Kohli set for milestone spree as India face New Zealand in ODIs
New Delhi, Jan 6: Indias three-match ODI series against New Zealand is set to double up as a milestone watch for Virat Kohli, with the former captain closing in on a clutch of significant records across formats. The series will be played in Vadodara on January 11, Rajkot on January 14 and Indore on January []
Yawer Hassans 85 in vain as UP thumps J&K by 58 runs
Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 3: Uttar Pradesh produced a dominating all-round performance to defeat Jammu & Kashmir by 58 runs in the Group B, Round 5 clash of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, held at the Niranjan Shah Stadium C, Rajkot, today. Batting first, Uttar Pradesh posted a commanding 322/5 in 48 overs, thanks to some explosive late-order hitting. Sameer Rizvi starred with a blazing 80 off 45 balls, while Prashant Veer contributed a quick [] The post Yawer Hassans 85 in vain as UP thumps J&K by 58 runs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bengal crushes J&K by 9 wkts in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 31: Bengal produced a commanding performance against Jammu and Kashmir in a Vijay Hazare Trophy encounter held at Sanosara Cricket Ground, Rajkot, winning by nine wickets in a low-scoring contest. The match highlighted Bengals bowling strength and clinical batting, while J&K struggled to put up a competitive total. Electing to bowl first, Bengals pace duo, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep, wreaked havoc on the J&K batting lineup. Mukesh claimed 4 wickets for 16 runs and [] The post Bengal crushes J&K by 9 wkts in Vijay Hazare Trophy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Aryan Juyals 150 helps UP beat Assam
Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Group B Rajkot, Dec 31: Aryan Juyal slammed an unbeaten 150 to steal the thunder from Sumit Ghadigaonkar as Uttar Pradesh registered a 58-run win over Assam via the VJD method in a rain-hit Vijay Hazare Trophy match to stay on top of Group B here on Wednesday. Opting to bat, []
Vijay Hazare Trophy Live: Ignored India Star On Fire; Jaiswal Misses Fifty
Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Live score Updates: Bengal's pace trio of Mohammed Shami, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep have rocked Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in their fourth round clash in Rajkot.
UniAcoustic has been awarded the Most Innovative Products honour at FOAID Mumbai 2025, Indias foremost Festival of Architecture and Interior Design. This recognition marks the brands second consecutive industry accolade in 2025, following its win at ORGATEC India earlier this year, underscoring UniAcoustics growing influence on the future of acoustic design in India. Team UniAcoustic receiving the Most Innovative Products Award at FOAID 2025 The FOAID recognition reflects direct appreciation from the architecture and interior design community. UniAcoustics showcase drew strong engagement from leading architects, designers, consultants, and industry stalwarts many of whom personally visited the booth to experience the products, material innovations, and design language firsthand. What set UniAcoustic apart was not just performance, but the introduction of acoustic designs the industry has not seen before solutions that challenge the traditional perception of acoustics as purely functional elements. The brands systems were widely appreciated for their ability to seamlessly integrate into architectural narratives, offering visual richness, depth, and material expression without revealing their acoustic core. A central reason for this distinction lies in UniAcoustics patented Virtual Material Technology (VMT), which enables hyper-realistic, lifelike surface expressions on high-performance acoustic substrates. VMT allows designers to achieve the visual richness of natural and architectural materials while eliminating the instability, maintenance challenges, and environmental impact associated with conventional finishes making it a sustainable alternative to material-heavy design approaches. Sustainability remains a key pillar of UniAcoustics innovation philosophy. The brands products are engineered to reduce material waste, extend lifecycle performance, and support healthier indoor environments through low-emission surfaces. All systems comply with stringent global standards including EPD Certification, ISO 354, ISO 11654, EN 13501-1, ASTM E84, and E1/VOC, ensuring alignment with WELL, LEED, and IGBC frameworks. The award also recognises UniAcoustics solutions-led approach, where acoustics are not treated as afterthoughts but as integral components of spatial design whether for workplaces, hospitality environments, retail spaces, educational institutions, residential projects, or large public buildings. With sound absorption values reaching NRC 0.95, the brand delivers performance that is both measurable and experiential. In India, UniAcoustics innovative acoustic systems have already been deployed across several landmark projects for leading organisations including HDFC, SwissRe, Avalara, IBM, Coco-Cola, AstraZeneca, Accenture, NPCI etc reflecting strong client confidence in the brands design-led and performance-driven approach. Receiving this recognition at FOAID a platform defined by design leadership is especially meaningful , said Mr. Shabir Rajkotwala, Managing Director, UniAcoustic . It reflects how the industry is responding to acoustic solutions that are expressive, responsible, and genuinely innovative. Our focus remains on empowering architects and designers with materials that expand creative freedom while meeting the highest performance and sustainability benchmarks . As part of a Great Place to Workcertified organisation, UniAcoustic also reflects a culture rooted in people-centric values, long-term thinking, and continuous improvement principles that directly influence how its products are conceived, engineered, and delivered. With sustained recognition across two of Indias most influential design platforms, UniAcoustic continues to set new benchmarks for what acoustic products can be visually, technically, and responsibly shaping more human-centric, high-performing, and future-ready environments across India and beyond. About UniAcoustic UniAcoustic is shaping a new direction for acoustic design in India with its commitment to design-first thinking, sustainability, and patented next-generation technologies. Through its strategic collaboration with Vicoustic, the brand brings globally recognised expertise to introduce unique, never-seen-before acoustic solutions tailored for modern Indian spaces. With strong technical support, customisation capabilities, and a solutions-led approach, UniAcoustic delivers high-performance systems that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and overall spatial experienceoffering architects and designers a refined balance of functional excellence and visual sophistication.
Public sector banks have opened major recruitment drives this week, offering over 1,900 vacancies across India. SBI, BOI, NABARD and Rajkot Nagarik Sahakari Bank are inviting applications for apprentice, credit officer and specialist posts. The opportunities are open to graduates, postgraduates and experienced professionals. Selection processes include online tests, interviews and shortlisting, with application deadlines spread between late December and early January.
