MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 2nd Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University Result 2025 has been released on mkbhavuni.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your MSW 2nd Sem Results Online.
Ahmedabad plane crash: Doctor identifies pregnant wife from mangalsutra
In Ahmedabad, a devastating plane crash resulted in bodies charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA analysis for identification. Amidst the tragedy, Dr. Pradeep Solanki, a neurosurgeon, identified his pregnant wife, Kajal, a homeopath, through her mangalsutra pendant. The couple had just returned from their baby shower in Bhavnagar a day before the accident.
DNA identification of Ahmedabad plane crash victims underway; only eight bodies handed over so far
AHMEDABAD: As the aftermath of the devastating Air India plane crash continues to unfold, DNA testing remains in full swing on the second day at Kasoti Bhavan inside the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. Authorities have so far conducted postmortems on over 270 bodies, while DNA sampling has been completed for at least 220 victims. Despite the scale of the tragedy, only eight bodies have been identified and handed over to their families. Officials confirmed that more than 25 ambulances have been stationed outside the hospital to assist in the transfer of remains. However, identification of the remaining victims hinges entirely on DNA results, which are expected within the next three days. Samples of nearly 250 individuals have already been collected as part of the massive identification effort. Among the victims confirmed so far are two from Rajasthan, two from Bhavnagar, and one from Madhya Pradesh. The identities of others remain under process as forensic teams work round the clock. Special attention is being given to the 27 passengers from Vadodara city and district who were aboard the ill-fated flight. District Collector Dr Anil Dhamelia stated that DNA sampling of their families has been completed at the Civil Hospital. To assist in the coordination, the district administration deployed one male and one female officer each for 20 of the affected families to establish direct contact and streamline the identification process. Dr Dhamelia also informed that three medical officers from the Vadodara district health system have been dispatched to Ahmedabad for support. Additionally, a Chitnis has been appointed by the state government to assist with on-ground coordination. In a show of oversight, Gujarat State Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel and Minister of State Jagadish Vishwakarma visited the hospital to inspect the ongoing DNA collection and identification process. Meanwhile, police have officially registered a case of accidental death in connection with the crash, as investigations continue to piece together the chain of events that led to one of Indias deadliest aviation disasters.
AI171 plane crash: Vijay Rupani's lucky number '1206' becomes date of his last journey
AHMEDABAD: Former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani considered '1206' his lucky number and ensured it featured on all vehicles he owned over the years. The number has now become synonymous with one of the worst aviation tragedies in India's history, in which he lost his life along with 264 others on Thursday. Rupani was among 242 persons on board a London-bound Air India flight that crashed into a building of a medical college and hostel in the Meghaninagar area moments after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon. The former chief minister considered 1206 as his lucky number, but it has now become the date of his final journey, June 12 (12/6). In his hometown Rajkot, people could identify Rupani's car by its vehicle registration number 1206. According to locals of Rajkot and journalists, Rupani's scooters and cars bore the same number. Rupani was travelling to his daughter's place in London, as his wife Anjaliben, who is also an active member of the BJP, was also there. Anjaliben reached Gandhinagar on Friday morning. Gujarat state BJP chief and Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil on Thursday confirmed Rupani's death in the plane crash. The 68-year-old leader was known for his composed demeanour and firm administrative style. He served as Gujarat's chief minister from August 2016 to September 2021 and steered the state through a critical post-COVID-19 recovery phase. He started off as a student leader, leading several agitations, and was an activist of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in his college days. In 1975, Rupani was imprisoned for a year in the Bhavnagar jail while protesting against the Emergency. He entered public service in 1987 when he was elected as a corporator in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation and later became the mayor. He was a member of the Rajya Sabha between 2006 and 2012. His tenure as the chief minister saw the launch of the state Industrial Policy 2020 and initiatives for tribal upliftment. Rupani stepped down from the post in September 2021, making way for Bhupendra Patel ahead of state elections. He was later appointed as BJP in-charge of Punjab. 241 passengers died. One survived. His story bears witness to Ahmedabad plane crash horror
Air India crash in Ahmedabad could be the worst involving a single aircraft in India
The crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday could be the worst ever accident involving a single aircraft in India. There were 242 people on board the flight, while more casualties are likely on the ground as the plane crashed into a hostel for medical students. The only plane accident in India with more casualties was the mid-air collision of two aircraft over Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, around 100 km from Delhi, in 1996 in which 349 people died. That crash involved the collision of a Saudia flight from Delhi to Dhahran in Saudi Arabia and a Kazakhstan Airlines flight from Chimkent in Kazakhstan to Delhi. LIVE | Air India flight to London crashes near Ahmedabad airport during takeoff; all 242 passengers presumed dead The previous worst crash involving a single aircraft in India took place on New Year's Day in 1978 when an Air India flight crashed into the Arabian Sea just off the coast of Bombay less than two minutes after take-off. All 213 people on board that flight, which was headed to Dubai, died. The aircraft was a Boeing-747 named Emperor Ashoka. The worst ever crash involving an Air India plane was in 1985 when a flight from Canada to India was blown up over the Atlantic Ocean after a bomb was planted on board by Khalistani terrorists. All 329 people on board were killed. Here is a timeline of the major air accidents in India since 1990: August 7, 2020 Air India Express Flight IX-1344 Kozhikode In Keralas biggest plane accident, an Air India Express aircraft carrying 190 people on board, including crew, from Dubai to Calicut airport skidded off the table-top runway while landing in bad weather, fell 35 feet onto a road below and split into two. Operating under the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft was flying from Dubai to Kozhikode (Calicut). Such runways, which are located on hilltops, create the optical illusion of being at the same level as the plains below when a pilot comes in for a landing. The crash claimed 21 lives, including both pilots, and left more than 100 injured, some critically. May 22, 2010 Air India Express Flight IX-81 - Mangalore Air India Express Flight IX-812 crashed on May 22, 2010, at Mangalore International Airport, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India. The flight, a Boeing 737-800, was operating from Dubai to Mangalore with 166 people onboard, including many Indian expatriates returning home. The 2-year-old aircraft had crashed outside Mangalore airport in Karnataka on May 22, killing 158 people when it burst into flames after overshooting a table-top runway and plunged into a nearby forest.The crash resulted in 158 fatalities, with only 8 survivors, most of whom were seated in the front section of the aircraft. The investigation found that the pilot overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore and tried to pull up the plane but it was too late. November 10, 2009 An ATR-72 passenger plane, operated by Kingfisher Airlines, was damaged when it skidded off the runway on landing at Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), India. Flight IT4124 operated on a scheduled domestic flight from Bhavnagar Airport (BHU) to Mumbai. Maintenance on main runway 27 at Mumbai effected operations at the airport between certain times. October 29, 2008 King Air C-90 aircraft owned and operated by Govt of Punjab was operating Positioning flight from Chandigarh to Ludhiana on 29.10.08 with two cockpit crew on board. The flight