IIT-Kanpur admits 5 students without JEE Advanced; cites Olympiad excellence
Several IITs, including Kanpur, Madras, Gandhinagar and Bombay are now offering alternative admission pathways beyond JEE Advanced. IIT-Kanpur has already admitted five students based on their performance in international science Olympiads. This initiative aims to attract bright students who excel in Olympiads but may not perform well in JEE Advanced due to their intensive training.
Kshatriya history sparks royal row: Gujarat BJP leaders caste, slavery remark triggers walkout
AHMEDABAD: A lecture on Kshatriya history at a college in Mansa, Gandhinagar, on 11 August allegedly turned into a public showdown when Gujarat BJP leader Jairajsinh Parmars comments linking superstition and caste bias to Indias colonial subjugation provoked a heated rebuttal from Mansa States royal, Yograjsinh Raol, leading to his walkout. BJP co-spokesperson and North Gujarat Rajput Community president Jairajsinh Parmar found himself at the centre of a controversy after delivering the address at Mansa College in Mehsana district. Speaking as the main guest at a programme on certificate courses, Parmar said the caste system had tasked Kshatriyas with protecting society, but superstition, prejudice and caste discrimination had weakened the community, paving the way for British rule. Parmars sweeping historical account, covering the era from Afghanistan to the British Raj, claimed that Kshatriyas bore the sole burden of defending the nation while other communities were busy with their own work, eventually reducing Kshatriya numbers and leaving India vulnerable to foreign rule. These comments immediately drew fire from Rajvi Yograjsinh Raol, the royal of Mansa State and a fellow invitee, who interrupted Parmar mid-speech, accusing him of spreading falsehoods about the Kshatriya community. What followed was a tense five-minute verbal clash in front of the audience. As the argument escalated over whether Kshatriyas had ever been enslaved, Raol dismissed Parmars claims and walked out of the event. Witnesses quickly stepped in to prevent further escalation and restore calm. Later, speaking to the media, Parmar stood by his remarks, asserting that history was being misrepresented and that his references to Brahmins, Vaishyas, Shudras and Kshatriyas were part of an academic explanation, not an attack on any community.
UCC on fast track in Gujarat: Report due soon, BJP eyes pre-local poll push
AHMEDABAD: In a politically significant move, the Gujarat government has accelerated efforts to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the State. A high-level committee led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai met with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi in Gandhinagar on August 5, signalling fast-track action on the draft law. The committee, tasked with assessing the feasibility and framework of a Common Civil Code for Gujarat, is now in its final phase, with Desai confirming that the report will be ready within a month, ruling out the need for any extension. Speculation is rife that the UCC could be notified ahead of the upcoming municipal corporation elections, giving the BJP government a potential ideological edge in the urban polls. A crucial meeting was held in Gandhinagar today between UCC Committee Chairperson Justice (Retd) Ranjana Desai and committee members with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghvi. Speaking after the meeting, Justice Desai said, We met the Governor on August 4 and the Chief Minister on August 5 in a formal interaction. While the exact date for submitting the report is yet to be fixed, it is likely to be submitted this month. As of now, there seems to be no need for an extension. Justice Ranjana Desai has stated that there is no need for an extension now. In light of this, sources indicate that the Gujarat government is likely to implement the Uniform Civil Code soon after receiving the committees report, possibly ahead of the local body elections slated for later this year or early next year. The UCC committee, originally tasked with submitting its report within 45 days, has overshot the deadline due to an unexpectedly high volume of public responses. Gujarat government spokesperson and cabinet minister Hrishikesh Patel attributed the delay to the scale of submissions received. This was a formal meeting. The report will be submitted to the Chief Minister in about a month or slightly more, Patel said. We received nearly 1.5 lakh submissions. Although the government had set a 45-day deadline, it took longer to collect inputs from various communities and social groups, and to compile their views and conclusions. Notably, the government had invited objections and suggestions from individuals and organisations on the proposed UCC. In a major push on the final day of the process, April 15, as many as 96,165 objections were submitted in Gandhinagar by Muslim community leaders from South Gujarat.
Delhi government to train teachers in Indian Knowledge Systems at IITs: Education Minister
Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood announced that school teachers will be trained in Indian Knowledge Systems at IIT-Mandi and IIT-Gandhinagar starting September. The programme will cover subjects like Sanskrit, philosophy, Ayurveda, and ancient texts. Fifty teachers will be selected in the first phase. The initiative aims to link modern education with Indias cultural and intellectual heritage.
A new district flood severity index factors in flood impact on people
Researchers from IIT Delhi and IIT Gandhinagar have come up with a District Flood Severity Index (DFSI) that takes into account the mean duration in days of all flooding events in a district, percentage of area that is historically flooded, total number of deaths, number of people injured, and the population in the district
Explore unparallel beauty, culture of J&K: CM to travellers at TTF Ahmedabad
Excelsior Correspondent GANDHINAGAR (GUJARAT), July 31: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today extended a warm invitation to travellers from across the country to explore the unparalleled beauty, rich culture and warm hospitality of Jammu & Kashmir. He was speaking at the inaugural of the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) at the Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition Centre at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Highlighting Jammu & Kashmirs immense tourism potential, the Chief Minister said the region continues to offer diverse experiences [] The post Explore unparallel beauty, culture of J&K: CM to travellers at TTF Ahmedabad appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CM Omar Promotes Kashmir Tourism in Gujarat, Addresses Impact of Pahalgam Attack
AHMEDABAD, JULY 31: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during his two-day visit to Gujarat for the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) in Gandhinagar, made a strong pitch to revive and boost tourism in the Union Territory, acknowledging the temporary setback caused by the tragic Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year. Speaking to reporters [] The post CM Omar Promotes Kashmir Tourism in Gujarat, Addresses Impact of Pahalgam Attack appeared first on Northlines .
CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates Travel & Tourism Fair, Ahmedabad
GANDHINAGAR (GUJARAT), JULY 31: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today extended a warm invitation to travellers from across the country to explore the unparalleled beauty, rich culture and warm hospitality of Jammu & Kashmir. He was speaking at the inaugural of the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) at the Mahatma Mandir Convention & [] The post CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates Travel & Tourism Fair, Ahmedabad appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Travel And Tourism Fair, Ahmedabad
CM invites travellers to explore Kashmir, highlights J&Ks year-round attractions GANDHINAGAR (GUJARAT), Jul 31: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today extended a warm invitation to travellers from across the country to explore the unparalleled beauty, rich culture and warm hospitality of Jammu & Kashmir. He was speaking at the inaugural of the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) at the Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition Centre at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Highlighting Jammu & Kashmirs immense tourism potential, the Chief Minister [] The post CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Travel And Tourism Fair, Ahmedabad appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
19 Crores Robbed In 102 Days: Gujarat Doctor's 'Digital Arrest' Nightmare
A senior woman doctor in Gujarat's Gandhinagar was kept under 'digital arrest' for over three months, forced to break fixed deposits, take loans, and blackmailed into paying more than Rs 19 crore to fraudsters, police have found
3.3 magnitude tremor hits Gujarat's Kutch; no damage reported
AHMEDABAD : A tremor of 3.3 magnitude hit Gujarat's Kutch district on Thursday morning, the Institute of Seismological Research (ISR) said. The tremor was recorded at 9.52 am, with its epicentre located 16 km south-south west of Bela in the district, the Gandhinagar-based ISR said. No casualty or damage to property was reported because of the tremor, a district disaster response official said. Kutch district is located in a very high risk seismic zone, and earthquakes of lower intensity occur regularly there. The 2001 earthquake in Kutch was the third largest and second most destructive in India over the last two centuries. A large number of towns and villages in the district suffered almost complete destruction, killing 13,800 persons and leaving 1. 67 lakh injured.
AHMEDABAD: Jammu & Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah, attending a travel fair organised at Gandhinagar on July 31 appealed for greater tourist footfall from Gujarat. He credited Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal for driving tourism to the Valley over the last 30 years. Speaking to the media at Ahmedabad airport ahead of a tourism fair, Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, If you look at the last 3035 years, the maximum number of tourists to J&K have come from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal. My team and I are here to promote J&K tourism, and we sincerely hope to welcome a large number of visitors from Gujarat in the coming season. On the recent Pahalgam terror attack, Abdullah added, We cannot rule out an intelligence and security failure; someone is accountable for what happened. Though the accused has been neutralised, the lack of clarity and responsibility on the security lapse is concerning. Pahalgam attack: UNSC report flags LeT-TRF link, boosts Indias case on Pakistan-backed terror In one of the deadliest extremist strikes in Jammu and Kashmir in recent decades, 26 tourists, including several from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, were gunned down in a brutal ambush at Pahalgam, a scenic hotspot often dubbed the Mini Switzerland of India. Among the victims were Shailesh Kalthia from Surat and Yatish Parmar from Bhavnagar, along with his young son Smit Parmar. The attack not only shattered lives but also dealt a crippling blow to Kashmir's tourism economy. Panic spread swiftly across Gujarat, with many families abruptly cancelling their scheduled trips to the valley. Even seasoned tourists who visited Kashmir annually chose to stay away this time, triggering a sharp nosedive in footfall and revenues. Tourism, which contributes nearly 7-8% to J&Ks GDP, is the lifeline of the regions economy, employing over 2.5 lakh people directly. More than 1,500 houseboats on Srinagars iconic Dal Lake and countless hotels, guides, drivers, and small businesses depend solely on tourist inflow. Jammu and Kashmir tourism departmentholds road show to woo tourists in city The annual tourism industry, currently valued at 12,000 crore, had been projected to soar to 25,00030,000 crore by 2030. But the terror strike marked the beginning of a dark phase, unravelling years of growth. This disruption hit just as Kashmir had started experiencing a boom in tourism post-COVID. From 34 lakh visitors in 2020, the numbers had surged to 1.13 crore in 2021, 1.88 crore in 2022, 2.11 crore in 2023, and 2.36 crore in 2024 including over 65,000 foreign tourists. Now, in a strategic move to rebuild trust and revive inflows, Omar Abdullah is making a direct outreach aimed at reconnecting with the Gujarati tourist base that once played a pivotal role in driving valley tourism. Poor road defeats Jammu and Kashmirtourism goals
Retired forest official from Gujarat's Rajkot duped of Rs 8.93 lakh in digital arrest scam
AHMEDABAD: In a cyber fraud mirroring the recent Rs 19 crore scam in Gandhinagar, a retired forest head clerk from Gujarats Rajkot, has fallen prey to a digital arrest con and lost Rs 8.93 lakh. Posing as officials from TRAI and Maharashtra Cyber Crime, the scammers extorted money from the elderly man by threatening him with criminal charges and arrest. The victim, a former Forest Head Clerk at Bahumali Bhavan, lives near Patidar Chowk in Rajkot. On November 28, 2024, he received a call from a woman identifying herself as Diya Sharma from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). She claimed that two Jio SIM cards linked to his number were being misused and needed to be deactivated immediately. Minutes later, a second call came, this time from someone posing as Inspector Mohit Handa from the Maharashtra Cyber Crime Cell. The caller alleged that an HDFC Bank account had been opened using the victims Aadhaar-linked SIM, through which Rs 68 lakh had been fraudulently transacted. The scammer claimed the money belonged to a woman who had since died by suicide and that an arrest warrant had been issued against the retired clerk. As the victim hesitated, the imposter escalated the pressure. Through a video call, he showed a man in police uniform seated at what appeared to be a police station and claimed the only way to avoid arrest was to provide a security bond of Rs 2 lakh. Terrified, the retired official agreed to cooperate. The accused then shared a WhatsApp link during the video call. Following the instructions, the victim unknowingly transferred Rs 8.93 lakh via UPI in multiple transactions to different bank accounts. Realising he had been duped, the victim immediately contacted the cybercrime helpline 1930 and filed a complaint with the Rajkot City Cyber Crime Police Station. The police have launched an investigation using phone numbers, video call metadata, and other digital traces. The FIR names multiple unknown account holders under charges of cheating and breach of trust. Investigators believe the fraud is linked to a larger inter-state racket exploiting fear and authority to extort money under the guise of digital arrests. Recently, a woman doctor in Gujarat was digitally trapped and defrauded of Rs 19 crore by cybercriminals who pressured her over months with threats and surveillance. The fraudsters made her transfer money into 35 accounts, even taking a loan against her gold. Realising the scam too late, she alerted her family, prompting a CID Cyber Crime probe on July 16. One suspect has been arrested in Surat; a massive manhunt is on for the rest of the syndicate. With similar high-stake scams emerging across Gujarat, police have issued fresh advisories urging citizens to remain vigilant against fake officials and to never share sensitive information or make payments under threat.
