Surat to honour 6000 sanitation workers as part of PM Modis birthday

Paatil highlighted Surats achievement of being declared the cleanest city in India for the first time and said that 6000 sanitation workers will be honoured

Surat beheading case: Friend turns into killer during heated argument, arrested

AHMEDABAD: A horrifying beheading case that shook Surat has been cracked. Police arrested Ishad alias Munna Mansuri for brutally murdering his friend and a labourer Dinesh Mahanto. During interrogation, Ishad alias Munna Mansuri confessed to the horrific crime. He told police that a heated argument erupted between him and his friend Dinesh in their room. When Dinesh allegedly began abusing Munnas mother and sister, Munna lost control. In a fit of uncontrollable rage, he smashed Dineshs head with a stone and, as the abuse continued, beheaded him using a paddle. Believing he could hide the murder, Munna dumped the head in a nearby garbage heap to mislead the police and left the torso behind in the room. After the killing, Munna fled Laskana and hid in Pipodara on the outskirts of Surat, where no one recognised him. To avoid detection, he changed his identity, adopting the name Irshad Mansuri, and even secured a new job at a local factory. However, the Crime Branch, following a digital and physical trail, closed in on him within a day of his new employment and arrested him before he could disappear again. Surat police have finally unravelled the grisly mystery behind the headless body discovered in Laskana. The shocking incident took place on September 11, when residents near Vijaynagar Lake were horrified to find a severed human head dumped in a pile of garbage. Hours later, investigators stumbled upon a headless torso hidden in a house just 500 meters away, triggering panic across the area. As the case gained urgency, Crime Branch and local police teams fanned out across the industrial belt. Their probe soon identified the victim as Dinesh Mahanto, a labourer from Gopalganj, Bihar, who had been living and working in Laskana for the past four months. Dinesh, a father of three, had been sharing a rented room with his friend and fellow factory worker, Munna Bihari, also from Bihar. Suspicion quickly fell on Munna when investigators learned that the two were last seen together on the very day of the murder the same day Munna abruptly quit his job after collecting his salary of 8,000. The rented room turned out to be a murder chamber, not a residence. Inside, police recovered a bloodstained rod, believed to be the weapon used to initially strike Dinesh, and a paddle used to behead him. CCTV footage added a chilling twist: Munna was captured carrying a suspicious bag, which police suspect contained the severed head. DCP Bhavesh Rojiya told the Media: A week ago, the head of a person was found in a garbage heap near Vipulnagar Lake, and a torso was found 500 meters away in Wadinathnagar. This spread fear in the entire area. As the deceased was initially unidentified, we carried out checks in all nearby factories and traced him as Dinesh Mahanto. With sustained efforts, we tracked down the accused and solved the case. This brutal murder has not only left Dineshs family devastated but also sent shockwaves through Surats labour community, exposing the simmering tensions among migrant workers living under extreme pressure in cramped industrial neighbourhoods.

Surat Police Bust High-Profile Sex Racket; 13 Thai Women Rescued, 9 Arrested

Surat police busted a high-profile sex racket operating out of a hotel in Jahangirpura. 13 Thai women were rescued and nine persons were arrested.

One Year After Surat Jewellers Suicide, Handwriting Report Leads To Two Arrests

Surat police arrest two women for abetting jeweler Amar Kant Jeswals suicide after handwriting report confirms threats.

19 years on the run, Gujarat police arrest disguised fugitive in Karnataka

AHMEDABAD: After 19 years on the run, Gujarats Surat City police have finally nabbed Naresh Kesrimalji Rawal, the prime accused in a brutal 2007 robbery and murder case. Rawal, who had been living under a fake identity in Karnatakas Udupi district, was arrested by the Special Operations Group (SOG) in a dramatic undercover operation. Surat city DCP Rajdeep Singh Nakum said, The SOG team arrested a wanted accused carrying a reward of Rs 45,000. Back in 2007, when he was working as a driver, he and his accomplices killed and robbed a security guard. Our team tracked him down to Udupi, Karnataka, where he was finally arrested. Surats most wanted fugitive, Naresh Kesrimalji Rawal, has finally been captured after evading the law for 19 long years. Rawal, the prime accused in a 2007 robbery and murder case, was arrested by the Surat Special Operations Group (SOG) in Udupi, Karnataka, where he had been hiding under a false identity. The dramatic case traces back to Umra, Surat, where Rawal, then employed as a driver for a family whose sons lived abroad, plotted a deadly robbery. Exploiting his access to the house, Rawal brought in his accomplice Ravi Pandey and tipped off partners-in-crime Vijay Gupta and Santosh Gupta. On the fateful day, Rawal and his gang held the elderly couple hostage and murdered the watchman who tried to resist them. They escaped with gold ornaments and foreign currency worth over 2 lakh, leaving behind terror and bloodshed. Police acted swiftly and arrested Vijay and Santosh Gupta, but Rawal and Pandey vanished without a trace. Rawal, the mastermind, hopped across cities Mumbai, Chennai, Belgaum, Uttara Kannada frequently changing his name and identity to dodge law enforcement. With a Rs 45,000 reward announced for his capture, the trail ran cold until a recent intelligence tip-off revealed that he was living in Udupi. Acting on this lead, SOG officers disguised themselves as South Indian traders, infiltrated the locality, and confirmed his identity. Rawal had assumed the name Nirmal Kesrimalji Korawar, working as a marble labourer and driver while marrying a local woman from the Korawar community to blend in further. After days of surveillance, SOG finally pounced and arrested Rawal, bringing a two-decade-old manhunt to a dramatic close. Police also revealed that Rawal had two earlier housebreaking cases registered at Surat citys Umra police station in 2005, highlighting his deep-rooted criminal history. His associate Ravi Pandey, however, remains at large, keeping the investigation active.

