From Bahucharaji to Bhavnagar, Gujarat BJP cadre on divided lines

AHMEDABAD: Once hailed for its internal discipline and ironclad organisation, the Gujarat BJP is now witnessing open turf wars between MLAs and local units, exposing growing rifts from villages to the state capital. The conflict rooted in ticket tussles, ego clashes, and a stalled state leadership is not just political friction but a full-blown public spectacle threatening the partys grassroots grip. The most glaring flashpoint erupted in Bahucharaji, Mehsana, where the cold war between Taluka BJP President Kamlesh Desai and local MLA Sukhaji Thakor finally spilled out in public. At a felicitation ceremony for newly elected sarpanchs in Surpura village, the MLAs conspicuous absence has triggered political speculation. A furious Kamlesh Desai accused Thakor of deliberately skipping the event despite being present in the area and even threatened to lodge a formal complaint. The show of disunity reflected a deeper rot, zero coordination between the organisational wing and the elected representative. In retaliation, MLA Sukhaji Thakor didnt mince words. He hit back at Desai, accusing him of sabotaging his 2022 campaign and running the organisation like a personal fiefdom. According to Thakor, Desai is more focused on self-promotion than party building, a jab that underlines long-simmering tensions dating back to the ticket distribution battle of 2022. Back then, according to a party insider, state BJP general secretary Rajni Patel had lobbied for the Bahucharaji seat for himself or a loyalist, but the high command handed it to Thakor instead, a staunch opponent of Patel. Furious, Patels faction reportedly turned cold, with local BJP leaders refusing to rally behind Thakors campaign. Though Thakor ultimately won with state backing, the real blow came post elections, when Patel loyalist Kamlesh Desai was installed as taluka president, a strategic move seen as payback. Meanwhile, a similar feud has exploded in Vallabhipur, Bhavnagar. At a Sarpanch event in Limda village, former district BJP chief Mukesh Langaliya publicly accused MLA Shambhunath Tundiya of shielding corrupt aides who extort money from contractors working on local infrastructure projects. The charges involving causeways, government buildings, and highway works are serious enough to have reached the state BJPs corridors, even as Langaliya went rogue by defying party orders and holding the event, effectively splitting the local unit into two warring camps. The unrest isn't limited to rural Gujarat. In Ahmedabads Asarwa constituency, BJP MLA Darshanaben Vaghela was recently surrounded by angry citizens over basic civic amenities. A video of the confrontation shot near the Civil Hospital went viral, prompting severe embarrassment for the city BJP leadership. While corporators and ward workers were scolded, the political damage had already been done. Party insiders say the clip has now made its way to state-level leaders, intensifying concerns about the BJPs urban image. Adding fuel to the fire is the state-level leadership vacuum. Its been over seven months since the BJP formed its new organisational structure, yet the state president's chair remains with questions. With no consensus on caste calculations, decision-making is stalled, and uncertainty is trickling down. CR Patil, whose extended term ended after the Lok Sabha elections, is set to complete five years as Gujarat BJP president, having taken charge on July 20, 2020. Despite his elevation to the Union Cabinet in June 2024, he continues to hold the post, making him one of the longest-serving state chiefs in recent times. Now largely absorbed in his Union ministerial role, leaving the state cadre without a visible guiding hand. The organisational drift is evident. Out of Gujarat's four BJP zones, only two have active general secretaries. Though city and district presidents were appointed months ago, theres been no finalisation of regional structures, and programs are limping forward amid factional bickering. From rural talukas to state headquarters, the BJPs famed discipline is unravelling, exposing deep cracks in Gujarats saffron fortress.

