185 displaced persons granted Indian citizenship under CAA in Gujarat

Beneficiaries from Pakistan receive citizenship certificates in Rajkot after years of waiting; Gujarat Minister calls it restoration of dignity and rights

Gujarat government grants citizenship to 185 Pakistani refugees, CAA push intensifies

AHMEDABAD: In a sharp push under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 185 Pakistan-displaced individuals were granted Indian citizenship in Gujarat on July 25. At a Rajkot event, MoS Harsh Sanghvi handed over certificates to refugees settled in Kutch, Morbi, and Rajkot, assuring them full government support and access to welfare schemes. In a deeply emotional ceremony held in Rajkot, Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi declared that 'a new life has begun' for 185 displaced persons from Pakistan as they were officially granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Only two granted citizenship via CAA in Assam The crowd erupted in chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai as Sanghvi said, Keep smiling... from now on, you are citizens of India. Linking their plight to the religious persecution in Pakistan, Sanghvi did not mince words. He said, When you hear the stories of these people -- Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists -- you cannot hold back tears. A few lost their husbands, others lost their homes to flames. And yet they endured. I salute their strength. He contrasted Indias pluralism with Pakistans oppression, saying, India is a land where every religion is respected. If the world truly wants to witness human rights in action, they must look at India, especially Gujarat. He also raised a sharp question: Why is there no global outrage over the atrocities on minority Hindus in Pakistan? Amid emotional moments, newly naturalised citizens shared their stories of pain, resilience, and pride. Bhavanaben Maheshwari, originally from Pakistan and now living in Rajkot, said, I faced a lot of hardships there. But today, after years of struggle, I proudly call myself an Indian. Another recipient, Champa Khambhala from Morbi, echoed the sentiment: Life in India is far better than in Pakistan, where Hindus cant even celebrate festivals freely. With her voice trembling, she added, Many of my family members are still stuck in Pakistan. I hope they, too, get the chance to unite with us in India someday. The ceremony wasnt just about documents it marked a loud and clear message about Indias stance on human dignity, national belonging, and justice for persecuted minorities. Citizenship to 60-yr-old under CAA, 1st in Bihar

From suffering to citizenship: Gujarat government grants citizenship to 185 Pakistani refugees

AHMEDABAD: In a sharp push under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 185 Pakistan-displaced individuals were granted Indian citizenship in Gujarat on July 25. At a Rajkot event, MoS Harsh Sanghvi handed over certificates to refugees settled in Kutch, Morbi, and Rajkot, assuring them full government support and access to welfare schemes. In a deeply emotional ceremony held in Rajkot, Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi declared that 'a new life has begun' for 185 displaced persons from Pakistan as they were officially granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Only two granted citizenship via CAA in Assam The crowd erupted in chants of Bharat Mata Ki Jai as Sanghvi said, Keep smiling... from now on, you are citizens of India. Linking their plight to the religious persecution in Pakistan, Sanghvi did not mince words. He said, When you hear the stories of these people -- Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists -- you cannot hold back tears. A few lost their husbands, others lost their homes to flames. And yet they endured. I salute their strength. He contrasted Indias pluralism with Pakistans oppression, saying, India is a land where every religion is respected. If the world truly wants to witness human rights in action, they must look at India, especially Gujarat. He also raised a sharp question: Why is there no global outrage over the atrocities on minority Hindus in Pakistan? Amid emotional moments, newly naturalised citizens shared their stories of pain, resilience, and pride. Bhavanaben Maheshwari, originally from Pakistan and now living in Rajkot, said, I faced a lot of hardships there. But today, after years of struggle, I proudly call myself an Indian. Another recipient, Champa Khambhala from Morbi, echoed the sentiment: Life in India is far better than in Pakistan, where Hindus cant even celebrate festivals freely. With her voice trembling, she added, Many of my family members are still stuck in Pakistan. I hope they, too, get the chance to unite with us in India someday. The ceremony wasnt just about documents it marked a loud and clear message about Indias stance on human dignity, national belonging, and justice for persecuted minorities. Citizenship to 60-yr-old under CAA, 1st in Bihar

Teachers allegedly ordered to serve VVIP food at Gujarat temple fair, circular withdrawn after outrage

AHMEDABAD: Food for VVIPs, not students? A move by Gujarats Rajkot district, Jasdans administration allegedly sparked outrage on Thursday, as 48 schoolteachers were ordered to serve food at a temple fair instead of teaching students, this in a state already grappling with a massive teacher shortage. Under fire, the controversial order was swiftly scrapped, but not before exposing the deep cracks in Gujarats education priorities. In a decision that stunned Gujarats education community, 48 schoolteachers from Jasdan taluka were allegedly ordered to serve food to VVIPs during the upcoming Shravan month festival at the Ghela Somnath temple in Rajkot district. The order, issued by the Deputy Collector of Jasdan, quickly triggered political and public uproar and was ultimately revoked. The circular, directed at primary teachers from over 10 local schools, assigned them to manage food arrangements during the religious fair. This controversial duty raised a flurry of questions, especially as Gujarat is already battling an alarming shortage of 12,500 teachers and 700 principals across the state. Teachers, already burdened with roles beyond classrooms such as handling census duties, election work, and even bizarre tasks like chasing locusts or counting toilets, were now allegedly being pushed into hospitality roles. The move drew sharp criticism from educators and politicians alike, who warned that such diversions were corroding the states education system. Following the backlash, Jasdan's provincial officer withdrew the circular, stating that teachers may still choose to volunteer at the temple fair but not under compulsion. Education Minister Kuber Dindor admitted the error, clarifying that the Education Department had instructed local authorities to scrap the directive. He maintained that teachers should only be assigned essential national duties like elections or voter list revisionsnot temple hospitality. Minister of State for Education Praful Panseria called the circular completely inappropriate, stressing that educators must focus on shaping students futures, not serving dignitaries. He assured that any future non-academic responsibilities assigned to teachers would require clearance from the Principal Secretary of the Education Department to prevent further dilution of their core duty. Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi lashed out at the government, calling it a repeated insult to educators. He pointed out how teachers in Gujarat have been roped into more than 30 non-teaching roles over the years, from crowd mobilisation for political events to pest control, adding that such misuse was pushing education into continuous degradation. Statistical data only amplified the alarm. Gujarat reportedly has 4,600 secondary (Std. 910) and 3,800 higher secondary schools. Yet, since the government took over teacher recruitment in 2011, no major improvement has followed, leaving classrooms short of 7,000 secondary and 5,500 higher secondary teachers, along with 700 principals. While the circular has been officially withdrawn, the controversy has reignited the larger debate around how teachers are routinely pulled away from their primary role, teaching, at the cost of the students they are meant to educate.

Gilbert Jessops 123-Year-Old Record Under Threat from Jamie Smith

This England-India series has witnessed the phenomenal rise of Jamie Smith as a batsman. His performances have sparked discussions about playing him purely as a specialist batter and relieving him of wicketkeeping duties so he can focus entirely on his batting. His scores in the series so far 40, 44*, 184*, 88, and 51 are the kind any top-order batter would be proud of. On Day Three of the second Test at Edgbaston, Smith was at his best. The 24-year-old smashed an unbeaten 184 the highest score by an England wicketkeeper in Test history. So dominant was his innings that he even took 23 runs off a single over bowled by Prasidh Krishna. He reached his century in just 80 balls, continuing the legacy of England's fastest centurion, Gilbert Jessop. At one stage during the knock, it even seemed like Smith might finally eclipse Jessops long-standing record. Jessops legendary effort came in the 1902 Oval Test against Australia, where, with England at 48/5, he blazed 104 out of 139 in just 75 minutes. The widely accepted record for that innings is a century off 76 balls a benchmark that has stood unchallenged for over 120 years, despite the modern era of T20s and Bazball. Among wicketkeepers, only Australia's Adam Gilchrist is ahead of Smith when it comes to the speed of a Test hundred. Smiths 100 off 80 balls is now the fastest by an Englishman against India in Tests, surpassing Ben Ducketts 88-ball century at Rajkot in February 2024. Fastest Test Hundreds by England Cricketers 76 balls Gilbert Jessop vs Australia, The Oval, 1902 74 balls Jonny Bairstow vs New Zealand, Trent Bridge, 2022 77 balls Harry Brook vs Pakistan, Rawalpindi, 2022 80 balls Ben Stokes vs New Zealand, Lords, 2015 80 balls Jamie Smith vs India, Edgbaston, 2025 Smith may not have broken Jessops record just yet, but the reality is that Jessops record may not be as rigid as it seems. InChasing Jessop, a book by Simon Wilde, the century-long record is critically re-examined. According to Wildes research, Jessop may have been even faster than previously believed a revelation that makes it even harder for modern batters to better it. While no one is deliberately chasing Jessops record, his name inevitably comes up whenever an English batter starts scoring rapidly in a Test. Since that fateful Oval Test in 1902, England have played over 1,000 Tests, yet the record endures despite the best efforts of Bairstow, Brook, and now Smith. Meanwhile, globally, the record for the fastest Test hundred in terms of balls faced belongs to Brendon McCullum, who reached his ton in just 54 balls for New Zealand in 2016. According to historical records, Jessop's century came from 76 balls. But Wilde's research an audit of the match scorecard and analysis from contemporary newspapers suggests otherwise. At the time, the number of balls faced wasnt officially recorded. A day after the match, a reporters ball-by-ball account detailed Jessops innings, forming the basis of the current 76-ball claim. However, Wilde discovered another analysis inThe Morning Leader, which indicated Jessop reached his hundred in just 71 balls. Further investigations across multiple newspapers helped him reconstruct the innings, concluding that the actual number of balls faced could have been between 72 and 74 possibly even faster than whats been acknowledged for over a century. Jessop may eventually lose his statistical record, but he will always be remembered as one of the most remarkable hitters cricket has seen. Among his 53 centuries, five exceeded 200 runs each achieved in astonishingly short timeframes: 286 out of 335in 175 minutes for Gloucestershire vs Sussex, Brighton, 1903 240 out of 337in 200 minutes for Gloucestershire vs Sussex, Bristol, 1907 234 out of 346in 155 minutes for Gloucestershire vs Somerset, Bristol, 1905 233 out of 318in 150 minutes for England XI vs Yorkshire, Lords, 1901 206 out of 317in 150 minutes for Gloucestershire vs Nottinghamshire, Trent Bridge, 1904 Jessop played 18 Tests between 1899 and 1909. Upon his passing in 1955, the legendary Sir Jack Hobbs paid tribute, saying: Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score He was undoubtedly the most consistently fast scorer I have seen. He was a big hitter, too, and it was difficult to bowl a ball from which he could not score. He made me glad that I was not a bowler. Gilbert Jessop certainly drew the crowds, even more than Bradman, I should say.

Mehsana, Rajkot dairy heads elected GCMMF chairman, vice-chairman

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Gujarats crumbling bridges: How many more deaths will it take?