Trump's tariffs hurting India, people losing jobs: Shashi Tharoor

SINGAPORE: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday said the tariffs imposed by the US has impacted India with people already losing jobs, even as he lashed out at American President Donald Trump for being mercurial in nature and not honouring conventional standards of diplomatic behaviour. US has imposed a 50 per cent tariff, including 25 per cent as penalty for buying Russian oil, on shipments from India. India needs to diversify export markets to mitigate the impact of tariffs, Tharoor said, adding that 1.35 lakh people have lost jobs in gems and jewelery business in Surat and in seafood and manufacturing sectors. Mr Trump is a very mercurial individual, and the American system gives the President an amazing amount of leeway, Tharoor said while replying to a query related to Indo-US relationship and imposition of tariffs, at a conference organised by CREDAI, India's apex industry body for real estate sector. Continuing with his opinion about Trump, Tharoor said, Even though there have been 44 or 45 presidents before him, no one has ever seen this kind of behaviour coming down from the White House. The Congress leader described Trump as an unusual president by every yardstick and said the US President certainly does not honour the conventional standards of diplomatic behaviour. I mean, have you ever heard any world leader openly saying that he deserves a Noble peace prize. It never happened before. Have you heard of any world leader saying things like, 'oh, all the countries in the world want to come and kiss my ass', Tharoor said. Why open societies foster golden ages Have you heard of any world leader who has basically said, India and Russia have dead economies. I don't care if they go down the drain together, he said, adding that this was not the kind of language being ever heard from any head of government. So Trump is unusual, and I would beg you not to judge our performance by his behaviour, the Congress leader said. On the impact of tariff, Tharoor said the truth is that the tariffs have had a very very negative impact on India. Already, people are losing jobs. 1.35 lakh people in Surat have been laid off in the Gems and jewelery business, he said, adding that there are potential job losses in the seafood and manufacturing sector. Stating that the tariff was hurting the Indian economy, he said, I don't want anyone to have any illusions that we can just wash it up. Tharoor said the exports of many products became unviable because of the initial 25 per cent tariff and the additional penalty of 25 per cent has made it virtually impossible to enter US market with Indian competitors having lower tariffs. The Congress leader said that India has no choice but to tighten its belt and move on. We are finding it very difficult to get into the American market. And I am pleased to say that we are actually negotiating knowing very well that we need some access to America, he said, adding that there are possibilities of reduction in the initial basic 25 per cent tariff imposed by the US. The imposition of additional 25 per cent is not tariff. It is actually sanctions and it is a sanction against us for buying oil from Russia. But that's totally unfair, because China is importing more oil and gas from Russia, the Congress leader said. Tharoor said the US should have uniform policy for every country which buys oil from Russia. This entire sanction policy seems to be completely bizarre and unsustainable. But, anyway, until that sanction is removed, however successfully we negotiate a basic trade deal, we still have an enormous problem, he observed. Tharoor said there is a need to diversify export markets and felt that the recent trade agreement with UK would boost India's exports. Apart from exploring other export markets, he said, We also have to diversify our lines of political communication to other countries. We can't just afford to sit there and say we have no other option, he said. Tharoor mentioned that Indian Prime Minister has gone to China recently and Russian Presidnet is coming to India later this year. We are essentially showing a serious intent at least to move away from confrontation conversation with China. Even though we've had some very, very tough times in that relationship, I think we will find ourselves trying to open up very much more for China than we have done in the last 5-6 years, he said. On Russia, Tharoor said the relationship was always reasonably stable and it might become warmer now. The Congress leader advocated that India should find common cause with European countries and try to create a Indo-European pole, which would have some clout and heft in the world. More than 1,000 delegates, including real estate developers and consultants, are attending a three-day conference CREDAI-NATCON here in Singapore.

Southern Railway announces ThiruvananthapuramMumbai special trains for Puja holidays

Southern Railway announced special trains between Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai in view of clearing extra rush of passengers during Durga Puja holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No.01463 Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Thiruvananthapuram North Festival Special will leave Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 4 pm from Sept. 25 to Nov. 27 on Thursdays to reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 10.45 pm on the next day (10 Services). In the opposite direction, Train No. 01464 Thiruvananthapuram North - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Festival Special will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 4.20 pm from Sept. 27 to Nov. 29 on Saturdays to reach Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 1 am on the next Monday (10 Services). These trains will have a Coach Composition: 01- AC Two Tier Coach, 06- AC Three Tier Coaches, 09- Sleeper Class Coaches, 04- General Second Class Coaches, 01- General Second Class Luggage cum Brake Van Coach (Divyangjan friendly) & 01- Generator Car Coach. They will stop at Thane, Panvel, Pen, Roha, Khed, Chiplun, Sangameshwar Road, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Sindhudurg, Kudal, Sawantwadi, Thivim, Karmali, Madgaon Junction, Karwar, Gokarna, Kumta, Murdeshwar, Bhatkal, Mookambika Road Byndoor, Kundapura, Udupi, Surathkal, Mangaluru Junction, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur Junction Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam Junction, Sashankota and Kollam Junction.