J&K thrashes Chandigarh by 10 wickets in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMM, Dec 24: Jammu & Kashmir registered a dominant 10-wicket victory over Chandigarh in their Vijay Hazare One-Day Trophy match at Sanosara Cricket Ground B, Rajkote producing a clinical all-round performance. Bowlers, led by Lone Nasir Muzaffar, laid the foundation before openers Qamran Iqbal and Shubham Khajuria completed the chase in emphatic fashion. Chasing a gettable 209, J&K openers Qamran and Shubham scripted an unbroken 209-run partnership, romping home in just 42.5 overs. Shubhams gritty masterpiece of [] The post J&K thrashes Chandigarh by 10 wickets in Vijay Hazare Trophy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
In a remarkable feat, Gujarat crosses five lakh rooftop solar system installations mark
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat has scripted a major renewable energy milestone by installing more than five lakh rooftop solar systems, generating a combined capacity of 1,879 megawatts, firmly placing the State at the forefront of Indias clean energy transition. Achieved under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojna, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the feat reinforces Gujarats dominance in rooftop solar adoption and will take centre stage at the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Renewable Conference (VGRC) in Rajkot. The achievement doesnt stand alone. Gujarat has so far installed over 11 lakh rooftop solar systems cumulatively across schemes, a figure that underlines the states long-term, policy-driven push towards renewable energy leadership. From vision to execution, Gujarat continues to set the national benchmark. This surge reflects the Prime Ministers renewable energy roadmap and the hands-on governance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, whose citizen-centric policies have converted solar power from an ambition into a household reality. SCCL to set up solar, thermal power plants in Rajasthan As a result, Gujarat today retains the No. 1 position in rooftop solar installations in India. Significantly, the State has already achieved 50 per cent of its target of 10 lakh residential rooftop solar installations, a goal set for March 2027, marking a decisive halfway milestone in its clean energy journey. Financial accessibility has played a crucial role, with residential consumers availing Rs 3,778 crore in subsidies, easing the cost burden and accelerating adoption. To remove procedural hurdles, the Gujarat government rolled out a series of consumer-friendly reforms. These include 2,950 assistance for regulatory charges for systems up to 6 kW, waiver of network strengthening charges, and exemption from mandatory net metering agreements. There is no load limit for residential solar systems; surplus electricity can be sold to the grid, and no banking charges are levied on households, making solar both simple and rewarding. Telangana mulls German solar tech to strengthen power sector, aid farmers The subsidy structure further sweetens the deal: 30,000 per kW for systems up to 2 kW, 18,000 per kW for systems between 2 and 3 kW, and a maximum subsidy of 78,000 for installations above 3 kW. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the era now belongs to solar, wind, hybrid energy and green hydrogen, adding that Gujarat had anticipated this transition well in advance. He noted that the State now contributes a significant share to Indias renewable capacity, with rooftop solar emerging as its strongest pillar made possible under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. From January 10, the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot will spotlight real-life rooftop solar success stories, homes slashing power bills and communities feeding surplus electricity back into the grid. Together, they tell one story: how PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna is not just lighting homes, but reshaping Gujarats energy future. Australia to offer hours of free solar power
IGP Kashmir Flags Off Students Delegation to Gujarat for 26th Rashtra Katha Shivir
Srinagar: Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone, V. K. Birdi-IPS, flagged off a group of students for participation in the 26th Rashtra Katha Shivir, being organized by the Shri Vedic Mission Trust at village Pransala, Upleta, District Rajkot, Gujarat. In a handout, the police said that the flag-off ceremony was held at District Police Lines, []
Instamart order analysis: From iPhone 17s to Rs 10 buys, how users shopped in 2025
NEW DELHI, Dec 22: From a tiny Rs 10 order for a printout in Bengaluru to a Hyderabadi splurging Rs 4.3 lakh on iPhones, Instamarts 2025 annual order analysis report on Monday unveiled insights on purchases by users on the platform, with Tier-II cities like Rajkot and Ludhiana recording a multi-fold jump in quick-commerce orders placed through the platform. Instamarts top spender clocked Rs 22 lakh in 2025, while a Mumbaikar bought gold worth Rs 15.16 lakh on the [] The post Instamart order analysis: From iPhone 17s to Rs 10 buys, how users shopped in 2025 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarat Man, Accused Of Rape, Assault Of 7-Year-Old Girl, Shot In Legs While Attempting To Flee
35-year-old man, accused of raping and assaulting a seven-year-old girl in Rajkot, Gujarat, was shot in the legs by police during an encounter after he tried to flee.
7-Year-Old Girl Brutalised With Iron Rod After Rape Attempt In Gujarat
A horrific case of a minor's assault has emerged from Gujarat's Rajkot in which a rod was inserted into a seven-year-old's private parts after an attempted rape by the perpetrator.
An incident similar to the Delhis Nirbhaya incident has occurred in Rajkot district of Gujarat. A seven-year-old girl was allegedly raped and severely injured by inserting an iron rod into her private parts in a village under the jurisdiction of ...
Pandyas blazing fifty, ruthless bowlers earn India 101-run win over SA
CUTTACK, Dec 9: Hardik Pandya made a memorable comeback to competitive cricket, striking a mood-lifting unbeaten fifty and then took a key wicket as India etched a dominant 101-run win over South Africa in the opening match of the five-match series here on Tuesday. The victory helped India take a 1-0 lead in the rubber and it also pushed South Africa to their lowest-ever T20I total. Their previous lowest was also against India 87 all out in Rajkot in [] The post Pandyas blazing fifty, ruthless bowlers earn India 101-run win over SA appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SIR in Gujarat: More than 17 lakh deceased voters found on electoral rolls
AHMEDABAD : The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Gujarat has revealed that more than 17 lakh deceased voters were still included in the existing voter list across the state, said a release by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on Thursday. The SIR exercise began in Gujarat on November 4 with booth level officers (BLO) distributing enumeration forms in their designated areas, said the release, adding the campaign is to continue till December 11. During the last one month, enumeration forms have been distributed to more than 5 crore voters registered in the 2025 electoral roll. In most of the 33 districts, 100 per cent form distribution has been completed. Digitization work of the returned forms is currently going on. So far, digitization work has been completed in 12 out of 182 assembly constituencies, it said. These include Dhanera and Tharad of Banaskantha district, Limkheda, Dahod (ST) of Dahod district, Bayad of Aravalli district, Dhoraji, Jasdan and Gondal of Rajkot district, Keshod of Junagadh district, Mehmadabad of Kheda district, Khambhat of Anand district and Jalalpore of Navsari district. Dang district is at the forefront in this work with 94.35 per cent digitization of the counting forms, said the release. During this exercise, it was revealed that 17 lakh deceased voters were still included in the electoral roll across the state. While more than 6.14 lakh voters were found absent from their addresses. It has been noticed that more than 30 lakh voters have permanently migrated, the release said. BLOs found more than 3.25 lakh voters in the epeated category, which means that their names are found at more than one places, said the release. Vadodara BLO assistant dies on duty amid rising SIR workload concerns; four deaths in four days across Gujarat 'I cant do this SIR work anymore...': Gujarat teacher dies by suicide, cites BLO workload pressure
IAFs Suryakirans to light up Rajkot sky on December 6-7
The team is led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi
HSBC INDIA Expands its Presence in Gujarat with a New Branch in Vadodara
HSBC India on Saturday unveiled its new branch in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a significant step in its strategic expansion across the country. This launch signifies the banks 27th branch in India and its second in Gujarat, following Reserve Bank of Indias approval earlier this year to open 20 new bank branches in key cities. Chef Ranveer Brar, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, Maharani of Baroda & Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth & Premier Banking, HSBC India, at the branch inauguration Vadodara, known for its rapid economic growth and industrial prowess, is emerging as a significant hub for wealth creation. The city is home to a burgeoning population of affluent, High Net Worth (HNW), Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), and non-resident clients in one of Indias rapidly growing wealth and industrial hubs. HSBCs new branch is strategically positioned to meet the financial and wealth needs of this customer segment. The expansion reinforces HSBCs focus on the wealth opportunity in India, where it is the leading international bank offering a full spectrum of solutions and services to clients across International Wealth and Premier Banking, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India , said, As entrepreneurial spirit and innovation continue to drive economic growth and personal wealth, affluent customers are increasingly adopting a global outlook. They are seeking a trusted partner who is able to consistently serve them across jurisdictions. Our new branch in Vadodara reflects our commitment to being closer to our customers and delivering world-class banking solutions tailored to their unique needs. As the leading international bank in India, we remain focused on enabling our clients to unlock opportunities and achieve their aspirations, both in India and internationally . With this addition, HSBC now has a network of 27 branches across 15 cities in India. HSBC has maintained a strong presence in India for over 170 years, supporting customers in their financial journeys both locally and globally. Further HSBC India will open branches in Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Vishakhapatnam. About HSBC India HSBC India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 27 branches across 15 cities. HSBC is one of India's leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country. About HSBC Holdings plc HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,099bn at 30 September 2024, HSBC is one of the worlds largest banking and financial services organisations.