en-route up to overhead Ludhiana was uneventful. The crew located the runway late due prevailing Low visibility. They were not comfortable with the approach and made a go around; a non-standard go-around due to low visibility. In the anxiety to not to loose the sight of the field they descended in three orbits in the vicinity of the airfield on the west side of R/w 12, perhaps to land after making the short circuit from the right. However they lost the control and impacted with the ground in the steep left bank. Aircraft got destroyed in the crash due to the impact and post impact fire. Both the occupant on board died due to fire and collapsing aircraft structure. Air India crash near Ahmedabad airport: What we know so far March 19, 2008 The Premier 1 corporate jet aircraft took off normally from Jodhpur (JDH), India. The flight en-route up to approach to land at Udaipur (UDR) was uneventful. After clearance to land at Udaipur the pilot selected the flaps-10; the flap didnt respond and Flaps-Fail message flashed. The pilot decided to go for a flap-less landing and carried out the check list for Flaps Up approach & landing. The approach speed of the aircraft was probably high and it could not be brought to the assigned limit for flap less landing. The pilot continued approach at high speed. From about 25 feet height, the aircraft had a sort of free fall and impacted the runway. It rolled for about 150 feet with heavy breaking on both the wheels; which caused heavy rubber deposits on the runway and subsequent tyre burst. The aircraft veered to right and hit the boundary wall before it stopped. September 8, 2007 Vulcanair P68C aircraft VT-JOY operated by M/s Joy Alukkas Traders (I)pvt Ltd, Cochin operating flight from Bangalore Airport to Cochin on 08.9.2007 after refueling at Bangalore. Its took-off from Bangalore airport runway 27 at approx 1514 Hrs normally. At about1520 Hrs IST the aircraft wanted to return back due technical. However it could not make it as it was losing the engine power very fast. Subsequently Radar contact with the aircraft was lost and the aircraft crashed onto the lakebed of Gawdanapalya Lake, about 5NM Southwest of Bangalore airport. All the persons onboard received fatal injuries. There was no evidence of fire. Aircraft was completely destroyed. July 1, 2007 ATR 72-212A aircraft VT -JCE operated by M/s Jet Airways was operating schedule flight sectors DelhiBhopalIndoreDelhi on 1.7.2007. The flight up-till approach to land at Indore was normal. On coming to the runway the aircraft touched down moderately hard and bounced high. The Pilots were perhaps determined to salvage the abnormal situation and added Power to the Engines with intention to cushion the sink-rate and settle the runway. On the contrary, aircraft came hard on the RWY and bounced once again. This got followed with a series of bounces in succession. While bouncing the aircraft migrated from the runway and finally came to full halt on right side close to airport boundary wall. There was no fire in the accident. March 11, 2006 Low-cost carrier Air Deccan's flight from Coimbatore was involved in a mishap when it skidded off the runway after landing at the Bangalore airport.The brand new ATR-72 plane with a compliment of 40 passengers and four crew members damaged its landing gear -- nose wheel and undercarriage-- and slipped out of the runway. April 17, 2004 The aircraft owned and operated by M/s Agni Aerosports Adventure Academy,Bangalore was scheduled for a flight from Jakkur airport to Nadirgul on 7.4.2004. The aircraft took off at about 1115 Hrs with four persons on board including pilot in command. Film actress Ms. Soundarya was also on board the aircraft. After attaining a height of about 150 ft after takes off, the aircraft took a steep left turn, stalled and hit the ground. A few minutes later, the aircraft caught fire and all the occupants received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due impact and post impact fire. Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers September 30, 2001 (Charter Flight) King Air C 90 aircraft VT-EFF owned by Birla Global Finance Ltd. and operated by M/s Jindal Strips Ltd., New Dehli took off from Delhi on 30.09.2001 at 1241 hrs with six passengers and two crewmembers on board. The aircraft was bound to Kanpur. En route it reported Aligarh as estimated. Short of next reporting point KADAS the aircraft was about 10 miles right of track for which the permission was obtained and the pilot requested for direct routing to Kanpur. Captain was advised by ATC Lucknow, to co-ordinate with Gwalior and Agra for traffic information. Thereafter, the aircraft lost the contact with the ATC and crashed. All the persons on board received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due fire. July 17, 2000 Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EGD, owned by Indian Airlines Ltd. and operated by Airlines Allied Services Ltd. took off from NSCBI Airport Kolkata at 0615 hrs on 17.07.2000 for Patna Lucknow - Delhi. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Sohan Pal and there were 58 persons, including six crewmembers, on board. At approx 0713 hrs, the aircraft informed Patna ATC, estimated arrival time at Patna at 0736 hrs. The aircraft informed Patna ATC at 0732 hrs that it would like to do a 360-degree due to being high on approach. The ATC informed the aircraft to report final for R/W 25 after carrying out a 360-degree turn and the pilot acknowledged the same. This was the last communication recorded between the aircraft and the ATC. During the approach, for R/W 25 at Patna, the aircraft turned steeply to the left, losing height, and collided with the tree in the approach funnel and crashed in the GardaniBagh area near Patna Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed due impact with the ground and post impact fire. July 30, 1998 Indian Airlines DO-228 aircraft VT-EJW was involved in an accident at KochiAerodrome on 30-7-98. The aircraft was scheduled to operate from Kochi toThiruvananthapuram. Aircraft took off from runway 17 of Kochi Aerodrome. After attaining a height of about 400 ft. it was seen pitching up steeply to a near vertical attitude and thereafter appeared to perform a manoeuvre similar to a stall turn to the right and crashed on the roof top of the Component Repair Shop (CRS) building of the Naval Aircraft Yard, Kochi. After the impact the aircraft caught fire and was completely destroyed. All persons on board received fatal injuries. Three persons working in CRS also received fatal and six other persons received minor injuries. November 12, 1996 A Saudi Arabian Boeing 747 aircraft and Kazakhastna IL-76 aircraft collided in mid-air about 40 miles west of Delhi on 12th November, 1996. All the 312 occupants of Saudi Boeing 747 and 37 occupants of Kazakhstan IL-76 aircraft lost their lives. The Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft was on a scheduled passenger flight from Delhi to Dahran and the Kazakhastan aircraft was operating a non-scheduled flight from Chimkent, Kazakhastan to Delhi. After takeoff from Delhi, Delhi Approach had instructed the Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft to climb and maintain FL-140 (14,000 feet). The Kazakhastan aircraft had been instructed by Delhi Approach to descend and maintain FL-150 (15,000 feet). Suddenly at 1840 hours the blips of the two aircraft disappeared from the radar screen, as the two aircraft had collided. There was no casualty on the ground. The wreckage of Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft fell near village Dhani in Bhiwani District of Haryana and that of Kazakhastan IL-76 aircraft was lying near village Birohar in Rohtak District. Standing crops at the site of accident were damaged due to fire, impact and rescue operations. Ahmedabad airport resumes operations after brief shutdown following Air India flight crash July 11, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETC was operating flight on Delhi-Shimla-Bhunter- Delhi sector on 11.07.96. The flight upto Shimla was unenventful. The aircraft took-off from Shimla with 9 persons including three flight crew members. At 0855 hrs. aircraft hit and crashed into a hill and caught fire near Kanda village. The Aircraft was totally destroyed and all the persons on board received fatal injuries and three persons on ground have also suffered injuries. May 18, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETB was operating a scheduled flight from Delhi to Kanpur civil aerodrome on 18.05.96. The flight from Delhi to Kanpur was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Delhi with 19 persons including three light crew. During landing, the aircraft touched down late and could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway. The aircraft hit the boundary wall of the airport and came to halt. The aircraft sustained major damages. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. December 2, 1995 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-ECS was operating flight IC-492 of 2.12.95 under the command of Capt. Adil Mistry with co-pilot Sandeep Marwah and four cabin crew. The flight upto Jaipur was uneventful. Aircraft took-off from Jaipur with 98+4 passengers. Aircraft landed at Delhi at 1253 hrs. After landing the aircraft could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway into kutcha. The aircraft was substantially damaged. There was minor fire. Six passengers received minor injuries. July 1, 1995 East West F-27 aircraft was engaged in a training flight at Baroda airport on 1.7.1995. The aircraft was under the command of an Examiner pilot with the trainee pilot on right hand seat. The first touch and go exercise was uneventful. During the second exercise, immediately on touchdown the left main landing gear failed at its shock strut outer cylinder and the inner cylinder with the main wheel assembly attached to it got liberated. The aircraft continued moving forward with the remaining portion of left shock strut contacting the runway followed by the left engine propellers and fuselage bottom and finally came to rest on the runway left side strip. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. December 17, 1994 Indian Airlines A-320 aircraft VT-EPM was operating a scheduled flight from Madras to Hyderabad on 17.12.1994. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. C.J. Bhoopal with Capt. Sree Nair as First Officer. In all there were 144 persons on board the aircraft. After reaching over Hyderabad airfield, the aircraft did normal descent and was cleared for VOR DME approach for Runway 09. Aftertouchdown when the aircraft was rolling, it was hit by an unauthorised outsider on moped, who was attempting to cross the runway. The aircraft continued rolling with normal braking. The moped rider died on the spot and his body was ragmented into pieces and scattered all over the runway. Aircraft sustained slight damage. November 15, 1993 Indian Airlines Airbus A-300 aircraft VT-EDV was operating scheduled flight IC-440 (Madras- Hyderabad sector) on 15.11.1993. There were a total of 262 persons were on board the aircraft including 247+3 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft could not land at Hyderabad due to low visibility and carried out a missed approach. After the missed approach, the aircraft reported Flap Problem and was holding overhead at Hyderabad during which the flight crew enquired visibility at nearby Air Force airfields which was also low. The aircraft then diverted to Madras. Due to flaps problem, the crew had to maintain low speed and low altitude as a result of which it experienced fuel shortage and sought permission from Madras control for landing at Tirupati. However, the aircraft could not reach even Tirupati airport and executed forced landing in an open paddy field about 14 nautical miles from Tirupati airport. The aircraft dragged on the soft paddy field before coming to final stop. There was no fire. Passenger evacuation was carried out by means of escape slides. All the persons on board escaped unhurt except four who received minor injuries. April 26, 1993 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-ECQ was operating scheduled flight IC-491 from Delhi- Jaipur-Udaipur-Aurangabad-Bombay on 26.4.1993. The flight from Delhi to Aurangabad was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Aurangabad with 118 persons on board. Aircraft lifted up almost at the end of runway and impacted heavily with a lorry carrying pressed cotton bales running from North to South on a highway at a distance of about 410 feet from the end of runway. The aircraft left main landing gear, left engine bottom cowling and thrust reverser impacted the left side of the truck at a height of nearly seven feet from the level of the road. Thereafter the aircraft hit the high tension electric wires nearly 3 kms North-East of the runway and hit the ground. In all 55 persons received fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed due to post impact fire. January 9, 1993 On 9th January, 1993 TU-154 aircraft No. 85533 wet leased by Indian Airlines from Uzbekistan Airways was operating flight IC-840 from Hyderabad to Delhi. The aircraft was being flown by Uzbeki operating crew and there were 165 persons on board including the crew. The aircraft touched down slightly outside the right edge of the runway, collided with some fixed installations on the ground, got airborne once again and finally touched down on kutcha ground on the right side of the runway. At this stage the right wing and the tail of the aircraft broke away and it came to rest in an inverted position. During the process, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed. Most occupants of the aircraft escaped unhurt. Six persons suffered either limb fracture or other serious injuries while 45 persons suffered injuries of a minor nature. Boeing stock tumbles over 7% in pre-market following Air India crash September 4, 1992 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-EGJ was operating scheduled flight IC-493 (Udaipur-Bombay sector) on 4.9.92. During take-off roll, the aircraft hit an Aerodrome Attendant (Chowkidar) on the runway centerline, who received fatal injuries. The aircraft continued with the take-off roll, got airborne and subsequently landed uneventfully at its destination Bombay. January 10, 1992 Air Lanka B-737 aircraft was engaged in a Scheduled International Passenger flight from Colombo to Madras on 10.1.1992. During landing on Runway 07 at Madras airport, the right landing gear attachment failed and right engine bottom contacting runway surface immediately on touchdown. The aircraft started swerving towards the right of runway center line as it moved forward on its wheels with right engine cowling and bottom rubbing the runway surface. The aircraft finally came to stop with its nose wheel and failed right main landing gear entering the grassy side strip soon after crossing the Delta taxiway. The fire emanating from the right engine was extinguished by the Safety Services and the crew and passengers evacuated the aircraft through the left side exit doors by means of the slide chutes. August 16, 1991 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EFL while operating flight IC-257 (Calcutta-Imphal) on 16.8.91 crashed about 20 nautical miles from the Imphal airport. The aircraft had earlier taken off from Calcutta at 0615 hrs UTC and it lost contact with Imphal airport at 0716 hrs UTC at approximately 5000 feet on ILS. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Shekhar Haldar with Capt. D.B. Roychoudhary as First Officer. There were a total of 68+1 persons on board the aircraft including crewmembers. All the 69 persons died in the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed. May 7, 1990 Air India Boeing 747 aircraft VT-EBO was operating flight AI-132 (London-Delhi-Bombay). During landing at Delhi Airport, on 7.5.1990, its left outboard engine (No. 1 Engine) partially separated from its wing attachment and consequently left wing caught fire which was quickly extinguished by the Airport Safety Services. The passengers were safely evacuated through slide chutes. The left wing of the aircraft was substantially damaged. February 14, 1990 Indian Airlines Airbus A-320 aircraft VT-EPN was operating Bombay-Bangalore sector on 14.2.1990. The aircraft took off from Bombay at 11:58 hours. There were 146 persons on board which included the two cockpit crew, five cabin crew, and four infants. The flight from Bombay to Bangalore was uneventful. During the final approach to Runway 09 at Bangalore the aircraft first contacted ground within the boundary of the Karnataka Golf Association approximately 2300 ft. prior to the beginning of Runway 09. The aircraft went up into the air for a very short duration after which it again contacted the ground on all three gears and then hit an embankment at the boundary of the golf course. The aircraft finally came to rest outside the boundary wall of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed due to impact and fire. In all 92 persons on board including two pilots and two cabin crew died in the accident.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 1st, 4th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University Result 2025 has been released on mkbhavuni.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your LLB/LLM 1st, 4th Sem Results Online.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 2nd, 6th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025 OUT! Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU) has released the 2025 results for various UG and PG courses on its official website, and students can check their results now via the official website using the direct link and instructions provided below.
The Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU) has released the MKBU Result 2025 for various UG and PG programs including Diploma, B.Com, LLB, B.Sc, and M.Ed for the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th semesters on its official website mkbhavuni.edu.in, and students who appeared for these exams can now check and download their mark sheets by entering their roll number using the direct link and instructions provided.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 2nd, 4th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025 OUT as Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU) has released the 2025 results for various UG and PG courses on its official website and students can check their results now via the official website using the direct link and instructions provided below.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 4th, 6th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025 OUT as Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU) has released the 2025 results for various UG and PG courses on its official website and students can check their results now via the official website using the direct link and instructions provided below.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 2nd, 4th, 6th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University Result 2025 has been released on mkbhavuni.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your BSW/Diploma/M.Sc 2nd, 4th, 6th Sem Results Online.
Gujarats Asiatic lion count leaps from 674 to 891 in five years
AHMEDABAD: In a major conservation milestone, Gujarats Asiatic lion population has soared to 891 a sharp 32.2% jump (from 674) since 2020, with 217 new lions added in just five years. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the surge on Wednesday, unveiling results from the 16th Asiatic Lion Census conducted earlier this month. The latest figures signal a resounding success for Gujarats wildlife conservation efforts, reaffirming the states position as the last natural habitat of the endangered species. PM Modi praised the effort of Gujarat government. The big cats, once largely confined to Gir National Park, are now sprawling across 11 districts of the Saurashtra region including non-forested and coastal zones, a testament to their expanding territory and rising numbers. The number of lions in the state has gradually increased not just because of favorable geography and climate, but due to our government's consistent and careful approach to wildlife conservation, said the Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Providing a detailed account, he noted, There were 327 lions in 2001, 359 in 2005, 411 in 2010, 523 in 2015, and 674 in 2020. Today, the lion population stands at 891. He further credited the shift in census methodology to Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, saying, As Chief Minister, Shri Narendrabhai Modi introduced the 'Total Count by Direct Sighting at Block System' method, replacing the traditional estimation model. Prime Minister praised the effort. Very exciting information! It's truly gratifying to see that the efforts under 'Project Lion' are creating a favorable environment and ensuring the protection of lions in Gujarat, the Prime Minister posted on social media platform X. The 2020 census had pegged the number at 674, all within Gir and surrounding areas. The latest count reveals not just a population boom but also a major geographical shift: 507 lions were spotted outside Girs boundaries, while 384 remain within the traditional sanctuary limits, according to Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests. The lion stronghold now includes protected areas like Pania, Mitiyala, Girnar, and Barda sanctuaries. Notably, 17 lions were recorded in Barda, just 15 km from Porbandar, while Bhavnagar district reported the largest single pride 17 lions in one group. The demographic breakdown, provided by the Gujarat Forest Department, estimates 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs, painting a robust picture of the species health and future. This extensive wildlife mapping was the result of a meticulous four-day census conducted from May 10 to 13 across 58 talukas, covering 35,000 sq km. The operation, carried out in two phases, involved over 3,000 volunteers including forest officials, enumerators, and inspectors. For the first time, officials deployed a refined method known as direct beat verification, praised for its near-zero margin of error and 100% accuracy, made possible by hi-tech tools like camera traps, high-resolution imaging, GPS tracking, and radio collars. The lion census, conducted every five years, documented key data like time of sighting, direction of movement, physical identifiers, and precise GPS coordinates. The 11 districts where lions were sighted are: Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Bhavnagar, Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Amreli, Porbandar, and Botad. This dramatic expansion of habitat and population underscores both the resilience of the Asiatic lion and the rigorous conservation efforts undertaken by the Gujarat Forest Department a rare ecological triumph in the modern era. CENSUS SNAPSHOT (20012025): 2001: 327 2005: 359 2010: 411 2015: 523 2020: 674 2025: 891 Territory Expands Beyond Gir: Lions now roam 11 districts, including: Junagadh | Bhavnagar | Porbandar | Jamnagar Even in coastal & non-forested zones 507 lions spotted outside Gir Sanctuary 384 within core Gir zone Habitat Hotspots: Barda Sanctuary: 17 lions Bhavnagar: 17 lions in one pride Pania | Mitiyala | Girnar | Population Breakdown: Males: 196 Females: 330 Sub-adults: 140 Cubs: 225 High-Tech Census, Near-Zero Error: 3,000+ field staff 35,000 sq km covered 58 talukas, 4 days Tools: GPS, camera traps, radio collars Direct Beat Verification used for first time
MKBU Result 2025: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University Result 2025 has been released on mkbhavuni.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your BRS/BSW/B.Com/M.A/M.Sc/MBBS 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th Sem Results Online.
MKBU Result 2025 Released at mkbhavuni.edu.in Direct Link to Download 4th Sem Result
MKBU Result 2025: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University Result 2025 has been released on mkbhavuni.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your MCA 4th Sem Results Online.
17 killed in rain-related mishaps across Gujarat, several injured
Unseasonal rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds have tragically resulted in 17 deaths across Gujarat in the past 24 hours. The severe weather, impacting 168 talukas, caused fatalities due to lightning, electrocution, and structural collapses. Amreli and Bhavnagar experienced heavy rainfall and fierce winds, providing relief from the heat but causing significant damage to crops like mango, onion, sesame, and bajra.
Gujarat: 70% citizens registered with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
Gujarat has registered over 70% of its population under the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) as part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The state has digitally linked over 2.26 crore health records and registered over 17,800 health facilities and 42,000 healthcare professionals. Bhavnagar's ABDM microsite excelled, and the 'Scan & Share' feature is improving healthcare access.
A bullet pierced through my arm: Guj man on Pahalgam attack
Vinubhai Dabhi and his wife Lilaben, residents of Bhavnagar, Gujarat, recounted their harrowing experience during the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir. Dabhi was injured by bullets while his wife witnessed the shooting of a young man, Smit Parmar. They both highlight the lack of security presence during the incident.