IAF's MiG-21s set to retire, institutions queue up to acquire airframes for display

NEW DELHI: As the historic MiG-21 combat fighters prepare to retire from service, government and academic institutions are lining up to request the airframes for display. The final squadron of MiG aircraft is set to bid farewell on 26 September at Chandigarh. An Indian Air Force (IAF) source said, There is a waitlist of applications from government, academic, public, and private institutions requesting old MiG-21 aircraft. The waitlist spans five to six years once applications are received by IAF Headquarters, the source added. A procedure is followed for retired aircraft, either putting them up for salvage or transferring them to requesting institutions. In the case of salvage, parts that can be reused are removed, and the remaining components are scrapped. For transfer, the airframe is provided without the engine and related systems. Government institutions require paperwork before the transfer, while private institutions must bear a cost of Rs 3040 lakh. The maintenance of the airframe is the responsibility of the receiving institution. Retirement of MiG fighter jets, concerns grow over delayed Tejas induction, shrinking combat strength Applications to request a retired aircraft involve approval from the local municipal office before the IAF takes a decision. If maintained by the IAFs Repair and Salvage Unit (RSU), the airframe undergoes annual maintenance, including painting, repair, and beautification routines. The MiG-21 jets were first inducted into the IAF in 1963 as high-altitude interceptors and were later adapted for ground-attack roles. The aircraft were originally designed in the USSR to counter American U-2 spy planes. A ceremony marking the final flight of the Number 23 Squadron MiG-21s will be attended by a large number of air force personnel at the end of this month. The first induction of the Russian-origin single-engine MiG-21 fighters took place in 1963, with different versions joining the IAF over the years. Currently, the IAF operates one squadron of MiG-21 Bison at Suratgarh, with each squadron comprising 1618 aircraft. As previously reported by the TNIE , the IAF has operated 24 fighter squadrons and four training units of MiG-21s, flying over 850 aircraft across six decades, a scale unmatched by most air forces.

'Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now another two are dividing us': Mallikarjun Kharge

AHMEDABAD: In an address in Junagadh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp attack on the BJP, vowing to safeguard the Constitution and energise party workers for a 2027 Gujarat Assembly battle. With Rahul Gandhi set to join later, Kharge invoked Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Nehru to rally Congress cadres, accusing the BJP of weakening democracy and stealing votes. He declared, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, now two Gujaratis are working against it by dividing people. The three-day Congress training camp aims to rebuild the partys grassroots network in Gujarat and reignite a movement for change. The Congresss roadmap to reclaim Gujarat was visible in Junagadh, as party president Mallikarjun Kharge inaugurated a massive training camp, declaring it the launchpad for a decisive fight against the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections. With Rahul Gandhi scheduled to attend on September 12 and 17, the camp at Prernadham will run till September 19, training newly appointed district and city Congress presidents. Kharges speech was a blend of history, ideology, and firebrand politics. Without directly naming Prime Minister Modi or BJP leaders, he tore into their agenda, warning, Two Gujaratis gave us freedom, united this nation. Now, two others are destroying that legacy by dividing people and weakening our Constitution. Constitution and Legacy in Focus Kharge reminded the audience that this year marks 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi became Congress President, underlining Gujarats historic role as the birthplace of Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, and Dadabhai Naoroji. He said, Gandhiji told us Congresss job is to uplift those at the bottom and bring equality. Sardar Patel believed strength without organisation is useless, and Nehruji taught us to adapt to change and stay connected with people. Tracing Congresss journey, Kharge divided its 140-year history into three phases the freedom struggle till 1947, the nation-building years after independence, and the past 11 years of serving as a strong opposition. From giving India the Constitution and voting rights to enacting historic laws like MNREGA, Right to Information, and Food Security Act, Congress empowered the people, he said, contrasting it with the BJPs record. Modiji has not brought a single law of such magnitude, Kharge added. Attack on BJP and Vote Theft Claims Taking direct aim at Gujarats BJP government, Kharge accused it of running on remote control from Delhi, saying real power lies outside the state. He alleged widespread vote rigging, claiming that in the Navsari Lok Sabha constituency, 30,000 fake or duplicate voters were found during verification. Referring to the controversial Surat Lok Sabha seat, he warned, This is how BJP comes to power by stealing votes. But this time, Congress will expose and defeat them. Kharge also mocked the Prime Ministers China stance, stating, When Chinese soldiers attacked, PM said no one entered. When Rahulji raised questions, they called him a Chinese agent. Today, he himself is visiting China. Rahul Gandhis Movements Turn Into Mass Campaigns Rahul Gandhis political yatras were presented as a blueprint for mobilising the nation. From the 3,200 km Bharat Jodo Yatra to the 6,700 km Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, and most recently the Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar, Kharge said Rahul turned issues of unemployment, inflation, and farmer distress into peoples movements. Rahulji has shown what determination can achieve, he said, urging workers to channel this spirit in Gujarat. Vision for 2027: Strength Through Training The 10-day training camp, Kharge emphasised, is not just about lectures but about forging identity and strategy. You will leave here stronger, informed, and ready to fight for change. If our district units are strong, no one can stop the storm of change in Gujarat, he declared. Kharge recalled the 2017 elections, where Congress prevented the BJP from winning a single seat in seven districts, cutting its tally below 100 for the first time. This proves the people of Gujarat are ready for change. We just need to unite and channel their anger, he urged. Sardar Patels 150th Anniversary to be Congress Showcase Kharge announced nationwide celebrations for Sardar Patels 150th birth anniversary starting October 31, with a special push in Gujarat. We will respect Sardar, but we will never allow BJP to distort his ideas, he said, positioning Congress as the true custodian of Patels legacy. As the camp opened with patriotic fervour, Kharges message was clear: revive the organisation, reclaim Gujarat, and protect Indias democracy. He ended with Gandhijis words: A handful of committed souls with unbounded faith can change history.

Mangaluru: NHAI Officials, Lorry Driver Booked after Woman Killed in Accident on NH-66

The victim, Madhavi, a resident of Kulai in Surathkal, was riding her scooter from Kulai towards Kuntikana around 8.30 am when she hit a large pothole at Kuloor on National Highway-66 and fell on the roadside

Indore tops Swachh Vayu Survekshan, but lags on PM10 levels; Delhi figured at 32nd position

Indore, India's cleanest city, topped the 'Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2025' for air pollution mitigation, despite a slight PM10 increase. Jabalpur and Agra/Surat followed. Amravati, Dewas led in smaller population categories. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav noted PM10 reductions in 103 NCAP cities, with Mumbai achieving a 44% decline. Chennai is the only metro meeting air quality standards.

