Times of India

Sicily, Madrid, France and Berlin have all left their mark on chess vocabulary. The Sicilian Defence dates back to Giulio Cesare Polerio, while Ruy López gave the Spanish Opening one of its first systematic analyses. The French Defence emerged from a 1834 correspondence match between Paris and London. Berlin Defence, meanwhile, was revived by Vladimir Kramnik in his 2000 world championship match against Garry Kasparov.

An Aam Aadmi Party leader, Gurpreet Singh, was fatally shot by four armed assailants. The incident occurred in Mamdot, Punjab, on Saturday evening while he was in a car. Singh was declared dead upon arrival at the Civil Hospital after the attack. Another man, Harpreet, sustained injuries and was referred for further treatment. Police are actively investigating the shooting and seeking to identify the perpetrators.

As India's team management strategizes for the upcoming ODI World Cup, they're considering Tilak Varma as a valuable middle-order backup. His left-handed batting style could enhance the team's dynamics, alongside his potential bowling skills. With the New Zealand tour approaching in October, selectors aim to ensure optimal batting positions, seeking both stability and depth in the squad.

North Korea has shaken up its military hierarchy by removing the defense minister, a move approved by Kim Jong Un in a recent leadership meeting. This change mirrors advancements at the nation's weapons research center, which has introduced new combat weapon systems. As tensions rise, trilateral military drills involving South Korea, the US, and Japan will carry on, designed to counter North Korea's ongoing nuclear and missile provocations.

Synopsis: Sicily, Madrid, France and Berlin have all left their mark on chess vocabulary. The Sicilian Defence dates back to Giulio Cesare Polerio, while Ruy López gave the Spanish Opening one of its first systematic analyses. The French Defence emerged from a 1834 correspondence match between Paris and London. Berlin Defence, meanwhile, was revived by Vladimir Kramnik in his 2000 world championship match against Garry Kasparov.

In a landmark move, the United States and Venezuela have forged a 25-year energy partnership designed to uplift Venezuela's ailing oil sector and enhance production capabilities. Under this agreement, rights to unexplored oil reserves will be held for a century, with the U.S. claiming fifty-five percent of the new venture's output. This collaboration promises to inject significant investments and generate tax income for Venezuela.

Jharkhand prisoners will soon work outside jail during the day. Selected inmates will earn a livelihood and return to prison in the evening. This initiative will be introduced through open and semi-open barracks at four central jails. The move aims to strengthen correctional reforms and aid prisoner reintegration into society. Eligibility criteria will focus on good conduct and adherence to prison rules.

Joe Root has made history by scoring the most Test runs for England, eclipsing Ricky Ponting's record in a thrilling match against Pakistan. This landmark not only highlights Root's outstanding performance in his home Tests but also sets him on the path to chase Sachin Tendulkar's overall record as England triumphs in the series at Lord's.

Manav Suthar has impressed in his first three Test matches, taking 23 wickets. His ability to generate drift and deceive batters is a significant strength. Ajinkya Rahane noted Suthar's effectiveness regardless of pitch conditions and his quick learning. Suthar's adaptability strengthens his prospects for a larger role in India's spin attack. The team faces a challenging series in New Zealand with different conditions.

Suryakumar Yadav openly takes responsibility for his underwhelming ODI career, admitting he lacked the necessary dedication to the 50-over format. He struggles with the complexities of ODI cricket compared to T20s and expresses regret over not mastering the art of innings construction. Yadav reflects that his journey in ODI cricket feels incomplete and remains a lingering aspiration.

Highly trained mountain guides and Everest veterans joined flood rescue efforts in Nepal's Rasuwa district. Specialist teams used expedition skills to access disaster zones where roads had disappeared. Rescuers entered a mud-choked hydropower tunnel, pushing approximately 120 meters inside. They recovered a camera bag and determined excavation equipment was needed for deeper access. The rescue operations aimed to locate workers trapped in multiple hydropower tunnel systems.

Travis Kelce is building a business empire that extends well beyond his NFL career. The Chiefs star has interests in Garage Beer, valued at around $200 million, Sleep Number and 1587 Prime, alongside a new NIL venture called TEKTA. He has also joined the ownership group of the Cleveland Guardians, adding MLB to his expanding portfolio. Kelce's moves show a clear focus on investments, ownership and businesses that can outlast his football career.

On his diplomatic mission to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Prime Minister Modi aims to bolster India's regional aspirations and forge stronger ties. At the SCO summit, he will advocate for collective efforts against terrorism and initiate dialogue on trade and strategic collaboration. This trip underscores India’s dedication to nurturing historical connections and fostering prosperity for all involved nations.

Moment Energy has launched its most extensive second-life battery manufacturing plant, transforming used electric vehicle batteries into essential energy storage systems. This innovative facility aims to deliver backup power for various crucial facilities across North America. The company has successfully obtained considerable funding and safety certifications, while also planning to broaden its manufacturing operations into Texas.

Andre Agassi made significant sacrifices during his own childhood to ensure his children could experience life freely. Becoming a father to Jaden and Jaz shifted his priorities, emphasizing their happiness over his own athletic legacy. His wife, Steffi Graf, who also faced the rigorous demands of elite sports, shared this perspective, allowing them to focus on nurturing their children's individual passions.