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Ahmedabad Diary | Power struggles: Gujarat Congress in turmoil

After Shaktisinh Gohil stepped down as the Gujarat Congress chief, the hunt for a successor turned murky. Soon, a viral message on social media platforms claimed that a former president, an OBC leader, was reappointed, sparking confusion. Congress insiders suspect this was a planted move by his rivals to sabotage his chances. While no one has claimed responsibility, the damage was done to his succession. Meanwhile, more than 15 Congress leaders rushed to Delhi to lobby with Rahul Gandhi, triggering buzz that one of them might land the top post. The misleading social media message declaring a new state chief only deepened the internal chaos. BJP ex-dist chiefs graft claims on MLA sparks row The simmering internal rift in Gujarats Vallabhipur BJP in Bhavnagar district has burst into the open, with its former district BJP president Mukesh Langaliya launching a scathing attack on the local MLA. The flashpoint came during a felicitation event for 37 village sarpanches in Limda, where Langaliya openly criticised the way of working of the BJP legislator. He accused the MLA of protecting a coterie of corrupt aides and alleged rampant corruption in causeway construction, Mamlatdar office projects, and National Highway works. The fact that such charges come from a BJP leader against his own MLA has sparked a row. CMs insensitive remark on bridge collapse The collapse of the central span of the Gambhira Bridge over the Mahi River, which connects the towns of Anand and Padra, caused two trucks, two pickup vans, and a rickshaw to sink into the river, resulting in the deaths of at least twenty people. In response, the Gujarat government announced Rs 4 lakh relief to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. However, CM Bhupendra Patels statement on X (formerly Twitter), calling it the collapse of one of 23 spans, has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders and citizens. Further, BJP leaders echoed similar downplaying language, fuelling public outrage over the perceived insensitivity. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com

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Makwanas explosive exit: Gujarat AAP MLA alleges Dalit betrayal, hints at launching new party

AHMEDABAD: Days after AAPs Gopal Italia clinched victory in the Gujarat bypolls, the party was rocked by internal discord as Botad MLA Umesh Makwana was expelled for five years on Thursday. The action came hours after Makwana resigned from all party posts in a letter to Arvind Kejriwal, saying he would remain a dedicated worker of the party. Gujarat AAP chief Isudan Gadhvi announced the expulsion, reflecting rising tensions in the state unit. In his parting remarks, Makwana hit out at the leadership, alleging he was abandoned during the campaign and that a Dalit candidate in the Kadi Assembly was left alone in the field, indirectly targeting the handling of Italias poll run. AAP leader Umesh Makwana told reporters in Gandhinagar on Thursday, I will decide on resigning as MLA only after consulting the people. Leaders from backward communities are being used only for elections, and every party has failed to raise their real issues. Casteist mindsets are growing in all parties, he alleged. Makwana, who has served in the national structure of both Dandak and AAP, said he has stepped down as AAP's national joint secretary but will continue as a grassroots worker. The entire party rallied behind Gopal Italia, but the Dalit candidate from Kadi was left to fight alone, he added. I will take the final call on resigning as AAP MLA only after consulting the public. If I resign, I will soon decide whether to contest as an independent or launch a new party, Umesh Makwana said, hinting at possible political realignment. Makwana also said he plans to convene a meeting with leaders from backward communities in the coming days. Moments after Umesh Makwana's announcement, Gujarat AAP president Isudan Gadhvi told the media, Umesh Makwana has been suspended from the party for five years for indulging in anti-party and anti-Gujarat activities. Gadhvi further alleged, The BJP is doing dirty politics and is rattled by the Visavadar bypoll result. They are trying to damage AAP through Umesh Makwana, but this will prove to be a mistake. Long before his resignation and expulsion, signs of Umesh Makwanas growing distance from the Aam Aadmi Party had become evident, as he had not been seen in any party programmes for months. Speculation around his resignation had surfaced earlier as well, though he had publicly denied the rumours in a press conference. Makwana, who was fielded by AAP from the Botad seat in the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, had defeated BJPs Ghanshyam Virani and Congresss Manhar Patel to become an MLA. His political journey with AAP continued when he was later nominated as the partys Lok Sabha candidate from Bhavnagar, though he lost that contest. Despite these key roles, his prolonged absence from party activities hinted at a widening rift, which eventually culminated in his resignation and expulsion, bringing the internal cracks within the Gujarat unit into sharper focus.

