Eight arrested in Surat for operating mule accounts in Rs 826 Cr fraud
Gandhinagar: The Gujarat police have arrested eight persons for opening 82 bank accounts in the name of fake companies and providing them to cybercriminals for committing fraud, officials said on Wednesday, January 21. The arrests were made in connection with a probe into a nationwide cyber fraud involving more than Rs 826 crore, they said. 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 .
ISPL: Ahmedabad Lions' Pradeep Patil on feeling of playing in Surat
ISPL: Ahmedabad Lions' Pradeep Patil on feeling of playing in Surat
Surat's 21-Crore Water Tank Was To Serve 33 Villages. It Collapsed On Day 1
In a major crackdown following the catastrophic collapse of a newly built water tank in Surat, the Gujarat Police have registered a criminal case and initiated arrests to address what is being described as a monumental embarrassment for the state.
Gang selling cobra venom busted in Surat, 7 held: Police - The Indian Express
Gang selling cobra venom busted in Surat, 7 held: Police The Indian Express
Mr Bakul Limbasiya, founder of Bhathwari Technologies has been conferred the prestigious APO National Award , a national-level honour that recognises outstanding individual contributions to productivity excellence, innovation, and leadership in India. The award, instituted by the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) and administered in India by the National Productivity Council (NPC) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India, is regarded as one of the highest recognitions for advancing productivity and competitiveness across sectors. Mr. Bakul Limbasiya, Founder of Bhathwari Technologies This recognition is especially significant as it not only celebrates Limbasiyas personal achievements but also marks an important milestone for the lab-grown diamond industry in India. Historically, the APO National Award has been presented to distinguished leaders such as Mr. Anil Naik of Larsen & Turbo and Dr. Verghese Kurien, underscoring itsstature and legacy in honouring visionaries who have made transformative contributions toIndias industrial landscape. The inclusion of the lab-grown diamond sector among its awardees signals a strong acknowledgment of the industrys growing strategic andeconomic relevance. A pioneer in the global lab-grown diamond (LGD) sector, Bakul Limbasiya has been associated with the industry since 1998 and is credited with producing Indias first-ever lab grown diamond in 2004. His early involvement and pioneering breakthroughs laid the foundation for what has today become a globally competitive, technology-driven Indian LGD ecosystem. Through his work, Limbasiya has played a central role in shaping Indias position as a global hub for lab-grown diamonds, championing technology-driven manufacturing, responsible practices, and export-led growth. His efforts have contributed to enhancing productivity standards within the industry, promoting innovation in diamond growing and processing technologies, and strengthening Indias reputation in sustainable diamond production in line with the nations Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. Speaking on receiving the award, Bakul Limbasiya said, This honour goes beyond individual recognition; it is a validation of Indias lab-grown diamond community that is redefining the future of the diamond industry. Our sector stands at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and value creation, and India is uniquely placed to lead this global shift. The award highlights the wider transformation underway in the diamond ecosystem, where lab-grown diamonds are emerging as an engine of employment, export growth, and technological advancement, while offering a sustainable alternative to traditionally mined diamonds. The APO National Award serves as a reaffirmation of Indias commitment to productivity excellence and its leadership in new-age manufacturing sectors. About BTPL Bhathwari Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (BTPL), based in Surat, is one of the worlds leading producers of lab-grown CVD diamond reactors and advanced technologies for lab-grown diamonds. The company has a strong focus on innovation and continuous development of cutting-edge CVD plasma technology, playing a significant role in strengthening Indias leadership in sustainable diamond production. BTPL has remained instrumental in shaping the LGD sector in India and has led the sector through its strategic investment in Limelight Diamonds, Indias largest lab grown diamond jewellery brand, further reinforcing its commitment to building a robust, integrated and future forward lab grown diamond ecosystem in India.
Surat: Harsh Sanghvi, C.R. Patil Interact with Sarpanchs #Gallery - Social News XYZ
Surat: Harsh Sanghvi, C.R. Patil Interact with Sarpanchs #Gallery Social News XYZ
Surat man records video of wife's self-immolation instead of saving her; arrested
The self-immolation was triggered by a fight between the couple
Surat: Boy Cycling Killed After Kite String Slits Throat
The incident took place in the compound of Anand Villa apartments in Jahangirabad area on Thursday
Surat Man Arrested for Filming Wifes Self-Immolation Instead of Saving Her
A Surat man has been arrested for allegedly recording his wifes self-immolation during a domestic dispute instead of trying to save her. She later died of burn injuries.
Kite String Kills 8-Year-Old Boy Riding Bicycle In Surat
An 8-year-old boy died in Gujarat's Surat district on Thursday after a kite string got entangled around his neck while he was riding a bicycle.
Virat Kohli fan from Surat flaunts Rs 15 lakh gold iPhone cover, video goes viral
A Virat Kohli fan from Surat has gone viral after flaunting a custom-made Rs 15 lakh gold iPhone cover. The video has sparked massive reactions across social media, with users divided between admiration and disbelief over the extravagant display of fandom and luxury.
Hit By Kite String, Couple, Daughter Fall 70 Feet Off Surat Flyover, Killed
A family of three fell from a 70-foot-high flyover in Gujarat's Surat district after a kite string disbalanced their two-wheeler on Wednesday.
KORA by Nilesh Mitesh Opens Its Third Store in Tamil Nadu at Anna Nagar, Chennai
KORA by Nilesh Chhadva and Mitesh Sumbad , the bridge to luxury Indian men's ethnic wear, is thrilled to announce the opening of its third store in Tamil Nadu at 2nd Avenue, Anna Nagar, Chennai on January 14, 2026. This new flagship store marks a significant milestone in the brand's journey, driven by the overwhelming love and support received from Chennai customers since the launch of its Nungambakkam store. KORA by Nilesh Mitesh Opens Its Third Store in Tamil Nadu at Anna Nagar, Chennai The Anna Nagar store opening is a heartfelt response to the warmth and appreciation shown by Chennai's discerning clientele. Following the success of KORA's presence in Nungambakkam and Coimbatore, this expansion brings the complete KORA experience closer to North Chennai residents, offering unparalleled access to luxury ethnic wear crafted for the modern Indian man. A Celebration of Tamil Heritage Meets Contemporary Elegance Understanding the cultural nuances and preferences of Tamil customers, the Anna Nagar store showcases collections that beautifully resonate with local traditions while embracing contemporary sophistication. The store features an exquisite range of traditional veshti sets, angavastram-styled sherwanis, classic pancha with coordinated kurtas, and festive silk kurta sets perfect for Pongal, weddings, and temple occasions. Each piece honors Tamil heritage while incorporating modern silhouettes and premium fabrics that appeal to today's gentleman. For the Tamil bridegroom, KORA offers bespoke wedding collections featuring luxurious silk sherwanis, intricately embroidered, designer veshti combinations, and contemporary indo-western ensembles that perfectly blend tradition with style. The store's made-to-measure service ensures every groom looks and feels exceptional on his special day, with personalized styling consultations that respect cultural traditions while creating distinctive, memorable looks. " The love we've received from Chennai has been overwhelming and truly humbling. Our customers in Nungambakkam and across Tamil Nadu have embraced KORA as their destination for meaningful celebrations and everyday elegance. Opening our third store in Tamil Nadu at Anna Nagar is our way of saying thank you and bringing the KORA experience even closer to the wonderful people of Chennai who have made us part of their most cherished moments, " Nilesh Chhadva & Mitesh Sumbad, Founders, KORA by Nilesh Mitesh. A Global Brand with Deep Indian Roots Since its establishment in 2011 by designer duo Nilesh and Mitesh, KORA by Nilesh Mitesh has grown from a boutique design studio to a globally recognized bridge to luxury Indian men's ethnic wear. Today, KORA operates 28 stores across three countries, serving discerning gentlemen who appreciate the perfect balance of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. KORA's Pan-India & International Presence: Maharashtra : Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur Gujarat : Ahmedabad ,Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara Karnataka : Bangalore (Richmond Road, Jayanagar) Telangana : Hyderabad (Banjara Hills, Gachibowli) Tamil Nadu : Chennai (Nungambakkam, Anna Nagar), Coimbatore Other Cities : Delhi (Omaxe Chowk), Indore, Lucknow, Vijayawada International : London, Birmingham, Dubai (Meena Bazaar) The KORA Experience at Anna Nagar The new Anna Nagar store spans 4,200 square feet of elegantly designed retail space, featuring contemporary interiors that celebrate Indian aesthetics. The store offers an immersive shopping experience with dedicated sections for traditional wear, contemporary fusion pieces, wedding collections, and festive ensembles. Customers can expect personalized styling consultations, expert tailoring services, and