Gujarat Doctor Duped Of Rs 19 Crore In 'Digital Arrest' Scam, One Arrested
A Gandhinagar doctor was duped of Rs 19 crore over three months by fraudsters posing as officials who trapped her in a 'digital arrest' scam, a report has claimed.
Mughal period saw violence; Britain did not recognise suffering inflicted on colonies: Michel Danino
Michel Danino, IIT Gandhinagar Guest Professor and head of NCERTs Social Science textbook team, on historical framing in the new class seven and eight textbooks, media criticism, and debates over representation
Bengaluru's 'Empire Kababs' Flagged Unsafe By Food Safety Body
Bengaluru's popular Empire restaurant chain has landed in soup after a lab report from the State Food Laboratory, Public Health Institute, declared that chicken kebabs served at its Gandhinagar outlet were unsafe for human consumption.
Two dead, several injured as drunk driver mows down pedestrians in Gujarats Gandhinagar
AHMEDABAD: A speeding car ploughed into pedestrians and motorists on the service road in Gandhinagars Randesan area early Friday morning, leaving two people dead and several others critically injured. The driver, Hitesh Patel, was found heavily intoxicated and has been taken into police custody. According to officials, the accident occurred around morning rush hour when a car (registration number GJ18 EE 7887), driven recklessly by Patel, veered out of control and rammed into bystanders and vehicles along the service road. One of the deceased is a woman, while several others sustained serious injuries. Police confirmed that Hitesh Patel, who also owns the vehicle, was in an inebriated state and unable to even stand when apprehended. Eyewitness Elaben Patel said, The car crashed right in front of me. A man died on the spot. The driver was so drunk he couldnt keep his balance. The accused in police custody Among the injured was Mayur Joshi, whose father, Rahul Joshi, recounted, Mayur had just filled petrol and left for work when the car hit from behind. His condition was initially very bad. As news of the crash spread, Gandhinagar Mayor rushed to the scene and later confirmed, By the time I arrived, two had died. Two more victims are battling for their lives in the hospital. Superintendent of Police Ravi Teja said, Preliminary investigation and eyewitness accounts confirm the driver was under the influence of alcohol. CCTV footage and local statements are being examined. MoS (Home) Harsh Sanghavi said, As soon as I received information about the incident, I spoke to the Range IG and Gandhinagar SP. I have directed them to form a joint team for a thorough investigation and take strict action at the earliest. The police have launched a full-fledged investigation and sealed off the area for forensic examination. The tragedy has sparked fresh outrage over the rising cases of reckless driving in Gujarat's capital.
IIT Gandhinagar Technical Assistant Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Technical Assistant posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 31-07-2025.
Gujarat records 54 pc seasonal rainfall
Gandhinagar: The southwest monsoon made an early entry into Gujarat this year, a week ahead of schedule. However, rainfall distribution across the state has been highly uneven over the past month and a half. In the last 24 hours alone, 90 talukas recorded rainfall, with the highest recorded in Jalalpore (Navsari district) at 5.24 inches. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IIT Gandhinagar Research Associate I Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Research Associate I posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 01-08-2025.
Climate change is redrawing flash flood maps in India: IIT Study
NEW DELHI: A new study by IIT Gandhinagar has revealed a disturbing shift in Indias flash flood geography, warning that climate change is driving the emergence of new flood-prone regions in areas once considered very safe. Published in the journal 'Natural Hazards', the study, titled Drivers of Flash Floods in the Indian Subcontinental RiverBasinsfindsthat flash flood hotspots are expanding beyond traditionally vulnerable zones into drier and semi-arid regions. Flash floods are sudden inundations caused by extreme rainfall events. They typically occur withina very shorttime frame,usually within six hours,after heavy precipitation, the researchers noted. Characterised by a rapid increase in water flow followed by a quick recession, flash floods are highly unpredictable and can be extremely destructive. The studyobserveda marked rise in flash floods across semi-arid zones of western India, regions previously seen aslow-riskfrom the risk if flash floods.It attributes this shift to an increase in sub-daily precipitation events and rising temperatures, which allow the atmosphere toretainmore moisture and trigger intense rainfall. Even sub-basins earlier considered low in susceptibility are now showing significant increases in both precipitation and streamflow. The researchers compared data from 2001 to 2020 with a baseline of 19812000 and found a sharp rise in wet hours a key driver of flash floods across all Indian river basins not previously categorised as prone. The study noted that specifically, the proportion of non-flash flood-prone sub-basins with increased rainfall and streamflow grew from 51% to 66.5% in the past two decades. Similarly, the study notes thattheareascurrently classified as highly susceptible to flash floods are seeing a reduction in precipitation and streamflow,indicatinga potential future shift in flood hotspots. The percentage of wet hours in these zones declined from 50.3% to 48.7%. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), over 40 million hectares of land in India are proneto floods. Flash floodsremainone of the deadliest forms of flooding, causing over 5,000 deaths annually and inflicting significant socio-economic and environmental damage. More importantly,flash floods have the highest mortality rate among all flood typesincluding riverine and coastal. As the climate continues to warm, the study urges policymakers to rethink flood-risk zones and adapt disaster management strategies to this evolving threat landscapeso that they are better prepared to deal with the situation.
Savy Infra Logistics sets SME IPO price band at Rs 114-120/share, public issue to open on Jul 21
NEW DELHI, July 20:Gandhinagar-based EPC player Savy Infra & Logistics on Sunday said it has fixed the price band at Rs 114-120 per equity share for its Rs 70 crore initial public offer, which will open for public subscription on July 21. The initial public offering (IPO) will conclude on July 23, and the companys shares will be listed on the NSE Emerge, Savy Infra & Logistics said in a statement. The IPO is entirely a fresh issue of [] The post Savy Infra Logistics sets SME IPO price band at Rs 114-120/share, public issue to open on Jul 21 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Autorickshaw driver held for throwing acid on Home Guard in Gandhinagar
The woman home guard had reprimanded him about the improperly parked autorickshaw
Rickshaw driver attacks female home guard with acid in Gujarat; arrested
AHMEDABAD: In a chilling act of revenge, a rickshaw driver attacked a female home guard jawan with acid during traffic duty in Chhatral village of Kalol taluka of Gujarat on the morning of July 18. The woman sustained burns on her hand, shoulder, and neck and was rushed to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital where she is undergoing treatment. The accused, who initially fled the scene, has been arrested. The shocking incident unfolded under the Chhatral overbridge, where home guard personnel were deployed for routine traffic regulation. Trouble erupted when a female jawan asked a rickshaw driver to properly align his vehicle, which was parked sideways obstructing traffic. Enraged by the minor instruction, the rickshaw driver picked up a quarrel with her. Before the altercation could escalate, fellow jawans intervened, and the man was escorted to the local police station. After being counselled, he was let off but the confrontation didnt end there. Consumed by rage and humiliation, the man allegedly returned home, procured acid, and came back to the Chhatral overbridge within half an hour. Without warning, he approached the same female home guard and hurled acid at her. As she screamed and fled in panic, nearby policemen rushed to her aid and immediately shifted her to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital. Kalol Division DySP P.D. Manwar confirmed the attack, stating, The accused rickshaw driver, infuriated after being told to park properly, went home, brought acid, and threw it at the woman on duty. She has sustained injuries and is under treatment. The accused has been arrested, and a case has been registered. Police said the man Ashok s/o Ramesh Rawat is now in custody and further investigation is underway. The attack has sparked outrage, with calls for stricter action against acid-related crimes, especially targeting public servants on duty.
IIT Gandhinagar Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Junior Research Fellow posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 31-07-2025.
Gujarat Man Killed After 'Drunk' Driver Rams Speeding BMW Into Scooter | Video
A middle-aged scooter rider in Gandhinagar was killed when a BMW, driven by an allegedly intoxicated individual, struck him.
IIT Gandhinagar Program Assistant II Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Program Assistant II posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 30-07-2025.
IIT Gandhinagar Program Associate I Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Program Associate I posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 22-07-2025.
IIT Gandhinagar Post Doctoral Fellow Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The Indian Institute Of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) has released an official notification for the recruitment of Post Doctoral Fellow posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official IIT Gandhinagar website. The last date to submit the application form is 30-07-2025.
Patidar power play: BJP's Amrutiya challenges AAP's Italia in Gujarat's Morbi
AHMEDABAD: BJPs Kanti Amrutia and AAPs Gopal Italia, both from Gujarat's Patidar community, have locked horns in a bizarre showdown. What began as political posturing over public agitations in Morbi has now snowballed into a high voltage drama, replete with resignations, convoys, viral videos, and taunts all under the shadow of Gujarats prized Patidar vote bank. The political slugfest between BJP MLA from Morbi, Kanti Amrutia, and AAPs Gopal Italia, MLA from Visavadar, hit fever pitch on Monday as Amrutia stormed into Gandhinagar with a dramatic 100 vehicle convoy, vowing to resign if AAPs Italia showed up; he did not. This wasnt just a stunt. It was a calculated reply to what Amrutia calls threats of Visavadarwali, a taunt hurled during recent agitations in Morbi, allegedly by AAP workers to provoke unrest and pressure the administration. The jibe referenced Italias bypoll win in Visavadar, suggesting a repeat in Morbi, a challenge BJPs MLA Amrutia took personally. Amrutia publicly dared Italia to contest from Morbi. If Italia wins, Amrutia pledged to resign and even promised a Rs 2 crore reward. Italia, not one to back down, accepted via a viral video. Thus was born Gujarats most theatrical political showdown of the season. Ive come with my resignation papers, Amrutia declared, waiting in the Assembly complex till 12:15 pm. If Gopalbhai had the courage, he shouldve come. But this is not development politics, this is misleading the Patidar youth with drama and lies. He said. He didnt stop there. Italia is dividing the Patidar community. Ive come to stop such people. Interestingly, top BJP leaders distanced themselves from the brawl. Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary said, This isnt our concern focus should be on public service. Health Minister Rushikesh Patel added, This isnt challenge politics. Gujarat only knows development politics. Yet beneath the development slogan lies a clear truth: the BJP and AAP are both fiercely courting Patidar voters and internal rivalries, public stunts, and online warfare are now fair play in this high stakes tug of war.