AHMEDABAD: Yet another bridge collapse in Gujarat has jolted the state, exposing deep-rooted negligence and crumbling infrastructure. The 40 year-old Gambhira Bridge in Vadodara district fell apart early Wednesday, dragging multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar River. While the government rushes to give reassurances, a haunting question persistshow many tragedies will it take before accountability replaces apathy? Gambhira Bridge Collapse: 9 Dead, 9 Rescued The Gambhira Bridge, connecting Central Gujarat to Saurashtra via Padra taluka in Vadodara district, collapsed early Wednesday morning in Mujpur Nazir. The bridge, known to be in a dilapidated condition for years, finally gave way dragging down two trucks, a pickup van, an auto-rickshaw, and an Eco car into the swollen Mahisagar River. Rescue teams pulled out nine bodies, while nine others were rescued alive. The bridge had shown warning signs of structural decay, yet no action was taken to shut it down or carry out urgent repairs. Public Fury Grows: Who Will Be Held Responsible? The tragedy has sparked public outrage. Citizens are questioning why the bridge was not closed despite its poor condition. Why are officials always reactive instead of proactive? Time and again, bridges across Gujarat have collapsed, and yet, the cycle of negligence, empty promises, and lack of accountability continues. Assurances after each disaster have failed to turn into meaningful reforms or penalties for those responsible. Gujarats Shameful Bridge Collapse Timeline Hatkeshwar Bridge, Ahmedabad : Built to Last 100 Years, Failed in 5. Constructed in 2017 at a cost of Rs 40 crore, the Hatkeshwar Bridge was deemed structurally unsound in under four years. Shockingly, AMC floated a tender to demolish a bridge that was supposed to last a century. Mumtapura Bridge, Ahmedabad : On December 21, 2021, a section of the Mumtapura Bridge caved in, raising serious questions about the project company. Thankfully, the collapse didnt claim lives, but it intensified the fear surrounding Gujarat's infrastructure. Halvad Bridge, Morbi New But Unreliable: A bridge connecting New Koiba to Old Koiba collapsed on August 26, 2024just a year after it was built. Heavy rains washed away the structure, exposing poor construction quality. Morbi Suspension Bridge : Gujarats Darkest Day. On October 30, 2022, a British-era suspension bridge over the Machhu River collapsed, killing 141 people. The bridge had reopened just four days prior after repairs. It was designed for 125 people but had over 500 on it. Metro Flyover, Surat : Cracked Before Inauguration A section of the metro flyover in Saroli, Surat, Cracked even before being inaugurated. Cracks in the slab were ignored until it was too late. The bridge gave way during metro construction work. Ambedkar Bridge, Mehsana : Repeated Pleas Ignored Despite repeated requests for repair, the Ambedkar Bridge connecting Mehsana-Visnagar ring roads One part sunk on February 14 2024. Built in 2014, it had structural issues that were never addressed. Habiasar Bridge, Chotila : Heavy Rains Take It Down A bridge near Habiasar village in Surendranagar district collapsed during heavy rain. It connected over five villages. Luckily, the road was closed to traffic at the time. Under-Construction Flyover, Palanpur : Girder Collapse Kills One On October 23, 2023, two girders of an under-construction overbridge near the Palanpur RTO Circle broke. A rickshaw driver lost his life, and two others were injured. Bamangam-Parij Bridge, Kheda : Old Warnings, Zero Action The bridge connecting Baman and Parij collapsed on October 4, 2023. Villagers had raised alarms about its condition long ago. No one was on the bridge at the time, narrowly avoiding tragedy. Dhandhusar Bridge, Junagadh : 1975 Construction Falls Apart A part of the 45-year-old Dhandhusar bridge over the Uben River collapsed in 2023. Local connectivity took a major hit, forcing people into long detours and hardship. Rajkots Madhapar Chowk Pier Collapse Workers Injured On January 25, 2022, a pier under construction at Madhapar Chowk caved in, injuring two workers. The incident happened during concrete capping work. Janada Bridge, Botad Built in Lakhs, Collapsed in Three Years In Botads Janada village, a bridge over the Patlia River collapsed during monsoon 2023. Built just three years ago, it couldnt withstand seasonal rains. Khari River Bridge, Mehsana Bypass One part sunk in 2020 A bridge constructed over the Khari River on the Mehsana Bypass, built at a cost of crores, crumbled in just six years. The 2020 sunk was one of the early warnings of the ongoing infrastructure crisis. Other Notable Incidents : Singhrot, Vadodara (2023) Another bridge collapse with public uproar. Nandelav Bridge, Bharuch (June 2022) Under-construction bridge collapsed; people miraculously survived. Ajidem Intersection, Rajkot (2020) Bridge collapse with no casualties. Satodak Village, Rajkot (2019) Fatal structural failure. Peapok Flyover, Surat (2019) Yet another collapse highlighting contractor failure. Conclusion: Decay, Death, and Denial The recurring collapse of bridgeswhether newly built or agedreveals a systemic failure in Gujarat's infrastructure governance. Contractors cut corners, tenders are mishandled, warnings go unheeded, and officials continue to pass the buck. Behind every collapsed structure is a trail of ignored complaints, wasted taxpayer money, and shattered families. Unless real accountability is enforced and urgent structural audits conducted, Gambhira will not be the last bridge to falland Gujarat will keep mourning preventable deaths.

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Rajkot game zone fire: Court rejects discharge pleas of 7 accused

Rajkot: A court in Gujarats Rajkot city on Monday rejected discharge pleas filed by seven accused in the case relating to the 2024 TRP game zone fire in which 27 persons died. The massive fire took place on May 25 last year. The court of additional district judge DS Singh rejected the discharge pleas of 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 .

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ASI initiates process to release enhanced compensation for 100 acres of land acquired at Dholavira

NEW DELHI: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has apparently started the process to release enhanced compensation for 100 acres of land acquired at Dholavira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gujarat. ASI Director General (D-G) YS Rawat told this newspaper that the payout would be given as decided by the court. The proposal has been put up for formal approval. Due to a few administrative issues, it was delayed. However, the delay was not intentional. The process is going on. Compensation fixed by the court would be given. On our request, we were granted some relief. We are trying our best, he said. As the survey failed to pay up the cost fixed by the district court Bhachau in Kachchh, the order for the attachment of its Rajkot Circle office was issued. On June 11, a five-member team of the court had reached the Rajkot circle to attach its office. However, following the intervention of D-G, 15-day time was granted to the agency to address the issue. The deadline ended on June 25. According to the sources, the court team visited the site on Monday to check whether a decision had been taken with regard to the matter. The court officials left without any action as they had just come to inquire about the decision. They left, without any action, to seek instructions from the court, sources said. In 2004, the ASI acquired around 100 acres of land at the prominent Harappan sites, where the ASI has its circle office. Following the acquisition order, the compensation was paid at the rate of Rs 0.65 paisa per square metre (sqm). Subsequently, nine landowners moved the district court in Bhachau Kachchh seeking higher compensation, which was granted in 2023. The higher rate of compensation allowed by the court was Rs 9.57 per sqm. As the ASI neither challenged the order nor paid the compensation, the land owners went to court again for early payment. As the payment was not made, the court issued an attachment order, arguably for the first time in the history of the Survey, on May 3. Later, the local ASI office wrote to the concerned special land acquisition of the district to seek his opinion to challenge the order, but received no reply. While the matter was under consideration at higher levels and with the Ministry of Culture, the ASIs Rajkot Circle sought 25 days from the court, effectively halting the attachment proceedings. Earlier, sources said that the Integrated Finance Division (IFD) had already rejected the request for higher compensation because of the steep hike, and asked the ASI to take a legal opinion and fix responsibility for not challenging the order.

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ASI to decide on higher compensation for Dholavira land as court's 15-day deadline ends

NEW DELHI: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is optimistic about resolving a land attachment issue at Dholavira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gujarat, after a court ordered the attachment of its Rajkot Circle sub-office. ASI Director General YS Rawat intervened and the agency was granted a 15-day time to address the matter. While the issue remains unresolved, officials said a decision is expected to be made before the June 25 deadline. The case pertains to the acquisition of around 100 acres of land in 2004 at the prominent Harappan sites, where the ASI has its circle office. Following the acquisition order, the compensation was paid at the rate of Rs 0.65 paisa per square metre (sqm). Subsequently, nine land owners moved the district court Bhachau in Kachchh seeking higher compensation, which was granted in 2023. The higher rate of compensation allowed by the court was Rs 9.57 per sqm. As the ASI neither challenged the order nor paid the compensation, the land owners went to court again for early payment. As the payment was not made, the court issued an attachment order, arguably for the first time in the history of the Survey, on May 3. Later, the local ASI office wrote to the concerned special land acquisition of the district officer to seek his opinion to challenge the order but received no reply. While the matter was under consideration at higher levels and with the Ministry of Culture, the ASIs Rajkot Circle sought 25 days time from the court, effectively halting the attachment proceedings. The matter is still under consideration. Decisions will be taken well in time, said Joint Director General (monument) and spokesperson of ASI Nandini Bhattacharya Sahu. Meanwhile, sources said that the Integrated Finance Division (IFD) had already rejected the request of higher compensation because of the steep hike, and asked the ASI to take legal opinion and also fix responsibility for not challenging the order. As the ASI didnt act, the court officials visited the circle office on June 10 but left after speaking with the D-G over phone, granting 15 more days for release of compensation.

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: 190 DNA matches confirmed, 157 bodies handed over

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

Ahmedabad plane crash: 119 identified, 64 bodies handed over

AHMEDABAD: The process to identify victims of the June 12 AI-171 air crash picked up pace on Monday as officials said DNA samples of 119 of them have been successfully matched. At least 270 people perished in the aircrash. Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi said 64 bodies have already been handed over to the respective families. Another 24 families are expected to collect the mortal remains of their loved ones in the coming days, while 11 families await confirmation of DNA matches with additional relatives. Twelve families are still awaiting final DNA results. Authorities expect the identification to conclude swiftly once pending reports are in. Among the bodies identified on Sunday was that of former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani. He was cremated in Rajkot with full state honours on Monday. Probe teams scouring the aircraft debris recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), the second black box. The CVR, along with a wire trailing from the aircrafts rear section, was handed over to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). The first black box, called the flight data recorder, was recovered a day after the accident. Besides, human remains were found amid the debris and shifted to the Civil Hospital for postmortem. Parallelly, a high-level multi-disciplinary committee led by Union home secretary Govind Mohan discussed the possible causes of the crash so as to evolve a policy roadmap for future safeguards.

Senior politicians led by Shah, thousands of citizens pay tribute of Rupani in Rajkot

AHMEDABAD, Jun 16: Politicians led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid floral tributes to former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who died in the Air India plane crash, while people lined up in large numbers to pay their last respects to him on Monday in Rajkot. Amid outpouring of emotions and slogan shouting, people stood on both sides of the road as Rupanis mortal remains were brought from the airport to his residence in Rajkot, a journey stretching to [] The post Senior politicians led by Shah, thousands of citizens pay tribute of Rupani in Rajkot appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajkot Fort Shivaji Statue Base Breaks, Opp. Corners Govt

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had inaugurated a new statue of Chhatrapatii Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot fort on May 11.

Rupani Cremated With Full State Honours At Rajkot; Politicians, Citizens Pay Tribute To Him

The Gujarat government had announced a one-day state mourning on Monday in memory of the former CM: Reports

Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani cremated in Rajkot

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani's mortal remains were cremated in Rajkot on Monday, following a plane crash that claimed his life. His body was identified through DNA matching with his son. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, Amit Shah, and other dignitaries paid their respects.