UniAcoustic Wins "Most Innovative Product" at ORGATEC India 2025
UniAcoustic , from the pioneers of Unitile, has been awarded the Most Innovative Product at the inaugural ORGATEC India 2025 , recognising the brands breakthrough approach to acoustic design, advanced surface technologies, and world-class manufacturing capabilities. UniAcoustic receives the ORGATEC India Excellence Award 2025 for Most Innovative Product A design-first and engineering-led brand, UniAcoustic is reshaping Indias acoustic landscape by blending European design and technology with precision-engineered production at the countrys largest integrated acoustic manufacturing facility. The honour reflects UniAcoustics continuous innovation across its diverse range of acoustic solutions including wall systems, ceilings, baffles, rafts, and bespoke architectural systems. With NRC values reaching up to 0.95 across its portfolio, UniAcoustic delivers exceptional absorption performance for workplaces, hospitality, retail, education, residential and public environments. A key differentiator lies in the brands proprietary patented Virtual Material Technology (VMT) , which enables lifelike, hyper-realistic surface expressions on high-performance acoustic substrates. VMT allows designers and architects to achieve visually rich materiality while ensuring stability, durability, and minimal maintenance. This recognition at ORGATEC India follows UniAcoustics international acclaim, including multiple Red Dot Design Awards , further cementing its position as a leading force in contemporary acoustic design. All UniAcoustic systems are engineered to meet rigorous global standards, including EPD Certification, ISO 354 for sound absorption testing, ISO 11654 for sound absorption classification, EN 13501-1 for fire classification, ASTM E84 for surface burning characteristics, and E1/VOC for low-emission material rating, ensuring full compatibility with WELL, LEED, and IGBC frameworks. As part of a Great Place to Workcertified organisation , UniAcoustic also reflects Unitiles commitment to people-centric culture, operational excellence, and values-driven innovation. This recognition reinforces our commitment to advancing expressive, sustainable and high-performance acoustic design. We remain focused on material innovation that empowers architects and designers with greater creative freedom, said Mr. Idris Rajkotwala, Executive Director, UniAcoustic. With a steadfast focus on innovation, scale, and sustainability, UniAcoustic continues to expand its leadership in the acoustic design landscape. By combining advanced engineering with refined aesthetic possibilities, the brand remains committed to delivering solutions that shape more human-centric, high-performing, and future-ready environments across India and beyond. About UniAcoustic UniAcoustic is shaping a new direction for acoustic design in India with its commitment to design-first thinking, sustainability, and patented next-generation technologies. Through its strategic collaboration with Vicoustic , the brand brings globally recognised expertise to introduce unique, never-seen-before acoustic solutions tailored for modern Indian spaces. With strong technical support, customisation capabilities, and a solutions-led approach, UniAcoustic delivers high-performance systems that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and overall spatial experienceoffering architects and designers a refined balance of functional excellence and visual sophistication. uniacoustic.com . Contact bhavya.j@united-group.in marketing@uniacoustic.com
A woman in Rajkot was attacked by a dog and then slapped by its owner, an incident captured on CCTV that has sparked outrage. This event, alongside a recent severe dog attack on a child in Delhi, highlights growing concerns about pet owner responsibility and public safety in India.
Pet Dog Attacks Woman In Rajkot Flat, Owner Thrashes Victim | Video
A pet dog attacked a resident inside a society in Gujarat's Rajkot. The dog owner slapped the victim instead of helping her. The incident was caught on camera.
Jeet Pabari, brother-in-law of Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, was found dead in Rajkot amid an ongoing legal dispute. Police have begun an investigation, with the case drawing widespread attention due to the family connection and the circumstances surrounding the death.
3rd Unofficial ODI Live: Pretorius, Rivaldo Centuries Steer SA A To 325/6
India A vs South Africa A Live: South Africa A are on the charge after being put into bat by India A in their third and final unofficial ODI in Rajkot.
Gujarat witnesses five farmers' suicides in a month as unseasonal rains shatter Saurashtra region
AHMEDABAD: With 42-year-old farmer, Shailesh Devjibhai Savaliya, from Junagadh turning out to be the fifth farmer to die by suicide in just one month, Gujarats Saurashtra is reeling under a grim wave of agrarian despair. Unseasonal rains, failed crops, and crushing debt have triggered a chain of tragedies, exposing the widening cracks in the States rural crisis despite government relief claims. Savaliya's suicide tightens the noose of fear that already hangs heavy over the countryside. It comes as a chilling reminder that the agrarian crisis is no longer a distant concern but a relentless, daily reality. Savaliya, a father of two, survived with his ten-and-a-half bigha farmland. He had sown groundnut, onion and tur, hoping for a harvest that could help him repay debts and push his family through another year. Drowning in debt and terrified of the hunger and humiliation awaiting his family, following unseasonal rains, Savaliya walked to his field and consumed poison, an act that echoed the silent scream of thousands battling similar torment. His brother, Prafulbhai Devjibhai Savaliya, broke down talking about the pain behind the tragedy. Shaileshbhai was shattered. He hid much of his suffering, but we saw the stress killing him every day. He felt cornered, hopeless. Out of sheer despair, he went to the field and drank poison he believed there was no path ahead for him, he said. Visavadar police rushed to the spot, registering a case and launching an investigation based on family statements. Preliminary findings pointed to financial collapse caused by crop failure, a pattern now becoming terrifyingly repetitive across Gujarat. Shaileshbhais death has intensified panic among farmers already gasping under erratic weather and rising liabilities, triggering urgent questions about the states preparedness to confront the spiralling agrarian crisis. Saurashtra had recorded four farmer suicides, each driven by the driven by deadly combination of unseasonal rains, damaged crops and unforgiving debt. 1. Rajkot: 50-year-old Dilipbhai Virdiya (Ardoi village, Kotdasangani taluka). He consumed poison late Saturday night in his farmland. His son Utsav said, He was tense for 1520 days after the unseasonal rains. We lost around Rs 10 lakh. Dilipbhai had taken loans to sow cumin, onion and groundnut across 28 bighas, including land borrowed and land owned. Last years marriage expenses for his daughter had already pushed him into a tight spot. Unseasonal rains crushed his hope, village sarpanch Narshi Gajera confirmed. 2. Rajkot: Danabhai Ramjibhai Jadav (Rahamiya village, Vinchiya taluka) Danabhai died by hanging at home. His family said he had cultivated groundnut and tur on 14 bighas, but unexpected monsoon patterns left him buried under losses. Vinchiya Police have begun probing, but villagers say that his death was caused by broken promises and brutal weather. 3. Gir Somnath: Ghafar Musa Unad (Revad village, Una taluka) On November 3, he tied an electric wire around his waist and jumped into a well. His groundnut crop on nine bighas had rotted due to unseasonal rain. He had taken a Rs 2 lakh loan and the responsibility of marrying off two daughters. He saw no escape ahead, a relative said. 4. Dwarka: 37-year-old Karsanbhai Vavnotia (Bhanvad taluka) His seeds were bought after taking a gold loan, and the rains wiped out everything. Family members said he had been 'mentally broken' ever since the crop failed, unable to bear the blow of both debt and disappointment. These back-to-back deaths expose a harsh truth: Gujarats farmers are collapsing faster than relief can reach them. Even though the State recently announced a Rs 10,000-crore loan relief package, ground reports reveal a stark gap; many farmers havent received compensation, crop insurance or financial help, forcing them to depend on moneylenders and pushing them into despair.