DCA arrests one for selling fake epilepsy medication in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) on Monday arrested one person for allegedly selling counterfeit epilepsy medication in Hyderabad. Manish Kumar, a partner and designated competent person of Arvind Pharma Distributors, was apprehended in SBI Staff Colony, Gandhinagar. He is accused of selling spurious Levipil 500 tablets, an anti-epileptic drug falsely labelled as manufactured Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
AHMEDABAD: As heavy rains lash Gujarat, serious concerns are rising over the crumbling road infrastructure across major cities. From pothole-ridden stretches to waterlogged highways, commuters are facing daily ordeals. Notably, the state government has itself admitted that 83 km of National Highways and 243 bridges have been damaged this monsoon. Amid mounting complaints flooding social media, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel convened a high-level review meeting today to address the alarming state of roads. While assuring that there is no shortage of funds, the CM stressed the urgent need for durable and sustainable repair work, raising questions over the existing quality and accountability in road construction. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ordered urgent, war-footing repairs across the states monsoon-hit infrastructure. Reviewing the alarming condition of roads from rural interiors to urban centres and critical national highways, the CM held a high-level meeting in Gandhinagar, demanding immediate restoration without waiting for the rains to stop. Calling roads the main artery of development and daily life, Patel directed that not even a single dry day or holiday be wasted. Repairs must continue without pause, he said, urging swift patchwork, quality control, and accountability, especially for damage under defect liability. Contractors responsible for poor work must be held liable, he emphasised. With 243 bridges affected and 83 km of National Highways damaged 25 km of which still await repair, the CM asked for seamless coordination between NHAI, Panchayats, Municipal Bodies, and the Road Construction Department. Civic commissioners joined via video conference, as Patel pressed for immediate solutions to urban problems like waterlogging, broken underbridges, and battered drains along with long-term planning. A 24x7 control room at Nirman Bhavan has been activated to track field progress and fast track emergency responses. Patel reiterated the state governments full commitment to ensure citizens do not suffer due to bureaucratic delays or substandard repairs, warning departments to act fast and deliver on public expectations.
Foreign Liquor Worth Rs 1.19 Crore Seized In Gujarat: Cops
Gujarat State Monitoring Cell (SMC) from Gandhinagar seized foreign liquor worth Rs 1.19 crore during a raid in Chotila taluka of Surendranagar.
Underage Sarpanch elected in Gujarat: 19-year-old's victory exposes election blunder
AHMEDABAD: In a glaring instance of administrative negligence, the Gujarat State Election Commission is under fire after a 19-year-old girl was allegedly elected as Sarpanch in Gilosan village, Mehsana district, a clear violation of the minimum age requirement of 21 years. The irregularity came to light not during the election process, but while preparing a list of young Sarpanches to be felicitated by the Chief Minister at an upcoming event in Gandhinagar, said a source. During the verification of documents, officials from the district panchayat discovered a mismatch in the age of the newly elected Sarpanch, Afrozbanu Sipai. Her Aadhaar card shows a birth date of 8 December 2004, while her school leaving certificate mentions 7 January 2005, making her just 19 years and 8 months old, and therefore ineligible to contest. Shockingly, this discrepancy allegedly went completely unnoticed during the election process. It was only when the school leaving certificate was requested for the felicitation ceremony that officials realised the violation. The incident has triggered outrage and raised serious questions about the due diligence of election officials and returning officers responsible for verifying eligibility. As the controversy escalated, Mehsanas Provincial Officer Urvish Waland confirmed the breach. The Taluka Development Officer has submitted a report stating that the elected Sarpanch of Gilosan Gram Panchayat is under 21 years of age. At the time of nomination, the candidate declared her age as 21, based on which the Returning Officer accepted her form and allowed the election to proceed. She was subsequently declared the winner, said Waland. Only the age is to be mentioned in the nomination form, and the candidate had written that she had completed 21 years. We have now forwarded the entire report to the District Collector and also sent all relevant details to the State Election Commission. The final decision on the matter will be taken by the Commission, he added. Despite being underage, Parmar Afrozbanu has allegedly refused to step down. Nowhere in the form was I asked to write my date of birth, only my age. So, I wrote 21, she argued, defending her action. The administration is now mulling over forcing her resignation as per rules, but the blunder has already exposed a gaping hole in the election vetting process. The incident has not only embarrassed the local administration ahead of the CMs event but also put a spotlight on the systemic lapses allegedly plaguing grassroots electoral procedures.
BJP infighting exposes illegal dairy operations, corruption in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: A storm is brewing across Gujarats powerful cooperative dairy sector, as internal rifts within the BJP have begun spilling out in the form of infighting, corruption, and violent altercations at top dairies. From Baroda to Mehsana to Surat, one scandal after another is laying bare the deep-rooted political and financial rot within the states milk cooperatives. The latest flashpoint is Surats Sumul Dairy, where a fierce power tussle between Chairman Mansingh Patel and Vice Chairman Raju Pathak has exploded over allegations that milk from Maharashtra was being illegally sourced, mixed, and sold through local co-operative societies. According to dairy sources, the issue, which started over fines imposed on milk importers, escalated when Pathak allegedly tried to assault the MD during a heated board discussion. Sumul Dairy Director Jayesh Patel (Delad) told The New Indian Express , Investigations revealed that 25 co-operative societies across Surat and Tapi districts were caught red-handed sourcing milk from Maharashtra, storing it in chilling plants, and funneling it into Sumul Dairy through unregistered centres. Sumul had imposed a fine of Rs 3.25 crore on these milk firms. Now, with the Congress entering the battlefield, the issue has snowballed into a full-blown political controversy. Surat Congress leader Darshan Nayak has accused the Sumul board of corruption, written to the Chief Minister, and demanded action against notified societies involved in mixing cold, imported milk with local warm supplies. Hes also called for an immediate quality audit and board dismissal, citing earlier allegations of crores-worth corruption in Sumul Dairy. When The New Indian Express reached out to Sumul Vice Chairman Raju Pathak for a comment, he curtly replied, I am busy, and declined to say anything further. The BJP high command has taken note. Sources confirm that the party leadership has summoned Sumuls chairman and vice chairman to Gandhinagar. Orders have been issued to audit the rogue societies and take legal action against those found violating milk sourcing norms. The milk auditor has been tasked with investigating chilling plants and purchase centres operating outside the legal framework. This turmoil in Sumul follows on the heels of two other explosive incidents in Gujarats dairy network: In Baroda Dairy, BJP MLA Ketan Inamdar found a financial fraud where milk was being deposited in the names of deceased members. He wrote to top officials, including the Chief Minister and Cooperation Minister, triggering an internal probe and prompting the MD, Ajay Joshi, to resign. Meanwhile, in Mehsanas Dudhsagar Dairy, a board meeting on 27 June turned violent when Vice Chairman Yogesh Patel accused Chairman Ashok Chaudhary of slapping him during a heated discussion over expired milk powder stock. The following day, Patel revealed that large quantities of spoiled powder were lying at the dairys Charada godown, forcing the chairman to face the media. Sources claim the root of this clash lies in a power struggle between two BJP heavyweights in Mehsana, allegedly backed by a state minister and a top BJP organisational leader. Across Gujarat, cooperative dairies once seen as engines of rural prosperity are now marred by corruption, factional politics, and violent infighting, reflecting the deepening cracks within the BJPs own ranks. As the state government scrambles to control the damage, the credibility of the dairy sector and the ruling party's grip over it is under severe scrutiny.
Mystery eye illness strikes over 120 students in Gujarat school, investigation underway
AHMEDABAD: A sudden and baffling health scare has rocked J.M. Desai Vidhyamandir School in Jhank village of Dehgam taluka, Gujarat, where over 120 students have been struck by a mysterious eye condition, triggering a state-level medical response. What began on 30 June with a few complaints of eye redness, burning, irritation, and double vision quickly escalated, affecting 122 out of the 225 hostel students. Alarmed by the scale of the outbreak, the school rushed the affected students to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital for urgent care and screening. A Class 10 student from JM Desai School told local media, After taking a bath in the morning, my eyes felt slanted and everything appeared blurry. The words in my book looked doubled. Even water tasted bitter and I didnt feel like drinking it. I had to rush to the washroom repeatedly. Thats when the school staff brought me to the hospital. Despite treatment, 120 students were still reporting symptoms as of Wednesday, keeping health authorities on high alert. Though most of the children have now been discharged, two remain under observation due to persistent discomfort. District Health Officer Dr Ashok Vaishnav told local media, Out of 225 students residing at the J.M. Vidyalaya hostel in Jhank village, 122 complained of eye irritation, redness, itching, blurred and double vision after waking up on Monday. A team led by District Epidemic Control Officer Dr Jignesh Asari immediately conducted health check-ups at the Kadadara Primary Health Centre. Dr Vaishnav further noted, While 120 students have been discharged after treatment, two students are still experiencing dizziness and are under treatment at the hospital. Meanwhile, Dean of Gandhinagar Medical College Dr Ankur Jhalawadia said, To determine the exact cause of the symptoms, gastric lavage samples have been sent to the FSL, while blood and urine samples have been sent to the Choline Esterase Laboratory. The results, expected in two days, will confirm whether any poisoning is involved. With the cause still unidentified, state officials remain puzzled. Departments of health, food safety, and education have launched a joint probe, collecting water and food samples from the school premises and hostel. The samples have been sent to laboratories, and authorities are now awaiting results to pinpoint the source of the mysterious outbreak.