access to exclusive collections crafted with premium fabrics and intricate handwork. KORA's signature made-to-measure service allows every customer to create garments tailored to perfection, ensuring impeccable fit and personalized style. The brand's commitment to quality is evident in every stitch, with each piece reflecting meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for Indian textile heritage. Grand Opening Celebrations To celebrate the Anna Nagar launch, KORA by Nilesh Mitesh invites Chennai residents to experience the store's opening week festivities. Visitors will enjoy exclusive previews of new collections, complimentary styling consultations, and special launch offers. The store will operate from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily, with appointments available for personalized consultations. " As we expand our footprint in Tamil Nadu, we remain committed to our founding vision: to be the bridge that connects discerning gentlemen to luxury ethnic wear that celebrates their heritage while embracing their contemporary lifestyle. Whether you're a groom preparing for your wedding or someone building a timeless wardrobe, KORA is where tradition meets innovation, and quality meets soul ," Nilesh Chhadva & Mitesh Sumbad, Founders, KORA by Nilesh Mitesh . About KORA by Nilesh Mitesh KORA by Nilesh Mitesh is a bridge to luxury Indian men's ethnic wear brand established in 2011 by designer duo Nilesh and Mitesh. The brand specializes in traditional and contemporary ethnic wear that honors Indian craftsmanship while embracing modern design sensibilities. With 28 stores across India, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, KORA serves the modern Indian gentleman who seeks the perfect balance of heritage and contemporary style. Each KORA garment is crafted using premium fabrics, intricate handwork, and impeccable tailoring, offering collections that include kurta sets, sherwanis, indo-western ensembles, bandhgalas, and bespoke wedding attire. The brand's commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer service has made it a trusted destination for weddings, festivals, and special celebrations. For more information, visit www.koranm.com or follow @korabynm on Instagram. Store Address: KORA by Nilesh Mitesh Shop No. 5, 2nd Avenue Anna Nagar, Chennai Tamil Nadu 600040 Phone: +91 [9820039056] kora@korabynm.com
Role of ex-servicemen recalled on Veterans Day
GUWAHATI, Jan 14: The 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day was celebrated at the Air Force Station here on Wednesday with tributes paid to the valiant veterans of the Indian Armed Forces. The event was graced by Air Marshal Surat Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in Chief (AOC-in-C), Eastern Air Command as the chief guest, who lauded the []
Six-lane highway with service roads all along to come between B.C. Road and Surathkal
The stretch between KPT Junction and Kulai likely to have a mix of elevated and grade separated roads to segregate city and through traffic
Raheman Dakait caught in Surat in a dhurandhar police raid
Bhopal-based gang leader Raheman Dakait, also known as Aabid Ali Irani, has been arrested in Surat after escaping a major police crackdown. Wanted for numerous crimes and accused of a heinous arson attempt, he led a lavish lifestyle funded by his syndicate's activities. His arrest followed a meticulous police operation tracking his movements across states.
Special team of city police swoops on 10 cyber criminals operating out of Surat
Amitabh Bachchan mobbed by fans during Surat visit for ISPL match
Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan arrived in Surat for an Indian Street Premier League match. His presence caused a massive crowd surge at the airport, leading to chaotic scenes and safety worries. Security personnel struggled to manage the enthusiastic fans. Later, Bachchan attended the ISPL opening ceremony, appearing relaxed among film and sports personalities.
Chaos in Surat: Amitabh Bachchan Mobbed by Massive Crowd at ISPL Event
In the footage shared by a photographer, Big B is seen inside a building surrounded by a dense crowd.
Video: Surat Biker's Attempt To Overtake Bus From Left Goes Wrong, 1 Dead
A 29-year-old man died in Gujarat's Surat after his attempt to overtake a bus from the left led to him to skid and get crushed under the tyre of the bus.
Surat Literature Festival to be held at VNSGU - Times of India
Surat Literature Festival to be held at VNSGU Times of India
Railways extends periodicity of special train to Surat
Padma Shri Savji Bhai Dholakia, the founder of Hari Krishna (HK) Exports, shared a never-before-told narrative of his rise from a 13-year-old boy with 12 in his pocket to becoming a global Diamond King. While speaking to a podcast, he revealed At the heart of this transformation was a rigorous spiritual discipline: chanting 108 names of God 100 times every single day for three years. and the values that shaped one of Indias largest diamond export companies.
Illegal Betting Case: Luxury Cars Linked To YouTuber Seized By Probe Agency
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has carried out search operations at nine locations across Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, Lucknow and Varanasi on December 31, 2025 and January 1, 2026 in connection with an illegal online betting and gambling case.
J&K U-16 team shows dominance, eyes first Vijay Merchant trophy
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 4: Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Associations U-16 squad is on the verge of a historic milestone, poised to claim its maiden BCCI Vijay Merchant Trophy in the Boys U-16 Tournament at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, Surat. J&Ks bowlers delivered a spectacular performance in the Plate Group final, bundling out Mizoram for a mere 100 runs in their first innings. Skipper Lawma top-scored with a gritty 36, while Johan managed 14, with no other batsman reaching double [] The post J&K U-16 team shows dominance, eyes first Vijay Merchant trophy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Surathkal police arrest two, seize cannabis worth 10 lakh
India's first bullet train project is on track for a phased commencement starting August 15, 2027, with the Surat-Bilimora section leading the initial operations. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the timeline, stating the full Ahmedabad-Mumbai corridor is expected to be operational by 2029, drastically cutting travel time.
Indias largest BOT highway project gets Cabinet nod; SuratChennai travel time to drop 45%
The Union Cabinet greenlit a massive 374-km greenfield highway in Maharashtra, connecting Nashik to Solapur and Akkalkot, at an estimated Rs 19,142 crore. This project, part of the Surat-Chennai corridor, is set to be the country's largest BOT highway initiative. It promises to slash travel time by 45% and boost logistics, with completion targeted within two years.
Gujarat targets Surat to become Indias 1st slum-free city
Jitu Vaghani said that about 5.5 lakh houses are expected to be constructed in Gujarat during the next five years under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
Video: Surat man falls from 10th floor in sleep, gets stuck in window
Surat: A 57-year-old man sleeping on the window of his 10th-floor flat in Surat slipped and miraculously survived after getting stuck in the metal grill installed outside a window on the 8th floor on Thursday, officials said. Nitin Adiya remained suspended upside down in agony for an hour before being rescued, the fire official said. 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 .
Projects commissioned, India set to overtake US in metro network length
NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Railways has claimed that India is on course to overtake the United States in total metro network length as ongoing projects are commissioned. Metro and suburban rail networks are currently operational across 1,090 km in 26 cities, including both major metros and Tier-2 cities, making urban mobility faster and more economically affordable for low- and middle-income groups. The Ministry further stated that despite the rapid expansion of metro and suburban rail services, no fare hike has been implemented so far by the government, reflecting its concern for low- and middle-class commuters. Speaking to this newspaper on Wednesday, an official at the Ministry said that Indias metro network has grown exponentially from just 248 km across five cities in 2014 to 1,090 km in 2025, spanning 26 cities- both metro and Tier-2. This represents a remarkable 340% growth over the past decade. He said that metro expansion has taken place not only in major cities but also in Tier-2 cities such as Bhopal, Indore, Kanpur, Nagpur, Pune, Surat, Agra, Lucknow, Jaipur and Kochi. He added that metro services were operational over just 27 km in 2002, which increased to 50 km in 2004, 101 km in 2009, 249 km in 2014, 647 km in 2019, 945 km in 2024 and 1,090 km in 2025. According to the official, the commissioning of metro lines has increased nine times compared to pre-2014 rates, with the aim of accelerating urban transport infrastructure under the NDA government. Highlighting the work done on metro and suburban rail services during the current NDA government, the official said that urban mobility has been made affordable and efficient, with metro travel costing 5060% less per passenger-km than private vehicles. He said this has significantly reduced daily commuting costs and eased traffic congestion on roads. Citing figures, the official further added that affordable fare slabs, typically ranging between Rs 20 and Rs 60 at launch in cities such as Bhopal, demonstrate accessibility for low- and middle-income commuters. He further stated that average daily metro ridership across the country now stands at around 1.15 crore, which is four times higher than the 28 lakh daily ridership recorded in 2014.