Gaikwad guides India A to win over South Africa A
Rajkot, Nov 13: Ruturaj Gaikwad made a fine 117 off 129 balls as India A comfortably chased down 286 to register a four-wicket win against South Africa A in the first unofficial ODI here on Thursday. Out of the Indian team from both ODI and T20 format, Gaikwad anchored the run chase with his solid []
Four farmers die by suicide in past 15 days as unseasonal rains ruin crops in Saurashtra
AHMEDABAD: Four farmers from Gujarat have died by suicide in the past 15 days as unseasonal rains wiped out crops and left behind unrelenting debt. Though the Gujarat government had only recently announced a Rs 10,000 crore loan relief package for farmers, the consecutive suicides reveal that the scheme has not reached those in need. A 50-year-old farmer from Ardoi village in Kotdasangani taluka, Rajkot district consumed poison in his farm late Saturday night. Dilipbhai Virdiya was found dead by his family: My father was tense for 1520 days after the last rain. When we found him, it was too late, his son Utsav told local media. Dilipbhai had taken loans to sow cumin, groundnut, and onion crops across 28 bighas of land, including 12 bighas of family land. Everything went to waste. We lost around Rs 10 lakh, Utsav said. He borrowed money, bought seeds, and sowed everything with hope. But unseasonal rains crushed all hope, village sarpanch Narshi Gajera said. Last year, Dilipbhai had taken loans for his daughter's marriage. His inability to recover from these financial losses led to his suicide, Gajera confirmed. Barely 24 hours earlier, Danabhai Ramjibhai Jadav of Rahamiya village in Vinchiya taluka, Rajkot district ended his life by hanging himself at home. His family claims he had cultivated groundnut and tur across 14 bighas, but when unexpected monsoon patterns destroyed his crops, depression and debt overwhelmed him. Vinchia Police have taken possession of the body and initiated an investigation, but villagers said that this is another case of a life lost to unkept promises and unpredictable skies. Ghafar Musa Unad of Revad village in Una taluka, Gir Somnath district, jumped into a well on November 3, after tying an electric wire around his waist. He had sown groundnut on his nine-bigha land, but the unseasonal downpour turned the ready-to-harvest crop to waste. His family revealed he had borrowed Rs two lakh from a cooperative society and was under mounting pressure to marry off two daughters. He couldnt see a way out, a relative said. In Bhanvad taluka of Dwarka district, 37-year-old Karsanbhai Vavnotia also succumbed to similar anguish. His groundnut seeds, purchased after taking a gold loan, were destroyed in the rains. The dual blow of loss and liability proved unbearable. His family told local reporters that Karsanbhai had been 'mentally broken' since the rains and saw no escape from his financial misery. These back-to-back deaths paint a chilling picture of Gujarats agrarian distress: a state that feeds millions now watching its own farmers wilt under the burden of debt. Even as the Gujarat government claims its Rs 10,000-crore package will alleviate rural pain, the suicides reveal a gap between announcements and access. Ground reports suggest many farmers havent received compensation or insurance payouts, leaving them at the mercy of moneylenders. For families like the Virdiyas, Jadavs, and Unads, help came too late and hope, perhaps, not at all. If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Tele MANAS counsellors at:14416 (OR) 1800-89-14416
On Camera, Speeding BMW Runs Over Scooter In Gujarat, Rider Dies On Spot
A scooter rider was killed in a gruesome accident after being hit by a speeding BMW car in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Monday.
On Cam: 20-Year-Old Student Dragged, Killed As Speeding BMW Rams Scooter In Rajkot
The video shows the victim approaching from the opposite direction on a two-wheeler when a speeding BMW suddenly appears and crashes into him.
PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey
NEW DELHI, Nov 9 : Edtech unicorn PhysicsWallah, which remains bullish on the online medium of education, is also betting big on its offline expansion by opening new learning centres in cities where demand is high, its co-founder and CEO Alakh Pandey said. The company plans to set up centres in several new locations, including Muzaffarpur (Bihar), Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Akola and Latur (Maharashtra), Rajkot (Gujarat), Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), Bhatinda (Punjab), Jorhat (Assam), and Chennai (Tamil Nadu), according to the draft [] The post PhysicsWallah remains bullish on online edu; bets big on offline expansion: Co-founder Alakh Pandey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Passenger Slams IndiGo For 3-Hour Delay, Claims Pilot Was Late, Airline Responds
The passenger booked an IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Rajkot, which was delayed by over three hours as the captain was allegedly late.
Gujarat fruit seller recovers Rs 60,000 accidentally dumped in garbage
A Rajkot fruit seller, Altaf Kadri, has recovered Rs 60,000 cash. The money was accidentally thrown into a dustbin and then a garbage van. Municipal officials and van workers helped Kadri sift through the waste at a transfer station. The cash was found just before the garbage was compacted. Kadri expressed immense gratitude for the recovery.