Families of over 90,000 Gujarat diamond workers wait for aid despite government promises

AHMEDABAD: Despite a Gujarat government scheme announced on May 24 promising Rs 13,500 annual school fee aid for children of diamond workers hit by global crises like wars and tariffs, zero relief has reached Surat, the hub of the diamond industry. In the past year, 70,254 applications were filed in Surat, yet not a single family received aid. Ahmedabad saw just 170 beneficiaries against 3926 applications, while 2,306 families in Amreli and 13,462 in Botad remain empty-handed. The figures revealed in the Assembly highlight a massive gap between promises and delivery. The state government admitted that not a single diamond artisan family in Surat, Amreli, and Botad has received the promised school fee assistance announced months ago. This disclosure has sparked anger among opposition MLAs, who accused the government of making hollow announcements while the diamond industry spirals into crisis. The data tabled by the Industry Minister paints a grim picture. In the past year, 70,254 applications were filed in Surat city and district seeking Rs 13,500 annual school fee aid for children of affected diamond artisans, yet zero payouts have been made. In Ahmedabad, 3,926 applications were received, but assistance reached only 170 families, totalling a meagre Rs 24.03 lakh. From glitter to gloom: Gujarats diamond and textile hub hit by US tariff shock Meanwhile, Amreli (2,306 applications) and Botad (13,462 applications) reported no disbursal at all. In total, over 90,000 families are still waiting, with the government claiming that all applications are currently under scrutiny and payments will be made only after verification as per the schemes provisions. This aid program was announced through a circular on May 24, 2025, amid growing distress in the diamond sector. The scheme promised Rs 13,500 per child for the 2025-26 academic year to support artisans whose livelihoods were hit by global disruptions. Surat, the epicentre of Indias diamond polishing industry, has been battling multiple shocks. First, the Russia-Ukraine war disrupted the global rough diamond supply chain, leading to a severe slowdown. Then, a 50% tariff imposed by former US President Donald Trump on Indian goods froze $4.8 billion worth of gem and jewellery exports, triggering mass layoffs. Out of Gujarats 15 lakh diamond artisans, nearly 40% face imminent job losses, with Surat alone accounting for 8 to 9 lakh workers. As workshops close and debts rise, reports of suicides among diamond artisans have surfaced. The governments failure to deliver on its much-publicised aid scheme has further fueled anger in the industry. With zero relief reaching Surat the very city the scheme was designed to help, opposition parties are demanding immediate action and accusing the state of abandoning the very workers who built Gujarats glittering diamond empire.

Gujarat textile mill tragedy: Death toll climbs to seven as families protest for justice

AHMEDABAD: The death toll in the horrific Palsana textile mill blast continues to rise, leaving families shattered and a village in mourning. With four workers succumbing to their injuries in just two days, Jolva village in Surat district of Gujarat has been plunged into grief and anger. What began as a routine day at Textile Mill on September 1 turned catastrophic when a chemical-filled drum exploded, sparking a massive fire. Two workers were charred to death on the spot, while over 15 others suffered severe burns. Firefighters, ambulances, and police rushed to the site, with 11 critically injured workers shifted to a private hospital in Udhna, Surat. Three days later, Priyanka Devi (36) became the third victim to die during treatment. Tragedy deepened when Jogendra Munilal Prajapati (35) and Preeti Nagendra Singh (28) succumbed to their injuries on Monday. Today, Sushma Ganesh Mishra (39) and Munna Vishwanath Das (24) passed away, pushing the death toll to seven. Two more victims remain in a critical condition. Families of the deceased staged a dramatic protest outside the Udhna hospital, where grieving women formed a human chain and blocked the road, demanding proper compensation. Police had to intervene to pacify the crowd. The dead bodies were later shifted to the New Civil Hospital for postmortem. The mill owner has pledged financial support to the victims families Rs 15 lakh each, including Rs 50,000 cash upfront, Rs 4 lakh via cheque, and an additional Rs 10 lakh through insurance. The management has also promised to cover the education expenses of the deceased workers' children. Meanwhile, the Industrial Safety Department has shut down the mill and launched a probe, though the investigation report is still pending.

Surat Horror: Man Stabs Son-In-Law To Death In Police Station, Leaves City In Shock

A man stabbed his son-in-law to death inside Surats Amroli Police Station, sparking outrage and raising serious questions about public safety.

Surat lawyer who once represented Rahul Gandhi dies by suicide after leaving cryptic call

AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Surat city was left stunned when senior lawyer and former Surat Congress legal convener, Advocate Feroz Pathan, died by suicide by jumping into the Tapi river late on Thursday night. Battling depression due to family disputes and financial troubles, the prominent lawyer, who had once represented Rahul Gandhi, left behind a phone call before taking the extreme step. His body was recovered from Ubharat beach early on Friday morning. Surats legal fraternity woke up in shock on Friday after the tragic death of Advocate Feroz Pathan, a well-known lawyer and former legal convener of the Congress party. Feroz, who once represented Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, ended his life by jumping off the cable bridge into the Tapi river at around 11 pm on Thursday night. Hours before his death, Feroz made a disturbing phone call to his junior lawyer, Deepak, cryptically saying, If anything happens to me, come to the bridge near the court. Alarmed, Deepak tried to comfort him and asked if he was in the office. Feroz calmly replied that he was. But when Deepak rushed there, he found the office empty. Worried, Deepak called Ferozs son and headed towards the cable bridge, only to find a crowd gathered near the river. A sight awaited them, Ferozs car was parked under the bridge, confirming their worst fears. Police and family members were immediately alerted, and the fire department launched a night-long search in the strong currents of the Tapi. By early morning, their grim hunt ended when Ferozs body was found washed up on Ubharat beach, miles away from where he had jumped. According to friends, Feroz had been battling depression for months, weighed down by domestic disputes, property loans and crushing financial problems. These personal struggles had reportedly pushed him into a dark mental state. The tragic incident occurred on the day of Eid Milad, adding a layer of sorrow to an already heartbreaking event. His death has plunged Surats legal circle and his grieving family into deep mourning. Police are investigating further, while the legal community remembers Feroz as a sharp lawyer whose life ended in a tragic turn of despair.