Bhupendra Patel launches Jan Suraksha Santrupti Abhiyan in Gandhinagar
At the event, the Chief Minister gave cheques of 2 lakh each to three beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana and handed over a Jan Dhan passbook to one account holder
Ahmedabad Diary | Sahay gets 6-month extension as Gujarat DGP
Amid intense speculation over the appointment of the new Gujarat top cop, the state government has extended the tenure of current Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay by six months. For the past few days, discussions were underway about potential successors, while preparations had even begun in Gandhinagar for Sahays farewell ceremony. This had fuelled certainty about his departure. However, the narrative took a turn on June 30, when the government officially announced his extension. With this decision, Vikas Sahay will continue serving as the Gujarat police chief till December 31, 2025, ending all succession buzz. BJP silent prayer behind AAPs bypoll victory? Aam Aadmi Partys Gopal Italia emerged victorious in the Visavadar assembly by-election; however, political circles are abuzz with claims that the win, though on AAPs ticket, was engineered by the BJP. Commentators pointed out that the BJPs strategic decision to field Kirit Patel an unpopular face within his own party allegedly gave Italia a clear sight of victory. This, many believe, was a deliberate move to split the Congress votes and keep AAP relevant. In the 2022 assembly elections, the AAP had helped weaken Congress, enabling BJPs 156-seat sweep. Analysts suggest the BJPs hidden aim is to sustain the AAP as a vote-cutter ahead of 2027. Expelled MLA alleges AAP-BJP nexus After being expelled from the Aam Aadmi Party, Botad MLA Umesh Makwana has launched a fierce attack on his former party, alleging a secret alliance between the AAP and BJP. He claimed Gujarat AAP is functioning under BJP influence, saying, The remote control of AAP is in Kamlam (BJP headquarters In Gujarat). Makwana was suspended minutes after he resigned as AAPs legislative leader, following the partys Visavadar bypoll win. Calling the suspension unilateral, he demanded a meeting with party supremo Arvind Kejriwal. Refusing to quit as MLA, Makwana vowed to complete his term and expose Gujarat and Delhi AAP leaders alleged political ties with BJP. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
Gujarat AAP MLA resigns, allege caste bias; gets suspended hrs later
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Botad in Gujarats Saurashtra region, Umesh Makwana, resigned from all party positions on Thursday, June 26, citing caste-based discrimination. A member of the Koli community, classified under the Other Backwards Class (OBC) category, Makwana made the announcement during a press conference in Gandhinagar, accusing the party of favouring the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
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.
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.
Police detain NSUI Student Leader, Congress MLA during exam, spark political outrage in Rajasthan
JAIPUR: The President of the Rajasthan University Students' Union, Nirmal Chaudhary, and Sangaria MLA Abhimanyu Poonia were detained by the police on Saturday while appearing for a philosophy examination at the university. According to eyewitnesses, plainclothes officers had been stationed across the campus since morning and took both leaders into custody as soon as the exam began. The detention caused a huge stir on campus, with some students raising slogans and creating a commotion. The situation calmed down after the police left with Chaudhary. However, DCP East Tejaswini Gautam clarified that Abhimanyu Poonia was not detained. He voluntarily entered the police vehicle to support Nirmal Chaudhary, she said. Gautam stated that Chaudhary had been wanted in connection with a 2022 scuffle involving then CI Gandhinagar Nemichand and ACP Mukesh Chaudhary, which left Nemichand with a fractured hand and Mukesh Chaudhary with a head injury. A case was registered against several student leaders, and after a thorough investigation, Chaudhary was taken into custody. The police did not detain MLA Abhimanyu Poonia. He joined Nirmal in the car voluntarily and later went to his residence from the Gandhinagar police station, added DCP Gautam. MLA Abhimanyu Poonia, however, asserted, Nirmal Chaudhary and I were taken from the exam hall as if we were criminals. I have been released, but Nirmal is still in police custody. The behaviour of the plainclothes officers was akin to hooliganism. Nirmal, a former student union president, had recently staged a protest at SMS Hospital demanding an inquiry into the death by suicide of Jodhpur doctor Rakesh Vishnoi. There too, he had a heated argument with police officials. Poonia added, This kind of police action against a student is absolutely wrong. Arresting Nirmal over an old case while he was appearing for an exam created chaos in the examination hall and violated democratic norms. The Congress party has strongly condemned the police action. MLA Abhimanyu Poonia, Mukesh Bhakar, Ram Niwas Gavadia, former MLA Indraj Gurjar, and Anil Chopra met Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph on Saturday afternoon and termed the arrest as unlawful. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweeted, Detaining Youth Congress state president and MLA Abhimanyu Poonia and Nirmal Chaudhary during an examination is unjust and a breach of democracy. The BJP government refused to listen to the family of Dr. Rakesh Vishnoi, and when these public representatives spoke out for justice, a case was registered against them. Public representatives have every right to raise their voice for the public interest. The state government should release them immediately. Similarly, former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot added, If the police, administration, and government act out of a sense of revenge, we will oppose it strongly. The government aims to send a message that it will target those who raise their voice, which is unacceptable. Suppressing dissent through state machinery is completely wrong.
54 institutions from India make it to QS World University rankings, IIT Delhi highest at 123rd spot
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the performance of Indian educational institutions in the World University 2026 Rankings, which were made public on Thursday. In a post on X, the PM said, The QS World University Rankings bring great news for our education sector. Our government is committed to furthering research and innovation ecosystems for the benefit of Indias youth. India is the fourth most represented in the list with only the United States, United Kingdom and China surpassing it, said an official release from the PIB. A total of 54 Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs) from India featured in the rankings with IIT Delhi emerging as the countrys top-ranked institute by securing the 123rd position. Twelve IITs have made it to the ranking list. Compiled by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the internationally recognised ranking system compares HEIs worldwide on an annual basis. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in a statement said, From just 11 universities in 2014 to 54 in the latest rankings, this five-fold jump is a testament to the transformative educational reforms ushered by PM Narendra Modijis government in the last decade. National Education Policy 2020 is not just changing our educational landscape, it is revolutionising it. QS World University Rankings '26: IIT-M in top 200, Anna University falls to 465 IIT Delhi, which stands at the 123rd position now, was ranked 150th in 2025. The rankings of other IITs which made it to the list in sequential order are IIT Bombay (129), IIT Madras (180) IIT Kharagpur (215), IIT Kanpur (222), IIT Guwahati (334), IIT Roorkee (339), IIT Indore (556), IIT Varanasi (566), IIT Hyderabad (664), IIT Gandhinagar (801-850) and IIT Bhubaneswar (951-1000). Other top Indian institutions on the list include Indian Institute of Science Bangalore (219), University of Delhi (328), Anna University (465), Jawaharlal Nehru University (558), Savitribai Phule Pune University (556), University of Mumbai (664), Vellore Institute of Technology (691) and Symbiosis International University (696). An official release from the PIB said eight universities are making their debut in the rankings from India IIT Gandhinagar, Lovely Professional University, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Ashoka University, Galgotias University, Shiv Nadar University, Christ (Deemed to be University) Bengaluru and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies. 48 percent of Indias ranked universities have improved their positions compared to the previous year, the release said. QS 2026 is based on data from over 16 million academic papers and insights from 1,51,000 academics and one lakh employers. A broad mix of factors like faculty qualifications, research strength, partnerships and student outcomes are considered for the rankings. A new indicator called International Student Diversity has been introduced in this years assessment.
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
Ahmedabad Diary | Government aid yet to reach Air India crash victims
After 241 of the 242 passengers onboard the AI171, en route to the London Gatwick, and the entire crew perished in the Ahmedabad air tragedy, compensation has begun trickling in. The Tata Group pledged Rs 1 crore per bereaved family, while Air India announced Rs 25 lakh each. Several others also died at the crash site. However, neither the Centre, nor Gujarat government has offered any relief so far. Slamming the silence, Congress leader Amit Chavda demanded both governments jointly grant Rs 1 crore per bereaved family, stressing that empathy must guide action in times of tragedy. BJP, AAP candidates fail to cast votes in bypoll Polling was held on Thursday for the Visavadar by-election, with BJPs Kirit Patel, Congress Nitin Ranpariya, and AAPs Gopal Italia in the fray. Ironically, only Congress candidate Ranpariya cast his own vote at the Bhesan BRC Bhavan on Thursday morning. BJPs Patel and AAPs Italia were unable to do so, as Patel is registered in Junagadh and Italia in Surat. Their absence from the Visavadar voter list barred them from supporting their own names on the ballot. As the poliing day draws to a close, focus now shifts to the turnout, and the symbolic weight of the missing votes. 13 IAS officers shifted in major bureaucratic rejig In a significant administrative shake-up, the Gujarat government has transferred 13 IAS officers and 9 Deputy Section Officers just a few days back. IAS officer Ashwini Kumar has been shifted from Urban Development to take charge as Principal Secretary, Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities. In another key swap, IAS M Thennarasan moves from Sports to head the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. Rameshchand Meena has been handed additional charge as Principal Secretary, Ports and Transport. Meanwhile, IAS Milind Shivaram Torawane, formerly MD of GSPC, Gandhinagar, takes over as Principal Secretary, Panchayat and Rural Development. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
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.
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).
Gujarat bids farewell to former CM Vijay Rupani; Rajkot shuts down in mourning
AHMEDABAD: Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani had been confirmed dead in the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI171 on Sunday morning, after DNA matching with remains recovered from the wreckage near Ahmedabad airport. DNA cross-verification of former CM Vijay Rupani has been completed, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said, addressing the media at the Civil Hospital mortuary. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel immediately met the Rupani family at their Gandhinagar residence and assured full state assistance for transporting the mortal remains and organising the last rites as per the family's wishes. The London-bound AI171 crashed minutes after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. Rupanis son had rushed to Ahmedabad on Saturday to provide a DNA sample at BJ Medical College, expediting the identification process. 'Thrust not achieved, falling, Mayday,' were the last words of Air India flight's pilot before crash Rupanis hometown Rajkot came to a standstill on Saturday, observing a half-day shutdown in tribute to the late leader. The outpouring of grief reflected not just local sentiment but the void left behind in Gujarats political fabric. Born in 1956 in Rangoon (now Yangon), Rupani migrated to Rajkot with his family during political unrest in Myanmar. The son of a grain trader, he went on to script one of Gujarats most enduring political journeys. From a student activist with ABVP to a loyal BJP foot soldier, his career was deeply rooted in ideology and discipline. Rupanis political graph rose steadilyfrom corporator in Rajkot in 1987 to mayor in the late '90s, Rajya Sabha MP (20062012), and twice elected MLA from Rajkot West. He served briefly as Gujarat BJP president in 2016 before being sworn in as the states 16th Chief Minister, succeeding Anandiben Patel. During his term from 2016 to 2021, Rupani was known for his quiet efficiency and behind-the-scenes consensus-building. His leadership was key in stabilising the BJP amid the Patidar agitation and in retaining the partys grip over Saurashtra, a politically volatile region. An RSS loyalist, Rupani was also imprisoned during the Emergency and maintained unwavering commitment to the BJP since its formation in 1980. His proximity to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former CM Keshubhai Patel often placed him at the intersection of legacy and leadership within the party. Outside politics, Rupani was involved in social initiatives and managed a family business. A trained stockbroker, he was known for his calm demeanour and administrative acumen. BJP leaders often praised his ability to keep party workers motivated while ensuring seamless governance. Rupanis death marks the end of an erahis political journey closely intertwined with Gujarats rise as a BJP stronghold. He is survived by his wife Anjali Rupani, also an active BJP member, and their two children. As Gujarat mourns, the state prepares to bid farewell to one of its most steadfast sons.
