Watch: SP press meet turns violent as ex-district chief slapped over seating

The Price of a Title Shot: When challengers had to pay to face the champion

For much of its history, the world chess championship was not a title a player could simply qualify to challenge for. From Steinitz–Zukertort in 1886 to the long disputes involving Lasker, Capablanca and Rubinstein, challengers had to raise money, negotiate terms and persuade champions to play. As Gukesh prepares to defend his title against Sindarov in Geneva, the USD 2.5 million match offers a striking contrast: the challenger has earned his shot through a formal qualifying system.

‘Gandhi, Nehru, Ambedkar are India’s soul, mind, backbone’: Dipke's jibe at Centre

India’s Asian Games medal map changed: 20 Hangzhou golds gone, 13 new routes to gold

India defended only eight of its 28 Hangzhou golds at Aichi-Nagoya, with 20 titles changing hands. All seven shooting golds and all six athletics titles were lost, but the gold medals were replaced from a wider pool. Thirteen came from events where India had won silver or bronze, or had not reached the podium. From Pranavi Urs to Lovlina Borgohain, the medal map changed even as traditional strengths remained again.

Bridges under attack: Why Russia is targeting Kyiv's vital crossings

In a strategic move, Russia has targeted crucial bridges spanning the Dnipro River in Kyiv, severely impacting transportation and essential infrastructure. The attacks have led to significant traffic congestion throughout the city, with public transport facing notable disruptions. The Southern Bridge has experienced considerable damage, hindering metro services crucial for daily commuters. In light of these assaults, Ukrainian authorities are exploring alternative options to ensure vital crossings remain operational.