BJP set for strategic cabinet overhaul in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: A cabinet reshuffle in Gujarat appears imminent following a high-stakes meeting in Delhi between Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, BJPs top state and national leadership. With regional and caste equations, upcoming local body elections, and the rising influence of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in play, major political realignments are expected within days. Many sitting ministers are likely to be dropped, while younger, strategically chosen MLAs are tipped for elevation. All eyes are now on the BJPs political balancing act in Gujarat. A late-night power huddle on Monday in Delhifeaturing CM Bhupendra Patel, BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma, organizational general secretary Ratnakar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shahhas set the stage for a sweeping cabinet overhaul. The urgency and strategic nature of the meeting signal that the reshuffle is not just likelyit is inevitable. Sources indicate that a final list of ministers is in the works and could be finalized within two to three days. As anticipation builds, the buzz is deafening: whose chair will be pulled, and whose Diwali will shine brighter? The reshuffle is the culmination of months of political calibration. Internal dynamicsfrom caste arithmetic to the looming challenge posed by AAPhave reached a tipping point. With local body elections approaching and AAP leader Gopal Italia gaining traction, especially among Leuva Patidars, BJPs central leadership has decided to reengineer Gujarats political landscape. Reliable sources suggest that many senior ministers are on their way out. Finance Minister Kanu Desai, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel, and Social Justice Minister Bhanuben Babaria are reportedly at the top of the exit list. Only five current ministersmost notably Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel and Industries Minister Balvantsinh Rajputare expected to retain their portfolios. The reshuffle signals a generational shift within the party. Young MLAs like Jayesh Radadiya (Dhoraji), Uday Kangad (Rajkot), and Rivaba Jadeja (Jamnagar North) are strong contenders for cabinet positions. Saurashtrapolitically volatile and currently a stronghold of AAPs growing influenceis expected to receive special attention. A Leuva Patidar from Amreli or Junagadh may be included to counter the Italia effect. The BJPs caste balancing act extends beyond Saurashtra. With CM Bhupendra Patel representing the Patidar face and Jagdish Vishwakarma as the OBC state president, the party is fine-tuning its social equations. South Gujarat may see the induction of a tribal or female MLA, while in North Gujarat, Alpesh Thakors name is being considered if his community alignment works in BJPs favor. Interestingly, while Congress turncoats like Arjun Modhwadia and C. J. Chavda are still in the mix, only Modhwadia appears to have a strong chancelargely due to a lack of political rivals in Porbandar. Meanwhile, Hardik Patel, once a prominent Patidar youth icon, seems sidelined. Despite his proximity to Amit Shah, sources claim his recent dissent and waning political influence have diminished his chances of a ministerial berth. The reshuffle is not without risks. Elevating defectors over longtime BJP loyalists may spark internal discontent. Striking the right balance between new faces, caste representation, regional expectations, and party loyalty is the BJPs biggest challenge. Former Congress leaders are especially vulnerable, as the party looks to realign around its grassroots cadre. Adding to the political significance is the timely visit of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to Gujarat on Tuesday, coinciding with the Delhi deliberations. The synchrony between the Sangh and the BJP suggests that the reshuffle is part of a broader strategic resetnot just a routine political exercise. In short, Gujarat is on the cusp of a major political reconfigurationdriven by performance, perception, caste equations, and rapidly shifting political dynamics influenced by AAPs rise. What unfolds in the next 48 hours will shape not just the BJPs strategy for upcoming local polls, but also set the tone for 2027 and beyond.