'Swamiji' in jail: Book chronicles PM Modis daring underground role during Emergency

A new book, The Emergency Diaries, reveals Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clandestine activities during the 1975-77 Emergency. Disguised as a 'swamiji,' Modi visited activists in Bhavnagar jail and distributed anti-Emergency literature while evading authorities. He employed innovative tactics and code words to organize meetings and disseminate information, working with RSS leaders to sustain community contact during the ban.

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Gujarat Congress chief Gohil quits within 4 hours of bypoll rout

AHMEDABAD: Just four hours after the Kadi and Visavadar by-election results were announced, Gujarat Congress President Shaktisinh Gohil stepped down from his post. In a swift transition, Danilimda MLA Shailesh Parmar has been given charge as the interim state president until a permanent successor is announced. Citing moral responsibility, Gohil acknowledged the party's failure in the by-polls, despite what he called the unwavering efforts of Congress workers who have battled without power for 30 years. He confirmed that he has formally submitted his resignation to the national president. Addressing a press conference at the Congress headquarters in Ahmedabad on Monday, Shaktisinh Gohil said, Despite being out of power for 30 years, our workers have fought relentlessly. I accept moral responsibility for the poor results and have resigned. I have already sent my resignation to the national president. According to congress sources, Congress has sparked a political stir by sidelining Shaktisinh Gohils loyalists in the appointment of new city district presidents, instead handing over key positions to his rivalseven in his own home turf. This move put to rest the swirling rumours about his resignation, which gained traction yesterday amid speculation that Gohil was upset over his opponents being rewarded with top posts in his own district. Brushing off speculation that his resignation was triggered by internal politics, Gohil clarified, The appointment of district presidents was done after hearing every worker. AICC selected the best candidates based on consensus. These arent Gohils men or his rivalsthese are party men. Even Bhavnagars names were finalized with worker agreement. In response to claims of being upset over his rivals being elevated in his home turf, Gohil countered, Some people may feel hurt during decisions in a party or family. But the process was democratic. The performance of the new district presidents will be reviewed in three months. Feedback will be taken again. I congratulate both outgoing and new presidents. Firmly rejecting the idea that he had to be persuaded to stay, Gohil stated, I didnt wait to be convinced. I took responsibility and resigned. This is Congress tradition. Im not quitting the battlefieldI will continue as a loyal soldier. The party turns workers into leaders, and I remain one of them. Ive never done politics with double standards. He concluded with a tinge of disappointment, It wouldve been good if we had won at least one of the two seats. But the fight must go on. Shaktisinh Gohil stepped down as Gujarat Congress president within just two years of taking charge. He had taken over the reins in June 2023, following the resignation of Jagdish Thakor, who quit after the partys defeat in the 2022 Assembly elections. Congress has remained out of power in Gujarat since 1995, facing defeat in every Assembly election held since then1995, 1998, 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2022. The setbacks didnt stop there. In both the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the party failed to win a single one of the states 26 parliamentary seats. While the 2024 Lok Sabha elections finally saw the Congress contest one seat under the INDIA alliance, its decades-long struggle to regain ground in Gujarat continues.

Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA matches confirmed for 251 victims, 245 bodies handed over to families