Fake Visa Scam Busted, Mastermind Held In Surat

The accused, Pratik aka Abhijeet Shah, is a habitual offender facing 12 cases related to visa and passport fraud.

KIMS Cuddles Team Saves a Premature Baby with Record-Breaking Road Journey

1,300 km road journey from Surat to Hyderabad

2 Workers Killed, 20 Injured As Blast Triggers Fire At Gujarat Textile Unit

At least two workers were killed and 20 others were injured after an explosion triggered a fire at a textile processing unit in the Surat district of Gujarat on Monday, officials said.

Gujarat cops crack global cyber-slavery syndicate; three arrested

AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Surat Cyber Crime police have cracked a shocking cross-border human trafficking and cyber-fraud racket. At least 40 youths from India and abroad, including several from Gujarat, were duped with fake job offers in Thailand, smuggled across borders into Myanmar, and forced to work in illegal Chinese-run call centres carrying out online investment frauds. Three accused have been arrested so far, while a wider nexus involving 12 people, including a Pakistani agent, has come to light. The racket first surfaced when Surat cyber sleuths traced suspicious mobile numbers linked to foreign call centres. Further investigation revealed a sinister chain: unsuspecting jobseekers were flown to Thailand on tourist visas, pushed across rivers into Myanmar, and handed over to Chinese gangs. Once inside, they were stripped of their freedom and forced to run cyber scams using fake Facebook and Instagram IDs. Police raids led to the arrest of three key players: Nipender alias Nirav Lavkush Chaudhary, HR manager with a Chinese company; Preet Rasiklal Kamani of Rajkot; and visa agent Ashish Ramanlal Rana of Surat. All three worked as recruiters, luring youths with promises of high-paying computer jobs. Investigations revealed the racket had been running for over 18 months. Nipender, working with Chinese handlers, pocketed Rs 3 lakh commission per person routed to Myanmar. Preet, once trapped himself, was forced to bring in replacements earning Rs 40,000Rs 50,000 per recruit. He even dragged his Haryana friend Rajneesh Banna into the same nightmare under threats. Rana, the visa agent, charged commissions of Rs 37,000 per head for arranging travel documents. Victims testimonies paint a chilling picture. Preet Kamani confessed that after being smuggled to a Myanmar call centre named KK3, he and others were forced to cheat Indians in fake investment schemes. Those who refused were told to either pay up in dollars or supply fresh recruits. Many were coerced into dragging friends and acquaintances into the racket. According to DCP Surat Vishakha Jain, Chinese companies are using agents in India and abroad to lure youths into cyber crime call centers. They operate on commissions, trapping the vulnerable with false promises of jobs. Police confirmed at least 40 youths were trafficked: 37 Indians, 2 Sri Lankans, and 1 Pakistani. So far, 12 masterminds have been identified, including Pakistani agent Alex and Chinese coordinators Alexander, Enzo, William, King, and others. The network spread across Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia, making millions through cyber scams while exploiting trafficked youths as front-line callers. With three arrests made, Surat Cyber Crime is now digging deeper into the money trail, agents links in India, and the possibility of more victims still trapped in foreign cyber-slavery hubs.

Rs 70K Commission On 1.5 Cr Cyber Fraud: Man Rents His Account To Scammers

A Surat man renteng his bank account for Rs 75,000 and became the channel for a Rs 1.5 crore cyber fraud spanning multiple states.

Relationship With Minor, 2 Abortions: Shocking Revelations In Surat Teacher Suicide Case

Surat teacher suicide case took a shocking turn as a 3,000-page FSL report revealed her relationship with a minor and two abortions.

Indian Navy's stealth frigate 'Tamal', guided-missile destroyer 'Surat' visit Saudi Arabia

Indian Navy's stealth frigate INS Tamal and guided-missile destroyer INS Surat made port calls at Jeddah, signaling India's dedication to bolstering defence cooperation and amicable relations with Saudi Arabia. The visit facilitates sharing best practices and exploring further engagement avenues between the two navies.

Indian Navy warships INS Tamal, INS Surat dock in Jeddah to boost Indo-Saudi ties

NEW DELHI: Aiming to strengthen ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, INS Tamal, a Talwar-class stealth frigate, and INS Surat, the latest indigenously constructed guided-missile destroyer of the Indian Navy, arrived at Jeddah on 27 and 28 August 2025, respectively. The Indian Navy (IN) in its statement said, During the port call, the crew will engage with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) and Border Guards through sports fixtures, familiarisation with naval facilities and discussions towards fostering Indo-Saudi Arabian relations. The Navy said the visit underscores India's commitment to strengthening defence collaboration and friendly ties with Saudi Arabia. It will also provide an opportunity for both navies to share best practices and explore avenues for further engagement. The Indian side will host a cultural exchange for senior dignitaries of the RSNF, Border Guards, diplomats, prominent members of the diaspora and local government officials, the IN added. Indian Navy commissions latest frigate INS Tamal As reported in detail earlier by The New Indian Express , INS Tamal (F71), a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, was commissioned in July at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. INS Tamal is the eighth multi-role stealth frigate in the series of Project 1135.6 and the second of the additional follow-on Tushil class of ships. The first ship of the Tushil class (INS Tushil) was commissioned on 09 December 2024 in the presence of the Defence Minister. TNIE reported on INS Surat, which was commissioned this January, is the latest indigenous guided-missile destroyer of the Indian Navy. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai, and designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau, the ship is a shining example of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and boasts an indigenous content of over 75%.