Air India plane crash: Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupanis mortal remains identified
Gandhinagar: The mortal remains of former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani have been identified through DNA test, officials said on Sunday, June 15, as investigations into Thursdays Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad intensified. Rupani was among the 241 passengers killed in the horrific tragedy on June 12. So far, 32 victims have been identified Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Why Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani Had To Postpone His London Trip
Vijay Rupani left Gandhinagar with aide Shailesh Mandalia and staff, reached Ahmedabad airport by 11:45 am, and boarded the London-bound Air India flight that later crashed
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
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A tragic accident, nation in shock, says Union Minister Amit Shah on Ahmedabad plane crash
AHMEDABAD: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, calling it a devastating accident that has shaken the entire nation. Speaking after a high-level review meeting in Gandhinagar, Shah laid out the grim realities of the tragedy and the scale of the response. The ill-fated flight was carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. So far, only one passenger has been rescued I have personally met him, Shah revealed. The exact number of deceased can only be confirmed after DNA identification is complete. Shah said the aircraft had 1.25 lakh litres of fuel onboard at the time of crash. Due to the intense heat and high temperature, there was no chance for anyone to survive. The conditions were such that escape was nearly impossible. The recovery of bodies has now been completed, he added, painting a horrific picture of the aftermath. He confirmed that the process of collecting DNA samples from the families of the passengers has already been completed. Those living abroad have also been informed. Around 1,000 DNA tests will need to be conducted here in Gujarat, and we have the capacity for it. With the support of the National Forensic Science University, the testing will be expedited, he assured. Only after DNA matching will the bodies be handed over to the families. Shah also detailed the immediate response from top officials. The moment I received information about the incident, I immediately contacted the Chief Minister, the Home Minister of Gujarat, and the Civil Aviation Department. The Prime Minister was also called immediately . Calling it one of the worst aviation disasters in recent times, Shah said, Many lives have been lost in this devastating accident, and the entire nation is in shock. My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives. On behalf of the Gujarat government, I also extend sympathies to all those who have died or been injured. In closing, Shah reflected on the sheer unpredictability of the tragedy: This was a tragic accident and no one can stop it.
Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers
Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is feared to have been among the passengers on board the Air India flight that crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI 171, crashed in a residential area near Meghani Nagar just minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1.38 pm. Gujarat BJP spokesperson Yagnesh Dave confirmed that Rupani had planned to travel on the flight but added that his current status remained unknown. While official confirmation from aviation authorities is still awaited, multiple reports have cited a passenger list that names Vijay Ramniklal Rupani as the 12th passenger, reportedly travelling in Business Class (Z category). Sources close to the former Chief Minister indicated that he had plans to travel to the UK, reportedly to bring back his wife, Anjali Rupani, who is currently in London. Visuals from outside Rupanis Rajkot residence showed a grim and anxious atmosphere, with concerned neighbours and well-wishers gathering outside. We are extremely worried. We've been neighbours since 1988. This feels like its happening to our own family, said a long-time neighbour, Kiran, speaking to news agency ANI . Former minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, a close associate of Rupani, said he rushed to the former CMs Gandhinagar residence upon hearing about the crash. I knew he was scheduled to travel to London today, though I wasnt sure if he boarded that flight. After seeing the news, I came straight here and will now go to the airport for more clarity, he said. The aircraft was reportedly carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Police said several casualties were feared. Many of the injured have been shifted to the citys civil hospital. Emergency response operations are ongoing. At least 50 bodies have been recovered from the crash site. Following the crash, all flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice, according to information from the airport spokesperson. Air India issued a dedicated passenger hotline - 1800 5691 444 - to provide information about the crash. Ahmedabad City Police also released an emergency helpline - 079-25620359 - for updates and assistance. The state and central governments are closely monitoring the situation. IndiGo Chennai-Ahmedabad flight returns mid-air following Air India flight crash
Gujarat Information Commission demands end to CIDs RTI exemption in cyber fraud cases
AHMEDABAD: In a game-changing decision, the Gujarat State Information Commission has slammed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) (Crime) for hiding behind a 19-year-old RTI exemption to deny critical information to cyber fraud victims. The Commission has now recommended the state government revoke the special immunity granted to CID Crime regarding cyber fraud casesdelivering a major win for transparency and the rights of hundreds of duped citizens. The exemption, in effect since October 25, 2005, under a Home Department notification, placed CID Crime beyond the purview of the Right to Information Act for crime-related investigations. However, the recent judgment has pierced this shield in the context of cybercrime, which the Commission argued is no longer a conventional sensitive crime but a rapidly escalating public menace impacting citizens daily. The ruling stemmed from a plea by Rakesh Kumar Prajapati, a Gandhinagar resident who lost Rs 4.5 lakh to cyber fraud. After filing a complaint with the Cyber Crime Cell, Prajapati sought the FIR copy and related documents under the RTI Act. CID Crime rejected his request, citing the 2005 exemption. Unwilling to accept silence in the face of theft, Prajapati took the matter to the State Information Commission. Presiding over the case, Information Commissioner Nikhil Bhatt issued a sharp rebuke to CID Crime's blanket denial. In his remarks, Bhatt stressed that while CID handles sensitive investigations, cyber fraudnow affecting thousands of citizens dailydemands a different approach. When a person becomes a victim of digital theft, they want to know what steps were taken, what progress was made, and whether they will ever recover their money. Denying this under the guise of secrecy is unjustifiable, Bhatt noted. He emphasised that neither police stations nor CIDs cyber cell offers victims even the basic visibility into the status of their complaints. This, he argued, amounts to a denial of the fundamental right to know, protected under the RTI Act. Going beyond the individual case, the Commission invoked its powers under Section 25(3)(g) of the RTI Act to recommend structural reforms. It has urged the state government to amend the 2005 notification, specifically withdrawing exemptions for cyber fraud data from CID Crime, Local Crime Branches, and other crime branches across Gujarat. This ruling could potentially dismantle a long-standing wall of bureaucratic opacity and mark a critical step toward greater accountability in cybercrime investigations. If the state government acts on the recommendation, victims like Prajapati will no longer be left in the darkand the CID may finally be held answerable in the digital age.
Rs 7.3 crore MGNREGA scam uncovered in Bharuch amid growing Gujarat rural job scheme crisis
AHMEDABAD: The corruption in the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) continues to deepen in Gujarat. Following massive irregularities unearthed in Dahod, Panchmahal, and Narmada districts, Bharuch has now been added to the list exposing yet another multi-crore scam under the Central governments flagship employment scheme for the rural poor. According to a police complaint filed at Bharuch A Division, a staggering Rs 7.30 crore has been siphoned off through fraudulent practices across 56 villages in the talukas of Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot. Officials say the fraud stems from collusion between contractors and government personnel. The First Information Report (FIR), lodged at Bharuch A Division Police Station on Friday, 30 May 2025, names two firms Muralidhar Enterprise and Jalaram Enterprise accused of gross irregularities in executing clay-metal road works across 11 villages, covering projects from January 20, 2023, to the present. Citing a technical audit, the FIR notes, In each of the 11 villages, despite road lengths being consistent, the agencies arbitrarily segmented the roads into different parts averaging 236 metres per segment violating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and government-prescribed criteria. The complaint further alleges that the contractors failed to meet material specifications. According to the FIR, They did not use metal of the required thickness, failed to incorporate quarry spoil, and did not supply the approved construction materials. Instead, they fraudulently inflated material usage figures and generated bogus bills. The scale of the fraud was significant. Knowing the bills were fabricated, the FIR states, Muralidhar Enterprise claimed Rs 13,05,676.51 and Jalaram Enterprise claimed Rs 6,58,898.89. Both amounts were processed and disbursed as genuine, leading to wrongful gains totalling Rs 19,64,575.40 by the contractors. However, the fraud was not limited to private entities alone. The FIR delivers damning accusations against government personnel, asserting a broader, premeditated conspiracy. Although both agencies were only authorised to supply materials, the complaint reads, government officers, employees, and contractual staff colluded with them, bypassing MGNREGAs e-Gram Panchayat protocols. They undertook mechanical construction of roads and submitted fake work proposals. The fallout, as revealed in the FIR, is massive: This collusion led to the embezzlement of public property, submission of fraudulent proposals, misappropriation of funds, and ultimately, a loss of Rs 7.3 crore to the state exchequer across 56 villages in Bharuch taluka. The FIR concludes by framing the act as a breach of trust and criminal deception against the government, accusing all involved of orchestrating deep-rooted financial irregularities under the pretense of rural development. The Congress party has launched a fierce attack on BJP leaders and the ruling government, directly linking them to the widening MGNREGA scam in Gujarat. We submitted a written plea to the TDO and DDO two years ago, but it was ignored, said GPCC State General Secretary Sandeep Singh Mangrola. BJP leaders are involved, so no fair probe is happening. If a real investigation takes place, it will reach Gandhinagar. We demand a SIT under judicial oversight to probe MGNREGA scams across Gujarat. Opposition Leader Amit Chavda first exposed a Rs 250 crore MGNREGA scam in Devgadhbaria and Dhanpur, Dahod. Subsequent probes confirmed Rs 71 crore siphoned off, implicating firms linked to Minister Bachu Khabars sons, both arrested. Next, Congress revealed a Rs 109 crore fraud in Jambughoda, implicating BJP-linked agencies. Then came AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava, uncovering a scam in Narmada, tied to a Congress leader from Junagadh. Now, Bharuch joins the growing list of districts tainted by the MGNREGA scam trail.
Pakistan deployed tanks, artillery after Indias precision strikes during Operation Sindoor: BSF IG
AHMEDABAD: In Gujarats Gandhinagar, BSF Inspector General Abhishek Pathak addressed rising tensions following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. He said public anger had prompted the Indian government to vow stern action, which in turn led Pakistan to reinforce its border defences. Intelligence reports revealed increased Pakistani troop deployment, including heavy artillery and tanks near the frontier. In response, Indias BSF, Army, Navy, and Air Force initiated comprehensive preparations. Addressing a press conference in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, BSF Inspector General Abhishek Pathak said, There was huge anger among people following the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. Following the attack, the government had promised to take a stern action against the perpetrators. He added, Seeing India's strong determination, Pakistan strengthened its defences. As per the information received from several intel agencies, Pakistan had increased the number of its personnel on the border adjacent to Gujarat and had also deployed its regular army personnel. Pathak further stated, It was noticed that Pakistan had also moved its heavy artillery and tanks to the forward areas. Considering this, the BSF, Army, Navy and Air Force started their preparations. BSF Inspector General Abhishek Pathak told the media, During Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, Indian forces crossed into Pakistan and struck terrorist hideouts with precision. Importantly, no Pakistani military bases or civilians were targeted. He added, In retaliation, on May 8, Pakistan launched relentless drone and missile attacks. Since Operation Sindoor, Pakistan carried out over 600 drone strikes until the ceasefire, but the BSF, backed by the Army and Air Force, successfully thwarted every single attack. Pathak emphasised, Despite Pakistans aggressive assaults, not a single BSF jawan or civilian on the Gujarat border was harmed. The BSF Inspector General said, The India-Pakistan border in Gujarat presents a unique geographical challenge. Its either desert or creek, with marshy, saline soil and a hot, humid climate. Movement routes are severely limited, forcing soldiers to patrol and operate on foot through difficult marshy terrain. He also said, During Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army, Air Force, and state police forces provided full cooperationworking seamlessly as a united force. The district administration and border citizens played a crucial role in the operation. He added, The Border Security Force received unwavering support from the district administration, leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of border residents. We also received extensive assistance from the Gujarat state government, including the Chief Minister and Home Minister.