AHMEDABAD: In a recent development following the Ahmedabad plane crash, Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi announced that DNA samples of 251 deceased victims have been successfully matched. Thus far, the mortal remains of 245 individuals have been handed over to their grieving families, with the remaining six to be returned in the coming days. Dr Joshi, addressing the media, shared that the 245 bodies released include 176 Indian nationals, 49 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, one Canadian, and 12 non-passengers. The extensive identification process marks a critical step towards closure for hundreds of devastated families. Ahmedabad plane crash: Crew member's mortal remains reach Manipur, thousands pay tributes Providing a district-wise breakdown, Dr Joshi stated that bodies have been returned to families from the following regions: Ahmedabad (70), Vadodara (24), Anand (26), Udaipur (7), Kheda (11), Mehsana (7), Surat (12), Bharuch (7), Gandhinagar (7), Diu (14), Gir Somnath (5), Rajkot (3), Patan (3), Junagadh (1), Amreli (2), Bhavnagar (1), Botad (1), Mahisagar (1), Aravalli (2), Palanpur (1), Jamnagar (2), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Modasa (1), Khambhat (2), Nadiad (1), Patna (1), Mumbai (10), Pune (1), Maharashtra (2), Rajasthan (2), Jodhpur (1), London (10), and Manipur (1). He emphasised that the DNA matching process is both highly sensitive and bound by strict legal protocols. Every identification has been carried out with the utmost precision and care. Agencies such as Forensic Science University, alongside the local administration, health departments, and various state and central authorities, are working tirelessly to ensure that the mortal remains are returned with dignity and respect. This coordinated and relentless effort underscores the authorities commitment to providing a measure of solace and closure in the wake of an immense tragedy.

Ahmedabad plane crash: 223 DNA matches confirmed, 204 bodies handed over to families

AHMEDABAD: DNA samples of 223 victims of the Air India plane crash have been successfully matched, and 204 bodies have been handed over to families as of 11:50 am on June 20, according to Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi. The Civil Hospital authorities have intensified the efforts to identify and return the remaining bodies. Meanwhile, two patients under treatment at the Civil Hospital succumbed to their injuries. Their bodies have been handed over to their families, bringing the total count of bodies handed over to 204 from the Civil Hospital alone. Breaking down the identification further, Dr Joshi confirmed that the 223 matched victims comprise 168 Indian nationals, 7 Portuguese, 36 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 11 non-passengers - local residents who were tragically caught in the crash zone. Several international, domestic Air India flights cancelled due to operational reasons Logistics have played a critical role in the aftermath, with 15 bodies airlifted and 189 transported by road, according to Dr Joshi. The mortal remains have been sent to various Indian states and several foreign countries. Ahmedabad received the highest number, with 58 bodies, followed by Vadodara (21), Surat (11), Udaipur (7), Mumbai (9), Diu (14), and Kheda (11). Others were sent to Mehsana (6), Gandhinagar (6), Rajkot (3), Jamnagar (2), Patan (2), Dwarka (2), Aravalli (2), and London (2). Single bodies were transported to locations including Botad, Jodhpur, Anand, Palanpur, Maharashtra, Junagadh, Amreli, Gir Somnath, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, Patna, Nadiad, Sabarkantha, Nagaland, and Modasa. Madurai-bound Indigo flight returns after mid-air 'snag,' say officials

Over 1,000 evacuated as Gujarat lashed by heavy rain; nine dams overflow, power, roads hit