Photo: Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupanis funeral

Politicians led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid floral tributes to former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who died in the Air India plane crash, while people lined up in large numbers to pay their last respects to him on Monday in Rajkot. Rajkot: Mortal remains of former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, who 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 .

Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani's Last Rites Begin With State Honours InRajkot|Video

Vijay Rupani was aboard Air India Flight 171, a Boeing Dreamliner 787-8, which crashed just seconds after takeoff on Thursday afternoon.

Gujarat mourns Vijay Rupani: Former Chief Minister laid to rest with state honours

AHMEDABAD: The state of Gujarat is in mourning following the untimely demise of its former Chief Minister, Vijaybhai Rupani, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on 12 June. The sudden loss has sent shockwaves across the region, with tributes pouring in from both political circles and the general public. Today, his mortal remains were laid to rest in a solemn ceremony conducted with full state honours. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel personally attended the final rites, which were carried out in strict accordance with official protocol. A Guard of Honour was accorded as a mark of the state's highest respect for Rupanis contributions and leadership. AI171 plane crash: Vijay Rupani's lucky number '1206' becomes date of his last journey Following the state tribute, his remains were respectfully handed over to his grieving family, including wife Anjali Rupani and son Rushabh Rupani, in the presence of senior dignitaries. Every step of the ceremony reflected the states commitment to dignity, duty, and reverence for the leader who once steered its governance. In an official statement, the state government remembered Vijaybhai Rupani not merely as a political figure, but as a visionary leader renowned for his integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to public welfare. His legacy, they affirmed, rests on the pillars of ethical leadership and tireless public service. At Ahmedabads Civil Hospital, where his body was initially kept for public homage, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was joined by Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel, Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghvi, Cooperation Minister Jagadish Vishwakarma, Rajya Sabha MP Mayank Nayak, as well as senior officials and leaders from across communities and organisationsall united in grief and respect. As the state prepares for his final journey to Rajkot, where his last rites will be performed, the sorrow remains palpable. Vijaybhai Rupanis sudden passing has left not only a vacuum in Gujarats political landscape but also in the hearts of millions who admired him as a principled and visionary leader.

Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupanis Funeral To Be Held Today With Full State Honours

Former CM Vijay Rupani's funeral will be held today in his hometown, Rajkot, with full state honours.

Ahmedabad plane crash: Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani's last rites today; to be held with state honours

Preparations are underway to conduct the last rites of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who tragically died in a plane crash in Ahmedabad last week. His mortal remains will be handed over to his family in Ahmedabad and then transported to Rajkot for the final rites, which will be performed with full state honors at 5 pm.

Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani to be cremated today in Rajkot with full state honours

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, tragically lost his life in the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. His cremation will occur in Rajkot with full state honors. The London-bound flight crashed shortly after takeoff, leading to the deaths of 241 people. Authorities are working diligently to identify victims through DNA testing and provide support to grieving families.

Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani's Last Rites In Rajkot Today, Amit Shah To Attend | Top Points

Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani was among the 241 people who died in the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad last week. His last rites will be performed today.

Air India plane crash: 45 DNA matches, Vijay Rupani's last rites in Rajkot on June 16

Gujarat bids farewell to former CM Vijay Rupani; Rajkot shuts down in mourning

AHMEDABAD: Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani had been confirmed dead in the devastating crash of Air India Flight AI171 on Sunday morning, after DNA matching with remains recovered from the wreckage near Ahmedabad airport. DNA cross-verification of former CM Vijay Rupani has been completed, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said, addressing the media at the Civil Hospital mortuary. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel immediately met the Rupani family at their Gandhinagar residence and assured full state assistance for transporting the mortal remains and organising the last rites as per the family's wishes. The London-bound AI171 crashed minutes after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. Rupanis son had rushed to Ahmedabad on Saturday to provide a DNA sample at BJ Medical College, expediting the identification process. 'Thrust not achieved, falling, Mayday,' were the last words of Air India flight's pilot before crash Rupanis hometown Rajkot came to a standstill on Saturday, observing a half-day shutdown in tribute to the late leader. The outpouring of grief reflected not just local sentiment but the void left behind in Gujarats political fabric. Born in 1956 in Rangoon (now Yangon), Rupani migrated to Rajkot with his family during political unrest in Myanmar. The son of a grain trader, he went on to script one of Gujarats most enduring political journeys. From a student activist with ABVP to a loyal BJP foot soldier, his career was deeply rooted in ideology and discipline. Rupanis political graph rose steadilyfrom corporator in Rajkot in 1987 to mayor in the late '90s, Rajya Sabha MP (20062012), and twice elected MLA from Rajkot West. He served briefly as Gujarat BJP president in 2016 before being sworn in as the states 16th Chief Minister, succeeding Anandiben Patel. During his term from 2016 to 2021, Rupani was known for his quiet efficiency and behind-the-scenes consensus-building. His leadership was key in stabilising the BJP amid the Patidar agitation and in retaining the partys grip over Saurashtra, a politically volatile region. An RSS loyalist, Rupani was also imprisoned during the Emergency and maintained unwavering commitment to the BJP since its formation in 1980. His proximity to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former CM Keshubhai Patel often placed him at the intersection of legacy and leadership within the party. Outside politics, Rupani was involved in social initiatives and managed a family business. A trained stockbroker, he was known for his calm demeanour and administrative acumen. BJP leaders often praised his ability to keep party workers motivated while ensuring seamless governance. Rupanis death marks the end of an erahis political journey closely intertwined with Gujarats rise as a BJP stronghold. He is survived by his wife Anjali Rupani, also an active BJP member, and their two children. As Gujarat mourns, the state prepares to bid farewell to one of its most steadfast sons.

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We are also covering: Ex-Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani's DNA Matches, Last Rites In Rajkot and Womans Last Words To Husband Before London-Bound Air India Flight Crash.

Vijay Rupani's hometown Rajkot prepares to bid its beloved neta a final farewell

Gujarat is likely to declare state mourning for ex-CM Vijay Rupani, who tragically died in the Air India crash. His son provided DNA samples after his sister's didn't match, awaiting confirmation. Rajkot prepares for a grand funeral procession, with markets and schools closed as a mark of respect.

Rajkot falls silent as it bids farewell to Vijay Rupani

Rajkot mourned the loss of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who tragically died in the Air India flight 171 crash near Ahmedabad. The city observed a shutdown as a sign of respect, reflecting Rupani's deep connection with the community. Remembered as the architect of modern Rajkot, his contributions ranged from AIIMS to the international airport, leaving a lasting impact.

'Vijay Rupani's last rites will be performed in Rajkot': BJP leader Bhupendrasinh Chudasama

Following the tragic death of former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani in the AI-171 plane crash, BJP leader Bhupendrasinh Chudasama visited his residence, confirming that the last rites will be held in Rajkot, pending DNA test results. Rajkot mourns Rupani's loss, with markets closed as a sign of respect for his developmental contributions to the city.

Vijay Rupani re-scheduled his London visit from June 5 to 12 due to Ludhiana (West) by-elections

CHANDIGARH: Former Chief Minister of Gujarat and Punjab Affairs-in-charge of BJP Vijay Rupani, who was among the 241 passengers killed in the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, has been involved in Punjab politics for the last three years. In fact, he re-scheduled his visit to London from June 5 to June 12 due to the Ludhiana (West) by-elections. The constituency goes to polling on June 19, and the result will be announced on June 23. Rupani was specifically brought by the saffron party to take charge of the state in September 2022 after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) ended its alliance with the BJP. During this time, BJP's electoral performance improved. The party's vote share rose to 18.56 per cent from 6.6 percent in last years parliamentary elections. Under his leadership, the party had been taking on the AAP-led Punjab Government over many issues, including the law and order and the drug menace. State BJP leadership described him as an ``acceptable, humble and down-to-earth human being who deeply connected with the people across all levels of the state administration. He had planned to travel to London on June 5 to meet his daughter but his travel plans were delayed due to the Ludhiana (west) by-election. His wife, Anjali Rupani, had already left for London on June 5. The state party leaders recalled that Rupani was campaigning for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll for weeks and had been diligently carrying out his responsibilities, including attending the filing of nomination papers by the party candidate Jiwan Gupta on June 2 from Ludhiana (West). On June 9, he had exuded confidence that Gupta would win the bypoll with a huge margin. Known as a protg of Amit Shah, Rupani was a first-time MLA from Rajkot (West) when he became the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Expressing profound sorrow over the passing of Rupani, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar said, He was a humble and compassionate human being and a grassroots leader. I had the fortune of being associated with him while he was in-charge of the Punjab BJP. He was a real gentleman politician. Not only Gujarat has lost a great leader in him, but it is a personal loss for me, as I found his gentle and soft demeanour so endearing. His sagacity and simplicity in public life will be missed. Punjab BJP spokesman Pritpal Singh Baliawal who was the last party leader to see him off at Ludhiana said that he was a leader of the masses and he used to connect with people one to one to get feedback from the ground. A sombre mood has enveloped the party unit as politicians from across the spectrum expressed their condolences. Among those who offered their sympathies included AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and Leader of the Opposition and senior congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa.

Ahmedabad Plane Crash: PM Narendra Modi visits former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani's family

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the family of former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, who tragically passed away in the Air India plane crash on June 12. Modi expressed his condolences, remembering Rupani's unwavering commitment and contributions across various roles, from the Rajkot Municipal Corporation to his tenure as Gujarat's Chief Minister.

AI171 plane crash: Vijay Rupani's lucky number '1206' becomes date of his last journey

AHMEDABAD: Former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani considered '1206' his lucky number and ensured it featured on all vehicles he owned over the years. The number has now become synonymous with one of the worst aviation tragedies in India's history, in which he lost his life along with 264 others on Thursday. Rupani was among 242 persons on board a London-bound Air India flight that crashed into a building of a medical college and hostel in the Meghaninagar area moments after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on Thursday afternoon. The former chief minister considered 1206 as his lucky number, but it has now become the date of his final journey, June 12 (12/6). In his hometown Rajkot, people could identify Rupani's car by its vehicle registration number 1206. According to locals of Rajkot and journalists, Rupani's scooters and cars bore the same number. Rupani was travelling to his daughter's place in London, as his wife Anjaliben, who is also an active member of the BJP, was also there. Anjaliben reached Gandhinagar on Friday morning. Gujarat state BJP chief and Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil on Thursday confirmed Rupani's death in the plane crash. The 68-year-old leader was known for his composed demeanour and firm administrative style. He served as Gujarat's chief minister from August 2016 to September 2021 and steered the state through a critical post-COVID-19 recovery phase. He started off as a student leader, leading several agitations, and was an activist of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in his college days. In 1975, Rupani was imprisoned for a year in the Bhavnagar jail while protesting against the Emergency. He entered public service in 1987 when he was elected as a corporator in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation and later became the mayor. He was a member of the Rajya Sabha between 2006 and 2012. His tenure as the chief minister saw the launch of the state Industrial Policy 2020 and initiatives for tribal upliftment. Rupani stepped down from the post in September 2021, making way for Bhupendra Patel ahead of state elections. He was later appointed as BJP in-charge of Punjab. 241 passengers died. One survived. His story bears witness to Ahmedabad plane crash horror

Air India Crash: A 'lucky' number that followed Vijay Rupani all his life also haunted his end

Vijay Rupani, former Gujarat Chief Minister, tragically died in a plane crash. The Air India flight crashed after takeoff from Ahmedabad. Rupani was headed to London to visit his family. He had rescheduled his trip from June 5. News of his death brought grief to Rajkot. Rupani was remembered for his simplicity and kindness. Condolences poured in from leaders.

Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani is feared to have been among the passengers on board the Air India flight that crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating as flight AI 171, crashed in a residential area near Meghani Nagar just minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1.38 pm. Gujarat BJP spokesperson Yagnesh Dave confirmed that Rupani had planned to travel on the flight but added that his current status remained unknown. While official confirmation from aviation authorities is still awaited, multiple reports have cited a passenger list that names Vijay Ramniklal Rupani as the 12th passenger, reportedly travelling in Business Class (Z category). Sources close to the former Chief Minister indicated that he had plans to travel to the UK, reportedly to bring back his wife, Anjali Rupani, who is currently in London. Visuals from outside Rupanis Rajkot residence showed a grim and anxious atmosphere, with concerned neighbours and well-wishers gathering outside. We are extremely worried. We've been neighbours since 1988. This feels like its happening to our own family, said a long-time neighbour, Kiran, speaking to news agency ANI . Former minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, a close associate of Rupani, said he rushed to the former CMs Gandhinagar residence upon hearing about the crash. I knew he was scheduled to travel to London today, though I wasnt sure if he boarded that flight. After seeing the news, I came straight here and will now go to the airport for more clarity, he said. The aircraft was reportedly carrying 242 people, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Police said several casualties were feared. Many of the injured have been shifted to the citys civil hospital. Emergency response operations are ongoing. At least 50 bodies have been recovered from the crash site. Following the crash, all flight operations are temporarily suspended until further notice, according to information from the airport spokesperson. Air India issued a dedicated passenger hotline - 1800 5691 444 - to provide information about the crash. Ahmedabad City Police also released an emergency helpline - 079-25620359 - for updates and assistance. The state and central governments are closely monitoring the situation. IndiGo Chennai-Ahmedabad flight returns mid-air following Air India flight crash

YouTube-trained thief behind Rs 60.83 lakh Diamond heist caught

AHMEDABAD: A meticulously planned diamond heist worth Rs 60.83 lakh sent shockwaves through Rajkots gem industry in April but after a 45-day cat-and-mouse chase, police have finally nabbed the mastermind behind the theft. In a case that reads like a modern crime thriller, the thief guided by tips from jail inmates and tricks learned on YouTube pulled off the audacious burglary using a magnetic drill machine sourced from Mumbai. The theft took place on the night of 10 April 2025, when the accused broke into a diamond factory on Rajkots Kotharia Ring Road. Gaining entry through a rear door, he cracked open the heavy-duty safe and disappeared without leaving behind any obvious trace. Chaos erupted the following morning as senior police officials rushed to the scene. Ten teams were formed, and over 100 CCTV cameras in and around the vicinity were scanned yet none captured the thief. Investigators believe he carefully avoided detection by walking along a central road divider to steer clear of surveillance cameras. With no digital or physical trail, the Crime Branch widened its net, reaching out to diamond traders across Saurashtra and South Gujarat. In parallel, officers began interrogating known criminals linked to diamond thefts. A breakthrough came when an inmate at Rajkot jail revealed that fellow prisoner Ajay Nayaka had previously enquired about committing a perfect heist without being caught on CCTV. Further investigation uncovered Nayakas unconventional methods. While in prison, he had received advice from fellow inmates and studied burglary techniques on YouTube. He was specifically told to use a magnetic drill machine a high-powered tool capable of piercing reinforced safes. Nayaka travelled to Mumbai to procure the device, returning to Rajkot to carry out the plan with surgical precision. A repeat offender with several previous cases, Nayaka was difficult to trace. He had no mobile phone, no family contact, and no fixed residence. However, surveillance on his known associates in Surat and Valsad eventually led investigators to Umerpada, where he was hiding. As police closed in, Nayaka made a desperate attempt to escape by leaping from a second-floor building, injuring his hand. He was arrested and brought back to Rajkot for questioning. During interrogation, he admitted to conducting multiple recces of the factory. He had even camped atop a neighbouring shed to study entry and exit points. After two failed attempts, he succeeded on his third try on 10 April. Post-heist, he lay low for over an hour, hiding in a pit near the scene. He then made his way on foot to City Road, travelled to Surat and Valsad in search of buyers, but failed to secure a favourable deal. Eventually, Nayaka returned to Rajkot, where he buried the stolen diamonds in a pit near an abandoned factory. On 29 May, police recovered diamonds and other valuables worth Rs 61.09 lakh based on his confession. Ajay Nayaka has now been charged under Sections 305(A), 331(4) and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), marking the closure of one of Rajkots most calculated diamond thefts to date.

Gujarats Asiatic lion count leaps from 674 to 891 in five years

AHMEDABAD: In a major conservation milestone, Gujarats Asiatic lion population has soared to 891 a sharp 32.2% jump (from 674) since 2020, with 217 new lions added in just five years. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the surge on Wednesday, unveiling results from the 16th Asiatic Lion Census conducted earlier this month. The latest figures signal a resounding success for Gujarats wildlife conservation efforts, reaffirming the states position as the last natural habitat of the endangered species. PM Modi praised the effort of Gujarat government. The big cats, once largely confined to Gir National Park, are now sprawling across 11 districts of the Saurashtra region including non-forested and coastal zones, a testament to their expanding territory and rising numbers. The number of lions in the state has gradually increased not just because of favorable geography and climate, but due to our government's consistent and careful approach to wildlife conservation, said the Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Providing a detailed account, he noted, There were 327 lions in 2001, 359 in 2005, 411 in 2010, 523 in 2015, and 674 in 2020. Today, the lion population stands at 891. He further credited the shift in census methodology to Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, saying, As Chief Minister, Shri Narendrabhai Modi introduced the 'Total Count by Direct Sighting at Block System' method, replacing the traditional estimation model. Prime Minister praised the effort. Very exciting information! It's truly gratifying to see that the efforts under 'Project Lion' are creating a favorable environment and ensuring the protection of lions in Gujarat, the Prime Minister posted on social media platform X. The 2020 census had pegged the number at 674, all within Gir and surrounding areas. The latest count reveals not just a population boom but also a major geographical shift: 507 lions were spotted outside Girs boundaries, while 384 remain within the traditional sanctuary limits, according to Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests. The lion stronghold now includes protected areas like Pania, Mitiyala, Girnar, and Barda sanctuaries. Notably, 17 lions were recorded in Barda, just 15 km from Porbandar, while Bhavnagar district reported the largest single pride 17 lions in one group. The demographic breakdown, provided by the Gujarat Forest Department, estimates 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs, painting a robust picture of the species health and future. This extensive wildlife mapping was the result of a meticulous four-day census conducted from May 10 to 13 across 58 talukas, covering 35,000 sq km. The operation, carried out in two phases, involved over 3,000 volunteers including forest officials, enumerators, and inspectors. For the first time, officials deployed a refined method known as direct beat verification, praised for its near-zero margin of error and 100% accuracy, made possible by hi-tech tools like camera traps, high-resolution imaging, GPS tracking, and radio collars. The lion census, conducted every five years, documented key data like time of sighting, direction of movement, physical identifiers, and precise GPS coordinates. The 11 districts where lions were sighted are: Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Bhavnagar, Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, Amreli, Porbandar, and Botad. This dramatic expansion of habitat and population underscores both the resilience of the Asiatic lion and the rigorous conservation efforts undertaken by the Gujarat Forest Department a rare ecological triumph in the modern era. CENSUS SNAPSHOT (20012025): 2001: 327 2005: 359 2010: 411 2015: 523 2020: 674 2025: 891 Territory Expands Beyond Gir: Lions now roam 11 districts, including: Junagadh | Bhavnagar | Porbandar | Jamnagar Even in coastal & non-forested zones 507 lions spotted outside Gir Sanctuary 384 within core Gir zone Habitat Hotspots: Barda Sanctuary: 17 lions Bhavnagar: 17 lions in one pride Pania | Mitiyala | Girnar | Population Breakdown: Males: 196 Females: 330 Sub-adults: 140 Cubs: 225 High-Tech Census, Near-Zero Error: 3,000+ field staff 35,000 sq km covered 58 talukas, 4 days Tools: GPS, camera traps, radio collars Direct Beat Verification used for first time

More than 60 illegal properties of habitual offenders demolished in Rajkot

In Rajkot, Gujarat, authorities demolished over 60 illegal constructions belonging to 38 habitual offenders involved in serious crimes. The joint operation by police, municipal corporation, and revenue officials targeted properties in Raiya Gam and Raiya Dhar areas.

More than 60 illegal properties of habitual offenders demolished in Rajkot

In Rajkot, Gujarat, authorities demolished over 60 illegal constructions belonging to 38 habitual offenders involved in serious crimes. The joint operation by police, municipal corporation, and revenue officials targeted properties in Raiya Gam and Raiya Dhar areas.

Airlines asked to resume normal operations at 32 shut airports from May 15

NEW DELHI: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday night expressed optimism that airlines would resume their normal operations to the 32 closed airports from May 15. He released a statement to this effect after holding a review meeting with top officials and representatives of all airlines in New Delhi. The Minister said, With the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ending on 15th May, I suggested that airlines resume their normal schedules from the 15th across all 32 airports for which the NOTAM was issued. All airlines responded positively to this suggestion. A Ministry source said, At present, partial operations are taking place. The full-fledged operations will resume from May 15. This was the outcome after the meeting held on Tuesday. The NOTAM to close 32 airports in the North and Western India upto May 15 (5.29 am) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on May 9 as a precautionary step after the launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7 . A revised NOTAM by AAI said the airports would open for commercial operations from Monday (May 12) but leading airlines like Indigo and Air India had publicly stated they would not operate flights to specific airports on Monday and Tuesday (May 13). This was on account of unconfirmed reports of drone attacks by Pakistan at a few cities. Indigo operated a flight from Delhi to Amritsar but it had to turn back due to a sudden blackout imposed in Amritsar. Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 20px; } h2 { color: #d32f2f; /* A bold red color */ text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; box-shadow: 0 0 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 12px 15px; text-align: left; } th { background-color: #c62828; /* A deep red */ color: white; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #f2f2f2; } tr:nth-child(odd) { background-color: #fafafa; } tr:hover { background-color: #f1f1f1; } .bold { font-weight: bold; } Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations Airport Location Status Ambala Haryana Closed Hindon UP Closed Naliya Gujarat Closed Sarsawa UP Closed Uttarlai Rajasthan Closed Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir Closed Awantipur Jammu & Kashmir Closed Jammu Jammu & Kashmir Closed Amritsar Punjab Closed Chandigarh Punjab Closed Ludhiana Punjab Closed Patiala Punjab Closed Bhatinda Punjab Closed Adampur Punjab Closed Halwara Punjab Closed Pathankot Punjab Closed Bhuntar Himachal Pradesh Closed Shimla Himachal Pradesh Closed Kangra-Gaggal Himachal Pradesh Closed Kishangarh Rajasthan Closed Thoise Ladakh Closed Leh Ladakh Closed Mundra Gujarat Closed Jamnagar Gujarat Closed Hirasar Gujarat Closed Porbandar Gujarat Closed Keshod Gujarat Closed Kandla Gujarat Closed Bhuj Gujarat Closed Jaisalmer Rajasthan Closed Jodhpur Rajasthan Closed Bikaner Rajasthan Closed Air India Announcement: In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. Indigo Announcement: All flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh are cancelled for Tuesday (May 13). Responses from other airlines are awaited.