Karman, Athrav shine as J&K nears 4th straight win
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 24: Jammu & Kashmir moved closer to their fourth consecutive innings victory in the U-16 Mens Vijay Merchant Trophy at CK Pithawala Ground, Surat thanks to a masterful century by Karman Singh and a sensational 8-wicket haul by Athrav Sharma. Opting to bat first, J&K amassed a commanding 405/9 declared in 85 overs. Karman Singh anchored the innings with 142 off 258 balls, while Hadi Amin (54) and Hammad Firdous (50) provided crucial support. Arslan [] The post Karman, Athrav shine as J&K nears 4th straight win appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Surat builder arrested for blocking traffic to burst crackers for sons birthday
Video of celebration on busy Dumas road goes viral; police cite violation of commissioners order
Video: Surat builder arrested after fireworks display stops traffic
Surat: A 58-year-old real estate developer was arrested for allegedly blocking traffic on a busy public road in Gujarats Surat city to burst firecrackers to celebrate his sons birthday, police said on Wednesday. The incident took place on December 21 near Langar Circle in the Dumas area, they said. Before the police action, a video 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 .
Surat court stays Jain girls diksha after father moves plea
On December 10, the girl's father had approached the family court seeking her custody, claiming his estranged wife had decided against his wishes that the child should take 'diksha' to become a monk
Urban centres see bulk of 73.7 lakh voter deletions in Gujarat SIR
Gujarat's electoral rolls saw a significant revision. Over 73 lakh voters were removed from the draft list. Most deletions were due to voters being absent or having shifted. Deceased voters and those enrolled at multiple locations also contributed to the numbers. Urban areas like Ahmedabad and Surat reported the highest deletions. This revision impacts the state's voter base.
Rajasthan HC rejects plea for premature release of 1993 train blast case convicts
JAIPUR:The Jaipur Bench of the Rajasthan High Court has refused to grant premature release to life convicts sentenced under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) in the 1993 serial train bomb blasts case. Delivering the verdict, a division bench of Justices Sudesh Bansal and Bhuvan Goyal held that granting early release to those convicted of terrorism-related offences would endanger societal safety and national security. The court underlined that such leniency could undermine public confidence and disturb public order. The pleas were filed by Asfaq Khan from Dausa, Fazlur Rahman Sufi of Mumbai, Abre Rahmat Ansari of Kabinagar in Uttar Pradesh, and Mohammad Aijaz Akbar from Gulbarga. Each of them has spent more than two decades in prison and sought relief citing advanced age and deteriorating health. The convicts relied on the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines, arguing that prisoners become eligible for consideration of premature release after completing 20 years of incarceration. They further claimed that their cases should be assessed in accordance with the remission policy prevailing at the time their sentences were awarded. Resisting the petitions, Additional Solicitor General Bharat Vyas and Advocate General Rajendra Prasad, representing the Centre and the Rajasthan government, argued that the Rajasthan Prisoners (Remission of Sentence) Rules, 2006, as well as the earlier 1958 rules, categorically prohibit early release of TADA convicts. They emphasised that Rule 9(5) specifically excludes such cases from being examined by the Advisory Board. The matter relates to the coordinated bomb attacks carried out on six long-distance trains passing through Mumbai, Surat, Lucknow, Kanpur and Hyderabad on the night of December 5, 1993. The blasts claimed two lives and left 22 people injured. The Central Bureau of Investigation probed the case, and upon completion of the trial on February 28, 2004, the accused were awarded life imprisonment.
A timely update on the ambitious Chennai-Surat National Expressway, which is underway.
Gujarat police nabs murder convict absconding for nine years from Haryana
AHMEDABAD: After evading arrest for nine years after jumping parole in a wife-murder case, a life-term convict has been arrested by Surats Sachin Police in Haryana, ending one of the forces longest manhunts under an operation codenamed Operation Prison. Surendra Kallu Prasad Verma, sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his wife back in 2007, was traced and arrested following a meticulously planned crackdown that pieced together old case files, ground intelligence and sustained surveillance. In 2016, Verma was released on parole but failed to return to prison, choosing instead to disappear and evade authorities for nearly a decade. His parole jump forced police to reopen the case as a live manhunt, tracking his movements across multiple states. To crack the case, the Sachin Police launched Operation Prison, reviving decade-old leads and retracing the accuseds movements starting from his native Beohra village in Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh. Investigators found that Verma had deliberately cut off contact with his parents and brother, leaving even family members unaware of his whereabouts. As part of the operation, police pasted Vermas photographs at rickshaw stands in Karvi taluka, acting on inputs that he had worked as a rickshaw driver. The strategy yielded partial success when a rickshaw puller informed police that Verma had appeared in Shankarganj about six months earlier for his brother-in-laws wedding, had remarried, and had briefly lived as a tenant in Navi Duniya Bankat. Subsequent raids, however, failed as Verma had already moved again. Fresh intelligence eventually placed him in Ghata village in Gurugram, Haryana. A Sachin Police team travelled to the village, operated in plainclothes, posed as locals and maintained surveillance for nearly eight hours. Verma was finally apprehended when he stepped out to buy biscuits for his son, unaware that police were closing in. Confirming the arrest, Assistant Commissioner of Police N P Gohil said, This accused believed that by changing locations, identities and cutting off family ties, he could escape the law. Operation Prison was launched to prove the opposite. After nine years of sustained effort, we have ensured that a life convict who jumped parole is finally back in custody. He added that inter-state coordination, local intelligence and on-ground verification were crucial to the operation. Such arrests send a clear message, no matter how long it takes, absconding convicts will be traced and brought to justice, the officer said. With Verma now in police custody and legal procedures underway to return him to prison, Sachin Police have closed a long-pending case while underscoring that time, distance and disguise cannot keep fugitives beyond the reach of the law.
Three robbery suspects arrested, stolen articles worth 4.43 lakh recovered by Surathkal police
The robbers had targeted the home of a 85-year-old woman
Ahmedabad Diary: CMs jibe on corruption steals spotlight
CMs jibe on corruption steals spotlight While inaugurating and laying foundation stones for development projects worth over Rs 600 crore in Surat recently, CM Bhupendra Patel used the public platform to send a pointed message on corruption. Addressing an event organised by the Surat Municipal Corporation and SUDA at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Patel, in his trademark soft but firm tone, congratulated the civic body and said Congratulations to the corporation for taking only the amount of tax that belongs to the corporation, he said, pausing before adding with a smile, We will not get anything else except tax! an indirect but sharp jibe at corrupt practices. Major revamp on cards in state BJP leadership Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, his deputy Harsh Sanghvi and BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma arrived in Delhi on Saturday, triggering speculation about an impending reshuffle in the party. The buzz gained traction after a closed-door meeting chaired by PM Modi. Sources said the meeting first focused on restructuring BJPs state organisation and later reviewed the performance of the Gujarat government. The new organisational framework will be aligned with upcoming local body polls and the 2027 Assembly elections, with greater representation for Saurashtra leaders. The revamp is expected to include multiple leaders. Gujarat ready for bureaucratic reshuffle The state is preparing a limited bureaucratic reshuffle to accommodate three IAS officers who have returned from central deputation, with transfers likely by last week of December. Ajay Kumar has returned from the Ministry of Defence, while Lochan Sehra and Sandhya Bullar have come back from the Department of Space and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. Sources in the Secretariat said postings are being worked out, with GST, Finance and Revenue among departments under consideration. The reshuffle could involve transfers of 10 to 12 IAS officers to ensure permanent appointments in key departments. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com
Publicis Groupe India appoints Atique Kazi as CEO of Performics India
Publicis Groupe India has appointed Atique Kazi as the new Chief Executive Officer of Performics India. This move strengthens their media operations. Gautam Surath has been elevated to Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. Surath will lead a team focused on expanding capabilities in key digital areas. Kazi brings extensive experience in digital marketing and data-driven solutions.