No proxy war, will be answered accordingly, says PM in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday declared that cross-border terrorism is no longer a proxy war for Pakistan but a deliberate war strategy. You are already at war, and you will receive the response accordingly, he warned. Addressing a gathering at the launch of Urban Development Year 2025 in Gandhinagar, the prime minister said state honours given to terrorists killed in Operation Sindoor meant Pakistan was no longer indulging in shadow warfare. Modi said, This can no longer be called a proxy war. The terrorists killed after May 6 were given state honoursPakistans flags draped their coffins, and their army saluted them. This isnt covert terror; its an official war tactic. He warned that India would respond accordingly: You are already at war, and we will answer in kind. We seek no enmity, only peace and progressfor ourselves and the world. But make no mistake: we will not tolerate aggression. Fight is with terror, not people...choose peace or face bullet: PM Modi slams Pakistans terror nexus Highlighting Indias swift retaliation, he said, Nine terrorist hideouts were identified and destroyed in just 22 minutes. It was a bold, decisive strikeexecuted in front of cameras, so no one back home would dare ask for proof. He likened Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terror to a thorn in Indias side. Shareer kitna hi swasth kyu naa ho lekin agar ek kaanta chubhta hai toh poora shareer pareshan rehta hai. Ab humne tay kar liya hai uss kaante ko nikaal ke rahenge (No matter how healthy the body is, even a single thorn can cause constant pain. Now, we have resolved that we will remove that thorn). Asserting that Operation Sindoor, launched on the night of May 6 by our armed forces, will now advance with the strength of the people, he called for nationwide participation in building a self-reliant India. This mission isnt just about military mightits about every citizen stepping up. If we want a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and aim to take our economy from the 4th to the 3rd spot globally, we must stop depending on foreign goods, Modi said. PM slams state honours for slain ultras Modi noted, This can no longer be called a proxy war. The terrorists killed after May 6 were given state honours Pakistans flags draped their coffins, and their army saluted them. This isnt covert terror; its an official war tactic. IWT move enough to make Pak sweat Speaking on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), which is in abeyance, the Prime Minister said: I havent done much yetweve only said that were keeping the treaty in abeyance. That alone is enough to make them sweat over there (in Pakistan).
Dams not maintained properly, desilting neglected due to IWT: PM
With treaty in abeyance, Pak facing heat Terrorism Paks deliberate war strategy GANDHINAGAR, May 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said terrorism was not a proxy war but a deliberate war strategy adopted by Pakistan, and India will respond to it accordingly. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Speaking at a Gujarat Government programme here, he also batted for buying Indian products to boost the countrys economy. Click here to watch video Refusing to make any distinction between non-state [] The post Dams not maintained properly, desilting neglected due to IWT: PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India will weed out terrorism with conviction: PM
Gandhinagar, May 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has made up its mind to weed out the thorn of terrorism and pursue it with full conviction. Recalling the first terrorist attack on India in 1947, right after the Partition of India into 3 parts, Modi said one part was usurped by [] The post India will weed out terrorism with conviction: PM appeared first on Northlines .
Terrorism Is Pakistans Deliberate `War Strategy, India To Respond Accordingly: PM Modi
GANDHINAGAR, May 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said terrorism was not a proxy war but a deliberate war strategy adopted by Pakistan, and India will respond to it accordingly. Refusing to make any distinction between non-state and state actors in Pakistan, Modi said the neighbouring country is engaging in war by continuing to support terrorism. `Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) is our `sanskar (value imbibed through tradition), we want happiness for our neighbours too, but if [] The post Terrorism Is Pakistans Deliberate `War Strategy, India To Respond Accordingly: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Gujarat, the first time he has visited his home state following Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Earlier today, the Prime Minister held a roadshow before laying the foundation stone for several development projects in Gandhinagar.
Terrorism Paks War Strategy, India To Respond Accordingly: PM Modi
Gandhinagar, May 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said terrorism practiced by Pakistan is not a proxy war but a deliberate war strategy and India will respond accordingly. Pakistan is engaging in war through terrorism, Modi said, while speaking about Operation Sindoor at the urban development programme of Gujarat Government. We cant call this a proxy war as those who were killed on May 6 night (in Indian strikes on terror camps in Pakistan) were given state honours in [] The post Terrorism Paks War Strategy, India To Respond Accordingly: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
For 75 years, we tolerated proxy wars: PM Modi
Gandhinagar: On the second day of his Gujarat visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued hammering Pakistan over its support to terrorism and said that for 75 years India has tolerated proxy warsbut not any more. PM Modi said this on Tuesday, while attending the celebrations commemorating 20 years of Gujarats Urban Growth Story at Gandhinagars Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has escalated tensions with Pakistan, asserting that its actions constitute a deliberate strategy to destabilize India, not merely a proxy war. Speaking in Gandhinagar, Modi referenced the Operation Sindoor and past aggressions, including the 1947 Kashmir attack.
Modi Holds Mega Roadshow in Gandhinagar Amid Huge Crowds
Fourth roadshow during Gujarat visit follows Operation Sindoor; large turnout seen along Raj Bhavan to Mahatma Mandir route
PM Modi Holds Mega Roadshow In Gandhinagar On Day 2 Of Gujarat Visit
This is PM Modi's first visit to his home state since Operation Sindoor, India's military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
PM Modi Holds Roadshow In Gandhinagar, To Launch Projects Worth Over Rs 5,500 Cr | Video
PM Modi To Launch Gujarat's Urban Development Plan In Gandhinagar Today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch Urban Development Year 2025 in Gujarat's Gandhinagar on Tuesday, marking 20 years of the state's structured and sustainable urban transformation.
Col Sofiya Qureshi's family joins Modi's roadshow in Gujarat
During his two-day Gujarat visit, PM Modi is scheduled to take part in public events in Dahod, Bhuj and Gandhinagar and inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for a series of development projects costing over Rs 82,950 crore, an official release stated.
PM Modi Arrives In Gujarat For Two-Day Visit; Holds Roadshow In Vadodara
VADODARA, May 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a roadshow in Vadodara on Monday morning upon his arrival in Gujarat for a two-day visit. The prime minister is scheduled to take part in public events in Dahod, Bhuj and Gandhinagar and inaugurate various projects worth Rs 82,950 crore, an official release said. PM Modi was accorded a grand welcome upon his arrival at the Vadodara airport at around 10 am on Monday and held a 1-km roadshow till the Airforce [] The post PM Modi Arrives In Gujarat For Two-Day Visit; Holds Roadshow In Vadodara appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi to inaugurate, lay foundation stones for projects worth Rs 5,536 cr in Gandhinagar on May 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects worth 5,536 crore in Gujarat during his two-day visit. The projects span urban development, water resources, roads and buildings, and healthcare, including the inauguration of over 22,000 residential units and the Sabarmati Riverfront development.
Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat on May 26 and 27. He will inaugurate and lay foundations for projects in Dahod, Bhuj, and Gandhinagar. In Bhuj, 33 development projects worth Rs 53,414 crore will be inaugurated. These projects span energy, roads, water supply, and port development. Key projects include power substations, solar plants, road expansions, and port upgrades.
PM Modi To Inaugurate Nation's First 9,000 HP Locomotive Engine In Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit his home state, Gujarat, on May 26 and 27, for the first time after Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister will attend programmes in three districts, including Gandhinagar, Kutch and Dahod.
PM Modi inaugurates 103 Amrit Bharat stations across 18 states; check full list
Narendra Modi launched 103 Amrit Bharat Stations across 18 states. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme aims to upgrade railway stations in phases. The scheme focuses on modernizing infrastructure and improving connectivity. Stations will integrate local heritage and culture. Gandhinagar was the first station upgraded under this scheme. Many Amrit Stations are being inaugurated in different states.
India to lead UNs International Year of Cooperatives 2025; Amit Shah unveils PACS-driven reform plan
AHMEDABAD: In a high-stakes address at the Maha Sammelan in Ahmedabad on Sunday, Union Minister Amit Shah declared Indias lead role in the UN-designated International Year of Cooperatives 2025. Linking grassroots reform with global recognition, Union Minister Amit Shah on Sunday outlined a nationwide revival plan focused on strengthening Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), promoting tech-driven transparency, and enhancing citizen participation. With 57 initiatives already in motion and a target to establish 2 lakh PACS by 2029, Shah said the Centre is positioning the cooperative movement as a key pillar of Viksit Bharat. Kicking off the address, Shah highlighted the global spotlight on cooperatives, announcing that the United Nations will mark 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives. He underscored that the term cooperative remains as relevant today as it was in the 1900s, with India set to lead this international movement, an initiative launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2021 to revive Indias fading cooperative sector. Tying Indias domestic reforms with global developments, Shah noted that the country had introduced two core principles, Sahkar se Samriddhi and The Role of Cooperation in Viksit Bharat, as pillars of the cooperative renaissance. Todays conference in Gujarat, he said, is a direct outcome of this broader national effort. He stressed that revitalising the cooperative sector must begin at the grassroots, particularly by empowering Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and farmers. Without transforming these foundational units, broader reforms would remain ineffective. To this end, Shah called for enhanced training, awareness, and transparency across all cooperative institutions. Marking a strategic shift, Shah emphasised the government's focus on both the science of cooperation and science in cooperation. Reflecting on the historic decline of Indias cooperative movement, once deeply embedded in the freedom struggle, he said it was now the collective duty of stakeholders to re-establish cooperatives across states and districts. The aim, he added, is to fortify institutions at the district, state, and national levels, building a robust and resilient cooperative framework. In a significant structural reform, Shah announced the addition of a fourth tier to the global three-tier cooperative system, ensuring national institutions align with local-level cooperatives. This expansion, he said, would be a critical mission during the International Year of Cooperatives. Outlining the governments roadmap, Shah detailed a three-pronged strategy - mainstreaming cooperation in governance, embedding transparency through technology, and mobilising citizen participation. He revealed that the Ministry of Cooperation has launched 57 diverse initiatives to accelerate this campaign. Education is also being revamped. Shah announced the establishment of Tribhuvan Sahakari University to serve as a national hub for cooperative studies. States, he said, are now aligning their cooperative education frameworks with this vision. Reiterating the centrality of PACS, Shah declared the government's target to establish one PACS in every panchayat by 2029, amounting to over 2 lakh new PACS and dairies. Additionally, around 22 services have been integrated into PACS, enhancing their functional scope. He also confirmed that a policy is being formulated to rehabilitate defunct PACS and enable the creation of new ones. Shah concluded by calling for deeper synergy under the principle of Cooperation Amongst Cooperatives. He urged all primary cooperative societies and dairies to maintain accounts with district cooperative banks, fostering inter-institutional coordination and financial discipline. With 2025 approaching, Shah made it clear, India is not just participating in the International Year of Cooperatives, it is leading it, with bold reforms aimed at building a cooperative-powered Viksit Bharat. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday addressed the Maha Sammelan in Ahmedabad, The event, hosted by the Gujarat State Cooperative Federation, saw the presence of Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and other key figures. Tying local action to national vision, Shah also joined the Tiranga Yatra in Gandhinagar and participated in multiple programmes on his second day in Gujarat.