RTI reply exposes audit lapse of over Rs 2 lakh crore in eight Gujarat Municipal Corporations
AHMEDABAD: A massive accountability crisis has exploded in Gujarat as eight major Municipal Corporations have not been audited for several years, leaving a budget worth over Rs 2 lakh crore unaudited and unverified. The revelations, made through an RTI response, expose systemic neglect, violation of audit laws, and a stunning breakdown of financial transparency. Citizens of these cities have effectively been left in the dark about how public money is being spent. Now, Gujarats urban governance is staring at a financial storm. RTI documents have exposed that not a single audit has been completed for several years for eight major Municipal Corporations: Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Surat and Vadodara. The data, obtained from the Director of the Local Fund Accounts Office in response to an RTI filed under Section 4(1) of the Act, reveals how thousands of crores of rupees in civic funds have remained unaudited, violating the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The backlog means that over Rs 2 lakh crore of municipal expenditure across Gujarats largest cities has never undergone mandatory financial scrutiny. With an annual budget of around 12,000 crore in 202425, the Ahmedabad civic body hasnt completed an audit since 201718, which roughly translates to approximately 50,000 crore in unverified accounts for just one city. Similar patterns are seen in Surat and Vadodara, while other corporations have remained unaudited for four to six years. Experts say that this is not a mere technical lapse, but a deep governance failure. Ignored directives, defied laws This financial vacuum exists despite clear legal obligations and repeated directives. Notably, the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963, under Section 4 mandates annual audits of all local bodies. The 11th Central Finance Commission (200005) had recommended that the audit of Municipal Corporations be done under the guidance of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), with reports submitted to the State Assembly. A Finance Department resolution on May 6, 2005, and later a circular on December 23, 2011, made this legally binding. The CAG had also flagged the non-compliance in August 2009, urging Gujarat to ensure timely audits. In 2011, Section 108A was added to the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, to reinforce the obligation. Yet, the RTI reply confirms that none of these directives have been implemented effectively. Last Audited Year, Municipal Corporation and Pending Years. The failure has also meant that no audit reports have been tabled in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly for years, as the audits were never done. The Finance Departments 2011 circular was meant to bring in accountability through CAG-supervised audits of Municipal Corporations. These reports were to be presented before the Assembly, debated, and acted upon. Instead, the process has been derailed for over a decade. Neither the CAG nor the Local Fund Audit Office has enforced strict timelines, and successive governments have allowed this crisis to deepen. RTI applicant raised red flag RTI Activist and Professor Hemant Kumar Shah has slammed the government, alleging a deliberate shielding of irregularities. In a democracy, the audit report for the previous financial year should be presented in the new year, debated by corporators, and acted upon as per rules. If the audit itself is not done for years, transparency collapses, and irregularities get buried, Shah claimed. He further alleged, This is a clear violation of the Gujarat Local Fund Audit Act, 1963. The State Assembly has failed in its duty to ensure annual presentation of audit reports. Transparency is a fundamental principle of democracy. When 2 lakh crore goes unaudited, the publics right to know how their money is used is crushed. Citizens kept in the dark The lack of audits not just weaken financial scrutiny but also denies Gujarats urban citizens of transparency over how civic budgets are spent on critical services like roads, water, housing, and sanitation.Over two crore people live in these eight municipal areas. However, no red flags were raised, no mismanagement was officially recorded. Political and governance questions mount The revelation has triggered serious concerns: Why has the State not enforced its own audit rules for over a decade? How is financial scrutiny being bypassed despite repeated CAG interventions? Who is responsible for this 2 lakh crore transparency vacuum? Legal experts say this is not just an administrative lapse, but a potential violation of constitutional principles governing local self-government. What next? With RTI evidence out in the open, pressure is likely to mount over the State government to immediately initiate pending audits and present reports in the Assembly. Activists and former bureaucrats argue that independent CAG oversight and public disclosure of audit findings are the only way to restore credibility. However, with seven years already lost in some corporations, the process of auditing such massive backlogs will be long, complex and politically sensitive. Whether the State acts decisive or let the lapse unchecked will determine the future of transparency and accountability in Gujarats urban administration. Notably, Hemant Kumar Shah said,If audits are not done, irregularities remain invisible. And when irregularities remain invisible, accountability dies.