50,000 Patient Videos Ended Up On Porn Sites Because Of Gujarat Hospital's Weak CCTV Password
The scandal surfaced when teaser clips from a Rajkot hospital appeared on YouTube, directing viewers to Telegram groups where the full videos were allegedly sold for Rs 700-4,000
Gujarat Congress alleges BJPs municipal empire mired in corruption, internal revolt
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Congress has launched a scathing attack on the BJP government, alleging massive corruption across municipalities in the state. From North Gujarat to Saurashtra, the Congress claims BJP-run local bodies are mired in scams, inflated tenders and internal revolts, with even BJP members writing complaints against their own leaders. Calling the situation pathetic and corrupt to the core, the Congress demanded immediate state action, saying the municipal system has become a den of loot while public services collapse. The storm of allegations against Gujarats BJP-ruled municipalities is intensifying and this time, the thunder comes not just from the Opposition, but from within the BJPs own ranks. Gujarat Congress, sharpening its political blades, has accused the ruling party of turning local governance into a bazaar of corruption across the state. Addressing the media, Congress spokesperson Dr Hiren Banker dropped a dossier of evidence, asserting that BJPs corruption is no longer an allegation its a confession. He claimed that BJPs own leaders are now penning letters against their party-run municipalities, exposing what he called a systematic loot of public money under saffron cover. The Congress highlighted how Amreli district has allegedly become a symbol of the rot. In Chalala Nagar Palika, the internal power struggle has boiled over 20 out of 24 members have filed a no-confidence motion against the BJP president and vice-president. Banker said the municipal board has failed to even convene basic meetings, holding only one budget meeting in seven months, leaving members excluded from administrative decisions and citizens deprived of development. According to Congress, the rot does not stop there. In Central Gujarats Lunawada Municipality, Congress revealed shocking details of a swimming pool project worth 40.69 lakh, allegedly cleared with manipulated payments. The complaint, ironically, has been lodged by 11 BJP members against their own president, Kirti Patel. Further, a glaring scam allegedly surfaced in streetlight procurement lights worth 300 were purchased for 2,978, turning public funds into private gains. From Saurashtras Upleta to Rajkot, the pattern allegedly repeats. Upleta Municipality, according to Congress, spent 20 lakh on tube lights, but each light costing 800 was billed at 1,900, reflecting what the party called a factory of fraud under BJP rule. Banker said, The BJP has not just normalised corruption; it has institutionalised it. The Congress further alleged that the situation in 67 municipalities across Saurashtra-Kutch has reached a breaking point. Municipal treasuries are reportedly empty, and several civic bodies are borrowing money at interest to pay pending electricity bills worth 395 crore. Banker mocked, The BJP talks of development, but its municipalities cant even keep the lights on. Taking a direct swipe at the ruling party, Hiren Banker thundered, The condition of Gujarats municipalities is pathetic the BJP has reduced them to dens of loot. These are not administrators; they are self-serving tyrants filling their pockets while citizens suffer. He demanded immediate and strict action against those involved, urging the state government to stop the bleeding of municipal treasuries before the crisis deepens.
VinFast Auto India , a subsidiary of global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has marked a major leap in its retail network expansion, with 24 dealerships now operational across major cities in India. This marks strong progress toward the companys commitment of establishing 35 dealerships nationwide by the end of CY 2025, as part of its mission to deliver premium electric mobility experiences to Indian consumers. Customers are now able to get up close to the newly launched premium electric SUVs - VF 6 and VF 7. (Right to left) Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India along with Mr. Santosh Dhone, Dealer Principal inaugurated VinFast Hadapsar & Baner, Pune The newly inaugurated showrooms spread across impact cities offering customers an unmatched brand experience. Each outlet adheres to VinFasts global retail standards, integrating modern design and car display area to ensure seamless and transparent customer engagement. These 24 showrooms are operational in cities including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Surat, Pune, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Nagpur, Agra, Ludhiana, Jaipur, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, Baroda, Rajkot reinforcing VinFasts growing presence across India. Speaking on the milestone, Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said Indias enthusiasm for sustainable mobility motivates us to keep raising the bar. The rapid rollout of brand experience Showrooms underscores VinFasts long-term commitment to the Indian market. We are working closely with our dealer partners to make VinFast products and services accessible to customers across the country. Our goal is not just to sell EVs, but to deliver an inspiring, customer-centric journey anchored in sustainability and innovation. With the recent launch of its premium electric SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, in India, VinFast is simultaneously building a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates retail, charging, and after-sales services to ensure customers enjoy the same level of confidence, convenience, and care that defines its vehicles. The company has formed strategic partnerships with RoadGrid, myTVS, Castrol India and Global Assure to create a reliable nationwide framework for charging and after-sales services. VinFasts state-of-the-art factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, stands as a cornerstone of its India growth strategy. Spanning 400 acres, in its first phase, the facility will assemble the VF 6 and VF 7 models with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable up to 150,000 units. Once fully operational, it will create 3,0003,500 direct jobs and several thousand more in the wider supply chain strengthening Tamil Nadus emergence as a leading EV manufacturing hub in South Asia. The company remains on track to operationalize all 35 dealerships by December 2025, establishing a strong nationwide network that provides widespread brand reach, reliable after-sales support, and a seamless ownership experience. About VinFast VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnams largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFasts product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. vinfastauto.in .
Gujarat Congress warns govt of 'Nepalwali' agitation if farmers demands ignored
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat Congress President Amit Chavda on Wednesday issued a two-month ultimatum to the Bhupendra Patel government, warning of a mass agitation and Nepalwali (As happened in Nepal) style revolt if farmers demands remain unfulfilled. Addressing a gathering at Rajkot, Chavda, joined by top Congress brass, launched a blistering attack on the BJP government, accusing it of corruption, arrogance, and indifference toward farmers pain. Amit Chavda tore into the BJP-led government over its alleged neglect of farmers. Speaking at the Krishak Andolan Kshetriya Mahapanchayat and Jan Akrosh Sabha, Chavda accused the state of turning its back on the very hands that feed Gujarat. In a gathering buzzing with farmers, activists, and senior Congress leaders including Mukul Wasnik, Shaktisinh Gohil, and Geniben Thakor, Chavda declared that if the government fails to address farmers grievances within two months, the Congress will mobilize villagers across Gujarat to surround the Assembly in Gandhinagar and launch a relentless agitation until justice is served. If the government does not work in the interest of farmers, we will surrender 100 percent of our seats but we will not surrender our fight! He warned the ruling dispensation that public anger is swelling, adding, If pushed further, we will do Nepalwali and this time, the throne will not survive. The Congress chief linked the rising farmer distress to the governments complete policy failure, citing unseasonal rain losses, lack of compensation, and poor insurance support under the Prime Ministers Fasal Bima Yojana. The party demanded fair prices for crops, immediate relief packages, and timely aid for affected farmers. Shifting his attack to the BJPs internal power politics, Chavda took sharp jabs at the recent cabinet reshuffle, alleging it was a smokescreen to hide corruption. The entire team was corrupt thats why they were removed, In a stinging swipe at government, Chavda alleged, In BJP, honest leaders linked with the land and people are sidelined. Those under whose liquor, gambling, and hooliganism rise they get promotions.
After cabinet overhaul, Gujarat BJP now plans major organizational reshuffle
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats political scene is changing again. After appointing a new BJP state president and reshuffling the state cabinet, the ruling party is now preparing for another big organizational change. The BJP plans to bring in new leaders to key posts and redraw its power structure from the state capital Gandhinagar to the district level a clear sign that the party is getting ready for the next big election. According to party sources, the next major step will be appointing new State General Secretaries one of the most powerful roles in the partys state unit. These appointments are expected within a week. Currently, the Gujarat BJP has four General Secretaries. Among them, Kutch MP Vinod Chavda is likely to keep his position, while the other three posts may go to new faces. The move aims to strengthen the partys organization and prepare for upcoming political challenges. Party insiders say this reshuffle is not just routine. It is part of a larger strategy to tighten control and improve coordination after the recent cabinet changes, in which ten ministers were dropped. The BJP wants to strengthen its structure at the district level to improve governance and maintain political balance. As part of this plan, new in-charge ministers will be appointed for 20 districts. The government now wants each minister to handle only one districtespecially those with important departmentsto improve focus and accountability. Earlier, many ministers managed two districts, which often reduced efficiency. Even Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi may see changes in his responsibilities. He currently oversees both Vadodara and Gandhinagar districts for the BJP, but he may now retain only Gandhinagar, reflecting the leaderships push for more focused roles. The 20 districts expected to get new in-charge ministers include Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Botad, Bharuch, Bhavnagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Dang, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Surendranagar, Junagadh, Patan, Narmada, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, and Valsad. Each new appointment will aim to balance political representation and improve administration, helping the BJP strengthen its control both at the grassroots and state levels. With these changes on the way, the Gujarat BJP is reshaping not just its cabinet but also its political strategy getting ready for the road ahead.