Amit Shah Launches Development Projects Worth Rs 708 Crore In Gujarat's Gandhinagar
Indian Army struck 100 km inside Pakistan, defying nuclear threats in historic first: Amit Shah
AHMEDABAD: For the first time since independence, the Indian Army has struck Pakistani and terrorist camps up to 100 kilometres inside Pakistan, a move that defied nuclear threats and signalled Indias resolve. Those who believed their atomic warnings would deter action were mistaken, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said on Saturday, as he began a two-day visit to Gujarat. He asserted that Indias three armed forces had responded to ricks with stones, underscoring a tougher military posture. In a scathing address to the public, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted, For the first time since independence, the Indian Army has destroyed Pakistani and terrorist camps up to 100 kilometres inside Pakistan. Those who were threatening us with nuclear bombs believed we would be intimidated, but that didnt happen. Our three armed forces responded to bricks with stones. Before Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the country suffered years of unchecked terrorist attacks. Terrorists from Pakistan routinely killed our soldiers, bombed our cities, and plotted with impunity. No strong response was ever given, Shah said. Contrasting the past with the present, Shah emphasised the government's decisive retaliation. Since Modi ji took oath, there have been three major terrorist attacksUri, Pulwama, and recently Pahalgam. But every single time, India has struck back with clarity and strength, and the world has taken notice. Pakistan now lives in fear, he declared. Modi government 'buckled under US pressure' at IMF meeting on Pakistan loans: Congress Shah recounted Indias military responses point by point: Uri answered with a surgical strike. Pulwama led to an air strike. And after the Pahalgam attack, we launched Operation Sindoor . Terrorist headquarters were flattened. Those who planned these attacks have been silenced. He said the international security community has been stunned by the scale and precision of Operation Sindoor. When global experts analyse it, theyre shocked. Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba camps were razed. Terrorists who dared to murder unarmed Indians, asking them their religion before killing, have been paid back with interest. We destroyed nine terror hubs, where they trained and stored weapons, and sent a clear message, terror against India will be met with force, Shah added. He detailed how India pushed deep into enemy territory. Our forces struck within 100 kilometres inside Pakistan. Bombs hit those responsible for international terror. To anyone targeting Indians, this is our message: retaliation will be swift and twice as strong. Pakistan a threat to humanity, cant be trusted: Owaisi on message to world as all-party delegate Referring to retaliatory actions from across the border, Shah claimed India's air defences stood firm. On the 8th, Pakistan tried to strike civilians from Kutch to Kashmir. Not a single missile or drone hit Indian soil, our defences held perfectly under Modi jis leadership, he said. He revealed that India destroyed 15 Pakistani airbase targets the next day. On the 9th, we neutralised their air strike capacity at multiple bases without harming civilians. Our armed forces proved our missile systems are unstoppable. Shah claimed this marked a historic moment. Our Army, Navy, and Air Force didnt just answer, they dominated. The world is witnessing the power of our forces and the resolve of Prime Minister Modi, Shah concluded. Union Home Minister Amit Shah began a two-day visit to Gujarat on Saturday. He inaugurated health centres in Vavol and Pethapur, and an underpass in Gandhinagar. In the evening, he addressed Kolavada villagers after unveiling a lake and civic projects.
AHMEDABAD: As a high-alert precaution, blackouts has been imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka bordering Gujarat's Patan district besides Kutch district on Saturday, while operations at Deen Dayal Port Kandla and Mundra Adani Port have been suspended until further notice, sources said. Eight airports across Gujarat Bhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Rajkot, and Porbandar have been closed as a precautionary measure and will remain shut until May 14. In Jamnagar, the District Collector announced that an emergency situation has been declared following a forecast warning from Air Force Station Jamnagar, prompting authorities to sound sirens and urge citizens to remain indoors and seek safe shelter. According to a news agency, the Western Railway has suspended night trains traveling to Rajasthan via Bhuj in Gujarat due to security concerns. Several trains have either been halted midway or cancelled. The Jamnagar Collector said, The administration has requested all citizens to implement the blackout declared in Jamnagar district from 8:00 PM tonight to 6:00 AM tomorrow. In view of the prevailing war situation, everyone is once again urged to remain completely alert, avoid unnecessary movement, and stay in safe places. A warning siren has been sounded for Jamnagar district. Citizens are advised to take shelter and refrain from moving in public places. The administration is fully prepared to meet any eventuality. The Patan Collector said on social media platform X, As a precautionary measure, a blackout will be imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka, bordering Patan district, today. All citizens are urged to avoid rumors and follow the instructions provided by the administration. Markets shut in Pathankot after explosion-like sounds; air sirens ring out in Punjab districts The Kutch Collector said, A blackout has been declared in Kutch district from 7 PM tonight to 6 AM tomorrow. The district administration requests everyone to implement it voluntarily. In a review meeting held via video conference on Saturday, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel assured that the state government has sufficient stocks of essential commodities, medicines, fuel, and other supplies. The meeting, attended by administrative officials from all districts, emphasized that border districts could directly contact the state government for additional resources if needed. CM Patel also directed that secretaries assigned to border districts offer guidance to local administrations. The meeting, held at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar, included Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi and Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi. It focused on the safety of citizens, especially in border areas, with CM Patel reviewing preparedness in districts like Banaskantha, Kutch, Patan, and Jamnagar. To ensure effective communication, the CM instructed officials to ready satellite phones, wireless systems, and walkie-talkies. He also directed the strengthening of evacuation plans for vulnerable border villages, with accessible shelters and transport arrangements for smooth relocations. Additionally, Patel called for the Road Construction Department to remain on high alert in border districts, ensuring quick road repairs if necessary. Updates from various departments highlighted ongoing efforts: food stock levels are being monitored, while health services are bolstered with medical staff and ambulances stationed at key locations. Blood donation camps are being organized to secure sufficient blood supplies. Terror launchpad in Pakistan opposite Jammu's Akhnoor sector destroyed: BSF
Gujarat border villages plunge into second day of blackouts, drones resurface near Kutch
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats border regions entered a second consecutive day of blackouts on Thursday following renewed drone sightings near Kutch, deepening security concerns along the Indo-Pak border. A total of 24 villages across Kutch and Banaskantha remained without power as authorities extended the shutdown enforced after Wednesdays drone scare. The blackout has now also impacted villages in parts of Patan district, particularly in the Santalpur taluka, officials confirmed. On Wednesday, three drones were shot down while attempting to breach Indian airspace in the Kutch region, prompting an immediate ramp-up in security protocols. Sources have now indicated that drones were once again sighted along the Kutch border, heightening alert levels. Mamlatdar Ajit Singh Chauhan, who is in charge of Palanpur city in Banaskantha district, told local media, The Banaskantha district administration is fully equipped to handle the tense situation between India and Pakistan. The district control room is operating 24 hours a day, and control rooms have also been set up at the taluka level. If any untoward incident occurs, the administration will take immediate action. In a high-level review meeting held at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar today, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced a series of sweeping measures in response to the escalating tensions. The meeting was convened on 9 May, 2025. Following the meeting, the Chief Minister posted on X that all leaves of government employees across departments, boards, corporations, panchayats, municipal bodies, and grant-in-aid institutions have been cancelled with immediate effect. Officers and employees currently on leave have been instructed to return to duty without delay, and strict directions have been issued against leaving headquarters without prior approval. The state government has also imposed a complete ban on the use of firecrackers and drones at all events and public functions until 15 May, as part of broader efforts to ensure public safety.
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat has been put on high alert following escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, triggering an emergency response from the state machinery. In a decisive move, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel convened a high-level review meeting on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the State Emergency Operation Center in Gandhinagar. Bringing together senior secretaries, district administrators, and police chiefs under one roof, Patel mapped out an aggressive security strategy in response to the volatile situation. Immediately following the meeting, fortified security grids were activated across Gujarats border villages, while Bhuj Airport was swiftly transferred under army control to tighten defense readiness. Speaking to the media after the meeting, the Minister of State for Home Affairs of Gujarat said, The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the officers of all the forces on behalf of the citizens of Gujarat. In this tense situation, he reviewed the preparedness with all government departments to ensure there is no shortage in the support required by the forces. Coordination issues between forces, if any, were also discussed to find quick solutions. Citizens need not be afraid of any kind of rumors. Parallelly, the state government clamped down on health sector mobility, canceling all leaves for doctors, paramedics, and health workersexcept for cases of severe illness. Orders were issued for immediate return to duty, targeting even those still lingering on sanctioned leave, underlining the gravity of the moment. Simultaneously, the health department received strict directives to stockpile critical medicines, deploy rapid-response medical teams, and ensure continuous power backup through generator installations, reinforcing the states preparedness for any fallout from the spiraling crisis. Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling; woman killed, four injured Gujarat, sharing both land and sea borders with Pakistan, has gone into lockdown mode after India's precision anti-terror strikes across the border. Acting without delay, Director General of Police Vikas Sahay, late Wednesday night, ordered the blanket cancellation of all police leaves across cities and districts, citing an unforeseen situation demanding full-force readiness. As tensions surge along the Kutch-Pakistan border, authorities have slammed an indefinite ban on fishing activities in the sensitive marine zones of Narayan Sarovar, Jakhau, and Lakhpat to choke any potential threat from the sea. On the southern front, Surat Police have escalated to high alert, reinforcing security at Sunwali Beach with a heavy deployment, while Hazira Police intensify beach patrols to preempt any infiltration. Locals have been placed on strict surveillance duty, with clear instructions to immediately alert police about any suspicious individuals or activities. Taking no chances, Surat Police Commissioner convened an urgent meeting with fishermen and coastal residents, warning them to avoid venturing into the sea unless absolutely essential, and mandating swift reporting of any suspicious sightings to the nearest police station, stitching a tight, vigilant net across the vulnerable coastline. BSF foils major infiltration attempt in Jammu; kills seven terrorists, destroys Pakistan Rangers post
CBI searches 11 locations in Guj, Raj in alleged corruption case against IRS officer Santosh Karnani
NEW DELHI, May 8: The CBI on Thursday conducted searches at 11 locations in Gujarat and Rajasthan in connection with an alleged corruption case against 2005-batch IRS officer Santosh Karnani, officials said. The agency conducted the searches on 11 premises linked to Karnani, his associates and family members in Gandhinagar, Ahemdabad and Jaipur, they said. The CBI booked Karnani and his wife under the Prevention of Corruption Act for allegedly amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income, the [] The post CBI searches 11 locations in Guj, Raj in alleged corruption case against IRS officer Santosh Karnani appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarat: 14 Killed In Rain-Related Incidents; IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms For Next Few Days
As many as 168 out of 253 talukas in the state received unseasonal rains in the last 24 hours, with Kheda, Gandhinagar, Mehsana and Vadodara districts getting 25 to 40 mm rains.
