Sonia Gandhi Says Penguin Withdrew Her Memoir Over Criticism of Government

Gukesh visits Tirumala temple before World Chess Championship title defence

Reigning World Chess Champion D Gukesh went to the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala to seek blessings before defending his title. He faces Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov in the match. The 14-game championship is scheduled in Geneva from November 24 to December 12. Both players are 20 years old, which would make it the youngest World Championship clash in chess history. The tournament carries a prize fund of USD 2.5 million.

US Creates Task Force to Curb Iran's Land and Caspian Arms Shipments

The United States has set up a task force called Iron Gate to disrupt Iran's weapons transport routes by land and across the Caspian Sea. Based in Tampa, Florida, the unit will include roughly 20 personnel drawn from several US government agencies. The goal is to limit Iran's ability to fund terrorism and rebuild its military. The effort runs alongside an ongoing US naval blockade, which reportedly has blocked more than $25 billion in Iranian crude oil exports.

Wanted fugitive Harry Boxer detained in US, efforts on for extradition

KBC 18 Shoot Paused for a Week Over Amitabh Bachchan's Health

Filming of Kaun Banega Crorepati 18 has been temporarily suspended due to health concerns involving Amitabh Bachchan. In the meantime, the program has been airing repeat episodes that feature celebrity guests. One such episode, which showcased actors promoting Ramayana, was broadcast during Diwali week. Resumption of the shoot will depend on whether Bachchan's health improves in the coming week. Bachchan has thanked fans for their support during this period.