Bowlers emulate batters brilliance as J&K hands Meghalaya crushing innings defeat
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 13: Emulating their batters, the bowling duo of Jammu and Kashmir led by Rajveer Singh and Sanil Singh plotted collapse of Meghalaya and handed them a crushing innings defeat in their Vijay Merchant Trophy encounter at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, Surat, Gujarat today. After declaring their innings overnight at a commanding 585/7, J&Ks bowlers unleashed utter devastation, dismantling Meghalaya for a paltry 75 in their first innings and a modest 126 in the second. Meghalayas batters [] The post Bowlers emulate batters brilliance as J&K hands Meghalaya crushing innings defeat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarat CM lays foundation stones for development works worth over Rs 600 crore in Surat
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday laid foundation stones for development works worth over Rs 600 crore at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, where he launched multiple projects of the Surat Municipal Corporation and Surat Urban Development Authority. Patel took an indirect swipe at corruption and said, Congratulations to the corporation for taking only the amount of tax that belongs to the corporation. We will not get anything else except tax!, he added. Looking out at the crowd, he asked sharply, Why has everyone become quiet? Now people think this is a small village? Has Rs 600 crore become small now? Rewinding time, the Chief Minister reminded citizens how far governance has travelled. There was a time when even taking up a work worth one lakh required deep thought, he said, before drawing a direct line to the present. Today, development has reached a level where a common person, through his society, can approach a corporator and get a work worth one crore done. Patel urged the people of Surat to accept this grandeur of development, framing growth not as excess, but as the new normal. The visit also marked the inauguration of Gujarats first state-of-the-art elevated market at Surat APMC, one of the largest such projects in Asia. The project features a 100-foot-wide ramp, allowing trucks to directly access the first floor, dramatically cutting loading time and speeding up the movement of goods for farmers and traders alike. Addressing farmers at the APMC, Patel recalled that the market yard, which began in 1951 with an income of just Rs 15,000, has today risen to rank first in the state. More than 15,000 people move here daily, he said, adding that farmers are now paid online through RTGS, reinforcing transparency and efficiency. The Chief Minister reminded the audience of Prime Minister Narendra Modis 28 agricultural campaigns, stressing efforts to double farmers income through value addition and natural farming. He also pointed to the states response mechanism, noting that the government has announced a Rs 10,000 crore package to compensate losses, assuring farmers that the state would always stand by them. Patel later addressed the All India Mayors Council, where he described Surat as a mini India, highlighting its diversity and civic capacity. He underlined that public participation remains central to sustainable urban development placing citizens, not just institutions, at the core of the growth story.
6 months of AI crash: UK dreams shattered following loss of loved ones
Ahmedabad: The tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171 in June has compelled some of the victims kin to abandon their dreams of a life in the United Kingdom. Surat-resident Hiren Dayanis mother Kailashben was one of the 260 persons who were killed when the Boeing 787-8 aircraft on its way to London crashed 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 .
Surat-based Tapi Project back in Bengaluru this weekend
The Tapi Project promises a fluid, mind-expanding performance in Bengaluruon December 12 and 13
How One Surat-Based Platform Is Quietly Changing the Way India Prepares for Government Jobs
Every year, millions of Indians apply for government jobs. The appeal is obviousjob security, decent pay, social prestige, and retirement benefits that private sector roles rarely match. But the path to cracking exams like SSC CGL, IBPS PO, or Railway RRB is anything but straightforward. Coaching centres in metro cities charge lakhs in fees, study material is scattered across dozens of websites, and for candidates in smaller towns, even finding reliable and regularly updated mock tests can feel like an [] The post How One Surat-Based Platform Is Quietly Changing the Way India Prepares for Government Jobs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Old Video of People Performing Garba at Airport Falsely Linked to IndiGo Crisis
This clip is from September 2025, when an IndiGo flight from Goa to Surat faced a technical delay
Dropouts rise, classrooms shrink, but Gujarat schools still have surplus teachers
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats latest education statistics reveal a system caught between falling enrolments and stubborn secondary-level dropouts. The five-year dropout trend sets the stage. Primary-level dropout rates remained nearly negligible, touching 1.02% in 2020-21, falling to 0% for two consecutive years, and inching up slightly to 0.1% and 0.2% in 2023-24 and 2024-25. Upper primary dropout rates have fluctuated over the years rising from 4.54% in 2020-21 to 4.95% in 2021-22, peaking at 5.8% in 2022-23, dipping to 4.2% in 2023-24, and again climbing back to 5.8% in 2024-25. Secondary dropout trends reveal sharp swings from a high 23.31% in 2020-21, dropping to 17.85% in 2021-22, surging again to 23.3% in 2022-23, easing to 21% in 2023-24, and falling further to 16.9% in 2024-25. This pattern becomes sharper when broken down by social groups. For Scheduled Castes in 2024-25, dropout at the primary level is nearly absent, but upper primary and secondary still show 4.4% and 15.4%, For 2024-25 in Gujarat, dropout rates among Scheduled Tribes (ST) stand at 0.2% in primary classes, 7.7% at the upper-primary level, and a significantly higher 20.2% in secondary education. The data on government school enrolment adds another troubling layer. Even as dropout rates surge at higher grades, the state is simultaneously witnessing a growing number of schools with less than ten or even zero students. This figure ballooned from 677 schools in 2022-23 to 906 in 2023-24, before dipping to 748 in 2024-25 still significantly high. Yet the teacher count in these near-empty schools has also climbed: from 1,391 teachers in 2022-23 to 1,641 in 2023-24, with a dip to 1,353 in 2024-25. The imbalance is stark: more teachers but fewer students raising critical questions on deployment, efficiency, and long-term planning. The backdrop to these anomalies is the steady reduction in the total number of government schools. Gujarat had 35,040 schools in 2019-20; the count slid gradually to 34,597 by 2023-24, recovering slightly to 34,638 in 2024-25. This shrinking footprint, combined with rising dropout rates and thinning enrolments in many campuses, paints a picture of consolidation without commensurate revitalisation.
Watch: American Vlogger Relished Gujarati Locho And Sosyo In Surat, Wins Foodies' Approval
A viral reel shows an American travel vlogger relishing locho at a local food joint in Surat. She pairs it with the popular drink, Sosyo, and enjoys both.
Major Fire Erupts At Raj Textile Market In Surat; No Casualties Reported
A major fire erupted at Raj Textile Market in Surats Parvat Patiya around 7 a.m., prompting a swift emergency response. No casualties reported as the market was mostly empty.
ISPL- the eight-team tournament will start from January 9 to February 6, 2026 in Surat
Sanils 9-wkt haul powers J&K to victory
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 8: Jammu and Kashmir recorded a commanding 134-run victory over Arunachal Pradesh in the U-16 Mens Vijay Merchant Trophy at Surat, powered by an all-round masterclass from Sanil Singh and Karman Singh. Batting first, J&K posted 344 runs, with Karman Singh scoring a brilliant 129 not out, supported by Aksh Sharma and Haadi Amin. In response, Arunachal Pradesh were bundled out for 111 runs, with Saksh top-scoring with 57. Sanil Singh was the star with [] The post Sanils 9-wkt haul powers J&K to victory appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NHAI to prepare DPR for overall improvement of Surathkal-Kundapura NH 66 stretch
Private consultants will suggest long-term measures at important junctions at Kota, Brahmavara town, Padubidri and Mulki town, says NHAI
Effective strategy is needed for fly management in A.P., says expert
No Thermal Power Plant in the State has a dry ash collection system, commensurating with 100% of the demand, says INSWAREB secretary in a letter to the Chief Miniter
Surat Vlogger Killed in High-Speed Crash
CCTV footage shows teen was speeding and riding without a helmet, say police
Surat Teen Vlogger Dies After KTM Duke Crashes at 140 kmph, Head Separates From Torso
18-year-old Surat vlogger Prince Patel, known as PKR Blogger, died after his KTM Duke crashed at 140 kmph on a flyover. Police say he wasnt wearing a helmet. FIR registered; probe underway.
An 18-year-old rider, Prince Patel, died in a high-speed accident near Breadliner Circle in Surat after losing control of his KTM sports bike and hitting a road divider. In a separate incident in Ahmedabad, a speeding motorcyclist in his 20s died after crashing into a BRTS track grill, with police suspecting an illegal race.
Who was Prince Patel? 18-year-old 'PKR Blogger' dies while riding bike at 140 kmph in Gujarat
A tragic accident occurred in Surat, Gujarat, where 18-year-old vlogger Prince Patel, known online as 'PKR Blogger', lost his life while riding his KTM Duke motorcycle. The incident happened on the Great Liner Bridge, a multi-level flyover, where Prince was allegedly speeding at 140 km/h. He lost control, fell off the bike, and was decapitated in the accident.