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat was battered by widespread rains, with 160 talukas across 27 districts receiving an average of 21.24 mm rainfall, even as 91 talukas remained completely dry, highlighting the uneven spread of the monsoon. Among the worst-hit were South Gujarats Ahwa in Dang with 250 mm and Kaprada in Valsad with 241 mm, triggering rapid water accumulation across low-lying areas. As a result, nine dams have reached full capacity while 15 others have been placed on high alert due to dangerously rising water levels. As a precaution, 1,060 people have been relocated729 in Bhavnagar, 134 in Surendranagar, 117 in Botad, and 80 in Amreli. So far, 182 people have been rescued by disaster response teams24 in Botad, 89 in Bhavnagar, and 69 in Amreli. The state has deployed 33 teams, including 13 from NDRF and 20 from SDRF, to tackle emergencies. In the last 24 hours, Gujarat has witnessed intense monsoon activity, with 160 talukas across 27 districts receiving an average rainfall of 21.24 mm, while 91 talukas remained dry. Ahwa in Dang district topped the rainfall chart with 250 mm, closely followed by Kaprada in Valsad (241 mm), Waghai (196 mm), Subir (180 mm), and Dharampur (168 mm). Zone-wise, Kutch registered 84.80 mm, North Gujarat 58.59 mm, Central Gujarat 101.38 mm, Saurashtra 150.45 mm, and South Gujarat 133.96 mmbringing the statewide average rainfall to 113.63 mm, which is 12.87% of the season's quota. The deluge has left a critical mark on Gujarats dam levels. Out of 206 dams, nine are filled to capacity, 25 are between 70100%, 22 between 5070%, 57 between 2550%, and 93 have dipped below 25%. Alarming figures show 15 dams on high alert, 10 on alert, and nine above the warning level. Sardar Sarovar Dam continues to swell, receiving 16,914 cusecs of inflow per hour while discharging 23,844 cusecs into the Narmada Canal. The current water level stands at 392.22 feet51.31% of its total capacity. Critical dams under high alert include Dhatarwadi and Surajwadi in Amreli, Rojki, Bagad, Ranghola, and Shetrunji in Bhavnagar, Bhimdad in Botad, and Kalaghogha in Kutch, among others. Power infrastructure has been battered13,285 villages faced outages, of which 13,209 have been restored. Of the 17,005 damaged electricity poles, 16,031 are repaired; 974 remain pending. Power restoration work is still underway on 1,085 feeders, while 44 of 912 transformers await repair. Road infrastructure has not been spared either. Six state highways, one national highway, 21 other roads, and 136 panchayat roads were damaged. So far, 3 state highways and 8 roads have been reopened, but the rest remain shut. Looking ahead, IMD has issued a yellow alert for June 2021 in Tapi, Dang, Navsari, and Valsad. June 22 brings a yellow alert for Bharuch, Narmada, Surat, and others, with an orange alert for Navsari and Valsad. On June 23, Banaskantha and Sabarkantha are under orange alert, while 11 districts face a yellow alert. Six districts remain under yellow alert for June 24, as monsoon intensity continues.

Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA of 211 victims matched; 189 bodies handed over to families

AHMEDABAD: In a significant update on the Ahmedabad plane crash tragedy, DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched, and 189 bodies have been handed over to their respective families, according to officials. Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi shared the details during a media briefing, emphasizing the coordinated effort between forensic teams, hospital staff, and law enforcement. Of the remaining cases, eight families are expected to claim the mortal remains of their loved ones in the coming days, while two families are scheduled to accept the bodies by tomorrow. Additionally, 11 families are still awaiting DNA matches of their other relatives, indicating that the process of closure remains ongoing for many. Providing a breakdown of nationalities, Dr. Joshi stated that among the 189 confirmed deceased, 142 are Indian citizens, 32 are from the UK, seven are Portuguese nationals, one is Canadian, and seven individuals were non-passengers, whose presence near the crash site turned tragic. In a detailed media briefing, Dr. Joshi confirmed that 189 bodies have been handed over to families so far, while DNA samples of 211 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. He noted that eight more families are expected to receive the mortal remains of their relatives in the coming days, while two families will accept the remains by tomorrow. However, the process is not yet complete - 11 families are still awaiting the DNA match of a second relative, highlighting the continued emotional wait for full closure. Providing further insight, he explained the nationality distribution of the 189 deceased: 142 were Indian citizens, 32 were British nationals, 7 were from Portugal, 1 was Canadian, and 7 were non-passengerspeople who were tragically caught in the disaster despite not being on the flight. Dr Joshi also offered a detailed breakdown of the geographical origin of those whose bodies have been handed over. These include seven from Udaipur, 20 from Vadodara, 10 from Kheda, 55 from Ahmedabad, six from Mehsana, one each from Botad, Jodhpur, Patan, Junagadh, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, and Patna, two each from Aravalli, Maharashtra, Amreli, Jamnagar, Dwarka, and London, 16 from Anand, five from Bharuch, 11 from Surat, six from Gandhinagar, 14 from Diu, three from Rajkot, nine from Mumbai, one each from Nadiad, Sabarkantha, and Nagaland. He emphasised that the process of DNA matching is both legally sensitive and scientifically complex, requiring meticulous attention. Due to these constraints, the identification is being carried out with utmost seriousness and urgency. To expedite the process, teams from the Forensic Science University, local administrations, state health departments, and multiple central and state agencies are working round the clock. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that the mortal remains are returned to families as quickly and respectfully as possible, offering a measure of peace amid a tragedy that has shaken families across India and abroad.