Terrorist Was Laughing After Shooting My Husband, Says Pahalgam Victims Wife
AHMEDABAD, Apr 24: The wife of Surat resident Shailesh Kalathiya, who lost his life in the terror attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam, on Thursday said terrorists showed no remorse as they were seen laughing after shooting her husband dead. Three Gujarat residents, including Kalathiya, were among the 26 persons killed in the terror attack in south Kashmirs Pahalgam town on Tuesday. Two other victims from the state Yatish Parmar and his son Smit were from Bhavnagar city. The three [] The post Terrorist Was Laughing After Shooting My Husband, Says Pahalgam Victims Wife appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Mortal remains of victims of Pahalgam terror attack return to their homes
The aftermath of the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, has brought immense sorrow to families and communities across India. As the mortal remains of the victims were flown back to their hometowns, the grief of the loss was felt across the nation. The journey of these fallen individuals, from the places of death to their final resting places, serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the tragedy that struck innocent lives. The mortal remains of Manish Ranjan, a section officer with the Intelligence Bureau (IB), reached Ranchi on Thursday morning. Ranjan, who had travelled to Kashmir with his family for a vacation, was tragically killed in the terror attack. He had been posted in Hyderabad and was on a much-needed break. Upon arrival at Ranchi Airport, the body was solemnly received by local leaders and officials, including Babulal Marandi, the BJP president of Jharkhand. From there, his remains were taken to Jhalda in West Bengals Purulia district, his native place, where his family awaited him for his final rites. Corporal Tage Hailyang, a member of the Indian Air Force from Arunachal Pradesh, also lost his life in the attack. Hailyang had been on vacation in Kashmir with his wife when he was killed. His mortal remains were flown back to Guwahati on a special flight in the early hours of Thursday. Assams Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah was present at the Air Force base to receive the body and pay tribute to the brave soldier. Hailyangs wife, who survived the attack,accompanied his remains. From Guwahati, his body was to be transported to his native village in Lower Subansiri district for the final rites, surrounded by loved ones and the local community. The father-son duo from Gujarat, Yatish Parmar and his son Smit, had travelled to Kashmir to attend the spiritual discourse of Morari Bapu. Their journey, meant to bring peace and insight, ended in a devastating tragedy. Their mortal remains were brought back to Ahmedabad from Mumbai, where they had been flown after the attack. Gujarats Health Minister Rushikesh Patel and Minister of State for Health Harsh Sanghavi were among those who paid floral tributes at the airport. From there, the bodies were transported to Bhavnagar for the last rites, where Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is expected to attend the funeral. Suresh Kalathiya, a victim from Surat, also suffered an immense loss. Kalathiya had gone to Pahalgam with his wife and two children for a holiday, but the terror attack turned their lives upside down. Kalathiya, who had recently moved to Mumbai for work, was among those killed while his family survived the brutal assault. His mortal remains were brought back to Surat from Mumbai on Wednesday night, where they were received by Union Minister CR Paatil and other local dignitaries. Kalathiyas family, including his wife and children, also returned to Surat with the body. His final rites are set to be held in Surat, where his community and loved ones will gather to pay their respects. From Pune, the remains of victims Santosh Jagdale and Kaustubh Ganbote, two tourists who had been holidaying in Kashmir with their families, were returned to their hometowns. The bodies of both men were flown back to Pune early on Thursday morning, where Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol was present to receive them at the airport. Jagdale, who ran an interior design business, and Ganbote, a farsan entrepreneur, had travelled to Kashmir to enjoy a rare vacation away from their busy lives. The families of both men were left reeling from the loss, their last rites were held at the Vaikunth Crematorium later that morning. Ganbote and Jagdale were close friends, and Jagdale often helped with the marketing of Ganbote's products. Prashant Satapathy, a victim from Odisha, also received a tribute from the states Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who met the mortal remains at Bhubaneshwar Airport. The body was sent to Satapathys native village, where Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is expected to attend the funeral rites. The state leaders condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the grieving families, emphasizing the need for strong action against the perpetrators. The government, political leaders, and citizens alike have come together to mourn the victims. The terror attack has left a deep scar, but the nations collective response serves as a reminder of the shared grief and determination to stand against terrorism.
Pahalgam attack: Father-son duo on spiritual trip fall prey to terrorists' bullets
A spiritual trip to Kashmir turned tragic for several Gujarat residents as terrorists attacked Pahalgam. Yatish Parmar and his son Smit from Bhavnagar, along with Suresh Kalathiya from Surat, were among those killed. The Parmars were attending a religious discourse, while Kalathiya was vacationing with his family.
AHMEDABAD: A brutal terror strike rocked Pahalgam , Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, claiming 28 lives three of them from Gujarat. Among the victims were a father-son duo from Bhavnagar and a young Bank employee from Surat. Tragedy struck a 20-member Bhavnagar tour group in Jammu and Kashmir when 45-year-old Yatishbhai Parmar and his 17-year-old son Smit were confirmed dead in the Pahalgam terror attack. The two, residents of Kaliyabid, had been missing along with Kajalben Parmar who was later found safe. Yatish ran a salon in Bhavnagar; Smit was an 11th-grade student. Their bodies, along with that of Surats Shaileshbhai Kalthiya also killed in the attack will be brought back for last rites in their hometowns. Twenty people from Bhavnagar had gone to Kashmir, said Bhavnagar District Collector Dr. Manish Kumar Bansal. Among them, a father and son from the Kaliyabid area were killed in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam yesterday. One more person was injured and is currently receiving treatment there. He added, The bodies of the deceased will be brought by air from Srinagar to Mumbai on a 3 pm flight, and then transported to Bhavnagar. Additionally, 17 other people will also be safely brought back to Mumbai by air and then to Bhavnagar. Heaven on earth turned to hell: Families in grief, horror after Pahalgam terror attack A wave of sorrow has swept through the Kalthia family and their loved ones, as news breaks of the untimely passing of Shailesh Himmatbhai Kalthia. Originally from the quiet village of Dhufania in Damnagar, Amreli, Shaileshbhai had built a life in the bustling city of Surat. His house in Chikuwadi, Nana Varachha, now stands somber and silent a poignant reminder of his absence. While the first floor of the residence remains rented out, the main house has been closed since his father returned to their native village two years ago, following the heartbreaking loss of Shaileshbhais mother. The only brother to four sisters, Shaileshbhai held a special place in the hearts of his family. Professionally, Shaileshbhai served with dedication at the State Bank of India (SBI). For the past year, he was based in Mumbai, living with his family and continuing his service with quiet diligence. Before that, he spent nine years in Vadodara. The body of Shailesh, who lost his life in the terrorist attack in Kashmir, is being brought by air, said Mamlatdar A.R. Nayak. It will be flown from Srinagar to Delhi, and then from Delhi to Surat. He added, The body is expected to arrive at Surat Airport around 10:30 pm. From there, it will be taken to Shaileshs cousin. Kashmir often dubbed paradise on earth draws scores of Gujarati tourists every summer. But the deadly Pahalgam attack has shattered that allure. Fear has gripped the state, prompting a wave of cancellations from Gujarat as worried families pull the plug on Kashmir travel plans.