Former Gujarat BJP MLA, ex-Amreli SP among 14 sentenced to life term in 2018 bitcoin extortion case

Ahmedabad Sessions Court Judge sentenced Kotadiya, Patel and others to life imprisonment for their alleged involvement in kidnapping Surat-based builder Shailesh Bhatt and his partner

Gujarat Bitcoin racket verdict: Former BJP MLA, senior police officials among 14 sentenced to life imprisonment

AHMEDABAD: In a landmark verdict, the Ahmedabad City Sessions Court has convicted 14 accused, including former BJP MLA Nalin Kotadiya and senior Gujarat police officials, in the infamous 2018 Bitcoin extortion case. The case, which began with the kidnapping of Surat-based builder and cryptocurrency trader Shailesh Bhatt, revealed a murky nexus of politicians, police officers and middlemen in Gujarat. The Bitcoin scandal that shook Gujarat in 2018 has finally reached closure. The Ahmedabad City Sessions Court on Friday convicted 14 accused, among them former BJP MLA Nalin Kotadiya, then Amreli SP Jagdish Patel, and then LCB PI Anant Patel, holding them guilty of alleged kidnapping and extortion in the multi-crore Bitcoin racket. Following Shailesh Bhatts explosive complaint, CID Crime swung into action, arresting all the accused linked to the Bitcoin scandal. The trial unfolded in the ACB Special Court of the City Civil and Sessions Court, Ahmedabad, where the state lined up a staggering 172 witnesses against them. In stark contrast, the defence could produce just one witness, and despite 92 witnesses allegedly turning hostile, the court found the evidence and arguments strong enough to seal the fate of the accused. After nearly three months of intense final arguments, the gavel came down heavy as the court sentenced all 14 accused in the sensational scam to life imprisonment. The case traces back to Surat builder Shailesh Bhatt, who was allegedly trading in cryptocurrencies. In February 2018, Bhatt was lured under threats from individuals claiming to be from the CBI office in Gandhinagar. Instead of a warning, he was allegedly kidnapped from a petrol pump, beaten up, and dragged to a farmhouse by a team led by Amreli police officials using government vehicles. Once in custody of his abductors, Bhatt was allegedly coerced into parting with 176 Bitcoins worth around 9 crore, and was later forced to transfer more digital currency and cash. The demands spiralled from 12 crore transferred to Anant Patels account, to another 50 crore extortion attempt, and eventually a 32 crore ransom routed through the Angadia network. However, the Bitcoin extortion was not a one-way story. Bhatt himself carried a chequered past. He had earlier been accused of allegedly kidnapping BitConnect companys employees and recovering 2,021 Bitcoins, 11,000 Litecoins, and over 14 crore after allegedly losing 1.14 crore in crypto investments. His own complaint, however, blew the lid on a bigger scandal implicating police officers and politicians. As investigations deepened, CID Crime arrested 10 police personnel, including Anant Patel and Surat-based lawyer Ketan Patel. Interrogations revealed the names of then SP Jagdish Patel and former MLA Nalin Kotadiya. Kotadiya, accused of playing the fixer in the racket, went underground. A non-bailable warrant was issued before he was finally arrested from Maharashtras Dhulia and later granted conditional bail in 2019. The net widened further when CBI Inspector Sunil Nair was also accused of allegedly demanding a 10 crore bribe from Bhatt, threatening to unleash ED and Income Tax probes on him. Bhatt claimed he paid 4.6 crore after settling the demand at 5 crore. Now, after years of courtroom battles, the special court in Ahmedabad has brought closure. With 14 convicted, including top cops, a CBI officer, lawyers, and a former legislator, the verdict has laid bare the dangerous collusion of crime, cryptocurrency, and corridors of power in Gujarat.

Technical fault forces Dubai-bound IndiGo flight to divert to Ahmedabad

New Delhi: An IndiGo flight from Surat to Dubai carrying around 150 passengers was diverted to Ahmedabad on Thursday morning after the aircraft developed a technical problem. The flight, which took off from Surat at 9:30 a.m., landed safely at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad about an hour and a half later. Airport 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 .

From glitter to gloom: Gujarats diamond and textile hub hit by US tariff shock

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat's Surat city, glittering with diamonds and textiles, is staring at a storm. With US President Donald Trumps 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods kicking in, the city's lifeline industries, diamonds and textiles, face unprecedented disruption. Exports worth billions have stalled, artisans fear mass unemployment, and desperation is already pushing some former workers into crime. The crisis has snowballed from factories to families, threatening not just trade but the citys social fabric. Surat's sparkle dims as a new tariff wall rises in the US, slashing demand for diamonds and textiles overnight. What was once a steady flow of large orders has dried up, leaving traders anxious and artisans vulnerable. Jayanti Savaliya, regional president of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), warned that the new pricing will drive American buyers away. New orders have stopped completely. With our products becoming 50 per cent costlier in the US, customers will simply stay away, he said. His warning cuts deeper for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which thrive solely on direct exports. Without intervention, thousands of artisans could soon be jobless, pushing the council to demand government support and marketing funds. Centre working on support measures to help exporters deal with 50 % US tariff The textile industry, too, finds itself caught in the same storm. Ashok Jirawala, chairman of the Federation of Weavers Association, admitted the tariff hits not only Surat but also Tirupur - India's garment hub. Prices of garments, curtains, bedsheets and yarn will rise by 50 per cent. Competing in the US market will now be impossible, he said, urging exporters to scout for alternative markets. The blow comes on an already weak pulse. Surats diamond industry has been in recession for months, forcing the Gujarat government earlier to offer fee-support packages for artisans' children. Now, with exports frozen $4.8 billion worth of gems and jewellery to the US, the fallout is massive. Out of 8 to 9 lakh workers in Surat and almost half of Gujarat's 15 lakh diamond artisans, 40 per cent are likely to face job losses. The human cost is surfacing fast. In a shocking twist, a former diamond worker, 50-year-old Bheraram Bishnoi, was caught in Surat's Varachha area selling opium worth Rs 53,400. Police revealed he had turned to crime after losing his diamond business job, a stark example of how economic despair is already breeding social cracks. Even factories are showing cracks. A Katargam-based diamond firm that catered to foreign traders, abruptly laid off 100 workers this week, its decision directly linked to the tariff shock. Workers protested, and after tense negotiations led by the Diamond Worker Union, the company agreed to reinstate them. Bhavesh Tank, the unions vice president, confirmed, All jewelers will resume work from tomorrow, with lost days adjusted.