Flights Connecting 6 Airports To Resume Progressively On Wed: IndiGo

New Delhi, May 13: IndiGo on Tuesday said scheduled flights from six airports, including Jammu and Amritsar, will progressively resume from Wednesday. On Monday, the airline had cancelled its flights to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar and Rajkot for Tuesday. Scheduled operations to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar & Rajkot will progressively resume from 14 May 2025. Each flight is being reinstated with meticulous coordination ensuring every journey is seamless, secure and on track, IndiGo [] The post Flights Connecting 6 Airports To Resume Progressively On Wed: IndiGo appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Ceasefire brings relief to Gujarat govt staff; flights to Bhuj, Rajkot cancelled by airlines amid security concerns

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat government employees get relief as the ceasefire between India and Pakistan brings a return to normalcy. Following the May 10 truce, the revoked leave was officially reinstated. However, despite the easing of hostilities, flights to Bhuj and Rajkot were cancelled on Tuesday, with airlines citing continued security concerns. The airlines are actively monitoring developments and has pledged to keep passengers updated. Notably, drone activity was detected near the Kutch border last night, fueling continued vigilance. On May 12, eight airports in GujaratBhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Hirasar (Rajkot), and Porbandarresumed operations after being shut down amid security concerns. However, just a day later, airlines reversed course. On May 13, flights to Rajkot were cancelled, followed by Air India's broader suspension of services to Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. This wave of cancellations wasnt isolatedflights to key strategic locations like Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, and Chandigarh were also grounded, signalling continued unease despite reopened runways. Air India, in its statement, said, In view of the latest developments and keeping your safety in mind, flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled for Tuesday, 13th May. In light of the latest developments and with your safety as our utmost priority, flights to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar, and Rajkot are cancelled for 13th May 2025. said Indigo in its statement Meanwhile, on the evening of May 12, Pakistan escalated tensions by deploying drones across multiple frontstargeting Gujarats Kutch district, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjabs Amritsar, Rajasthans Barmer, reportedly. This calculated provocation came despite ceasefire announcements, exposing persistent volatility

Flight disruptions continue amid India-Pak tensions

New Delhi: Air India and IndiGo have announced the cancellation of flights to and from several key cities near the India-Pakistan border for Tuesday. Air India confirmed the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. IndiGo similarly suspended services to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, 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 .

Air India Announces Flight Cancellations at 8 Locations for Today

The airlines announced the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot for Tuesday

Air India, Indigo issue fresh travel advisory, cancel flight operations amid India-Pakistan tension

Air India and Indigo cancelled their flight operations to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Rajkot and other locations for Tuesday (May 13, 2025) amid escalating India-Pakistan tension.

IndiGo cancels flights to Amritsar, 5 other places for May 13

Flights are cancelled to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar, and Rajkot, IndiGo said

Air India Announces Flight Cancellations For Today Amid India-Pak Tensions

Air India on Tuesday announced the cancellation of two-way flight operations to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot for Tuesday.

IndiGo Cancels Flights To Amritsar, 5 Other Cities For Today

IndiGo has cancelled its flights to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar and Rajkot for May 13.

IndiGo DelhiAmritsar flight returns midway after sudden airport blackout

NEW DELHI: An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Amritsar abruptly turned back midway and returned to Delhi on Monday evening following the sudden imposition of a blackout at Amritsar airport. Flights to and from Amritsar had been non-operational since 7 May due to Operation Sindoor and were only cleared for travel on Monday. Sources in the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed to this newspaper that an IndiGo flight en route to Amritsar was forced to return to Delhi. Flight No. 6E 2045 had departed from Delhis Terminal 1D at 8:26 pm (a delayed departure by 16 minutes) and was scheduled to reach Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar approximately 50 minutes later. According to flight-tracking websites, after flying for around 30 minutes, the aircraft made a sharp U-turn and landed back in Delhi at 9:21 pm. Drone sighting in Punjab triggers blackouts; one surveillance drone shot down, Amritsar airport shut again It is understood that a blackout was suddenly reimposed in Amritsar around 9:00 pm by the local administration, prompting the flight to turn back. The aircraft in question was an Airbus A320neo. IndiGo has not yet disclosed the number of passengers on board, and a statement from the airline is awaited. Amritsar airport was among the 32 airports cleared by the Airports Authority of India on Monday to resume commercial operations. Flight 6E 2045 was one of the first commercial services scheduled to operate at the airport following the resumption. Normal flight operations continue to and from Jammu airport, Civil Aviation Ministry sources confirmed. A senior ministry official told reporters late on Monday night, All restrictions have been withdrawn for airports and air routes north of Delhi as of 10:50 pm. However, IndiGo issued a statement at 11:38 pm announcing that all its flights to and from Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Rajkot, Srinagar, and Chandigarh have been cancelled for Tuesday, 13 May, citing operational reasons. In a related development, an Air Arabia flight from Delhi to Sharjah (Flight G9 466) was re-routed to avoid flying over Amritsar and Lahore, according to data from the flight-tracking website FlightAware. The aircraft eventually reached its destination 55 minutes behind schedule. Drones sighted, engaged by air defence system in J&Ks Samba

Gujarat airports reopen early after India-Pakistan ceasefire restores normalcy

AHMEDABAD: Amid India-Pakistan tensions, 32 airports, including 8 in Gujarat, were shut on May 10 but reopened early after a same-day ceasefire restored normalcy . According to sources, drones were spotted along the Kutch border around midnight on May 11, raising security concerns. The sightings were specifically reported in the Jakhau and Suthari areas. With clearance from the Airports Authority, operations resumed two days earlier than planned, allowing passenger flights to restart once bookings by private airlines commenced. Notably, Bhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Hirasar (Rajkot), and Porbandar airports, which had fallen silent under security directives, are now fully operational. Jamnagar Airport, which had been shut down as a precaution, reopened on May 12 for regular operations. Tourist access resumed immediately, with daily flights set to operate as normal from hereon. In another sign of stabilisation, the government is also expected to take a key decision today regarding the reinstatement of cancelled holidays for state employees. By the night of May 11, normalcy had returned to Gujarats border districts. However, as a part of precautions, street lights remained switched off in Bhuj, Gandhidham, Anjar, and Bhachau. Despite the partial blackout, traffic and public life moved unhindered, with district officials confirming no blackout in Banaskantha, Jamnagar, and Kutch. In Nadabet, Banaskantha, daily routines continued without disruption, reflecting a broader return to calm. In another incident, cybercrime officials arrested a youth on May 12 in Bhuj for posting pro-Pakistan content on social media, underlining lingering tensions beneath the surface. 'War is not romantic, not your Bollywood movie': Ex-Army chief Naravane's message to those questioning ceasefire

BJP corporators WhatsApp post amid India-Pakistan tensions sparks political row in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD: Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, a BJP corporator from Rajkot, Gujarat, sparked controversy with a provocative message in the RAJKOT BJP WhatsApp group The post stating, This much war can be seen with 240 seats; to witness the full battle, 400 seats are needed... (See, this is new), left the 462-member group, which includes MLAs, corporators, and senior party leaders, in stunned silence. As the controversy escalated, Rajkot BJP scrambled to contain the damage on Monday, clarifying that Chetan Sureja had merely forwarded the message as a joke. Admitting his mistake, he apologised and promptly deleted the post. Amid growing political sensitivity, a sudden post by Chetan Sureja, BJP corporator from Ward No. 10, quickly snowballed into an internal embarrassment for Rajkot citys top BJP leadership. When contacted by local media to verify the origin of the post, BJP corporator Chetan Sureja said, I posted it just for fun. I had no other intention. The post is not originally mine; it was sent to me from Bangalore. I only forwarded it. I did add a few words myself, but most of the post came from somewhere else. The now-deleted Whatsapp post As soon as the post went viral in Gujarat, political tempers flared. The Congress launched a swift attack on the BJP. Speaking to local media, Rajkot City Congress president Atul Rajani said, There should be no politics at the cost of national interest. The BJP corporator who made the post must face the strictest action. If the BJP has even a shred of morality left, they must suspend him immediately. Amid the escalating controversy, the BJP rushed to issue a clarification. Rajkot City BJP president Madhav Dave told the media. I came to know about the post through news reports. Chetan Sureja has explained that he forwarded the image, thinking it was just humourous. He has admitted his mistake, apologised, and deleted the post. We have reported the matter to the state leadership. In sensitive times like these, such posts are unacceptable. However, Chetanbhai had no malicious intent, Dave said.

New 91-foot tall statue of Shivaji Maharaj unveiled in Malvan 9 months after collapse incident

A new 91-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was unveiled at Rajkot Fort. This replaced the previous statue that collapsed last year. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the new statue is built to last. Renowned sculptor Ram Sutar's firm, which built the 'Statue of Unity', constructed it.

Gujarat on high-alert: Ports, airports shut down, blackout imposed in Kutch, 71 villages of Patan district

AHMEDABAD: As a high-alert precaution, blackouts has been imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka bordering Gujarat's Patan district besides Kutch district on Saturday, while operations at Deen Dayal Port Kandla and Mundra Adani Port have been suspended until further notice, sources said. Eight airports across Gujarat Bhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Rajkot, and Porbandar have been closed as a precautionary measure and will remain shut until May 14. In Jamnagar, the District Collector announced that an emergency situation has been declared following a forecast warning from Air Force Station Jamnagar, prompting authorities to sound sirens and urge citizens to remain indoors and seek safe shelter. According to a news agency, the Western Railway has suspended night trains traveling to Rajasthan via Bhuj in Gujarat due to security concerns. Several trains have either been halted midway or cancelled. The Jamnagar Collector said, The administration has requested all citizens to implement the blackout declared in Jamnagar district from 8:00 PM tonight to 6:00 AM tomorrow. In view of the prevailing war situation, everyone is once again urged to remain completely alert, avoid unnecessary movement, and stay in safe places. A warning siren has been sounded for Jamnagar district. Citizens are advised to take shelter and refrain from moving in public places. The administration is fully prepared to meet any eventuality. The Patan Collector said on social media platform X, As a precautionary measure, a blackout will be imposed in all 71 villages of Santalpur taluka, bordering Patan district, today. All citizens are urged to avoid rumors and follow the instructions provided by the administration. Markets shut in Pathankot after explosion-like sounds; air sirens ring out in Punjab districts The Kutch Collector said, A blackout has been declared in Kutch district from 7 PM tonight to 6 AM tomorrow. The district administration requests everyone to implement it voluntarily. In a review meeting held via video conference on Saturday, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel assured that the state government has sufficient stocks of essential commodities, medicines, fuel, and other supplies. The meeting, attended by administrative officials from all districts, emphasized that border districts could directly contact the state government for additional resources if needed. CM Patel also directed that secretaries assigned to border districts offer guidance to local administrations. The meeting, held at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar, included Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghvi and Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi. It focused on the safety of citizens, especially in border areas, with CM Patel reviewing preparedness in districts like Banaskantha, Kutch, Patan, and Jamnagar. To ensure effective communication, the CM instructed officials to ready satellite phones, wireless systems, and walkie-talkies. He also directed the strengthening of evacuation plans for vulnerable border villages, with accessible shelters and transport arrangements for smooth relocations. Additionally, Patel called for the Road Construction Department to remain on high alert in border districts, ensuring quick road repairs if necessary. Updates from various departments highlighted ongoing efforts: food stock levels are being monitored, while health services are bolstered with medical staff and ambulances stationed at key locations. Blood donation camps are being organized to secure sufficient blood supplies. Terror launchpad in Pakistan opposite Jammu's Akhnoor sector destroyed: BSF