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Ahmedabad plane crash: 190 DNA matches confirmed, 157 bodies handed over

AHMEDABAD: Six days after the devastating Ahmedabad plane crash, the sole survivor Vishwas Kumar has been discharged from the hospital in stable condition, confirmed Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Civil Hospital Superintendent. Kumar's family, who had flown in from the UK, was present at his side. The body of Kumar's brother, who was killed in the crash, was handed over to the family at 2 am on the same day, and a funeral was held for him in Diu. As of now, DNA samples of 190 deceased individuals have been successfully matched. In a detailed briefing, Dr. Joshi stated that 157 bodies have already been handed over to their respective families, with the identification and release process still underway for the remaining. He noted that five families are expected to collect the bodies of their loved ones soon, while the hospital remains in contact with 10 families. Meanwhile, 15 families are waiting for DNA matches of additional relatives, and the identification process is ongoing for three others. Dr. Joshi also revealed a detailed breakdown of the nationalities among the deceased whose bodies have been identified: 123 Indian nationals, 27 British citizens, 4 Portuguese nationals, 1 Canadian citizen, and 4 non-passengers. In terms of geographical distribution, he reported that the bodies handed over include: Ahmedabad (48), Vadodara (18), Kheda (10), Anand (11), Gandhinagar (6), Surat (6), Mehsana (5), Udaipur (6), Bharuch (5), Gir Somnath (5), Diu (12), Mahisagar (1), Bhavnagar (1), Patan (1), Botad (1), Aravalli (2), Jodhpur (1), Junagadh (1), Amreli (1), Rajkot (2), Nadiad (1), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Mumbai (7), London (2), Patna (1), and Maharashtra (2).

Heavy rains Gujarat; 40 shifted to safety, 5 go missing

Bhavnagar was also one of the worst affected districts, they said, adding that more downpour is likely over the next four day in parts of the state.

Air India crash: 87 victims identified by DNA tests, 47 bodies handed over to kin

AHMEDABAD: Four days after the horrific crash of an Air India plane in Ahmedabad claimed 270 lives, 87 victims have so far been identified through DNA matching and 47 bodies have been handed over to their families, officials said on Monday. Authorities are carrying out DNA tests to establish the identity of the victims since many of the bodies were charred beyond recognition or damaged otherwise after the plane crash on June 12. Till now, 87 DNA samples have been matched, and 47 bodies have already been handed over to the respective families. These deceased were from different parts of Gujarat, such as Bharuch, Anand, Junagadh, Bhavnagar, Vadodara, Kheda, Mehsana, Arvalli and Ahmedabad districts, additional civil superintendent Dr Rajnish Patel told reporters. No clarity yet on identity of 18 Air India crash victims The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with 242 persons on board crashed into a medical college complex in Ahmedabad moments after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 pm on June 12. While 241 persons on board the London-bound aircraft died, one passenger miraculously survived . Besides, 29 persons are reported to have died in the disaster on the ground, which includes five MBBS students . AUW! Could Air India Flight AI-171's weight have doomed it?

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.

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

Gujarat: 3 brothers among 5 killed in road accident near Dholera

A tragic accident occurred near Dholera in Ahmedabad district. An SUV collided with a car, resulting in five fatalities. The victims include three brothers and a woman. The accident took place on the Ahmedabad-Bhavnagar highway near Sandheda village. Police arrived at the scene to conduct rescue operations. The injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Bhavnagar.

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.

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.

Three from Gujarat killed in Pahalgam terror attack; father-son duo from Bhavnagar, SBI officer from Surat

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.

CWC meet: Kharge slams BJP's takeover of Gandhian institutions, vows to confront 'conspiracy' against national heroes

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.

Congress to showcase Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patels legacy in AICC session in Gujarat

The AICC session is being held in Gujarat after 64 years with the last one held at Bhavnagar in 1961

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 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.