Gujarat's 'PKR Blogger' Dies In Road Accident, Was Riding KTM At 140 kmph
An 18-year-old vlogger, who goes by the name 'PKR Blogger', has died in a horrendous road accident in Gujarat's Surat while riding his KTM sports bike allegedly at a high speed. The social media influencer, Prince Patel, was decapitated.
HSBC INDIA Expands its Presence in Gujarat with a New Branch in Vadodara
HSBC India on Saturday unveiled its new branch in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a significant step in its strategic expansion across the country. This launch signifies the banks 27th branch in India and its second in Gujarat, following Reserve Bank of Indias approval earlier this year to open 20 new bank branches in key cities. Chef Ranveer Brar, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, Maharani of Baroda & Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth & Premier Banking, HSBC India, at the branch inauguration Vadodara, known for its rapid economic growth and industrial prowess, is emerging as a significant hub for wealth creation. The city is home to a burgeoning population of affluent, High Net Worth (HNW), Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), and non-resident clients in one of Indias rapidly growing wealth and industrial hubs. HSBCs new branch is strategically positioned to meet the financial and wealth needs of this customer segment. The expansion reinforces HSBCs focus on the wealth opportunity in India, where it is the leading international bank offering a full spectrum of solutions and services to clients across International Wealth and Premier Banking, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India , said, As entrepreneurial spirit and innovation continue to drive economic growth and personal wealth, affluent customers are increasingly adopting a global outlook. They are seeking a trusted partner who is able to consistently serve them across jurisdictions. Our new branch in Vadodara reflects our commitment to being closer to our customers and delivering world-class banking solutions tailored to their unique needs. As the leading international bank in India, we remain focused on enabling our clients to unlock opportunities and achieve their aspirations, both in India and internationally . With this addition, HSBC now has a network of 27 branches across 15 cities in India. HSBC has maintained a strong presence in India for over 170 years, supporting customers in their financial journeys both locally and globally. Further HSBC India will open branches in Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Vishakhapatnam. About HSBC India HSBC India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 27 branches across 15 cities. HSBC is one of India's leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country. About HSBC Holdings plc HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,099bn at 30 September 2024, HSBC is one of the worlds largest banking and financial services organisations.
Enforcement Directorate raids 15 locations under FEMA, money laundering probe
RANCHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday raided the premises of Chartered Accountant (CA) Naresh Kejriwal in Ranchi, conducting searches at 15 locations across Ranchi, Mumbai and Surat under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and money laundering provisions. Unlike previous actions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), this marks the first major ED action under FEMA in Jharkhand. Searches continued at Kejriwals residence and office at Church Complex in Ranchi, where ED teams examined documents related to financial dealings and suspicious foreign exchange transactions. Premises linked to Kejriwals family members, relatives and business associates were also searched. The crackdown follows an Income Tax Department investigation that revealed Kejriwal had invested in several undeclared foreign shell companies in the UAE, Nigeria and the US. These companies were allegedly operated from India, raising concerns about their purpose and the nature of their transactions. Investigating agencies have reportedly gathered key information about foreign investments, transactions and bank accounts. Based on this input, the ED launched searches under FEMA. Meanwhile, the ED has intensified its probe into the illegal mining case in Sahibganj, involving an estimated Rs 1,000 crore. The agency has summoned 11 individuals, including mining officers, businessmen and contractors, to appear at its Ranchi office for questioning. The investigation stems from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) based on case number 85/2020. As of June 30, 2025, the ED has filed five supplementary charge sheets in the case before the PMLA court.
NEW DELHI: In a major setback to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, the Delhi Polices Economic Offences Wing has registered a fresh FIR against them and six others in the decade-old National Herald money laundering case . The FIR, registered on October 3, 2025, follows a detailed complaint from Shiv Kumar Gupta, Assistant Director of the Enforcement Directorates Headquarters Investigation Unit, and invokes charges of criminal conspiracy, dishonest misappropriation of property, criminal breach of trust and cheating. On November 29, 2025, the Rouse Avenue Court postponed its decision on whether to take cognizance of the EDs chargesheet, deferring the order to December 16 and observing that the accused have a right to be heard before any decision is taken. According to the FIR, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Suman Dubey, Sam Pitroda, Young Indian, Dotex Merchandise Pvt Ltd, Sunil Bhandari and Associated Journals Ltd have been named as accused. Except for Sam Pitroda, who now resides in Oak Brook, Illinois, all others are residents of India. The FIR alleges an elaborate criminal conspiracy to fraudulently take over properties worth over Rs 2,000 crore belonging to Associated Journals Limited, the original publisher of the National Herald. It states that this takeover was executed by Young Indian, in which Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi held controlling stakes, for a paltry sum of Rs 50 lakhs only. It details how the All India Congress Committee gave cumulative loans of Rs 90.21 crore to AJL between 200203 and 201011 and treated the amount as non-recoverable despite AJL holding valuable properties. The FIR states: The scheme of fraud was executed by Young Indian purchasing from AICC the right to recover the loan of Rs. 90.21 cr. (given by AICC to AJL) for a paltry sum of Rs. 50 lakhs and simultaneously, AJL converted the outstanding loan of Rs. 90.21 crore into 9.02 crore equity shares of face value Rs. 10 each in favour of Young Indian, thereby defrauding shareholders of AJL on one hand and also the public donors of AICC by dishonestly inducing AICC to forego its valuable right to recover Rs. 90 Crore advanced to AJL. The FIR says AJL shareholders were cheated as their shareholding was diluted when Young Indian was issued 99% of the companys shares. It adds: ED investigation reveals that, Young Indian was effectively controlled by Sh. Rahul Gandhi and Smt. Sonia Gandhi since they together held 76% of shares through a well-thought-out conspiracy. Young Indian was incorporated on November 23, 2010 with a capital of Rs 5 lakh, and through transfers and allotments, Sonia and Rahul Gandhi each came to hold 38% of its shares. Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey were the original shareholders with 550 shares each. On January 22, 2011, fresh allotments and transfers brought in Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi as 38% shareholders each, while Motilal Vora and Oscar Fernandes received 12% each. The FIR traces the case back to BJP leader Subramanian Swamys 2013 complaint at Patiala House Courts. The court took cognizance in June 2014. It quotes the order: In the Order passed, Ld. MM observed that Young Indian was created as a sham or a cloak to convert public money to personal use or as a special purpose vehicle for acquiring control over Rs. 2000 Cr. worth of assets of AJL and accused person have allegedly acted in consortium with each other to achieve the said nefarious purpose. The High Court later refused to interfere with the cognizance order. The FIR lists three major AJL properties allegedly diverted for private gain: Herald House in New Delhi, AJL House in Bandra East, Mumbai, and a property at Bisheshwar Nath Road in Lucknow. It states: The above facts and circumstances of the case enumerate the issue of government properties being allotted to AJL at subsidized rates for larger public purposes, only to be usurped and misused by the beneficial owners of Young Indian and thus represents a serious form of criminal conspiracy and financial fraud. It alleges AJL shareholders were cheated when Young Indian gained 99% ownership through decisions taken by only 7 members of the company who together held 0.00005% of the total shareholding in AJL. It adds: he fraudulent misrepresentations made to the general body of shareholders of AJL leading to wrongful gain of almost Rs 2000 crores in favour of Young Indian and its owners namely Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Sh. Rahul Gandhi and the corresponding wrongful loss to the shareholders of Young Indian clearly makes out an offence of criminal conspiracy and cheating. The FIR also outlines how AICC and its donors were allegedly defrauded, stating: The concerned office bearers of AICC viz. the then President Sonia Gandhi and General Secretary Rahul Gandhi by 'selling' AICC's right to recover a loan of Rs. 90.21 crores from AJL for a paltry sum of Rs 50 lakhs to Young Indian has virtually deprived AICC not only the right to recover the entire Rs. 90.21 crore but also the option of converting this debt into equity shares from AJL which would have entitled AICC as a 99% shareholder to properties worth almost Rs. 2000 crores According to the FIR, Young Indian acquired proceeds of crime in the form of AJL shares, immovable properties and rental income. It states that the properties, valued at Rs 755 crore, were treated as proceeds of crime, and notes rental income of Rs 142.67 crore between 201011 and 202223 as direct proceeds of crime. The total proceeds of crime are pegged at Rs 988.03 crore. ED had attached properties worth Rs 751.91 crore on November 20, 2023. The FIR cites three additional alleged frauds: bogus donations of Rs 18.12 crore to Young Indian in 201718 to discharge the income tax demand, fake advance rent of Rs 38.41 crore received by AJL from nine entities on instructions of Congress leaders, and fake advertisement revenue of Rs 29.45 crore between 