Border areas of Gujarat on high alert, Indian Army downs suspected Pakistani drone at Kutch

AHMEDABAD: A wave of tension gripped the Kutch border since early morning on Saturday as the Indian Army shot down a suspected Pakistani drone over an empty plot in East Kutch, scattering debris across the fields. Authorities are investigating whether the object was a drone or a missile, deepening concerns along the volatile frontier. Hours after the kutch village incident, three more drones were sighted near Sir Creek in Nights, escalating fears. The situation intensified the following evening, as a complete blackout was enforced across Kutch in Night, and fresh drone sightings were reported along the border on May 9. In the Lakhpat area, three drones were seen approaching Indian territory, detected by alert security agencies, with video footage of the sightings quickly circulating. Although the drones later vanished, additional movements were reported near another sector of the border, culminating around 11 p.m. when drones were again spotted near the northern edge of Kutch the very site where the earlier drone was shot down. Now on May 10, again drone shot down by Indian Army near Kutch border in the morning. Amid mounting anxiety, the Kutch Collector issued an urgent advisory via social media platform X, urging residents to stay indoors during the day, avoid unnecessary outings, and observe a voluntary blackout at night to enhance security measures. Following the initial drone strike, panic buying swept Kutch, forcing many shops to close early as residents rushed to stock up on essentials. With vegetable supplies heavily reliant on shipments from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and northern Gujarat, the scramble for staples like onions, potatoes, tomatoes, and chilies surged, as fears of supply disruption loomed.

Centre issues NOTAM, closes at least 24 airports for civilian flights until May 15

Most of these airports are in north, west and central India and includes prominent airports such as Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Rajkot

Centre extends closure of 24 airports for civilian flights till May 15

NEW DELHI: At least 24 airports in northern and western parts of the country, including Srinagar and Chandigarh, have been shut for civilian flights till May 15, sources said on Friday. Earlier, these airports were closed for civilian flights till May 10 in view of the military conflict between India and Pakistan. Airlines on Friday said that their flights have been cancelled due to the temporary closure of airports till May 15. The sources said at least 24 airports have been closed for civilian flights till 05:29 hours of May 15. The airports include Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishengarh, Patiala, Shimla, Dharamsala, and Bathinda. Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Leh, Bikaner, Pathankot, Jammu, Jamnagar, and Bhuj are among the other airports that have been temporarily closed for civilian flights. Following a notification from aviation authorities on continued closure of multiple airports in India, Air India flights to and from the following stations -- Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar and Rajkot -- are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 15 May, the airline said in a post on X. Air India also said customers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations. In a post on X, IndiGo said in accordance with the latest directives from the relevant authorities, all flights to and from 10 destinations will remain cancelled until 0529 hours on May 15 due to temporary airport closures. The airports are Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamsala, Bikaner, Rajkot, Jodhpur and Kishangarh. These precautionary measures have been instituted with your safety and security as our highest priority, the airline said. The military conflict between India and Pakistan has intensified. Under Operation Sindoor, armed forces had carried out strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack that had killed at least 26 people last month.

Authorities put in place enhanced security measures at airports; operations normal

NEW DELHI: Enhanced security measures have been put in place at airports across the country, and some flights have been impacted, while airlines have advised passengers to reach airports well in advance before their scheduled flight departures. DIAL, the operator of the country's largest and busiest airport IGIA in the national capital, on Friday said operations are normal. Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan , the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has made secondary ladder point checking compulsory for all flights, banned visitors at terminal buildings of airports and enhanced overall security. Airline officials said flight operations are normal. With security being stepped up at the airports, airlines have asked passengers to reach the airport three hours before the departure of domestic flights in the wake of stepping up of checks and other security measures at the airports. Delhi airport operations remain normal. However, due to evolving airspace conditions and heightened security measures, some flight schedules and security processing timings may be impacted, DIAL said in a post on X. Passenger Advisory issued at 12:52 Hours #DelhiAirport #PassengerAdvisory #DELAdvisory pic.twitter.com/tN2wBcvZV7 Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) May 9, 2025 Mumbai airport operator MIAL, in a post on X said that in view of enhanced security measures, passengers may experience longer wait times at the airport. We recommend arriving well in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience, it added. In view of enhanced security measures, passengers may experience longer wait times at the airport. We recommend arriving well in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. #CSMIA #MumbaiAirport #PassengerAdvisory pic.twitter.com/UsHaR4ezDq Mumbai Airport (@CSMIA_Official) May 9, 2025 Around 27 airports in various parts of the country are closed in the wake of Operation Sindoor , under which armed forces carried out strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir on Wednesday in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that had killed at least 26 people last month. Due to the current situation, all flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Kishangarh and Rajkot are cancelled until 2359 hrs till 10 May 2025, IndiGo said in a post on X. The airline is offering a change/ cancellation fee waiver for bookings made on or before May 8 for flights to and from these 10 airports. We are monitoring this closely and are in continuous coordination with all authorities, it said. #6ETravelAdvisory : Your safety is paramount. Flights to/from the following cities are cancelled until 2359 hrs on 10th May. We are here to help you travel with ease. Check flight status here https://t.co/ll3K8PwtRV . To rebook or claim a refund, visit https://t.co/51Q3oUe0lP . pic.twitter.com/v5BSdX3dDo IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 9, 2025 DIAL also advised passengers to be prepared for additional time at security checkpoints and cooperate with airline and security staff for smooth processing. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). On Thursday, at least 90 flights to and from the Delhi airport were cancelled. In view of the recent attack in Pahalgam and subsequent surcharged security scenario, it is necessary to enhance security measures at all the civil aviation installations like airports, airstrips, airfields, air force stations, helipads, flying schools, aviation training institutes so that no untoward incident takes place in the country, BCAS said in an advisory on Thursday. Delhi airport sees cancellation of 138 domestic, international flights on Friday As part of stepping up security arrangements, the agency has made Secondary Ladder Point Checking (SLPC) compulsory for all flights at all airports. Generally, it refers to checking passengers and their hand baggage just before boarding a flight. This is in addition to the primary security checks. Besides, the entry of visitors to the terminal building of the airports and the sale of visitor entry tickets have been banned. Meanwhile, Mumbai Air Traffic Control (ATC) has experienced a surge in traffic, after international flights were rerouted due to the closure of Pakistani airspace since last month. Apart from handling Europe, North and South America-bound flights originating from Mumbai, the ATC is now also handling aircraft flying towards these regions from Northern India, according to sources.

Pak turbulence in Indian airspace, flights most hit

Amid heightened security concerns, Indias booming aviation sector has been hit. Closure of 30 airports across several states has left hundreds of flights cancelled and thousands of travellers stranded or scrambling for alternatives. S Lalitha takes a look at the situation: What triggered disruption? It stems from the closure of operations at several civilian airports many of which double as military airfields after India conducted precision strikes in Pakistan and PoK on May 7 and 8. India suspended operations at critical airports in the North, Northwest, and Central regions of the country. Affected airports The closure impacts airports in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Delhi-NCR. Notable ones include: J&K & Ladakh: Leh, Thoise, Srinagar, Jammu Punjab: Amritsar, Pathankot, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Halwara HP: Dharamshala, Shimla, Bhuntar, Gaggal Rajasthan: Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Kishangarh, Bikaner Gujarat: Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Mundra, Kandla, Keshod Others: Hindon (Delhi NCR), Gwalior (MP) and Chandigarh Airlines response Major airlines have rolled out cancellations and passengers holding valid tickets have been offered full refunds: IndiGo: Suspended 165 daily flights, including those from Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Leh, and Srinagar Air India: Cancelled flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot SpiceJet: Stopped operations in Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla, and Amritsar Akasa Air: Cancelled flights from Srinagar Impact on flyers Travellers are experiencing severe stress due to cancellations, particularly those with connecting flights. Social media platforms of airlines have been flooded with distress calls. Whats next? Airlines and airport authorities are monitoring developments, but flyers should be prepared for ongoing disruptions beyond May 10.

Explained: Operation Sindoor aftermath and how it has impacted flights in India

Following Operation Sindoor and heightened security concerns, India's air travel sector has been hit. The closure of 30 airports across several states has left hundreds of flights cancelled and thousands of travellers stranded or scrambling for alternatives. Here's a breakdown of the current situation. What triggered the disruption? The disruption stems from the closure of operations at several civilian airports many of which double as military airfields after India conducted precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in the wee hours of May 7. Operation Sindoor: Nine strikes, 25 minutes of chaos for Pakistan Fearing potential retaliation post these strikes, the Indian government suspended operations at critical airports in the North, Northwest, and Central regions of the country. Which airports are affected? The closure impacts airports in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and the Delhi NCR region. Notable airports shut down include: J&K & Ladakh : Leh, Thoise, Srinagar, Jammu Punjab : Amritsar, Pathankot, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Halwara, Chandigarh. Himachal Pradesh : Dharamshala, Shimla, Bhuntar, Gaggal Rajasthan : Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Kishangarh, Bikaner Gujarat : Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Mundra, Kandla, Keshod Others : Hindon (Delhi NCR), Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) Airlines expect the disruption to last at least until 5:29 AM on May 10, though airport sources hint it may continue longer. How are airlines responding? Major airlines have rolled out large-scale cancellations and advisories: IndiGo has suspended 165 daily flights, including those from Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Leh, and Srinagar. Air India has cancelled flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. SpiceJet has stopped operations in Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla, and Amritsar. Akasa Air has cancelled flights from Srinagar. Passengers holding tickets for these routes have been offered full refunds. Impact on flyers Travellers are experiencing severe stress due to abrupt cancellations, particularly those with connecting flights. Entire itineraries are being disrupted when the primary leg of the journey is cancelled, as seen in multiple cases. R Sushmita, travelling from Himachal to Nagpur via Chandigarh and Delhi, had to reroute by train to Delhi due to a cancelled Air India flight. Fortunately, Air India issued a fresh ticket at no extra cost. Piyush Sawarkar, stuck in Leh with his family, tweeted for help after his Indigo flight to Mumbai was cancelled. Like many others, he received a standard airline response requesting his PNR via direct message. Social media platforms of airlines have been flooded with similar distress calls, and many passengers are still awaiting clarity and rebooking options. A necessary safety measure According to Captain CS Randhawa, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots Association, while the inconvenience is considerable, the move was necessary from a national security perspective. The government wants flyers to stay safe. Closure of air force bases wont impact the public directly since civilian aircraft dont usually operate there, he said. However, international carriers are significantly affected. To avoid Pakistani airspace, flights from the Gulf to Delhi are forced to take detours. For instance, British Airways, Air France, and KLM from Delhi are heading towards Mumbai and then rerouting through Turkey, with longer flight paths and additional operational costs, he explained. Whats next? The situation remains fluid. Airlines and airport authorities are monitoring developments, but flyers should be prepared for ongoing disruptions beyond May 10. Travellers are advised to stay updated through official airline channels and plan alternate routes where possible.