GROUP B Rajkot, Oct 18: Karnatakas reluctance for an early declaration robbed them of the time to bowl out Saurashtra in their second innings as the Ranji Trophy Elite B match ended in a draw on the fourth and final day here on Saturday. Saurashtra were 128 for five in their second innings on an []
Air India announces 174 weekly flights as part of Northern Winter Schedule
NEW DELHI: Air India has announced the addition of 174 weekly flights on key domestic and short-haul international routes, operated by its single-aisle aircraft, as part of the Northern Winter Schedule.The domestic additions are effective from October 26. This expansion enhances connectivity to major cities in India and Southeast Asia which are in high demand. An official release listed additions to these international routes:Delhi-Kuala Lumpur:Increasing from seven to 10 weekly flights (from November 15) andDelhi-Denpasar (Bali):Increasing from seven to 10 weekly flights (from December 1). These are the additions to domestic routes, all of which are effective from October 26: Flights to Rajasthan: Delhi-Jaipur (new route):three daily flights;Delhi-Jaisalmer (new route):two daily flights;Delhi-Udaipur:Increasing from two to three daily flights;Mumbai-Jaipur:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Mumbai-Udaipur:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Mumbai-Jodhpur:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Flights toMadhya Pradesh: Delhi-Indore:Increasing from three to four daily flights;Delhi-Bhopal:Increasing from two to three daily flights; andMumbai-Indore:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Flights to Gujarat:Mumbai-Bhuj:Increasing from one to two daily flights andDelhi to Rajkot:Increasing from one to two daily flights. Other frequency additions, effective from the same date: Delhi-Varanasi:Increasing from two to threedaily flights;Delhi-Raipur:Increasing from two to three daily flights;Delhi-Port Blair:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Aurangabad:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Guwahati:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Delhi-Nagpur:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Mumbai-Dehradun:Increasing from one to two daily flights;Mumbai-Patna:Increasing from one to two daily flights andMumbai-Amritsar:Increasing from one to two daily flights.
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.
Gujarat BJP to elect new state president on October 4
AHMEDABAD: After months of speculation and a year-long delay, the Gujarat BJP is finally set to elect its new state president. With the form-filling process beginning on 3 October and voting scheduled for 4 October, the suspense over caste and regional equations has intensified. Sources say the next president is likely to be an OBC leader, balancing against the Patidar chief minister and shaping the partys strategy ahead of local polls in December and the 2027 Assembly elections. The one-year-long uncertainty over the Gujarat BJPs state president has finally reached a decisive point. After prolonged deliberations, the party has officially announced the election schedule, ending months of speculation and backroom manoeuvring. According to the programme, forms will be filled on 3 October between 11 am and 2 pm, followed by verification from 3 pm to 4 pm. Candidates will have the option to withdraw between 5 pm and 5:30 pm. The next morning, voting will be conducted from 10 to 11 am on 4 October, with the counting and announcement of results by 11:30 am. This election holds unusual significance because of the caste and regional balancing act the BJP leadership has been struggling with for nine months. While Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel hails from the Patidar community and represents Ghatlodia in central Gujarat, outgoing state president C.R. Patil represents South Gujarat. That makes it almost certain, insiders say, that the new president will be chosen from the OBC community, most likely from Saurashtra or North Gujarat. The importance of this exercise is not merely symbolic. With local body elections scheduled in December and the 2027 Assembly polls on the horizon, the new state president will carry the responsibility of ensuring a united front while managing the factional pulls of leaders like Amit Shah, Anandiben Patel, and C.R. Patil, each of whom commands significant influence within Gujarat BJP. Meanwhile, the political buzz at Kamalam, the party headquarters in Gandhinagar, has reached fever pitch. Preparations are underway, with a pavilion being built, as leaders and workers keenly debate caste equations and ideological leanings. Since the chief minister is a Patidar, the consensus is that the presidents chair is reserved for an OBC leader, a move aimed at electoral arithmetic and broader social outreach. Adding to the intrigue is the role of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Traditionally watchful, the RSS has been unusually assertive this time. At the 25 August Kamalam meeting held to plan Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday Seva Pakhwada, RSS Gujarat Prant Karyavah Shailesh Patel was seen alongside BJP MLAs, MPs, and office-bearers, the first such joint appearance in years. Sources suggest that the Sangh is keen on a president with a clear ideological grounding, further complicating the already delicate selection process. The political shadow of Anandiben Patel, now Governor of Uttar Pradesh, also looms large. Her recent Gujarat visit, including a stop at Khodaldham in Kagwad, Rajkot, is being read as significant. Sources claim she met several state leaders and may have conveyed the ground mood to the national leadership, shaping the final choice of president. For the BJP, the stakes could not be higher. The party knows that in Gujarat, where caste and regional identity can tilt the political balance, the choice of the next state president will decide not just the December civic polls but also lay the foundation for the 2027 Assembly battle.
From teacher to trickster: Gujarat police nab car scam kingpin in Mumbai
AHMEDABAD: A fraudster who rocked Gujarats online car market with a Rs 73 lakh fraud has finally landed in police net. Junagadh police nabbed the fraudster from Dahisar, Mumbai, after a high-tech chase across states. For three years, he duped car buyers and sellers on apps like OLX and CAR-24, trapping victims in 31 cases across 11 districts of Gujarat. The accused, Piyush Maheshbhai Patel (39), a resident of Visnagar, Mehsana, Gujarat was caught from Dahisar, Mumbai, after an intensive three-day surveillance operation. The story broke from Junagadh, where on September 25, 2025, a resident filed a complaint at the A-Division Police Station. The fraudster, posing as Dhaval Patel from CAR-24, trapped a local doctor by offering an inflated price for his Swift and luring him with a Brezza in return. Once the deal was set for just Rs 2.25 lakh through Angadiya payment, the scammer switched off his phone and vanished. The victims complaint led SP Subodh Odedara to order immediate action. PI and his team tracked the fraudsters digital trail, discovering he was operating from Mumbai. Using local intelligence, officers lay in wait inside a Mumbai salon for three days before finally nabbing the accused in Dahisar. Police interrogation peeled back Patels web of deceit. A former schoolteacher and car showroom worker, debt drove him into crime. His modus operandi was chillingly systematic: he would scan car-sale ads on OLX, pose as a CAR-24 agent, and bait owners with high offers. At the same time, he would tempt dealers in nearby cities with quick-sale cars at throwaway prices. Once both sides were convinced, Patel collected payments through Angadiya, then switched off his mobile and re-emerged with a new number and a new name. Patels aliases ranged from Dhawal, Arpit, Hardik, Sanjay, Rajendra Panchal, Jaimin, Hemala carousel of fake identities that helped him cheat buyers and sellers of 42 cars in three years. The confession is staggering: 31 cases registered in 11 districts, including Ahmedabad (6 cases), Gandhinagar, Bharuch, Botad, Banaskantha, Rajkot, and Kutch, with a total fraud of Rs 73.30 lakh. Earlier, he had already duped victims of nearly Rs 1 crore. From Patels possession, police seized a Samsung Galaxy A-35, 13 SIM cards, 3 blank HDFC cheques, and fraud-linked materials. His record reveals he turned Gujarats car market into his hunting ground, repeatedly exploiting digital platforms with surgical precision. The police have now tightened the investigation to identify possible accomplices and recover the looted money.