IMD forecasts rise in night temperatures by up to 5 degrees in northwest India
NEW DELHI: As the monsoon withdraws from most parts of Northwest India, the intrusion of dry air from the northwest has led to hot and humid conditions in the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that night temperatures are expected to rise by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal in Northwest India over the next five days. This is said to benefit the kharif crops. According to IMD, when maximum temperatures are 3 degrees Celsius above normal, combined with above-normal relative humidity, the weather is classified as hot and humid. However, scientists predict that temperatures will drop after October 5 due to the arrival of a fresh patch of western disturbances, which will bring mild cool winds and rainfall to the plains of North India. Currently, the line marking the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon passes through Veraval, Bharuch, Ujjain, Jhansi, and Shahjahanpur. In Delhi, the maximum and minimum temperatures over the past 24 hours ranged from approximately 35 to 38 degrees Celsius and 24 to 28 degrees Celsius, respectively. The minimum temperature was above normal by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature exceeded normal by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. The IMD has also issued a flash flood alert for Saurashtra and Kutch due to a well-marked low-pressure area over the Gulf of Cambay. The districts likely to be affected by flash floods include Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Junagarh, Porbandar, Rajkot, Surendranagar, and Morbi. Low-lying areas in these regions may be inundated due to extreme rainfall, with isolated places in Konkan and Gujarat expecting more than 210 mm of rain. The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the Arabian Sea along the Konkan coast off Goa for the next four days, until October 4. In its agricultural advisory, the IMD has recommended that farmers take necessary measures to drain excess water from fields of rice, sugarcane, cotton, pigeon pea, groundnut, maize, pearl millet, castor, as well as vegetable and fruit orchards in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, it has advised providing mechanical support to horticultural crops and staking or supporting vegetables and young fruit-bearing plants to prevent lodging due to strong winds. Moreover, an increase in rainfall activity is expected, with isolated heavy rainfall likely over East India starting from October 2. In the Southern Peninsula, light to moderate rainfall, along with isolated heavy rainfall, is predicted for Tamil Nadu until October 2.
Somalia-bound cargo ship catches fire on Gujarat coast; no casualties reported
AHMEDABAD: A Jamnagar-based cargo ship, PDI 1383 Haridasran, loaded with 950 tonnes of rice and 78 tonnes of sugar caught fire at Porbandar Port, Gujarat, on Monday morning. No casualties were reported as all 14 crew members were safely evacuated after the rescue and firefighting operations. Within moments, thick smoke and raging flames engulfed the ship, visible from a distance, raising alarm across the port. With lives secured, the burning vessel was tugged away from the port into open waters to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby ships and infrastructure. Firefighters battled the fire at sea, but the ship sustained extensive damage, leaving its future uncertain. Authorities have begun a probe to determine the cause of the fire. Relief teams continue cooling operations to prevent a flare-up.
One killed, 24 injured as bus carrying labourers overturns in M.P.'s Shajapur
Labourers who had travelled to Jamnagar in Gujarat for work were returning to their native places in a private bus
Vantara Cleared of Allegations of Water Resource Misuse, Carbon Credits: Statement
An apex court bench comprising Justices Pankaj Mithal and PB Varale on Monday accepted the SITs report, which found no legal violations in Vantara's operations in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Vantaras Truth Validated: Jamnagar Facility Calls SCs SIT Findings Relief And Blessing
Vantara: SIT's report and the Supreme Courts order have made it clear that the doubts and allegations raised against Vantaras animal welfare mission were without any basis
SC appointed SIT gives clean chit to Vantara
NEW DELHI, Sept 15: The Supreme Court-appointed SIT probing the affairs of Vantara has given a clean chit to the zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre in Gujarats Jamnagar. A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and P B Varale took the report on record and noted that authorities have expressed satisfaction on the issue of compliance and regulatory measures in Vantara. The report was submitted on Friday and the top court perused it on Monday. The apex court said it [] The post SC appointed SIT gives clean chit to Vantara appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SC-Appointed SIT Gives Clean Chit to Vantara Centre in Jamnagar
Top court notes compliance and regulatory measures, detailed order to follow
Proposed new integrated medical course to be of over 5 years, with one year internship: RTI