21 airports in northern parts of India shut until May 9

The airports impacted include those at Jammu and Srinagar in J&K and Leh; Amritsar and Chandigarh airports in Punjab; Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh; Jodhpur, Bikaner and Kishangarh in Rajasthan; Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot in Gujarat; Hindon in Uttar Pradesh and Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh

Gujarat on high alert as India-Pakistan tensions escalate; four airports shut, security tightened

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat was thrust into high alert following Indias air strike on Pakistan, triggering sweeping security measures and major disruptions across the state. In a decisive move, Rajkot International Airport was ordered shut for three days, while operations at Bhuj, Keshod, Kandla, and Jamnagar airports were suspended to fortify security near sensitive zones. Ripple effects spread quickly, and Ahmedabad Airport cancelled all outbound flights to Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot, tightening the noose on regional air traffic. Ground security intensified sharply as border areas witnessed ramped-up checks by security forces, adding to the tense atmosphere. At Keshod Airport, authorities extended the shutdown until May 10, halting the three weekly flights that typically serviced the region, and clearing the runway exclusively for Navy and Air Force operations. Bhuj and Kandla airports followed suit, announcing a complete closure for the next three days; notably, Bhuj Airport shuttered first, soon prompting Kandlas suspension as a precautionary step. National carriers scrambled to respond: Air India announced on X that it was cancelling flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 5:29 PM on May 10, offering passengers a one-time rescheduling waiver or full refunds. Local authorities confirmed the turmoil, the Bhuj Airport spokesperson revealed that all eight daily flights, including two to Mumbai, one to Delhi, and one to Ahmedabad, were axed. Meanwhile, although Kandla airport remained open initially, it too eventually ceased operations. The domino effect reached Rajkot, where all 11 daily flights operated by IndiGo and Air India were cancelled on May 7, stranding more than 3,200 passengers1,500 incoming and 1,700 outgoingcausing widespread travel chaos. The cancellations hit routes to Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, paralysing regional connectivity. Heightened vigilance extended to the coastline as well, with the SOG Marine Police and Marine Task Force Commandos intensifying boat patrols and security sweeps along Jamnagars coastal belt. Amid the growing disruption, Ahmedabad Airport issued an urgent advisory, warning passengers of potential flight delays and cancellations, and urging them to verify flight statuses before heading to the airport.

Over 200 flights cancelled; 18 airports temporarily closed following Operation Sindoor

NEW DELHI: More than 200 flights have been cancelled and at least 18 airports, including Srinagar, have been temporarily shut for operations amid restrictions in the wake of the armed forces launching missile attacks on terror targets in Pakistan on Wednesday morning. Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, Akasa Air, and a few foreign airlines have cancelled their services to and from various airports. Sources said that at least 18 airports in the northern and western parts of the country have been temporarily shut. These airports include Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamshala and Jamnagar, they added. According to one of the sources, more than 200 flights to and from various airports have been cancelled by airlines. IndiGo said it has cancelled more than 165 flights from various domestic airports, including Amritsar and Srinagar, till early morning of May 10 due to airspace restrictions. Air India flights to and from the following stations, Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot, are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 10 May following a notification from aviation authorities on the closure of these airports, the airline said. #6ETravelAdvisory : Following aviation directives, flights to/from these cities remain cancelled until 10 May, 0529 hrs. Please check your flight status here https://t.co/ll3K8PwtRV . For rebooking or refunds, visit https://t.co/51Q3oUe0lP . We are heretosupportyou! pic.twitter.com/sLHHzIZ99w IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) May 7, 2025 In a post on X, the airline also said passengers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations. Due to government notification on airspace restrictions, over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports (Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar) are cancelled until 0529 hrs. IST of 10 May 2025, IndiGo said in a statement. The airline also said that passengers whose flights are affected can reschedule the booking on the next available flight or opt to cancel their bookings at no additional cost, and a full refund will be processed. IndiGo operates around 2,200 flights daily. In an update on X, SpiceJet said airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted. The affected passengers can opt for a full refund or an alternate flight as per availability, it added. At least 35 flights to and from the Delhi airport, the country's largest and busiest airport, have been cancelled since 12 am, one of the sources said. The source said that 23 domestic departures and eight arrivals were cancelled. Pakistan closes airspace for 48 hrs after India's Operation Sindoor Besides, four international departures were cancelled. Foreign carriers, including American Airlines, cancelled some of their services from the Delhi airport. Due to notification from the airport authorities, flights to and from Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar and Hindon are cancelled till 05. 30 hrs on 10th May 2025. Important Travel Update: Due to ongoing situation, our flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Kangra, Kandla & Amritsar are cancelled for 7th May25. Please visit our website or log into our mobile app to check your flight status before leaving for airport. #flyspicejet pic.twitter.com/0WyF6PSDw4 SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) May 7, 2025 Akasa Air, in a post on X, said that due to the prevailing situation in the region, all its flights to and from Srinagar have been cancelled. Regional carrier Star Air said its flights to/from Nanded, Hindon, Adampur, Kishangarh and Bhuj stand cancelled for the day. Kindly note, due to changing airspace conditions some flights have been impacted at Delhi Airport, DIAL said in a post on X. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). Meanwhile, Qatar Airways, in a post on X, said it has temporarily suspended flights to Pakistan due to Pakistani airspace closure. In retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian armed forces, under Operation Sindoor, on early Wednesday, carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke. LIVE | Operation Sindoor: India says 'exercised right to dismantle terror'; NSA Doval briefs global counterparts

Operation Sindoor: Airports in North India to remain closed for 72 hours, check complete list here

Following air strikes by the Indian Armed Forces, authorities closed Rajkot and Bhuj airports in Gujarat to civilian aircraft on Wednesday morning, while keeping them open for military use.

One killed, nine injured as unidentified aircraft crashes in village near Punjab's Bathinda

CHANDIGARH: One civilian killed and nine others injured as an unidentified aircraft caught fire and crashed in Aklian Kalan village of Bathinda district in Punjab. The deceased has been identified as Govind a farm labourer hailing from Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, sources said. The aircraft crashed around 2 am in harvested wheat fields, approximately 500 meters from the nearest residential area. There was no information about the pilot till this report was filed. After the crash, public approached the burning wreckage and discovered Govind and the other injured. As per eyewitnesses, several farm labourers were at the local grain market late Tuesday night when they noticed an aircraft flying unusually low. The eyewitnesses further added that they woke up to the loud sound of a crashing aircraft, which immediately caught fire. As aircraft was spotted which was in flames people rushed to rescue the pilots. As the villagers were rushing towards the plane, it exploded and several of them were hurt, said a local. Defence personnel and police teams cordoned off the crash site and fire tenders plunged into action at the scene. The district administration is tight-lipped about the identity of the plane stating that any comment on the incident will be issued only by the defence authorities. Senior officials of the district administration reached the crash site and also police have been stationed at the hospital. The injured Govind was immediately rushed to the public health centre in Goniana, where he was declared dead on arrival. While the other injured were taken to Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital, from where at least one was referred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda. Meanwhile all schools will remain closed in five border districts of Ferozepur, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Amritsar and Pathankot of the state in the wake of tension between India and Pakistan. The Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner had issued an order that all schools in the district will remain closed on Wednesday. In Pathankot, all schools will remain shut for 72 hours. Meanwhile the flight operations from Chandigarh, Amritsar and Dharamsala airports suspended. Further, Air India announced that all flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Chandigarh, Jamnagar and Rajkot have been cancelled for May 7 till 12 noon, pending updates from authorities. Ministry of Home Affairs, bureau of immigration closes Kartarpur Corridor till further orders. 150 pilgrims , who had gathered at the Integrated check post today morning , were asked to return home after being made to wait for 90 minutes. In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack , Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke. The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor', two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians at Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian airlines cancel flights to and from various cities

NEW DELHI: Indian airlines have cancelled their flights to and from various cities, including Jammu and Srinagar, amid airspace restrictions in the wake of Indian armed forces carrying out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan. Air India said that in view of the prevailing situation, the airline has cancelled all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot till noon. Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted to Delhi. We regret the inconvenience caused due to this unforeseen disruption, the airline said in a post on X. 3 civilians killed in indiscriminate firing by Pakistan army across LoC, IB According to SpiceJet, due to the ongoing situation, airports in parts of northern India, including Dharamshala (DHM), Leh (IXL), Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), and Amritsar (ATQ), are closed until further notice. Departures, arrivals, and consequential flights may be impacted, the airline said in a post on X. IndiGo said that due to changing airspace conditions in the region, flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh and Dharamshala are impacted. Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Jaish-e-Mohamad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base Muridke.

Operation Sindoor: Indian Airlines Cancel Flights To And From Various Cities

New Delhi, May 7: Indian airlines have cancelled their flights to and from various cities, including Jammu and Srinagar, amid airspace restrictions in the wake of Indian armed forces carrying out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan. Air India said that in view of the prevailing situation, the airline has cancelled all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot till noon. Two international flights en route to Amritsar are being diverted [] The post Operation Sindoor: Indian Airlines Cancel Flights To And From Various Cities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rajkot cops bust Pakistani family staying under radar for 25 years, net six more illegal Bangladeshis

AHMEDABAD: Blowing the lid off a decades-old illegal stay racket, Rajkot police on Saturday arrested three Pakistanis and six more Bangladeshis living unlawfully in the district. Investigations revealed that the Pakistanis had crossed into India over 25 years ago and overstayed their visas. They remained under the radar until the Rajkot Rural LCB team swooped in and nabbed them. They are now under intense interrogation to unearth deeper links. Rajkot Range IG Ashok Kumar Yadav told The New Indian Express , In line with the state governments directives, we, along with the Rajkot district police, Rural SOG, and LCB teams, initiated extensive investigations across the region. Acting on a specific tip-off, the Rajkot Rural LCB team focused on Lodhika taluka, where Pakistani nationals were suspected of living unlawfully. Sweeping into the area, police discovered a family without any valid Indian documents no election card, no Aadhaar, nothing to prove legal residency. Intense questioning soon revealed their true identity: Pakistani citizens who had crossed into Rajkot over two decades ago and never returned. As the shocking details surfaced, the police detained the family. The three Pakistani nationals arrested from Rajkot have been identified as Rizwanaben Munafbhai Tatariya, 50, her son Zeeshan Munafbhai Tatariya, 29, and her other minor son. During interrogation, Rizwanaben confessed that she was born in Karachi in 1975 and married Munafbhai in 1992. Munafbhai slipped into India in 1994, and five years later, in 1999, Rizwanaben and their son Zeeshan followed on a joint Pakistani passport but when the time came to return, they chose to vanish into Rajkots Lodhika taluka instead. The family's roots deepened when Zeeshan, despite being a Pakistani national, married an Indian woman in 2021, further complicating the legal tangle. Their union led to the birth of a son in 2022, who is now two years old. Expanding their crackdown, Rajkot police also carried out raids across areas like Bhagwatipara, Morbi Road, Ramnathpara and Jungleshwar, where six more illegal residents were unmasked as Bangladeshi nationals. With these arrests, the number of Bangladeshis held in Rajkot has now surged to 21, widening the scope of the investigation. The detained Bangladeshis are currently under intense questioning. Authorities have made it clear that once their foreign citizenship is formally confirmed through interrogation, swift action will follow to deport them back to Bangladesh.