Gujarat monsoon forecast: Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch experience active monsoon conditions. Extremely heavy rain occurred in isolated areas. A low-pressure area influences weather patterns. It may intensify into a depression. The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain for the next seven days across the region. Heavy showers are expected in South Gujarat and Saurashtra.
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.
Two more held in Gujarat's Rs 194 crore turmeric farm scam, total arrests rise to 12
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Rajkot witnessed one of the biggest-ever financial scams where traders were lured in with hopes of a high-return turmeric farming, only to be duped of Rs 64.80 crore. The traders were duped by Maharashtra-based A.S. Agri & Aqua LLP, which later defaulted on a total payment of Rs 194 crore as per the agreement. Two key engineers-turned-marketing-executives, who played a pivotal role in the racket, were arrested by the Crime Branch in Maharashtra, taking the total arrests to 12. The duo has been remanded till September 30. However, seven accused, including the mastermind and the companys 55 per cent owner, Prashant Jade, still remain absconding. The arrested have been identified as Kamlesh Mahadevrao Ozhe and Avinash Baban Sangle, from Maharashtras Kalwar and Narpoli areas. Both are engineers-turned-marketing executives and 2.5 per cent partners in the company. Investigations revealed that Rs 62 lakh was funneled into Kamleshs account and Rs 92 lakh into Avinashs account directly from the companys funds. Initially investors themselves, the duo later joined the company as partners in 2021, aggressively marketing the scheme to other investors. They collected sensitive data, built investor networks, and convinced traders with slick presentations and YouTube videos showcasing successful turmeric farms. The complaint, filed by Rajkot businessman Prashantbhai Pradeepbhai Kanabar, details how the scam took place. In 2021, Kanabar invested Rs 64.80 crore after being promised Rs 1.20 crore returns per acre every year for six years. He leased 108 acres of land across Gujarat for the project. The agreement stated that the company would build polyhouses, manage cultivation, and handle sales. However, after receiving the funds, the company did none of what was promised. When payment became due in January 2023, the company only gave written assurances, promising to return Rs 58.32 crore after administrative deductions. Suspicious of delays, Kanabar personally met company chairman Ivan Albert D'Cruz in Mumbai, who again verbally assured repayment, however, no money was returned. The scam deepened further as investigators uncovered frauds in Vadodara, Amreli, Thane, and Pune, suggesting a multi-state network. Rs 194 crore, due between 2023 and 2025, remains unpaid. The Crime Branch, led by PI Manoj Damor, has formed multiple teams to trace the remaining absconding accused. It is reported that Prashant Jade had hired over 100 marketing agents and made use of a massive promotional campaign to lure unsuspecting investors. Police are now tracking the flow of money through the accounts of several Maharashtra-based individuals to expose the full scale of the operation.
Rajkot: A 20-Year-Old Man Was Stabbed To Death In A Fit Of Rage. Reason? A Laughing Emoji
The man posted about his grandfathers demise on Facebook. His friend reacted to it with a laughing emoji. This led to an ugly fight, in which Bipin allegedly stabbed Prince
Laughing Emoji On Grandfather's Death Post, Then A 20-Year-Old's Murder
A 20-year-old was stabbed to death during a physical altercation over a Facebook post in Gujarat's Rajkot. The victim, identified as Prince, was admitted to the hospital, where his condition deteriorated.
AHMEDABAD: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched various cooperative initiatives on his whirlwind Navratri tour in Gujarat and asserted that PM Modi has provided GST reduction for farmers as a 'Navratri gift'. Urging farmers to embrace organic farming, Shah emphasised boosting Indias global share in organic produce while also strengthening the cooperative movement rooted in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patels legacy. Starting his day in Surat, Shah laid the foundation stone for a grand ISKCON temple, a symbolic gesture marking the Navratri's spiritual significance. From Surat, Shah flew to Rajkot, where the focus shifted sharply to the rural economy and the cooperative sector. He unveiled statues of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and former cooperative leader Vitthalbhai Radadiya as a tribute to Gujarats historic cooperative movement. The event, attended by leaders of seven cooperative institutions also witnessed Jayesh Radadiya announce an increase in farmers accident insurance cover to Rs 15 lakh, a move aimed at providing direct relief to rural families. Linking past legacies to future reforms, Shah remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given farmers a Navratri gift and a Diwali gift rolled into one as a 'GST reduction' that will directly benefit crores of farmers across the nation. He highlighted that Indias cooperative structure had been doubled in three years and consistently expanded 12 per cent annually, ensuring that farmers, fishermen, and animal husbandry workers earn more revenue. Shah urged farmers to switch to organic farming, pushing for a global organic market share led by India. Reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. Lets improve the nations health while also opening a massive global market for Indias organic products, he appealed to farmers in Saurashtra. He also praised the establishment of Bharat Organic, a cooperative that returns profits directly to farmers. Celebrating the Rajkot District Bank, which has bagged multiple awards, Shah credited its success to cooperative leaders and farmers. The tradition of Vallabhbhai and Vitthalbhai lives on today through the efforts of Jayeshbhai Radadiya, he said, asserting that the cooperative movement is the backbone of Gujarats agrarian economy. Shahs visit positioned the cooperative sector and organic farming at the heart of Gujarats rural growth strategy, a mix of Modis reforms and Patels legacy, stitched together with political finesse.
Political row erupts in Gujarat as BJP refuses to bear former CM Rupani's funeral expenses
AHMEDABAD: A political storm has erupted in Gujarat after revelations that the BJP has refused to bear the expenses of the late former Chief Minister Vijay Rupanis grand funeral, leaving his family shocked to settle bills of nearly Rs 25 lakh. State BJP President and Union Minister CR Patil dodged direct questions on the controversy during his visit to Rajkot, igniting speculation of deep internal rifts within the partys Saurashtra faction. Rajkot was simmering with political tension on Sunday when State BJP President and Union Water Resources Minister CR Patil refused to answer questions about the partys refusal to pay for former Chief Minister Vijay Rupanis funeral expenses, estimated at a staggering Rs 25 lakh. The controversy came to light three months after Rupanis grand funeral procession, held on June 16, 2025, in Rajkot, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and several top BJP leaders had walked alongside thousands of party workers and citizens to bid farewell to the late leader. Gujarat bids farewell to former CM Vijay Rupani; Rajkot shuts down in mourning But behind the ceremonial grandeur, a shocking twist was brewing: the bills for flowers, tents, and other arrangements were quietly passed on to Rupanis grieving family, instead of being covered by the BJP. According to sources, by July, family members discovered the truth when traders who supplied the funeral materials turned up at their doorstep, demanding payment. Forced into an awkward position, Rupanis family has since begun clearing the debts, even as murmurs of betrayal spread through the party ranks. This explosive issue erupted publicly on Sunday when Patil arrived in Rajkot to attend a Namotsav program at the Racecourse ground. Earlier, he held closed-door meetings with MLAs and organisational leaders at the Circuit House. When reporters cornered him outside the event, Patils reaction was 'telling'. Asked about the India-Pakistan cricket match, he simply ignored the query and kept walking. But when confronted about the Rupani funeral expense controversy, Patil deliberately sidestepped the issue, remarking vaguely, This is a Namotsav matter, I will definitely answer later, briskly moving away. According to BJP insiders, the decision to deny payment was driven by two powerful Saurashtra leaders, indicating a power struggle simmering beneath the surface. While some party veterans claim Patils silence reflects the sensitivity of the issue, others believe it signals a looming political shake-up in Gujarat. The controversy has now engulfed Rajkot and the wider Saurashtra region, with grassroots workers openly expressing discomfort. The sight of Rupanis family, already mourning their loss, now burdened with financial strain, has sparked outrage among loyalists and laid bare fault lines in the Gujarat BJPs leadership. What began as a solemn farewell to a former Chief Minister has spiraled into a political flashpoint, threatening to tarnish the partys image ahead of crucial elections. CR Patils continued silence only intensify the questions and the crisis.