201718 and 202021. It states: Most of the advertisement given does not commensurate with business purposes of the donors as these advertisements are mostly in the form of congratulatory messages/birthday wishes to congress top leaders. It also details how Young Indian arranged the Rs 50 lakh payment to AICC, citing a Rs 1 crore loan from Dotex Merchandise Pvt Ltd, described as a shell company. Part of this was used for the Rs 50 lakh payment toward acquiring AICCs right to recover Rs 90.21 crore from AJL. The FIR was registered based on information shared by the Enforcement Directorate under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. After approval from ED Director Rahul Naveen, the complaint was sent to the Commissioner of Police for action. Modi-Shah continuing with 'mischievous politics of vendetta': Congress With Delhi Police filing an FIR against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, the Congress on Sunday alleged that the Modi-Shah duo is continuing with its mischievous politics of harassment, intimidation, and vendetta against the party's top leadership. Condemning the action, the opposition party also said the National Herald matter is a completely bogus case and justice will ultimately triumph. In a post on X, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh charged, The Modi-Shah duo is continuing with its mischievous politics of harassment, intimidation, and vendetta against the top leadership of the INC. Those who threaten are themselves insecure and afraid. The National Herald matter is a completely bogus case. Justice will ultimately triumph. Satyameva Jayate, he said. The Modi-Shah duo is continuing with its mischievous politics of harassment, intimidation, and vendetta against the top leadership of the INC. Those who threaten are themselves insecure and afraid. The National Herald matter is a completely bogus case. Justice will ultimately Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) November 30, 2025 Congress spokesperson and senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi said in a post on X that the FIR was either wine new nor bottle new nor glasses new. One trick wonder of a case where no money moved, where no immovable property transferred yet money laundering invented upon creation of Young Indian as a not for profit co to merely hold shares of AJL which in turn runs and holds brand NH and continues to hold all property as before &as always. Condition precedent of ML (money laundering) movement of money and conversion of unaccounted to white money always absent, yet we have politically malicious proceedings continuing, he said on X. Ironically, Gandhis and other Congress functionaries as directors of YI cannot get dividends, cannot distribute profits, get not one perk, yet accused of ML!! Current FIR created by adding few lines re infusion of money by private company to enable payment of assignment money by YI to make AJL debt free, Singhvi said. #NatHerald neither wine new nor bottle new nor glasses new. Hence my comment also old. One trick wonder of a case where no money moved, where no immovable property transferred yet money laundering invented upon creation of #YoungIndian as a not for profit co to merely hold shares Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) November 30, 2025 Senior Congress leader Pramod Tiwari slammed the government over the development, alleging that it is working like the British rulers who took away people's democratic rights. This is politics of vendetta and we condemn it. We never bowed down earlier, neither will we bow down now nor in the future. Gandhi family has always fought for the independence of the country and we will keep fighting for the freedom of democracy, he said. His remarks came after the Delhi Police filed an FIR against former Congress presidents Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi and other accused in the National Herald case on a complaint by the ED as part of the agency's money laundering probe into the high-profile case that alleges that the first family of the party abused their position for personal gains. Official sources and documents said the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police filed a complaint against the Gandhis and seven others on October 3. The police has pressed charges under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 403 (dishonest misappropriation of property), 406 (punishment for criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC in the FIR that names the Gandhis, Congress leaders Suman Dubey and Sam Pitroda, entities like the Young Indian (YI) and Dotex Merchandise Ltd, Dotex promoter Sunil Bhandari, Associated Journals Ltd. (AJL) and unknown others. These entities are also named as an accused (except unknown others) in the ED chargesheet filed before a Delhi court in April. The court is yet to take its cognisance with the next date of hearing scheduled for December 16. The ED, according to the sources, used powers available to it under section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to get the police FIR registered. This section allows the federal agency to share evidence for registration of a criminal predicate offence by a law enforcement agency so that it can subsequently book a money laundering case to take forward the investigation.
Housing sales in 15 Tier II cities up 4 pc to over Rs 37K cr in July-Sept quarter
NEW DELHI, Nov 29: Housing sales across 15 major Tier II cities have increased 4 per cent annually to Rs 37,409 crore in the July-September quarter despite a fall in volumes, according to PropEquity. Real estate data analytic firm PropEquity data showed that housing sales in Indias top 15 Tier II cities fell 4 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to 39,201 units in the September quarter of this calendar year. These 15 Tier II cities are Ahmedabad, Surat, Gandhi Nagar, [] The post Housing sales in 15 Tier II cities up 4 pc to over Rs 37K cr in July-Sept quarter appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
MCA picks squad for first two matches of Vijay Merchant Trophy
By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 25: The Meghalaya Cricket Association has named its squad for the first two matches of the multi-day U-16 boys Vijay Merchant Trophy 2025-26. The plate group matches will all take place in Surat and Meghalayas first fixture will be against Sikkim from December 7 to 9. The second game will []
ED hands over four attached flats of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi for asset recovery
NEW DELHI: In a move against fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi in Rs 6000 crore PNB scam, the Enforcement directorate (ED) has handed over four flats of Gitanjali Gems Ltd to the liquidator, the agency said on Monday. The agency has facilitated the handing over of four flats in Project Tatva, Urja A Wing, Datthapada Road, Borivali (East), Mumbai, properties attached in the case of Mehul Choksi and others in PNB fraud case to the liquidator on November 21. It will enable the liquidator to proceed with monetisation for the benefit of victims, secured creditors and other legitimate claimants. Till now, immovable/movable properties located at Mumbai, Kolkata and Surat collectively having worth of Rs 310 crore have been handed over to the Liquidator of Gitanjali Gems Ltd, the agency said. Investigation in the case of Mehul Choksi revealed that Choksi connived with his associates and Bank officials of Punjab National Bank (PNB) during the period from 2014 to 2017 and fraudulently got issued Letters of Undertaking and Foreign Letters of Credit from PNB resulting in wrongful loss of Rs 6097.63 crore to PNB. He had also taken loan from ICICI Bank and had defaulted on that loan too. During the investigation, ED conducted searches at more than 136 locations all over India and seized valuables and jewelleries worth Rs 597.75 crore pertaining to Gitanjali Group of Mehul Choksi. Further, immovable/movable assets worth Rs 1968.15 Crore of Mehul Choksi/Gitanjali Group were attached which included immovable properties in India and overseas, vehicles, bank accounts, factory, shares of listed companies, jewellery, among others. In aggregate, assets worth Rs 2565.90 crore were attached or seized in this case and three Prosecution Complaints have been filed, the agency said in the matter. To expedite the process of restitution of properties to the victim banks, ED along with the banks took proactive steps towards monetisation of assets.
Another BLO found dead under suspicious circumstances at her residence in Gujarat
AHMEDABAD: A 26-year-old BLO and Surat Municipal Corporation technical assistant, Dinkal Shingodawala, was found unconscious in her bathroom and later declared dead at a private hospital. With a gas geyser inside the bathroom, police officials indicated the possibility of gas inhalation or suffocation as the cause of death. However, BLO workload-related deaths statewide spark concerns. Off the cuff: During SIR exercise, BLOs find some blank columns hide painful memories Dinkal, who lived with her family in Olpad taluka, was serving as a technical assistant in Surat Municipal Corporations Varachha zone while also managing the additional responsibility of Booth Level Officer (BLO) for the ongoing SIR exercise. Frantic attempts were made to save her after she collapsed in her bathroom. Her family rushed her to a private hospital in Surat, but despite immediate treatment, the young officer succumbed within minutes, raising chilling questions over whether her death was just accidental. Lock BLOs inside your house, don't let them delete names from voter list: Jharkhand minister on SIR The administrative side projected a picture of a dedicated and exceptionally fast-working officer. Deputy Collector Neha Savani, defending the work conditions, said, BLO Dinkals work report was very good. She completed AIR tasks very quickly and had already achieved 45% of her assigned work. Her statements underline a critical contradiction, while officers insist there was no undue pressure. The tally of sudden BLO deaths is rising, with earlier cases involving suicides and heart attack-linked deaths among teachers. Police have registered a case of accidental death and sent the body for postmortem, a report that will determine whether this was a tragic household mishap or a preventable loss linked to systemic strain. Hasty SIR implementation reminiscent of demonetisation and Covid lockdown, says Congress on BLO deaths
28-Year-Old Physiotherapist Jumps To Death From Rooftop Cafe In Surat
A 28-year-old physiotherapist from Surat, died by suicide at a cafe. She was set to marry in January 2026. Police are investigating the reason behind her death.