ED conducts searches in Ahmedabad in scam related to mismanagement of Waqf properties
AHMEDABAD: The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday conducted multiple searches in Gujarat as part of a money laundering investigation linked to alleged financial irregularities and misuse of certain Waqf properties in the state, official sources said. A case has been filed by the agency under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) taking cognisance of a Ahmedabad Police FIR field against one Salim Khan Jumma Khan Pathan, Mohammad Yasar Abdulhamiya Sheikh, Mehmud Khan Jumma Khan Pathan, Fezmohamad Pir Mohammad Chobdar and Saheed Ahmad Yakubhai Sheikh. The accused had illegally claimed to be trustees of the Kanch Ki Masjid Trust and Shah Bada Kasam Trust, the agency said. About nine premises of the accused and their associates are being raided across Gujarat by the Ahmedabad zonal office of the federal probe agency, the sources said. The accused entered into fraud lease agreements, extorted rents from tenants, and submitted false affidavits to the Waqf Board, according to agency sources. The ED suspects that the accused built shops on Trust's land and collected rent and committed fraud and conspiracy against the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and Waqf Board for personal gains. Sources said a plot of land located adjacent to the 'Kanch Ki Masjid' was originally owned by the Kanch Ki Masjid Trust. This land, according to sources, was given to the AMC years ago with an agreement that it would be used for the construction of two Urdu schools. The intent was to provide education to local children of classes 1 to 7. The school was damaged during the 2001 earthquake and later demolished in 2009. About 150-200 houses and 25-30 shops were built here illegally between 2008 and 2025. Rent was collected by the accused persons every month from these immovable assets but not deposited into the trust's account. The accused are alleged to have siphoned off the trust money and land which was originally meant for community welfare, according to the sources. The accused submitted a forged affidavit to the Waqf Board at Gandhinagar in 2024 to falsely claim trusteeship. This was reportedly used to mislead both the board and the AMC, the ED suspects.
14 killed in rain-related incidents in Gujarat; IMD forecasts thunderstorms for next few days
AHMEDABAD: At least 14 persons have died in rain-related incidents as thunderstorms, along with strong winds and dust storms, battered several parts of Gujarat, officials said on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms with lightning and strong winds of up to 50-60 kmph across the state for the next few days. As many as 168 out of 253 talukas in the state received unseasonal rains in the last 24 hours, with Kheda, Gandhinagar, Mehsana and Vadodara districts getting 25 to 40 mm rains, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) said in its update. Officials said strong winds uprooted trees, hoardings, and pillars, and parts of houses collapsed in several districts, leaving many injured. According to the SEOC, thirteen persons died in rain-related incidents such as lightning, electrocution, and collapse of trees, houses and hoardings in Ahmedabad, Anand, Kheda, Dahod, Aravalli and Vadodara districts of Gujarat on Monday, and one person died in lightning strike in Ahmedabad's Viramgam on Sunday. Four deaths were reported in Kheda district, three in Vadodara, two each in Ahmedabad, Dahod and Aravalli, and one in Anand district, it stated. Four people died as trees fell on them, while two were killed after coming under hoardings. Two died due to electrocution, three due to lightning, and three others after parts of houses fell on them, the SEOC said. More than a dozen huts were destroyed in a fire as strong winds caused it to spread rapidly at Limkheda in Dahod district, officials said. Isolated parts of Banaskantha, Kutch, Sabarkantha, Aravalli and Anand districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall in the next three days, it said. Daytime temperatures dropped in parts of Gujarat due to unseasonal showers. Temperatures are likely to fall by 3-5 degrees Celsius over the next few days, the IMD said.
3.4 magnitude quake jolts north Gujarat, no damage reported; epicentre near Vav in Banaskantha
AHMEDABAD: A tremor of 3.4 magnitude hit north Gujarat in the wee hours of Saturday, the Institute of Seismological Research (ISR) stated. According to the district authorities, there was no report of casualty or property damage. The tremor, with its epicentre near Vav in Banaskantha district, was recorded at 3.35 am, the ISR said in its latest report. The Gandhinagar-based institute said the tremor was recorded around 27 km east-north-east (ENE) from Vav at a depth of 4.9 km. Gujarat is a high earthquake-risk area and has suffered nine major earthquakes in the past 200 years, according to the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA). The earthquake in Kutch on January 26, 2001, was the third largest and second most destructive in India over the last two centuries, according to the GSDMA. A large number of towns and villages in the district had suffered almost complete destruction in the earthquake, which killed nearly 13,800 persons and left 1.67 lakh others injured.
Air Marshal N Tiwari Takes Charge As Vice Chief Of Air Staff
New Delhi, May 2: Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari on Friday took charge as the new Vice Chief of the Air Staff. He succeeds Air Marshal S P Dharkar, who superannuated on April 30. Before taking charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Tiwari served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Gandhinagar-based South Western Air Command (SWAC). The air marshal was given a guard of honour at the Air Headquarters Vayu Bhawan. He was [] The post Air Marshal N Tiwari Takes Charge As Vice Chief Of Air Staff appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CBI takes NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya on four-day remand
PATNA: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday took Sanjeev Kumar Singh , alias Sanjeev Mukhiya, on a four-day remand for interrogation in connection with the NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak case. Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind several question paper leak rackets, was arrested from Patna last Friday. CBI special judge Sunil Kumar-2 granted the four-day remand after a petition was filed seeking his custody for interrogation in the undergraduate medical entrance exam case. Although the CBI had requested a seven-day remand, the court granted only four. Mukhiya, a native of Bihars Nalanda district, is believed to be at the centre of an inter-state solver gang involved in leaking question papers of various national-level exams. We hope to get substantial clue in the medical entrance exam question paper leak case, said an investigating officer on condition of anonymity. During an earlier interrogation by Bihar Polices Economic Offences Unit (EOU), Mukhiya reportedly claimed that he had helped several politicians, doctors and government officers by securing medical college seats for their children. He also confessed to maintaining connections with teachers at private coaching institutes, who would send candidates to him. He disclosed that the leaks were carried out in collusion with certain printing press employees. As soon as his men would inform him about question of a particular examination being printed in a press, he would start his work and contact them, the officer said. Mukhiya would allegedly offer hefty bribes to gain access to the papers. NTA initiates action against Telegram, Instagram channels claiming NEET-UG question paper leak Once the question papers were dispatched from the press, his men coordinated with carrier agents. The examination centre authorities were reportedly aware of only two locks on the boxes carrying the question papers, while Mukhiya had access to a third hidden lock. He would open the boxes, make xerox copies of the papers, reseal them carefully, and send them to the examination centres without raising suspicion. The xeroxed question papers were solved by his solver teams and passed on to the candidates before the exams. For the NEET-UG examination, the gang charged between Rs 40 to 50 lakh per candidate. Mukhiya claimed to have strong connections in examination rackets operating in Dehradun, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Gurugram, Noida and Gandhinagar. We used to take help of each other in our work, an investigating officer quoted him as saying. Revealing his personal motivation, Mukhiya reportedly told interrogators that he entered the question paper leak business to accumulate enough money to make his wife an MLA and eventually an MP. He said he had expanded his network to states including Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal. Additional Director General (ADG) of EOU, Naiyar Hasnain Khan, said information had been sought regarding the cases registered against Mukhiya in other states. We have shared relevant information to police officers of different states where Mukhiya has been links, Khan said. The ADG clarified that Mukhiya was arrested from an apartment near Saguna Mor under Danapur police limits in connection with the Bihar constable and teachers recruitment exam leak cases being probed by the states investigating agency. Mukhiya also confessed during interrogation that his son, Dr Shiv Prakash, and his associate, Rocky, were active members of the gang. He admitted to his involvement in leaks of question papers of NEET, BPSC, and constable recruitment exams in both Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
BJP reshuffle in Gujarat paused amid Pahalgam fallout; but district-level presidents announced
AHMEDABAD: Amid nationwide outrage over the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, political developments in Gujarat have slowed, with the BJPs long-anticipated state-level shake-up now caught in a cloud of uncertainty. Despite this pause, the party made an unexpected move on Tuesday by announcing new district-level presidents, signalling selective progress in its internal restructuring. Delhi has become the epicentre of high-level political activity, as pressure mounts on Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident. In Gujarat, however, all eyes remain on two major questions: who will be the next BJP state president, and when will the long-delayed cabinet expansion take place? Over the past fortnight, speculation surged after Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on 21 April. A day later, BJP state chief C.R. Patil held a closed-door meeting with Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav, further fuelling rumours of imminent changes. The BJP was reportedly considering a young OBC leader for the state presidents post, but sources now say the terror attack has shifted the narrative. Despite the expiration of Patils term, he is expected to remain in his role until political conditions stabilise. Plans to expand the Gujarat cabinet, with ministerial berths for ex-Congress members who switched to the BJP, have also been put on hold indefinitely. Given the current national climate, the cabinet expansion will not proceed anytime soon, said a party source. In a move that caught many by surprise, the BJP announced new district-level appointments on Tuesday. New presidents were named for Ahmedabad city, Gandhinagar, Kheda, Porbandar and Vadodara, indicating that while state-level decisions remain in limbo, the party is not shying away from recalibrating local leadership. The swift succession of high-level meetings in Delhi has kept Gujarats political circles on edge. For now, the BJPs larger reshuffle remains on standbyits course altered by national developments beyond the states borders.
Gujarat sets swift deportation in motion for 438 Pakistani nationals
AHMEDABAD: In the wake of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Home Ministry has swiftly acted, directing the cancellation of all visas linked to Pakistan. Home Minister Amit Shah, following a crucial meeting with officials, ordered all Chief Ministers on Friday to expel Pakistani nationals from their states without delay. This decisive action underscores the government's firm stance against foreign threats. The Home Department has disclosed that 438 Pakistani citizens are currently residing in Gujarat on long-term visas, with Ahmedabad hosting the highest number77followed by Surat with 44 and Kutch with 50. Additionally, 7 individuals hold short-term visas: 5 in Ahmedabad and 1 each in Bharuch and Vadodara. A major operation has now been launched to deport all Pakistani nationals residing in Gujarat, ensuring the swift execution of this order. Reports confirm the presence of 29 Pakistani nationals in Gandhinagar district, with further details emerging about individuals residing in Gandhinagar city, Kalol, Mansa, and Dehgam. In response to the Home Ministrys directive, the state government has mobilized teams, including ATS and SOG, to act swiftly. These teams are tasked with ensuring the departure of all Pakistani nationals within the mandated time frame, with the Home Department mandating their immediate expulsion from India. In a related development, a 71-year-old woman from Bharuch, Shahida Bibi, who held a short-term visa, has been deported to Pakistan. She is set to be repatriated via the Attari border, marking another step in the government's crackdown on foreign nationals. Amit Shah tells CMs to identify Pakistani nationals, ensure their immediate return Harsh Sanghvi, Minister of State for Home Affairs, stated during a visit to the ongoing Vishwamitri Project in Vadodara, The Indian government is taking strict action against Pakistan. All Pakistanis who entered India on any type of visa must leave within the prescribed deadline. There will be no compromise on this. He added, Instructions have been issued in the districts to ensure compliance, though we are also ensuring that Hindu refugees from Pakistan face no harassment. Amit Shah calls meeting to discuss future action on Indus Waters Treaty abeyance