NEW DELHI: The centres proposed new integrated medical course combining MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) and BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) at the JIPMER in Puducherry is an over five-year degree course, with a one-year internship to award the dual degrees, an RTI reply has revealed. The proposal, which is prepared by Auroville Foundation and announced with great fanfare by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, on May 27, also states that the syllabus for phase 1 is ready and is prepared on the competency-based curriculum (CBME) proposed by the National Medical Council (NMC), a statutory body that regulates medical education, medical professionals, institutes, and research. However, what is ironic is that the key regulatory bodies, including the National Medical Commission (NMC) and the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), which decide on new courses and syllabi, have not met once or been involved in the proposal, as per RTI documents. This paper was the first to report on the centres push for an integrated medical course that would combine MBBS and BAMS. Following the report, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), representing over four lakh medical practitioners, strongly condemned the move to mix different systems of medicine unscientifically and demanded that the government withdraw the regressive proposal in the best interest of the people's health. What is also interesting is that despite its proposal of starting an Integrated, Dual Degree Undergraduate Medical course on January 25, 2024, and the announcement by the Union Minister, the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) has refused to share the details after Kerala-based activist Dr K V Babu filed an RTI. Moreover, Auroville Secretary Dr. Jayanti S Ravi, who acknowledged in her January 25 letter that discussions were held over the last several months with Dr VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog; Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, AYUSH, and others, has also failed to share comments on the integrated course with the Union Health Ministry despite repeated reminders - not once or twice but four times. Speaking with this paper, Dr Babu said: There is no provision under any law in India to award MBBS and BAMS degrees after pursuing any course. From the files availed using RTI, it seems the government is supporting the proposal to start a new course to award a dual degree of MBBS and BAMS by the Auroville Foundation in association with JIPMER and some satellite centres. There is nothing to suggest that the regulatory body in this case, the NMC, had ever discussed it in a joint meeting with other regulatory bodies, which is mandatory under the statute, he said. Pushing political decisions via regulatory bodies is not a good sign for medical education and public health in our country, he added. In her letter, Dr Ravi, the former Gujarat-cadre IAS officer, who initiated the course, said, It is meant to be a bold experiment to allow for synthesis of the ancient and modern in various disciplines and aspects of life. In view of this, there will be no other place better than Auroville Foundation to start the course to provide an integral approach to healthcare. The curricula are now being fine-tuned for detailed integration of the two streams of science, said the letter, which was shared with Dr Babu on August 22 by the Union Health Ministry following his RTI. It further said the ministry should eventually consider setting up a satellite centre of the Institute of Teaching and Research (ITRA) in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, as well as a satellite centre of JIPMER as the Auroville-JIPMER-ITRA at Auroville Foundation. As its vision, the proposal said it is to develop curricula and resource material which can help medical students across the globe to learn an integral approach to health. It also said their mission is to become an apex institute of the highest degree for the synthesis of modern medicine and Ayurveda; to provide undergraduate education of the highest quality in contemporary medicine and Ayurveda, and to produce talented doctors who are capable of identifying and delivering the best possible therapeutic options from modern medicine and Ayurveda. How long will we allow our national educational system to exclude our own ancient healthcare treasures and the greatest spiritual insights? The health benefits of modern medicine are indisputable. However, its deductive analytical approach must be synthesised with a holistic approach of Ayurveda. It is the beauty of Ayurvedic interventions that they are well blended with daily life and appropriate for people of all ages. They provide early prevention besides supplanting modern treatment. It is here that the innovation in Medical Education becomes imperative. India, the source of Ayurveda, needs to develop an all-inclusive healthcare system and show the world a way of perfect synthesis. We need a national system of medical education which provides training of both modern and Indian systems of medicine in a systematic manner. Such an innovation will be good not only for our country, but also to the world at large. India can and must take the lead in this direction. It further said the proposal to establish a medical college that offers inclusive training in modern medicine and Ayurveda stems from an aspiration to make the medical education centered on the Indian system, to make doctors patient-centric, and the approach human-centric, deeply founded in the principles of integral Health as pronounced in the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
Promoter group firms infuse Rs 3,956 cr in Jio Financial
NEW DELHI, Sept 3: Jio Financial Services Ltd (JFSL) on Wednesday said promoter group companies have infused Rs 3,956 crore in the company to fund expansion. The Board of Directors of the company allotted 50 crore warrants for cash at a price of Rs 316.50 per warrant members of the promoter group Sikka Ports & Terminals Ltd and Jamnagar Utilities & Power Private Ltd upon receipt of Rs 3956.25 crore, JFSL said in a regulatory filing. Both the [] The post Promoter group firms infuse Rs 3,956 cr in Jio Financial appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jio Financial Raises Rs 3,956 Crore From Promoters Via Warrant Issue
Jio Financial Services said the warrants were distributed equally between Sikka Ports & Terminals Ltd. and Jamnagar Utilities & Power Pvt. Ltd., each entity recvieved 25 crore warrants.