Bottle Thrown From Train Kills 14-Year-Old Boy In Rajkot, Probe Leads To Loco Pilot

In Rajkot, 14-year-old Badal Singh Godthakar died after being hit by a water bottle thrown from a moving train. Assistant loco pilot Shivram Gurjar has been arrested for negligence

Rajkot Police Book 2 Influencers For Promoting Online Gambling

Rajkot City Cyber Crime filed a case against influencers Dharmika Vaghani and Deep Goswami under the Gambling Act for promoting online gambling on Instagram

Woman Teacher Charged For Assaulting Girl, Causing Injury To Private Parts In Gujarat

A female teacher in Gujarat's Rajkot city was booked for allegedly assaulting a 4-year-old schoolgirl and inflicting injuries on her private parts, a senior police official said on Saturday.

Gujarat teacher booked under POCSO Act; school denies allegations

AHMEDABAD: A disturbing case has surfaced in the city where a four-year-old girl has allegedly suffered internal injuries to her private parts, prompting her mother to file a police complaint against a teacher at Karnavati International School in the Railnagar area. The Pradyumnanagar Police have registered a case under sections pertaining to causing harm, the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act, and the Atrocities Act. The complaint, filed by the childs mother, accuses a teacher identified as Mittalben of inflicting internal injuries on the child using a pen or some other object. The teacher has denied the allegations, and the school management has also dismissed the claims, citing CCTV footage that reportedly shows no evidence of misconduct. According to the police, the incident allegedly took place on April 11. The child returned home from school and complained of pain in her private parts. Her mother initially assumed the discomfort was due to heat and did not take further action. However, the following day, the child again complained of severe pain, at which point her mother noticed a sticky discharge and suspected something unusual. The childs parents took her to a nearby private hospital, where doctors raised concerns about possible sexual abuse. During questioning, the child was shown photographs of teachers, students, and staff and reportedly pointed to the accused teacher. She was later shifted to the Rajkot Civil Hospital and then to Janana Hospital for continued treatment. A medico-legal case was subsequently filed, triggering a formal investigation. Police have begun collecting statements and evidence. In the meantime, the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged a protest at the school on April 19, demanding the immediate arrest of the teacher and action against the school. Police detained three NSUI workers to prevent the situation from escalating. School director Ashok Pambhare has defended the institution, stating that they have complete CCTV footage of the child's presence on the school premises on April 11. If the parents are genuine, the management will cooperate. But based on the footage, there is no indication of any such incident, he said. The incident has caused significant outrage in Rajkots education circles, with the police continuing their probe to establish the truth.

Letter from anonymous 'BJP and RSS worker' attacks Gujarat MLA, alleges corruption

AHMEDABAD: A viral anonymous letter bomb alleging corruption against the MLA of Upleta in Rajkot has once again ignited controversy in BJP politics. This entire incident appears to be a vivid example of internal groupism and dissatisfaction within the BJP. The allegations made in the viral letter against Mahendra Padalia include claims of collecting money from contractors, taking bribes from government officials, corruption in the municipality, and even accusations that his associate is involved in adultery. MLA Padalia has dismissed the letter as an act of jealousy and malice, and has requested the district police chief to take action. His statement makes it clear that although the source of the letter remains unknown, there is a dissatisfied faction within the party attempting to raise their voice secretly. Padalia has released a video stating that similar anonymous letters with accusations went viral during the municipality period as well. False allegations have been made against me, and I have submitted a representation to the SP with a copy of the letter requesting action against the person who made it viral, he said. The question that arises in the wake of the anonymous letter is whether these are merely weapons of political revenge or if there is some truth hidden in them. This letter containing serious allegations against Dhoraji-Upleta MLA and former Vice-Chancellor of Saurashtra University, Dr. Mahendra Padalia, is reportedly being sent to many people by post. According to the allegations in the letter, BJP MLA Padalia collects Rs 2,000 - 3,000 from contractors, and also allegedly takes bribes from officials including PGVCL engineers and the Mamlatdar. Additionally, serious accusations claim that significant corruption occurred in the municipality during the administrator's rule, and that one of his close associates is involved in adultery. The letter ends with From: BJP and RSS worker and claims that copies have been sent to the BJP leadership in Delhi and Gujarat state.

4 killed as Municipal Corporation's electric bus rams vehicles at traffic signal in Gujarat's Rajkot

Rajkot: An electric bus operated for Rajkot Municipal Corporation rammed into several vehicles as it was passing a traffic signal here on Wednesday morning, resulting in the death of four persons and injuries to four others, police said. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed the bus failed to stop at the signal near Indira Circle on the city's 150-feet ring road around 10 a.m. It ploughed through at least two four-wheelers and six two-wheelers before halting at a distance from the impact site. Four people two men and two women lost their lives after being run over by the bus, which knocked down several two-wheelers, while four persons were injured, said Gandhigram police station inspector Sejal Meghani. Among the injured is a seven-year-old boy, the youngest victim of the incident. The driver, identified as Shishupalsinh Rana, sustained injuries and is currently hospitalised, police said. The crash triggered public outrage, resulting in vandalising the bus by an irate mob, prompting police to resort to a baton charge to disperse the crowd. The bus belongs to the RMC but was being operated by a private agency, the civic body stated. The Rajkot Municipal Corporation announced a compensation of Rs 15 lakh each for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 2 lakh for those injured. A case has been registered at Gandhigram police station. The bus has been sent for mechanical testing under the supervision of the Regional Transport Office (RTO), said Rajkots DCP (Zone 2), Jagdish Bangarwa. The drivers blood sample has also been collected to determine if he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, he said. CCTV footage shows the bus speeding through the signal without stopping. It appears either the driver didnt apply the brakes or there was a brake failure. The exact cause will be confirmed after the investigation, Bangarwa added. The RMC has terminated the services of the bus driver with immediate effect and assured strict action against the concerned private agency responsible for operating the bus after the investigation is completed. The deceased individuals are identified as RMC employee Raju Gida (35), Sangeeta Chaudhary (40), Chinmay Bhatt (25) and Kiran Kakkar (56).

3 killed as civic bus rams into vehicles, pedestrians in Rajkot

Electric city bus ploughs through traffic at busy signal; mob vandalises vehicle, police use force to control crowd

Three killed as civic body operated bus rams into vehicles, pedestrians at traffic signal in Rajkot

RAJKOT: A speeding bus operated by the local municipal corporation rammed into several vehicles and pedestrians at a traffic signal in Gujarat's Rajkot city on Wednesday morning, leaving three persons dead and two others injured, police said. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed the electric bus hitting vehicles, including two-wheelers and cars, at the busy traffic signal. An electric city bus operated by the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) caused an accident, leaving three dead and two others injured at a traffic signal. The bus hit several vehicles, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers, as well as pedestrians, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone -2), Jagdish Bhangarva said. The accident occurred at Indira Circle at around 10 am, Gandhigram police station inspector Sejal Meghani said. An irate mob vandalised the civic bus after it halted at some distance away from the accident spot. Police resorted to baton charge to disperse the crowd, officials said. The bus driver was detained and further probe was underway, they said.

No one is alone in India: PM Modi to divyang man whose daughter got treatment under PM-JAY

A divyang (specially-abled) man from Rajkot, Vipul Pitroda, experienced a heartwarming moment when Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally responded to a letter he had written, expressing gratitude for the life-saving treatment his daughter received under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).

Gujarat High Court Stays 20-Year Rape Sentence In POCSO Case Over DNA, Age Discrepancies

The Gujarat HC stayed the 20-year sentence handed down to Madhav Daya Vaghela, a resident of Bhayavadar in Rajkot district, who had been found guilty of raping a 14-year-old girl.

Meet Rajkot artisan, crafts 75-meter-long turban for PM Modi that weighs 25 kg, worth Rs...

Rajkot artisan Sanjaybhai Jethwa crafts a 25 kg symbolic turban using 75 meters of cloth to honour PM Narendra Modi's 75th birthday and decade-long leadership.

Gujarat shuts 54 government primary schools across 33 districts as student numbers plunge

AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government informed the Assembly on February 25, 2025, that 54 government primary schools across 33 districts had been shut down in the past two years due to plummeting student enrollment. The disclosure, made by Primary, Secondary, and Adult Education Minister, came in response to a question by Congress MLA Kirit Patel (Patan), exposing a deepening education crisis in the state. Schools Vanishing Across Districts Devbhoomi Dwarka led the shutdowns with nine closures, followed by Aravalli (7), Amreli (6), and Porbandar (6)each grappling with a sharp decline in student numbers. Junagadh recorded four closures, while Chhota Udepur, Kutch, and Rajkot saw three schools shut down each, signaling the widespread impact. Kheda, Jamnagar, and Navsari followed with two closures per district, further tightening the noose on struggling institutions. The crisis didnt spare Bhavnagar, Dang, Gir Somnath, Mahesana, Panchmahal, Surat, and Surendranagar, each losing one primary school, underscoring a grim picture of shrinking educational access. Single-Classroom Schools and Crumbling Infrastructure Beyond school closures, infrastructure woes continue to haunt Gujarats education system. In February 2024, the government admitted in the Assembly that 341 primary schools were operating with just one room, responding to a query from Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar. Justifying the appalling conditions, officials blamed low student and teacher numbers, arguing that fewer classrooms were necessary. However, the situation is exacerbated by the demolition of dilapidated rooms, with authorities citing a lack of available land as the reason new classrooms cannot be built, leaving students crammed into single-room facilities with no solution in sight. 1,606 Schools Run with Just One Teacher In another shocking disclosure on February 12, 2024, the Gujarat government admitted in the Assembly that 1,606 of the state's 32,000 government primary schools were running with only one teacher handling all students from Classes 1 to 8. The staggering figure highlights a severe staffing crisis in Gujarats education system, where thousands of students struggle for basic instruction in understaffed schools. Playgrounds Vanishing, Holistic Development at Risk The infrastructure crisis doesnt stop at classrooms. The government further revealed that 5,012 government primary schools across Gujarat lack a playground, depriving students of crucial recreational space. The situation in secondary and higher secondary schools is equally alarming, with 78 government, 315 grant-in-aid, and 255 private institutions operating without playgrounds, despite Gujarat housing around 12,700 such schools. Even private institutions are not spared, as 37 grant-in-aid and 509 private primary schools also lack on-campus playgrounds, highlighting a systemic neglect of student development. With shrinking school infrastructure, collapsing student enrollment, and teacher shortages, Gujarats education sector is facing one of its most severe crises in recent history.