big deal | Cricket News


Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being 'not 14 anymore' is a big deal
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Image credit: ICC)

NEW DELHI: Young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has made headlines time and again – and for good reason. With his swashbuckling batting style, brute power, effortless six-hitting, and ability to dismantle bowling attacks, he has become a fan favourite in no time.The past year, in particular, has been remarkable for the youngster. And heading into IPL 2026, there is a significant change – he is no longer 14.

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Impact Player Rule: Game-changer or all-rounder killer?

Sooryavanshi turned 15 on Friday (March 27), celebrating his birthday just a day before the start of IPL 2026.Is he eligible to play for Team India (senior team)?Questions like – Is Sooryavanshi eligible to play for India’s senior team? Will he break into the side? When will he make his debut? – have been asked repeatedly.Now, with the youngster officially turning 15, he is eligible to feature in senior international cricket as per ICC’s player eligibility regulations (Article 4).According to INTERNATIONAL CRICKET COUNCIL PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REGULATIONS ARTICLE 4, ELIGIBILITY ON THE BASIS OF AGE 4.1 states, “ARTICLE 4 ELIGIBILITY ON THE BASIS OF AGE, “A Player will only be eligible to represent a National Cricket Federation in an International Match (including ICC Events and U19 Events) if he/she is aged 15 or over on the relevant squad submission date (in the case of ICC Events including U19 Events) or on the date of the first match of the series/tournament to the played (in the case of all other International Matches). “Following the introduction of these regulations in November 2020, the ICC made 15 the minimum age requirement for participation in international cricket (U19 level and above), keeping in mind the welfare and physical safety of minors, including during travel.Will an India call-up come soon for Sooryavanshi? That remains to be seen.The youngster grabbed global attention with his stellar performances in his debut IPL season in 2025.In just his second IPL match, he smashed a sensational 100 off 35 balls.His heroics in the U19 World Cup 2026, along with impressive outings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 and the Ranji Trophy 2025, were outstanding.Following his IPL success, Sooryavanshi was drafted into the India U19 setup, where he continued to shine.U19 World Cup 2026 (Player of the Tournament): Sooryavanshi led India to their sixth title, highlighted by a stunning 175 off 80 balls (including 15 sixes) in the final against England.Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: He became the youngest player to score a List A century at 14 years and 272 days. During a blistering 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh, he broke AB de Villiers’ record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket, reaching the milestone in just 59 balls.Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Named Bihar’s vice-captain at 14, he scored his maiden first-class fifty with a 67-ball 93 against Meghalaya, narrowly missing out on becoming the youngest Ranji centurion.Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26: He continued his white-ball dominance with an unbeaten 108 and a composed fifty (50 off 34 balls) against Maharashtra, showing improved maturity in pacing his innings.Rising Stars Asia Cup (Doha): Representing India A, he smashed a “whirlwind” 144 off 42 balls against the UAE.



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