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Surat Cricket Association President Arrested In Rs 2.92 Crore Loan Fraud Case
Surat Cricket association chief was arrested for forging signatures to get a Rs 2.92 crore loan, defaulting on Rs 67 lakh. Probe ongoing.
Surat evaluates electric freight vehicles under clean air programme
Surat cyber cell busts CFOs Rs 9 crore job scam hidden behind corporate facade
AHMEDABAD: Surat Cyber Cell has uncovered one of Gujarats most meticulously engineered cyber-fraud operations, masterminded by a highly educated, white-collar criminal. The accused, Nitesh Govani, a B.Sc. Mathematics graduate and Chief Finance Officer at a reputed Pune-based firm, created a corporate maze so convincing that more than 1,200 people were duped and Rs 9 crore siphoned off. A respectable profile masking a criminal mind On paper, Govani appeared to be the model urban professional: a strong academic background, excellent command over statistics, a Rs 65,000 monthly salary, and a 20% stake in his company. Yet behind this faade, he was driven by greed and an ambition for crores, not a modest monthly income. His criminal behaviour was not new. In 2021, he had been arrested in Ahmedabad for a similar data-entry scam, extorting victims by accusing them of violating digital contracts. A six-month stint in Sabarmati Jail became, according to investigators, a crime research lab in his head rather than a place of reform. A fraud blueprint conceived behind bars Upon release, Govani resolved not to abandon fraud but to refine it. His plan: build a scam that looked entirely legal from the outside. While continuing his job in Pune, he envisioned a more professional and layered scheme, one far harder to detect. Buying a loss-making company to appear legitimate Bank regulations required a company to be at least a year old for subscription-based deductions. To bypass this, Govani purchased a struggling Surat-based firm, Global Index, from its original owner, Sanket Mangrola. This shell company became the anchor of his deception. In 2024, he created a paper-only Dubai entity named Connecting All India, and launched another firm, White Solver, to lure jobseekers with data-entry roles offering Rs 20 per app download. The perfect trap: digital contracts + legal threats The fraud worked by interlinking three companies: White Solver offered the jobs. Global Index acted as an HR consultancy issuing contracts. Connecting All India was presented as the platform provider. Victims were persuaded to e-sign digital contracts, which Govani later weaponised to accuse them of breaches, threatening legal action to extort money. He kept the entire structure clean on paper, filing GST, paying taxes, and keeping documents immaculate. In a calculated move, he even sold Global Index on paper to an individual named Satyendra Pal, ensuring that if investigators traced the company, it would not lead back to him. Yet he continued to operate all login IDs, passwords, and financial mechanisms secretly. Police crack the code The elaborate faade collapsed when the Surat Cyber Cell began probing suspicious call-centre operations. As digital trails converged, the same name, Nitesh Govani, surfaced repeatedly behind multiple companies, transactions, and locations. DCP Bishakha Jain, who led the investigation, stated: He created a network of multiple companies only to make his fraud appear legal. White Solver offered jobs, Global Index managed HR contracts, and Connecting All India was shown as the app company. On paper he had sold Global Index, but we found that Nitesh himself operated all login IDs, passwords, and financial controls. Every document looked lawful, making this one of the most sophisticated cyber-fraud structures we have seen. She added: He exploited peoples desperation for work and loans, trapped them through digital signatures, and extorted money by instilling legal fear. Altogether, he cheated more than 1,200 citizens and siphoned over Rs 9 crore. The end of the mathematical fraud Govani sought not only to extort money but also to inflate the valuation of his bogus Dubai company by amassing vast amounts of user data. However, his mathematical precision and corporate camouflage ultimately collapsed under the weight of forensic cyber investigation. With his arrest, Surat Cyber Cell has exposed how an educated CFO turned his degree, his job title, and corporate sophistication into tools to exploit thousands of innocent people, until the carefully crafted illusion finally crumbled.
India's first high-speed rail corridor is being constructed between Sabarmati and Mumbai to operate a bullet train at 320 kmph.
NEW DELHI: India is set to witness the inaugural run of its first bullet train in August 2027, operating between Surat and Vapi in Gujarat. The initial stretch will cover 100 km and will gradually be expanded to the full 508 km route once the high-speed rail corridor between Sabarmati (Ahmedabad) and Mumbai is completed by 2029, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday. Speaking to the media after launching the rationalisation of bulk cement rates and the policy for bulk cement terminals at Rail Bhawan, Vaishnaw said, A significant milestone is that the bullet train will cover the distance between Ahmedabad and Mumbai in just 1 hour 58 minutes upon the completion of the high-speed rail corridor. The inaugural run in August 2027 will cover 100 km between Surat and Vapi. On the 508 km corridor, trains will run at speeds of up to 320 kmph, completing the full route in 1 hour 58 minutes with four stops. The bullet train will cover the distance between Mumbai and Ahmedabad in 1 hour 58 minutes with four stops. However, if it halts at all 12 stations, the total journey time will be 2 hours 17 minutes, Vaishnaw said, adding that the entire network will be ready by December 2029. Asked whether the inaugural run would feature a Japanese-built or an indigenous train, the minister did not specify but reiterated the deadline: We will cover the first 100 km in August 2027. He noted that PM Narendra Modi, during a recent review in Surat, was satisfied with the pace of work. PM Modi said that whatever innovations we have made in this project should be applied elsewherenot only in railways and other high-speed projects but in various sectors, he added. Vaishnaw said the bullet train project has been complex, with several design challenges, but Indian Railways has addressed them through multiple innovations. The Shinkansen model, known for reliability and suitability for Indian conditions, is likely to be used. The minister also announced the introduction of specialised containers for transporting bulk cement to prevent dust pollution.
Prime Minister reviews Surat Bullet Train station
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the under-construction Surat station to check progress on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. The corridor, spanning 508 km, will be Indias first bullet train network. The post Prime Minister reviews Surat Bullet Train station appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Udhna Special to run up to Surat
Meghalaya in control on Day 1 against Manipur
Ranji Trophy By Our Reporter Shillong, Nov 16: Meghalayas two guest professionals, Rahul Dalal and Ajay Duhan, both made centuries on the first day of their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 plate group match against Manipur in Surat on Sunday. Rahul bludgeoned 151 from 146 balls in an innings that included 23 fours and three sixes, while []
PM Modi urges creation of Blue Book of learnings during visit to Bullet Train project in Gujarat
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited the under-construction Bullet Train Station in Surat, Gujarat, where he reviewed the progress of the MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. During the visit, he interacted with the team working on Indias first Bullet Train project and enquired about the pace of work, including adherence to speed and timetable targets. Workers allegedly assured him that the project was progressing smoothly without any difficulties. An engineer from Kerala shared her experience of working at the Noise Barrier Factory in Navsari, Gujarat, where robotic units are being deployed to weld rebar cages. Modi asked her how she personally perceived the experience of building Indias first Bullet Train, and what the team shared with their families about this historic achievement. She expressed pride in contributing to the nations first Bullet Train, describing it as a dream project and a proud moment for her family. Reflecting on the spirit of national service, the Prime Minister emphasised that when the feeling arises of working for the nation and contributing something new, it becomes a source of immense motivation. He drew a parallel with Indias space journey, recalling how the scientists who launched the countrys first satellite must have felt, and how today hundreds of satellites are being launched. Another employee, Shruti from Bengaluru, serving as Lead Engineering Manager, explained the rigorous design and engineering control processes. She highlighted that at every stage of execution, her team evaluates pros and cons, identifies solutions, and explores alternatives to ensure flawless implementation. Prime Minister Modi remarked that if the experiences gained here are recorded and compiled like a Blue Book, the country can move decisively towards large-scale implementation of Bullet Trains. He emphasised that India must avoid repeated experimentation and instead replicate the learnings from existing models. The Prime Minister highlighted that replication will only be meaningful if there is a clear understanding of why certain actions were taken; otherwise, he cautioned, replication may occur without purpose or direction. He suggested that maintaining such records could benefit future students and contribute to nation-building. We will dedicate our lives here and leave behind something valuable for the country, the Prime Minister affirmed. During an interaction, an employee expressed his commitment in heartfelt words through a poem, to which the Prime Minister lauded his dedication and responded with appreciation. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was present during the visit. The Prime Minister visited the Surat station to review the progress of the MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor (MAHSR), one of Indias most ambitious infrastructure projects symbolising the nations leap into high-speed connectivity. The MAHSR spans approximately 508 kilometres, covering 352 km in Gujarat and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and 156 km in Maharashtra. The corridor will connect major cities including Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Bilimora, Vapi, Boisar, Virar, Thane and Mumbai, marking a transformative step in Indias transport infrastructure. Built with advanced engineering techniques on a par with international standards, the project features 465 km, about 85% of the route, on viaducts, ensuring minimal land disturbance and enhanced safety. So far, 326 km of viaduct work has been completed, and 17 out of 25 river bridges have already been constructed. Upon completion, the Bullet Train will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to nearly two hours, revolutionising inter-city travel by making it faster, easier and more comfortable. The project is expected to boost business, tourism and economic activity along the entire corridor, catalysing regional development. The SuratBilimora section, covering around 47 km, is in an advanced stage of completion, with civil works and track-bed laying fully completed. The design of the Surat station draws inspiration from the citys world-renowned diamond industry, reflecting both elegance and functionality. The station has been designed with a strong focus on passenger comfort, featuring spacious waiting lounges, restrooms and retail outlets. It will also offer seamless multi-modal connectivity with the Surat Metro, city buses and the Indian Railways network.