AHMEDABAD: The 84th Congress session kicked off today in Ahmedabad, marking the party's return to Gujarat after 64 years. The two-day event (April 8-9) holds significant historical weight, as the last Congress convention in Gujarat was held in Bhavnagar back in 1961 - the first such event in the state post-independence. Congress stalwarts Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi arrived in Ahmedabad around 10:30 AM, albeit slightly delayed by half an hour due to a bomb scare on an Air India flight to London. Following the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, the two leaders are scheduled to visit Sabarmati Ashram in the evening. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi has yet to arrive in Ahmedabad, though 80 other Congress leaders are expected to touch down today on two chartered flights. The Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting kicked off at the Sardar Patel Memorial in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge setting the tone. He began by marking the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi's presidency in the Congress, a milestone from the 1924 Belagavi Congress in Karnataka, where Gandhi took charge. The Congress celebrated this historic moment on December 26 in Karnataka. Kharge pointed out how three monumental figures from Gujarat had globally elevated Congress: Dadabhai Naoroji, Mahatma Gandhi, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel - each a former Congress president. Gandhi, he emphasised, gifted the nation the potent weapons of truth and non-violence, philosophies that no power can ever subdue. Kharge pointed out how three monumental figures from Gujarat had globally elevated Congress: Dadabhai Naoroji, Mahatma Gandhi, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel - each a former Congress president. Today, however, Kharge lamented the diversion from critical national issues as communal divisions are sowed, and an oligarchic monopoly seeks to control the countrys resources. Drawing a parallel with the monumental success of the Champaran Satyagraha under Gandhi and the iconic Bardoli Satyagraha led by Sardar Patel, Kharge reminded the gathering of their lasting legacies in Indias freedom struggle. This year, on October 31st, the nation will celebrate Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary, a milestone Nehru once called he founder of Indias unity. Kharge underscored that the Congress will honor this anniversary nationwide, reflecting on Patel's pivotal role, particularly as president of the Congress and as the guiding force behind resolutions on fundamental rights passed during the Karachi Congress-principles embedded in India's Constitution. Patel's leadership didnt stop there; he also chaired the critical 'Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities, and Tribal and Excluded Areas' within the Constituent Assembly. Yet, Kharge pointed out, a deliberate conspiracy over the years has sought to malign national heroes, with some distorting Congress's proud 140-year legacy of service and sacrifice for the nation. Theres an attempt to sow discord between Patel and Nehru, Kharge warned. But the truth is they were inseparable allies, two sides of the same coin. He recalled Patels 1937 speech at Gujarat Vidyapeeth, where he expressed deep affection for Nehru, pledging to welcome him with open arms if Gujarat secured victory in the provincial elections. AICC president Kharge: Will send strong message from PMs home turf In 1949, Patel further expressed his admiration for Nehru's tireless service, acknowledging how the strain of his responsibilities had visibly aged him. The correspondence between Patel and Nehru was a daily affair, Kharge added, underscoring Nehrus respect for Patel, often seeking his counsel and even holding CWC meetings at Patels residence for his convenience. Kharge sharply criticised the irony that today, those aligned with the RSS - an organisation Patel had banned due to its ideological differences - are attempting to claim his legacy. He also highlighted the pivotal role Congress played in ensuring Dr BR Ambedkar's place in the Constituent Assembly, a point Dr Ambedkar himself acknowledged in his final speech in 1949. Kharge reminded the CWC of the hypocrisy in the RSS's historical stance, noting how, when the Constitution was finalised, the organisation fiercely opposed it, even burning effigies of key leaders like Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar. He pointed out how the Modi government insulted these great figures by relegating their statues to obscure corners of Parliament. Turning his focus to the present, Kharge condemned the BJP and Sangh Parivar's systematic takeover of institutions tied to Gandhis legacy, such as the Sarva Seva Sangh in Varanasi and Gujarat Vidyapeeth, sidelining Gandhian values and cooperative movements. People with such divisive ideologies might even steal Gandhis glasses and his walking stick, Kharge said, emphasising how Congress remains steadfast in its respect for both the Constitution and the visionaries behind it. In closing, Kharge reaffirmed the Congress Partys commitment to honoring Sardar Patel's legacy. The CWC meeting, held at the Sardar Patel Museum, was a tribute to his enduring influence, with the Congress vowing to carry forward his ideals, even as those with contrary views attempt to erase.
Indian national stabbed to death in suspected racial attack in Canada; accused in custody
NEW DELHI: A 27-year-old Indian national, identified as DharmeshKathireeya, was stabbed to death on Friday in what is suspected tobe aracially motivated attack. However, the authoritiesdenied the racial angle. Kathireeya, who moved to Canada in 2019 as an international student, was attacked in his apartment building in Rockland, a townshiplocatedjust outside Ottawa. The incident occurred in the afternoon whenKathireeyawas exiting a shared laundry room in the building. According to witnesses, he was approached and stabbed by aneighbour, a white male in his 60s, who hadpreviouslyallegedly usedracial slurs and anti-Indian remarks atKathireeyaand his wife. Kathireeya, originally from Bhavnagar district in Gujarat, India, was living in Canada on a work permit. He had been employed at Milano Pizza in Rockland, which had temporarily closed following his death. In an emotional statement, the pizza restaurant expressed their deep sorrowon a social media post,It is with deep sadness that we announce the temporary closure of Milano Pizza. Our beloved manager, Dharmesh, tragically passed away in a terrible incident on April 4. An online fundraiser launched inKathireeyasmemory described the attack as a senseless and unprovoked hate crime. The fundraisers messagestated, It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we share the tragic and sudden loss of our dear friend, Dharmesh. The violence that ended his life has left his family, friends, and the entire community in shock and mourning. The alleged attacker was taken into police custody shortly after the incident. However, his identity has not beendisclosed. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the stabbing. The Indian High Commission in Ottawa expressed their sorrow in a post on social media, We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an Indian national in Rockland near Ottawa due to a stabbing. Police havestatedthat a suspect has been taken into custody. We are in close contact with a local community association to provide allpossible assistanceto the bereaved family. We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an Indian national in Rockland near Ottawa, due to stabbing. Police has stated a suspect has been taken into custody. We are in close contact through a local community association to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved India in Canada (@HCI_Ottawa) April 5, 2025 Kathireeyasfamily in India was informed of his death on Saturday, sources said.
SCR Extends 10 Summer Special Trains Across Key Routes
68 services to operate on Hyderabad-Bhavnagar, Secunderabad-Santragachi & more
Gujarat shuts 54 government primary schools across 33 districts as student numbers plunge
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government informed the Assembly on February 25, 2025, that 54 government primary schools across 33 districts had been shut down in the past two years due to plummeting student enrollment. The disclosure, made by Primary, Secondary, and Adult Education Minister, came in response to a question by Congress MLA Kirit Patel (Patan), exposing a deepening education crisis in the state. Schools Vanishing Across Districts Devbhoomi Dwarka led the shutdowns with nine closures, followed by Aravalli (7), Amreli (6), and Porbandar (6)each grappling with a sharp decline in student numbers. Junagadh recorded four closures, while Chhota Udepur, Kutch, and Rajkot saw three schools shut down each, signaling the widespread impact. Kheda, Jamnagar, and Navsari followed with two closures per district, further tightening the noose on struggling institutions. The crisis didnt spare Bhavnagar, Dang, Gir Somnath, Mahesana, Panchmahal, Surat, and Surendranagar, each losing one primary school, underscoring a grim picture of shrinking educational access. Single-Classroom Schools and Crumbling Infrastructure Beyond school closures, infrastructure woes continue to haunt Gujarats education system. In February 2024, the government admitted in the Assembly that 341 primary schools were operating with just one room, responding to a query from Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar. Justifying the appalling conditions, officials blamed low student and teacher numbers, arguing that fewer classrooms were necessary. However, the situation is exacerbated by the demolition of dilapidated rooms, with authorities citing a lack of available land as the reason new classrooms cannot be built, leaving students crammed into single-room facilities with no solution in sight. 1,606 Schools Run with Just One Teacher In another shocking disclosure on February 12, 2024, the Gujarat government admitted in the Assembly that 1,606 of the state's 32,000 government primary schools were running with only one teacher handling all students from Classes 1 to 8. The staggering figure highlights a severe staffing crisis in Gujarats education system, where thousands of students struggle for basic instruction in understaffed schools. Playgrounds Vanishing, Holistic Development at Risk The infrastructure crisis doesnt stop at classrooms. The government further revealed that 5,012 government primary schools across Gujarat lack a playground, depriving students of crucial recreational space. The situation in secondary and higher secondary schools is equally alarming, with 78 government, 315 grant-in-aid, and 255 private institutions operating without playgrounds, despite Gujarat housing around 12,700 such schools. Even private institutions are not spared, as 37 grant-in-aid and 509 private primary schools also lack on-campus playgrounds, highlighting a systemic neglect of student development. With shrinking school infrastructure, collapsing student enrollment, and teacher shortages, Gujarats education sector is facing one of its most severe crises in recent history.
Gujarat Achieves 40% Share In India's Solar Rooftop Installations
Plans are afoot to set up about 1,250 MW lignite-based power plants in Kutch, Bhavnagar and Bharuch by utilising the available reserves of the combustible mineral in the state, he informed.