Dubai-Bound IndiGo Flight From Surat Diverted to Ahmedabad Over Technical Issue

Around 150 passengers on board landed safely; IndiGo arranged alternate flight to Dubai.

IndiGo SuratDubai flight makes emergency landing in Gujarats Ahmedabad Airport

AHMEDABAD: A major scare was reported mid-air on Sunday when an IndiGo SuratDubai flight (6E-1507) carrying over 150 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing at Ahmedabad after its engine developed a technical fault. Swift action by the pilot averted disaster, ensuring all passengers landed safely before being flown onward to Dubai on an alternate aircraft. A technical snag hit one of the engines of the flight soon after takeoff from Surat International Airport. Realising the gravity of the fault, the pilot swiftly alerted Air Traffic Control and sought permission to divert, opting for the nearest airport, Ahmedabads Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Passengers panicked after the announcement of an engine problem, but the crew kept the situation under control. No injuries were reported, and all passengers landed safely in Ahmedabad. Confirming the emergency landing, an airport official said, An IndiGo flight travelling from Surat to Dubai made an emergency landing in Ahmedabad after the pilot immediately decided to divert the aircraft. Technical teams at Ahmedabad Airport carried out a detailed inspection of the plane. Passengers were accommodated on an alternate flight, which has since departed for its destination. Flight operations remained unaffected, with no diversions or disruptions reported. IndiGos engineers launched a detailed probe into the engine fault soon after the landing. The airline has assured that all safety checks will be completed before the aircraft is cleared to fly again.

US tariff: Provide two-year moratorium for MSME, sops for exporters, Kamal Haasan tells governments

CHENNAI: Makkal Needhi Maiam party founder Kamal Haasan has said that the US President Donald Trump government's 50 per cent tariff on Indian exporters was a challenge to the sovereignty of Indian livelihoods and both the Centre and state governments should come forward to provide immediate relief to exporters. As an emergency breathing space, the governments could provide a two-year moratorium on MSME loan repayments, and a special emergency credit line. He suggested the governments to expand guarantee covers and restore low-interest export credit, and clear all pending GST, RODTEP, and RoSCTL refunds within strict deadlines; enhance rates for the hardest-hit export lines. The Rajya Sabha MP said temporary power-tariff concessions, freight support to open new markets, and liberalised import norms for synthetic yarns could be provided and also a single-window fast track for export compliance and refunds. Further, the country should identify and facilitate entry into new global markets for affected sectors, he emphasised. Let us not treat this merely as crisis management. This must be our clarion call for a decade-long mission to secure India's place in the supply chains of tomorrow; rare earths, semiconductors, batteries, power electronics, and advanced textiles, Haasan said in a statement here on Wednesday night. Only then will India be beyond the reach of tariffs and threats from across the oceans, he added. The 50 per cent US tariffs on our exporters is not about trade nor Ukraine. They are a political cudgel, aimed at shaking our resolve. When the sovereignty of Indian livelihoods is challenged, the nation must act together. I urge the Union and State governments to provide immediate relief, the MNM leader said. He said India's resolve in ensuring energy security for the country and its proud citizens carried no price tag. Tariffs on China came in whispers and half-measures, while on India they were wielded like hammer. That is the lesson for India, which Gandhiji reminded us of at the stroke of the midnight hour, Atmanirbharta is not a slogan; it is strategic insurance, Haasan noted. He expressed solidarity with the exporters in Tiruppur, Surat, and Noida, shrimp farmers of Andhra Pradesh, gems and jewellery industry in Gujarat and Maharashtra; and steel workers, whom he said must not ear the cost of geopolitical games. Is India stumbling on Trump's tariffs by dancing with Russia and China?

Export units at Tirupur, Noida, Surat halt production amid high U.S. tariffs: FIEO

U.S. tariffs will severely disrupt the flow of Indian goods to its largest export market, Federation of Indian Export Organisations

Gems, jewellery exporters seek counsel on rerouting shipments

Indian gems and jewellery exporters are worried about the impact of the 50% tariff imposed by the US. They have approached the Reserve Bank of India for support regarding working capital. Exporters are also exploring rerouting shipments through countries with lower tariffs like Dubai and Mexico. Surat's diamond industry fears job losses after Diwali.

Surat Shocker: Ex-Husband Kidnaps Former Wife In Filmy Style To Reunite

In Surat, a man abducted his ex-wife in a filmy style to reunite after divorce. Police nabbed him at a checkpoint and rescued the woman.