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government admitted in the Assembly on Wednesday that 307 Asiatic lions, have died in just two years, despite spending Rs 37.35 crore to prevent unnatural deaths. The disclosure raises serious questions about conservation strategies, as the lion population now stands at 891, spread across seven districts. The deaths, driven by disease, internal fights, and accidents, reveal a grim battle for survival inside the Gir ecosystem and surrounding areas. Gujarat is the only home to Asiatic lions in the world, but behind the celebratory headlines of a rising lion population, a silent tragedy is unfolding. The 16th Asiatic Lion Census, conducted on May 13, 2025, counted 891 lions spread across seven districts, with the highest concentration in Amreli (339), followed by Gir-Somnath (222), Junagadh (191), Bhavnagar (116), Porbandar (16), Rajkot (6), and Devbhoomi Dwarka (1). These numbers, while impressive on paper, mask a disturbing reality: 307 lions have died in the last two years, revealing cracks in Gujarats much-touted conservation model. According to Government Data, between August 2023 and July 2024, the state lost 141 lions, a toll already alarming for a critically endangered species. Yet, instead of improving, the situation worsened. From August 2024 to July 2025, the death count spiked to 166, pushing the two-year total to a staggering 307 lions lost, a figure that threatens to undo decades of conservation efforts. While most deaths were classified as natural, many were preventable, exposing failures in disease control, veterinary care, and basic habitat safety. The year 2023-24 set the stage for this unfolding crisis, with disease emerging as the single largest killer, claiming 60 lives. Shrinking habitats forced lions into closer contact, leading to 38 deaths from violent territorial fights, while another 24 perished from old age. Human-linked threats also played a deadly role; seven lions fell into open wells, five were struck by trains, three drowned, and one each died in a road accident and by electrocution. By the end of that year, the total death toll stood at 141, painting a bleak picture of a fragile ecosystem under pressure. But the following year, 2024-25, the situation turned even grimmer. Illness-related deaths surged to 81, a 35% jump, highlighting growing gaps in disease monitoring and treatment. Internal fights remained a serious problem, killing 36 lions, while 27 succumbed to old age. Open wells turned deadlier, with 13 lions plunging to their deaths, while six drowned, two died from electric shocks, and one was hit by a vehicle. The result was 166 deaths in a single year, the highest in recent memory and a wake-up call for the states conservation machinery. The crisis is most visible in Amreli district, which, despite housing the largest lion population, has also become a graveyard for the species. Between January and July 2025 alone, 31 lions including 14 cubs and 17 lions, died, most of them from illnesses that could have been treated with timely intervention. Multiple organ failure claimed five cubs and six lions, while pneumonia, anaemia, and anoxia took five more lives. Pneumonia and septicemia together killed four lions, while respiratory, liver, and kidney failures accounted for six additional deaths, including two cubs. A fatal spinal cord injury ended the life of one cub, and a parasitic disease, anaplasmosis, claimed another four lives. These patterns reveal systemic weaknesses in veterinary care and health monitoring, with infections and preventable diseases spreading unchecked. Even as deaths mounted, the Gujarat government insists it has been pouring resources into conservation. Over the past two years, it spent Rs 20.35 crore in 2023-24 and another Rs 17 crore in 2024-25, totalling Rs 37.35 crore. However, the rising death toll tells a different story. Despite massive financial outlays, lions continue to die from basic, preventable causes such as open well accidents, poor disease management, and lack of emergency infrastructure, raising serious questions about accountability and effectiveness. This crisis matters not just for Gujarat but for the entire world. Asiatic lions are critically endangered, and Gujarat is their only natural habitat on Earth. While the census figures may create an illusion of stability, the sharp rise in deaths suggests a dangerous tipping point. If disease control, veterinary systems, and habitat safety measures are not urgently overhauled, Gujarats celebrated success story could collapse into a silent tragedy.
Gujarat scam complaints pile up, just Rs 7.5 crore recovered out of Rs 402 crore
AHMEDABAD: On Day 1 of the Gujarat Assembly session, Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani grilled the state government on scam complaints under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act-2003. The Home Department revealed 81 complaints were filed in the past two years, with a staggering Rs 402.21 crore trapped. To recover the money, the state seized and auctioned properties of two companies, but only Rs 7.53 crore has been returned to duped investors so far leaving a massive gap still unresolved. The monsoon session of the Gujarat Assembly opened with a storm on Monday, as Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani dropped the bombshell on the state government. On Day 1, Mevani asked the Home Department about the fraudulent Ponzi schemes and scam companies that duped thousands of investors across Gujarat. In his query, Mevani demanded details on how many complaints were filed under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act, 2003, how much public money is stuck, and how much has actually been recovered. The governments reply shocked the House as 81 complaints were lodged in the past two years, trapping a staggering Rs 402.21 crore of investors' money. Despite this massive figure, action was taken against only two companies, with seized assets auctioned off. The recovery? A meagre Rs 7.53 crore returned to investors. This revelation comes against the backdrop of two mega scams that rocked Gujarat in the last two years. In 2024, Bhupendrasinh Zala, CEO of BZ Group, allegedly pulled off a Rs 6,000-crore Ponzi scam by luring over 14,000 investors with promises of double returns in three years and lucrative monthly payouts. Gandhinagar CID Crime teams raided multiple locations across Sabarkantha, Vadodara, Gandhinagar, and Rajasthan, uncovering transactions worth Rs 175 crore linked to the group. BZ Financial Services, at the scam's core, was found to be completely unauthorised. As the BZ scandal was still unfolding, 2025 brought another crypto-fueled scam, this time in Rajkot. A company named Blockora duped 8,000 investors, including 40 from Rajkot alone, siphoning off Rs 300 crore. The scheme promised daily returns of Rs 4,000 on an initial investment of Rs 4.25 lakh. Investors were pushed to buy a fake cryptocurrency called TABC, only for the companys founders and partners to vanish overnight.