'Sudarshan Chakra' air defence system will need huge tri-services efforts: CDS Chauhan
MHOW: The 'Sudarshan Chakra' air defence system will entail development of a robust infrastructure comprising a range of key tri-services military assets such as missiles and surveillance systems to create an impregnable strategic shield, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan said on Tuesday. In an address at a conference, Gen Chauhan said a whole of the nation approach will be required to develop the shield. Gen Chauhan also suggested that the Sudarshan Chakra will be on the lines of Israel's Iron Dome all-weather air defence system, known as a very effective missile shield. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15 announced the project to develop an indigenous air defence system to protect India's vital military and civilian installations and to deliver a decisive response to any enemy threat, a move that came amid concerns over security challenges emanating from Pakistan and China. In his first remarks on the project, the Chief of Defence Staff said the military will have to look at multi-domain ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) integration of ground, air, maritime, undersea and space, sensors. Gen Chauhan said a huge amount of efforts will be required by the three services to integrate various systems for the Sudarshan Chakra project. A colossal amount of integration will be required and multiple fields will need to be networked to provide a very true picture, he said. Gen Chauhan suggested that the project will also feature use of artificial intelligence, advanced computation, data analytics, deep data, analytics and quantum technology. PM Modi announced the Sudarshan Chakra project days after Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly hinted at targeting Indian assets along the border, including Reliance Industries Ltd's Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat, in case of any future military confrontation between the two countries. The project is planned to be implemented by 2035. In his address at the Ran Samwad conference at the Army War College, Gen Chauhan also underlined the need for greater tri-services integration. The two-day conclave brings serving military professionals to the forefront of strategic dialogue and it will witness Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivering the plenary address on the final day. A few joint doctrines and the technology perspective and capability roadmap will also be released during the event. The event is a first-of-its-kind initiative, wherein each thematic session will be led by serving officers sharing their first-hand operational insights and reflections from modern battlefields. It has been curated by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff and Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, in cooperation with the Army Training Command, under the overall guidance of the Chief of Defence Staff.
SC orders SIT probe into Vantara animal centre run by Reliance Foundation
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) which will be headed (Chairperson) by former Supreme Court Judge Justice Jasti Chelameswar to inquire into the affairs of Vantara (Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre) run by the Reliance Foundation at Jamnagar, Gujarat. A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Pankaj Mithal and Justice Justice Prasanna B Varale passed the order, after hearing a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) filed by a lawyer, CR Jaya Sukin.Accordingly, we deem it appropriate to direct for constitution of a Special Team (SIT) of respectable Investigation persons of impeccable integrity and high repute having long public service, the top court stated in the order. It also directed that the three other members of the SIT would be; Justice Raghavendra Chauhan (Former Chief Justice of Uttarakhand and Telangana High Court), Hemant Nagrale, IPS (Former Commissioner of Police, Mumbai), Anish Gupta, IRS (Addl Commissioner Customs). The SIT has to inquire into, among other things, the compliance with the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act and other relevant statutes in the acquisition of animals from India and abroad, particularly elephants, the order said. The bench observed that the petition only made allegations without any supporting material. It was clarified that ordinarily, such a petition should not be entertained. 'Completely vague': SC on plea to return captive elephants kept in Vantara It, however, said that at the same time, the Court added: However, in the wake of the allegations that the statutory authorities or the Courts are either unwilling or incapable of discharging their mandate, more particularly in the absence of verification of correctness of the factual situation, we consider it appropriate in the ends of justice to call for an independent factual appraisal which may establish the violation, as alleged, if any. The court also stressed that the above exercise undertaken by the SIT has been permitted only to assist the Court as a fact finding inquiry so as to ascertain the true factual position and to enable the Court to pass any further order, as may be deemed fit on the basis of the material furnished and contained in the report. The court also added that however, this order neither expresses any opinion on the allegations made in the petitions nor this order be construed to have cast any doubt on the functioning of any of the statutory authorities or the private respondent- 'Vantara'. The SIT is requested to conduct the fact finding inquiry entrusted to it forthwith and to submit the report, uninfluenced by any observations made by 12 September. Once the report is submitted, the petitions be listed on 15th September, 2025 to consider the said report and if necessary, to pass any further order, otherwise the petitions stand disposed of, the court added in its order. The SIT will look into the compliance of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and rules for zoos made thereunder, the court ordered and added that it will also see the international Convention on Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES) and compliance with import/export laws and other statutory requirements concerning imports/exports of live animals. SIT will see the compliance with standards of animal husbandry, veterinary care, standards of animal welfare, mortalities and causes thereof. Complaints regarding climatic conditions and allegations concerning location near an industrial zone; complaints regarding creation of a vanity or private collection, breeding, conservation programs and use of biodiversity resources; complaints regarding misutilisation of water and carbon credits, the SC said.