Gujarat govt admits crop losses in yards, but Rs 85 crore for storage lies idle
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats marketing yards are turning into disaster zones, and the government knows it. In a startling admission in the assembly on Tuesday, the state acknowledged that crops left in the marketing yards are suffering massive damage from rain and unseasonal rain. Yet, despite allocating Rs124 crore over two years to strengthen marketing yards infrastructure, Rs 85 crore remains untouched. The contradiction is glaringwhile farmers face losses, the governments funds meant to prevent them sit idle. Agricultural crops across Gujarats marketing yards lay exposed to rain and unseasonal rain as of December 31, 2024, triggering extensive damage, the state government admitted on Tuesday. Responding to Congress MLA Shailesh Parmars query in the Assembly, Minister of State for Cooperation acknowledged the crisis and outlined government measures. In 2022-23, Rs 62.50 crore was earmarked for infrastructure in agricultural market Yard. The following year, Rs 61.50 crore was allocated, signaling continued investment in protective facilities. However, Gujarat government has admitted to a massive underutilization of allocated funds for agricultural market infrastructure. In the Assembly, it was revealed that out of Rs 62.50 crore earmarked in 2022-23, only Rs 14.80 crore was spent, leaving Rs 47.70 crore untouched. The trend continued in 2023-24, with just Rs 23.36 crore utilized from the Rs 61.50 crore provision, while Rs 38.14 crore remained idle. Over two years, Rs 124 crore was sanctioned for upgrading market yards, yet a staggering Rs 85 crore went unused, exposing glaring inefficiencies in fund deployment. Over the past two years, multiple incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of agricultural produce lying in the open at marketing yards. In the summer of 2023, farmers castor, guar, and isabgul crops at Bhujs APMC yard were left unsheltered, only to be drenched in unexpected rains. Traders and farmers alike lamented heavy losses. The crisis escalated in April 2023, when unseasonal rain hit Harij in Patan district, soaking grain stocks and washing away 400 sacks of castor oil along with 30 sacks of gram, parsley, and jasan. Farmers, caught off guard, faced losses exceeding Rs15-16 lakh. The pattern repeated in October 2024, as Mahuva in Bhavnagar district was lashed by heavy rains. The Mahuva marketing yard turned into a flood zone, with groundnut stocks swept away in flowing water, leaving farmers in distress. These recurring incidents expose the persistent lack of protective infrastructure, raising urgent questions about government accountability and market preparedness. In the summer of 2023, farmers castor, guar, and isabgul crops at Bhujs APMC yard were left unsheltered, only to be drenched in unexpected rains. Traders and farmers alike lamented heavy losses. The crisis escalated in April 2023, when unseasonal rain hit Harij in Patan district, soaking grain stocks and washing away 400 sacks of castor oil along with 30 sacks of gram, parsley, and jasan. Farmers, caught off guard, faced losses exceeding Rs15-16 lakh. The pattern repeated in October 2024, as Mahuva in Bhavnagar district was lashed by heavy rains. The Mahuva marketing yard turned into a flood zone, with groundnut stocks swept away in flowing water, leaving farmers in distress. These recurring incidents expose the persistent lack of protective infrastructure, raising urgent questions about government accountability and market preparedness.
Punctuality on track as Vaishnaw tears into Opposition
NEW DELHI: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday dismissed Opposition allegations regarding train punctuality, informing the Lok Sabha that 32 railway divisions have achieved over 90% punctuality while 17 out of 68 divisions maintain more than 80% punctuality. The Bhavnagar rail division under Western Railway holds the top position for punctuality, maintaining a rate of over 99.6%. Following closely are the Madurai division at 99.2%, Ratlam at 98.9%, Bikaner at 98.1%, Sealdah at 98%, Rajkot at 97.7%, Ajmer at 97.1%, and Jodhpur at 96.1%. Other divisions among the 32 that have surpassed 90% punctuality include Kota and Guntur, both with 95.7%, Ahmedabad at 95.1%, Bangalore and Alipur Duar at 94.4%, Guntakal at 94.3%, Mumbai Central at 92.9%, and Trivandrum at 91.3%, among others. The Vijayawada rail division, with 89.5% punctuality, leads the 17 divisions that have achieved over 80% punctuality. It is followed by Firozpur division at 89.2%, Sonpur at 88.6%, Agra at 88.3%, Rangiya at 88.3%, Malda at 88.1%, Nagpur at 87.8%, Ranchi at 87.7%, Bhusaval at 87.4%, and Samastipur at 86.7%. He said over 13,000 passenger trains are currently in operation, including 4,111 mail and express trains, 3,313 passenger trains, and 5,774 suburban trains. Vaishnaw stated 17,330 trains were operated during the Mahakumbh period. Additionally, 1,107 special trains were arranged to accommodate the Holi rush. The number of Holi special trains has consistently increased, from 604 in 2023-24 to 1,107 in 2024-25.
District units to be focal point of party organisation: Jairam; meet on Mar 27
NEW DELHI: The Congress will hold a meeting of District Congress Committees from across the country for three days ahead of its All India Congress Committee session on April 8 and 9 in Ahmedabad. The conference, taking place after 15 years, is aimed at empowering the district units and making them the focal point of the organisation. Congress general secretary in charge of communications Jairam Ramesh said the DCC presidents will be meeting on March 27, 28 and April 3 in three batches at the Indira Gandhi Bhawan in the capital. The meeting on March 27, 28 and April 3 will focus on how to bring the partys district units to the centre of the organisation. In Belagavi, the Nav Satyagraha Sankalp had stated that 2025 will be the year of strengthening the organisation. In line with that, this meeting of DCCs will be held for three days, Ramesh said. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi met party general secretaries and in-charges of various states on Tuesday. AICC general secretaries Ramesh, K C Venugopal, Ajay Maken, Bhupesh Baghel, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ramesh Chennithala, Mukul Wasnik, Kumari Selja, Jitendra Singh, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande, Randeep Surjewala and Deepa Dasmunshi, among others, were present at the meeting held at the party headquarters. This will be the fourth AICC session in Gujarat, after the 1907 session in Surat, the 1938 session in Haripura and the 1961 session in Bhavnagar. Speaking to reporters, Wasnik said Gujarat holds a special place in the Independence struggle as it was there that the Dandi March and the Bardoli Satyagraha took place. This year, the country will celebrate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patels 150th birth anniversary and this [AICC] session held in Gujarat should be seen in thatcontext, he said. On April 8, an extended Congress Working Committee meeting will take place. The AICC resolution will be deliberated upon and a final shape will be given to it. On April 9, it will be presented before the session, he added.
19-year-old killed over inter-caste love affair in Gujarat; her father, uncle arrested
BHAVNAGAR: A man was arrested in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district for allegedly murdering his 19-year-old daughter over an inter-caste love affair, a police official said on Thursday. The teen was strangled on March 7 and her body was cremated hastily and secretively, which aroused suspicion among kin, Deputy Superintendent of Police Mihir Baraiya said. Dipak Rathod was angry at his daughter for entering into a relationship with a youth from another caste. He strangled her in the presence of her younger sister, who was threatened that she too would face the same fate if she followed in her elder sister's footsteps, the Deputy SP said. Dipak took the help of his brother Lalji Rathod to cremate the body secretively at the village crematorium. When relatives of his deceased wife inquired about the girl, Dipak told them she had consumed poison. He could not give satisfactory answers on detailed questioning, after which kin alerted police, the official said. Dipak Rathod and his brother have been arrested on charges of murder, Baraiya said.