PM Modi asks bullet train project engineers to document experiences
Modi was interacting with engineers and other workers of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Railway (MAHSR) project in Surat on Saturday.
PM Modi Visits Bullet Train Station In Gujarat, Interacts With Team Behind Ambitious Project
PM Modi visited the under-construction Bullet Train Station in Gujarat's Surat and reviewed the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor.
Bihar's talent visible everywhere, no need to teach them politics: PM Modi in Surat
'Congress abandoned tribals, BJP restored their dignity and development': PM Modi
AHMEDABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on Saturday in Gujarat, launched a blistering political attack on the Congress. He accused the party of abandoning tribal communities for six decades and failing to recognise their contributions. He highlighted the BJPs record of expanding welfare spending, building institutions, and elevating Adivasi leaders to national prominence since 2014. PM Modi also invoked history, stating that tribal sacrifices in the freedom struggle were suppressed to glorify 'a few families', and asserted that his government restored long-overdue honour to tribal icons and communities across India. He also accused the Congress of leaving tribal communities to their fate during its six decades in power. He said that malnutrition, poor health services, broken connectivity and the absence of education became the forced identity of tribal regions as previous governments refused to intervene. They sat idle while an entire community struggled, he declared, linking each failure directly to Congress leadership. PM Modi also recalled the political timeline, emphasising that it was only when Atal Bihari Vajpayee became Prime Minister that India saw the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Tribal Affairs, something he described as a foundational correction that Congress had never even attempted. Yet, once the Congress-led government returned to power, the ministry was reduced to a token department with only a small amount allotted for tribal welfare, stalling crucial development. He said his government, since 2014, increased the ministrys spending several times, building momentum for development in areas ignored for generations. He linked the expansion directly to health reforms, stating that the government boosted medical facilities in tribal districts as they face the deadly threat of sickle cell anaemia. He also linked welfare to empowerment, highlighting massive investment in sports infrastructure and reminding the audience that Indias World Cup-winning womens team had one proud tribal player who symbolised rising representation. Seamlessly shifting from welfare to recognition, PM Modi underscored how his government honoured Adivasi achievements long overshadowed by dynastic politics. In the pursuit of giving credit for independence to a few families, the sacrifice and dedication of my tribal brothers and sisters were ignored, he said, expanding the critique into a broader historical narrative. He argued that before 2014, icons like Bhagwan Birsa Munda were not widely remembered, but his government changed it so that the future generation would know the great gift our tribal brothers and sisters gave us. PM Modi pointed to the surge in tribal representation as evidence of this shift. He recalled the Padma Shri awarded to Adivasi painter Paresh Rathwa and highlighted that Indias President today comes from the tribal community. With the same breath, he cited the rise of leaders such as Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Chhattisgarhs Chief Minister, who he said is driving transformative change, Nagalands Neiphiu Rio, who is doing remarkable work,. He also mentioned Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who is working tirelessly to develop his state. PM Modi said that it reflected a new era where tribal communities are not just beneficiaries, but leaders shaping Indias direction. He noted that the tribal societys roots extend back to Lord Ram, yet their place in Indias progress was never acknowledged by earlier governments. By the end of his speech, PM Modis message wove together politics, history, development, identity and framed the BJP as the first party to give tribal communities both recognition and representation, portraying Congress as the force that kept them on the margins for decades. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 9,700 crore in Gujarats Narmada district, giving a major push to the states infrastructure drive. Earlier in the day, he reviewed the construction progress of the bullet train station in Surat, an important node of the MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, before heading to events commemorating the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.
PM Narendra Modi reviews under-construction bullet train station in Surat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Surat to inspect the ongoing construction of the bullet train station. He reviewed the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. Later, the Prime Minister will visit Dediapada to address a gathering and inaugurate development projects worth over Rs 9,700 crore. He will also offer prayers at a local temple.
PM Modi reviews under-construction bullet train station in Surat
Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor spans approximately 508 km, covering 352 km in Gujarat and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and 156 km in Maharashtra
Madrasa cleric, a Canadian citizen, who drugged and raped woman in Gujarat arrested
AHMEDABAD: A 52-year-old Canadian madrasa cleric has been arrested in Gujarats Ankleshwar for allegedly drugging, raping, and threatening a woman in the village over forceful conversion. The arrest came following the survivors complaint, prompting police to launch a wider probe. The crime in the AnkleshwarSurat fringe has jolted Gujarats law-and-order machinery. Every detail that surfaced dragged the investigation deeper, pushing the police to widen scrutiny beyond a single assault. The case began when the woman, introduced to cleric Azwad (52) through a mutual friend, found herself pulled into frequent calls and messages. The clerics persistent attempts, police say, were aimed at trapping her with promises of marriage and attempts that gradually tightened into a predatory scheme. On November 9, the accused allegedly summoned the victim to his room inside the madrasa. He offered her fragrant water, which, as per the complaint, knocked her down unconscious. Taking advantage of her incapacitated state, the cleric allegedly raped her twice. Horrifyingly, it was a calculated assault that marked the beginning of a darker series of threats. When the woman regained consciousness, police say the cleric dropped the faade and allegedly tried to coerce her into immediate religious conversion. He reportedly threatened to defame her and kill her children if she resisted. However, the survivor refused to bow down to the intimidation tactic. Undeterred by the threats, the woman approached the Panoli Police Station in Ankleswar and narrated the entire ordeal. Officers promptly registered an FIR and arrested the cleric. This revelation triggered a deeper probe into his background, movements, and possible past victims. Bharuch District Police Chief Akshay Raj Makwana, detailing the seriousness of the case, said: On 11-11-2025, the woman filed a complaint stating that cleric Ajwad Ahmed repeatedly called her, lured her with fabricated stories, forced her to drink tainted water, and raped her. She was then repeatedly pressured to convert. The cleric has been arrested. It has also been revealed that he is a citizen of Canada. Makwana further added, His 10-day police remand has been approved. We are investigating whether he targeted other women in a similar pattern. We are thoroughly examining his travel history -- the countries he visited, and the pattern he used to commit such acts. As the probe expands, Panoli police continue legal action on all fronts: sexual assault, intimidation, foreign citizenship scrutiny, and potential multi-victim targeting, ensuring that nothing is left unexamined.
NITK-Surathkal engineers ramp up Malgudis magic with reliable Internet in Agumbe
A team from NITK Surathkal have completed the deployment of 100 internet connections in Agumbe on November 8, under the project Promoting HEALTH in Agumbe
Government doctors associations stage protest against redeployment of personnel
They urge the government to immediately withdraw the G.O. for redeployment and instead create new posts commensurate with the expanding healthcare infrastructure and patient load
Telangana Ranks 1st in Water Conservation Projects, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan Follow
Launched in September 2024 in Surat, JSJB promotes community-led water stewardship through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society model
Meghalaya's Akash Kumar Choudhary achieved a historic feat in Surat. He scored a fifty in just 11 balls, breaking the world record for the fastest fifty in First-Class cricket. This remarkable innings came during a Ranji Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh. Choudhary's explosive batting included eight sixes. His performance has rewritten cricket records and brought him global recognition.