'Painful consequences': India warns Pak to 'temper rhetoric'; 'hiding own failures'
India's Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned Pakistan's escalating anti-India rhetoric, warning of severe repercussions for any miscalculated actions. This response follows inflammatory statements by Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, including threats against India's Jamnagar refinery. India has voiced concerns regarding the absence of civilian control over Pakistan's nuclear decisions, highlighting the military's collaboration with terrorist groups.
SC, Not Govt, Sent Mahadevi To Rescue Centre: CM Fadnavis On Elephant Madhuri | News18 Townhall
CNN-News18 Townhall Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says his government had no role in sending Elephant Mahadevi to Vantara in Jamnagar
Pakistani Target: Reliance's Jamnagar Complex, world's largest single site Petroleum Refinery
Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly plans to target Reliance Industries Ltd's Jamnagar complex located in Gujarat, and the largest and most complex single-site refinery in the world with 1.4 million barrels per day (MMBPD) crude ...
Munirs Tampa bombshell: Jamnagar refinery on Pakistans target list
Pak Army Chief threatens to target RILs Jamnagar Refinery, Indian Dams in Florida Speech
TAMPA, Florida In a rare and provocative address at a private dinner in Tampa, Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir threatened to target Indias critical economic and water infrastructure in any future conflict, singling out Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Industries refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat the worlds largest single-site refining complex. According to eyewitness [] The post Pak Army Chief threatens to target RILs Jamnagar Refinery, Indian Dams in Florida Speech appeared first on Northlines .
Pakistan's army chief, General Asim Munir, sparked controversy during his US visit by making anti-India remarks, including a threat to target Reliance's Jamnagar refinery. India strongly condemned Munir's uclear sabre-rattling and questioned the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Despite Pakistan's threats, India's military strength surpasses Pakistan's, with a larger active military and a growing nuclear arsenal.
Pakistan's Army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, threatened to target India's economic infrastructure, specifically Reliance's Jamnagar refinery, in a future conflict. He also warned of missile strikes on Indian dams if the Indus Waters Treaty is suspended. Munir urged overseas Pakistanis to increase their support for the nation, highlighting Pakistan's strategic diplomatic position.
Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir threatens to target RIL's Jamnagar refinery
Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, threatened to target Reliance Industries' Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat during a future conflict with India, signaling a shift towards hitting economic assets. Munir referenced a social media post featuring Mukesh Ambani and a Quranic verse, implying an aerial attack on the refinery, which symbolizes India's economic power and refining capacity.
Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aug 6: Vantara, the Jamnagar-based animal rehabilitation centre, will support the Maharashtra governments petition in the Supreme Court seeking the return of elephant Madhuri to a monastery in Kolhapur, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Wednesday. A rescue centre will be set up for her near the monastery in Nandani in Kolhapur district, he said. I had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy [] The post Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis holds meeting with Vantara zoo to bring back elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur
MUMBAI: Amid public uproar and pressure over bringing back Madhuri elephant in Kolhapur, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday held a meeting with the team of Vantara and discussed modalities to bring back the elephant. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, posting on his social media account, said he had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy to join Maharashtra Governments petition before the Honble Supreme Court for the smooth passage of the elephant Madhuri back to the Math. Vantara told that they are acting only on the orders of the Hon Supreme Court and had no intentions to grab the custody of Madhuri, he said. CM Devendra Fadnavis further added, The team also showed their willingness to build a rehab centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur near Nandani at a place selected by the Forest Department of Govt of Maharashtra. They also informed that they give highest respect to the religious sentiments of the community, Fadnavis said. The 36-year-old elephant Madhuri (also called Mahadevi) was relocated last week from Kolhapurs Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Math to the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust at Vantaras wildlife rehabilitation facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. However, residents of Kolhapur and the Jain community opposed this move, sensing a conspiracy to hand over the elephant to Vantara zoo. The elephants removal has triggered massive public unrest in Kolhapur. Last Sunday, thousands took part in a 'silent march' led by former MP Raju Shetty, beginning from Nandani and ending at the district collectorate. Taking cognizance of public sentiment, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting with the representatives of the Jain Math and ensured all possible help to bring Madhuri elephant back to Kolhapur. He also said the state government will file a review petition in court as well.
Vantara: Did Not Initiate Relocation Of Elephant Mahadevi From Kolhapur To Jamnagar
Vantara was not the initiating party, and that the entire process has been conducted under judicial and statutory oversight, in coordination with authorities, the statement said
Elephant deployed in Hyderabads Muharram procession moved to Vantara amidst controversy
Hyderabad: Mahadevi or Madhuri, the 36-year-old temple elephant who was deployed in Hyderabads ancient Bibi ka Alam Muharram procession in 2023, has been moved to Vantaras Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust in Jamnagar, Gujarat, following a Supreme Court directive upholding her rehabilitation on health grounds. The move has triggered a storm of protests and 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 .
Maharashtra temple elephant relocated to Vantara; devotees turn emotional
Devotees of Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha, a religious body in Maharashtras Kolhapur, bid an emotional farewell to their temple elephant, which was shifted to Anant Ambani-owned Vantara in Gujarats Jamnagar district. Due to misinformation about elephant Mahadevi (Madhuri) circulating on social media, PETA India shares the full story of how she went from 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 .
Elephant relocated to Gujarat facility run by Vantara from Kolhapur; devotees bid emotional adieu
The elephant was transferred to representatives of the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust run by Vantara, an animal welfare centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from the Kolhapur mutt on Monday.
Lumpy skin disease resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 cattle infected across eight districts
AHMEDABAD: The dreaded lumpy skin disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.
Lumpy Virus Resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 Cattle Infected Across Eight Districts
AHMEDABAD: The dreaded Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.
The Bombay High Court has ordered the transfer of ailing elephant Mahadevi to the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust in Jamnagar, supported by Anant Ambani's Vantara initiative, for specialized care and healing.
Squadron Leader Lokendra Singh Sindhu, 31, was from Haryana's Rohtak while Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh, 23, was from Pali in Rajasthan. This is not the lone incident of a Jaguar fighter jet crash this year. The first took place in Haryana's Panchkula and the second near Jamnagar in Gujarat.
Gujarat becomes first State to join Cruise Bharat Mission, eyes coastal tourism boom
AHMEDABAD: Striding towards maritime tourism dominance, Gujarat has become the first state in India to officially align with the ambitious Cruise Bharat Mission. This strategic move marks a critical milestone in the nations quest to build a globally competitive cruise tourism ecosystem, positioning Gujarat at the forefront of India's coastal transformation. In a bold leap toward maritime tourism leadership, Gujarat has become the first state in India to formally align with the Centres ambitious Cruise Bharat Mission. Backed by its vast 2,340 km coastline and navigable Rivers like the Sabarmati and Narmada, Gujarat is now charting a new course to transform itself into a global cruise tourism hotspot. Despite having the longest coastline in the country, Gujarat has so far lacked a dedicated cruise terminal, unlike ports in Mumbai, Cochin, Chennai, and Mormugao, which have already advanced cruise infrastructure. But with its formal alignment under the Cruise Bharat Mission, the state is now racing to bridge that critical gap. Launched by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on September 30, 2024, the Cruise Bharat Mission aims to catapult India into the league of top cruise tourism nations, with a tenfold increase in sea cruise traffic targeted by 2029. In line with this vision, Gujarat has rolled out an ambitious plan proposing multiple cruise circuits along its western coast. These circuits are anchored around major destinations such as Diu, Veraval, Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Okha, and the scenic Padala Island alongside the already operational Ghogha Hazira Ro-Pax route. To streamline the cruise experience, the state has divided its coastal routes into three strategic clusters: Padala IslandRann of Kutch PorbandarVeravalDiu DwarkaOkhaJamnagar Each cluster is carefully designed to connect religious, cultural, and natural attractions within a 100 kilometre radius making shore excursions swift, scenic, and tourism friendly. With this strategic alignment, Gujarat not only sets a precedent for other coastal states but also stakes its claim as a frontrunner in India's cruise tourism revolution.
Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA matches confirmed for 251 victims, 245 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: In a recent development following the Ahmedabad plane crash, Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi announced that DNA samples of 251 deceased victims have been successfully matched. Thus far, the mortal remains of 245 individuals have been handed over to their grieving families, with the remaining six to be returned in the coming days. Dr Joshi, addressing the media, shared that the 245 bodies released include 176 Indian nationals, 49 British citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, one Canadian, and 12 non-passengers. The extensive identification process marks a critical step towards closure for hundreds of devastated families. Ahmedabad plane crash: Crew member's mortal remains reach Manipur, thousands pay tributes Providing a district-wise breakdown, Dr Joshi stated that bodies have been returned to families from the following regions: Ahmedabad (70), Vadodara (24), Anand (26), Udaipur (7), Kheda (11), Mehsana (7), Surat (12), Bharuch (7), Gandhinagar (7), Diu (14), Gir Somnath (5), Rajkot (3), Patan (3), Junagadh (1), Amreli (2), Bhavnagar (1), Botad (1), Mahisagar (1), Aravalli (2), Palanpur (1), Jamnagar (2), Dwarka (2), Sabarkantha (1), Modasa (1), Khambhat (2), Nadiad (1), Patna (1), Mumbai (10), Pune (1), Maharashtra (2), Rajasthan (2), Jodhpur (1), London (10), and Manipur (1). He emphasised that the DNA matching process is both highly sensitive and bound by strict legal protocols. Every identification has been carried out with the utmost precision and care. Agencies such as Forensic Science University, alongside the local administration, health departments, and various state and central authorities, are working tirelessly to ensure that the mortal remains are returned with dignity and respect. This coordinated and relentless effort underscores the authorities commitment to providing a measure of solace and closure in the wake of an immense tragedy.
Ahmedabad plane crash: 223 DNA matches confirmed, 204 bodies handed over to families
AHMEDABAD: DNA samples of 223 victims of the Air India plane crash have been successfully matched, and 204 bodies have been handed over to families as of 11:50 am on June 20, according to Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi. The Civil Hospital authorities have intensified the efforts to identify and return the remaining bodies. Meanwhile, two patients under treatment at the Civil Hospital succumbed to their injuries. Their bodies have been handed over to their families, bringing the total count of bodies handed over to 204 from the Civil Hospital alone. Breaking down the identification further, Dr Joshi confirmed that the 223 matched victims comprise 168 Indian nationals, 7 Portuguese, 36 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 11 non-passengers - local residents who were tragically caught in the crash zone. Several international, domestic Air India flights cancelled due to operational reasons Logistics have played a critical role in the aftermath, with 15 bodies airlifted and 189 transported by road, according to Dr Joshi. The mortal remains have been sent to various Indian states and several foreign countries. Ahmedabad received the highest number, with 58 bodies, followed by Vadodara (21), Surat (11), Udaipur (7), Mumbai (9), Diu (14), and Kheda (11). Others were sent to Mehsana (6), Gandhinagar (6), Rajkot (3), Jamnagar (2), Patan (2), Dwarka (2), Aravalli (2), and London (2). Single bodies were transported to locations including Botad, Jodhpur, Anand, Palanpur, Maharashtra, Junagadh, Amreli, Gir Somnath, Mahisagar, Bhavnagar, Patna, Nadiad, Sabarkantha, Nagaland, and Modasa. Madurai-bound Indigo flight returns after mid-air 'snag,' say officials
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.