Congress returns to Gujarat after 64 years: AICC session in Ahmedabad to chart revival path
AHMEDABAD: Breaking a 64-year gap, the Indian National Congress will hold its All India Congress Committee (AICC) session in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on April 8 to 9, 2025. The last such session in the state was held in Bhavnagar in 1961. With party representatives from across the country gathering, the meeting is set to focus on what Congress calls the continuous attacks on the Constitution and its values, as well as the BJP's anti-people policies. The session is expected to shape the partys future course of action. The Congress, however, has been struggling in Gujarat, facing repeated electoral setbacks. Its poor performance in the recent municipal elections underscores the challenge it faces in the state. Against this backdrop, the upcoming session signals an early push for revival as the party gears up for Mission-2027. Talking to reporters at the Gujarat Congress office on Monday, state Congress President Shakti Singh Gohil said, The 51st session of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) was held in Gujarat from February 19 to 22, 1938, at Haripura near Bardoli. Sardar Patel pushed for this session, At that time, the election of the Congress National President was also held in that session, where Subhas Chandra Bose was elected Congress President. Recalling the historic convention, Gohil noted, At Haripura, long before independence, Congress reaffirmed the Purna Swaraj declaration. Bose outlined a blueprint for a Planning Commissionan idea that took shape 12 years later under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru after independence. The second AICC session in Gujarat took place in Bhavnagar in 1961 under Neelam Sanjiva Reddys leadership, Gohil said, highlighting the gap between major Congress gatherings in the state. Expressing gratitude, he concluded, After 1961, Gujarat will once again host the AICC session in 2025. I thank the Congress high command for this opportunity. The Congress announced that the session will kick off on April 8 with an expanded CWC meeting, setting the stage for high-stakes discussions. The momentum will carry into April 9 with an AICC delegates meet, both helmed by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Powerhouses like Sonia Gandhi, who leads the Congress Parliamentary Party, and Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabhas Opposition leader, will join the deliberations. Adding weight to the gathering, Congress Chief Ministers, national office bearers, senior leaders, and AICC delegates will be in attendance, shaping the partys next moves. After the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Rahul Gandhi landed in Gujarat, firing up Congress workers in July. He declared that just as BJP fell in Ayodhya, Gujarat would be next. Top Congress leaders are now flocking to the state, amplifying the heat. Party insiders reveal Rahul had thrown down this challenge last year, vowing in Parliament, Write it down, well defeat you in Gujarat. The oppositions INDIA bloc is gearing up to make that promise a reality. Gujarat, the turf of PM Modi and Amit Shah, turns every election into a high-stakes battle. For Congress, breaking BJPs grip here is key to its revival. The party is set to chart a two-year roadmap within months. History, however, is brutalCongress has faced defeat in all seven assembly elections since 1995 and suffered total wipeouts in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls. A lone Lok Sabha seat in 2024 offers a small foothold, but the road ahead remains steep.
Gujarat budget 2025: Rs 3.70 lakh crore outlay, five lakh jobs, major boost for farmers
AHMEDABAD: Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai, in his fourth consecutive Gujarat budget presentation, outlined key initiatives targeting youth, farmers, and women. During his 85-minute speech, he unveiled a Rs 3.70 lakh crore budget focused on economic growth and employment generation. A major highlight was the announcement of five lakh new jobs, reinforcing the state's push for workforce expansion. In a significant relief for farmers, he also introduced a provision allowing them to obtain a farmer certificate even if all their land becomes uncultivated, ensuring continued access to agricultural benefits. Gujarat's budget charts an ambitious course for economic growth, infrastructure, and social welfare, with six new growth hubs planned across key regions - Surat, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Saurashtra Coastal, and Kutch - set to drive regional development. Strengthening connectivity, the state will develop two Greenfield Expressways and 12 high-speed corridors, including the Namo Shakti Expressway linking Deesa in North Gujarat to Pipavav in Saurashtra and the Somnath-Dwarka Expressway, enhancing access to major pilgrimage sites. In a bid to bolster air connectivity, a new airport in Dahod has been announced, alongside upgrades to airports in Vadodara, Surat, Bhavnagar, and Porbandar. Complementing this, tourism is set to receive a boost with the development of the Ambaji Corridor and the Dharoi Tourism Development Project. Urban development remains a priority, with 2025 declared as Urban Development Year and a 40 per cent budget increase dedicated to enhancing infrastructure in newly formed municipal corporations. Addressing water conservation, Gujarat will roll out the 'Catch the Rain' campaign across urban areas, aligning with the Prime Ministers call to raise groundwater levels through public participation. Meanwhile, housing support under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has been enhanced, increasing financial assistance per beneficiary to Rs 1.70 lakh. Welfare initiatives remain at the forefront, with Rs 30,000 crore allocated for Vanbandhu development, focusing on education, employment, and infrastructure in the tribal belt from Ambaji to Umargam. Gujarat's fisheries sector, backed by the countrys longest coastline, will receive a record Rs 1,622 crore package to enhance fish production and job creation. Agriculture modernization is another key focus, with Rs 1,612 crore set aside to strengthen the sector and support farmers. To prepare youth for the AI era, the government will establish AI labs in seven technical institutes and create an ecosystem fostering startups, including four new i-Hubs. Womens empowerment takes center stage with the launch of the Sakhi Sahas Yojana, which will provide self-help groups with equipment support, loan guarantees, and other resources for self-reliance. Additionally, child nutrition has been prioritized, with a 25 per cent budget increase pushing the allocation to Rs 8,460 crore. Social security measures have also been reinforced, with insurance coverage under the Janata Juth Aksmat Vima Yojana doubling from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, benefiting over 4.45 crore people. Through this comprehensive budget, Gujarat aims to balance economic expansion with social upliftment, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hailed the Rs 3.70 lakh crore Gujarat budget as a landmark financial plan, calling it he largest in the state's history and a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to development. With a 21.8 per cent increase in capital expenditure over the previous year, this budget strengthens Gujarat's growth trajectory and paves the way for a brighter future, he stated. Highlighting the transformative vision behind the budget, CM Patel emphasised its role in enhancing the quality of life for citizens. This budget is a successful effort to make the lives of Gujarat's people more comfortable, prosperous, and fulfilling, he said, adding that the state is consistently reaching new milestones in progress and development.
An Asiatic lion caused a 15-minute traffic halt on the Bhavnagar-Somnath Highway in Gujarat. Government data reveals a sharp rise in incidents of lions killing domestic animals in the Gir forest, despite an increasing number of prey animals over the past six years.
Gujarat: Lion brings traffic to a halt at Bhavnagar-Somnath highway, watch viral video
A video captured from a car parked on the opposite side of the road documented the event. This incident occurred in the Amreli district of Gujarat.
Watch: Cars, Bikes Wait After Lion Briefly Stops Traffic On Gujarat Highway
The traffic on the Bhavnagar-Somnath Highway in Gujarat stopped briefly today after an Asiatic lion was spotted walking on the road in surprise, halting the movement of vehicles for at least 15 minutes.