Surat Doctors Remove 25-cm Abscess, 7 Litres Of Pus In Rare Surgery To Save Homeless Man

Doctors drained fluid to ease pressure on Kumar Mochis lungs and stabilise breathing. In surgery, they found a severe abdominal infection and removed about 7 litres of pus

Supreme Court offers death row convict facility in jail to grieve virtually for his deceased mother

Bench rejects his plea to allow him to make the journey from a Surat jail to the Naxalite area of Buxar in Bihar to attend rituals

3-year-old boy from Gujarat kidnapped, strangled by cousin; Body found in Mumbai train toilet

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat's Surat city has been shaken by the chilling kidnapping and murder of a 3-year-old boy. The prime suspect, his own cousin, dumped the child's body in a train toilet in Mumbai before vanishing with the mother's mobile phone. Now, multiple police teams are chasing him across Maharashtra and Bihar in a high-stakes manhunt. The Amroli Police of Surat City and Surat Crime Branch are now locked in a cross-state chase for the accused, 26-year-old Vikas, who is on the run after allegedly strangling his little cousin. The nightmare began on August 21, when Vikas who had recently arrived from Bihar to stay with his aunt Durgadevi in Amroli area of Surat took her son, Akash alias Aarav, out to play. Both disappeared soon after, along with Durgadevi's mobile phone. Days later, Akash's body was discovered stuffed inside the dustbin of an AC train coach toilet at Lokmanya Tilak station, Mumbai. The boy had been strangled with the very rope tied around his neck. The accused, a native of Siwan in Bihar, escaped immediately after the murder. Police sources revealed he had previously worked in Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, and has been living a reclusive, erratic life since returning. The investigation gained momentum after police traced the missing mobile phone belonging to the child's mother which Vikas carried with him. However, he has kept officers off-track by frequently switching the device on and off, leaving only fleeting signals in Mumbai, Thane and Bihar. CCTV footage from railway stations on the Kushinagar train's route and Lokmanya Tilak station has become the focus of the probe. At the same time, officers are struggling to extract details from the grieving family, who remain in deep shock. Police insiders describe Vikas as a loner with no friends and no personal mobile phone often wandering without purpose. No prior criminal record has surfaced so far, but his sudden violent act has stunned investigators. Tensions had reportedly been simmering in the family. Vikas's mother Rabri Devi had been living with her sister Durgadevi in Surat, but quarrels broke out over accommodation and work. Whether this dispute triggered the killing remains unanswered. At present, five teams from the Surat Citys Amroli Police, Crime Branch, and Local Crime Branch are deployed in Mumbai, Thane and Bihar to nab the fugitive.

Man held for scaling Parliament wall released

Ram Shankar Bind, a 20-year-old from Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, was released after being arrested for attempting to scale the Parliament complex wall in Delhi. His family claims he may have mistakenly traveled to Delhi while en route home from Surat, where he worked. Authorities found no suspicious evidence and handed him over to his father after questioning by central agencies.

'He was acting mentally incoherent': Father of man involved in Parliament's security breach

Ram Kumar Bind, a 19-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, was apprehended after attempting to scale the Parliament complex wall in Delhi. His father reported that Ram Kumar had been acting mentally unstable for the past few days and was working as a saree salesman in Surat.

Surathkal police arrest four on charges of cheating people of crores in lucky scheme scams

While New Shine Enterprises had allegedly cheated 4.2 crore; under Royal Scheme and Green Light Lucky Scheme people were cheated of over 10 crore

2 dead, 2 critical after toxic gas leak in company in Gujarat's Khambhat

AHMEDABAD: An industrial disaster rocked a company in Sokhda, Khambhat, Gujarat, after two workers died and two others were critically injured following a toxic gas leak inside the company's Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) tank. The incident unfolded when 27-year-old Kishan Baraiya entered the tank around 9.30 pm to clear a blockage. Moments later, he lost consciousness, overcome by the poisonous fumes. 63-year-old Arvind Babubhai, attempting a rescue, also collapsed inside the tank. Both men died. As panic set in, Rameshbhai Bhoi (39) and Kishan Padhiyar descended in quick succession to rescue their co-workers, but were also exposed to the gas. Rameshbhai managed to escape, while Kishan Padhiyar had to be pulled out unconscious. Both are now battling for their lives in the ICU. Families of the deceased wept and protested outside Cardiac Care Hospital, alleging severe negligence by the company. Dharmendrabhai Solanki, a relative of a deceased worker, said, Our son was hired for factory work but was forced into sewer cleaning. Company isnt giving us answers. We demand justice. Survivor Rameshbhai Bhoi said that there was no safety equipment. They said the tank is cleaned only once, so no gear was given. Usually, outsiders do this work. When questioned, Company Director Jignesh Patel admitted about lapses, claiming, It wasnt a chemical gas, it might be water tank gas. I dont have more information. He called it a very sad incident. This fatal leak comes after a similar gas tragedy in Mangrol, Surat, just two months ago, where two people died.

MSMEs in textiles, diamonds and chemicals to be most hit by US tariffs: CRISIL Intelligence

A CRISIL Intelligence report indicates that increased US tariffs will significantly impact India's MSME sector, responsible for 45% of exports. Textiles, gems, jewellery, and chemicals are expected to be the hardest hit, with MSMEs holding substantial shares in these sectors. Surat's diamond exports will face challenges, while the steel sector is likely to experience minimal impact.

Second illegal mephedrone factory busted on Bhopals outskirts in major DRI operation

BHOPAL: Are the outskirts of Madhya Pradesh's capital turning into a fertile ground for the illegal manufacturing of synthetic drugs? A major drug cartel, reportedly operated by an overseas handler with key operatives active across multiple states, has been busted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) with the arrest of seven individuals from four different states. At the centre of the cartel was an illicit Mephedrone drug manufacturing unit operating from Jagdishpur (Islampur) village, on the outskirts of Bhopal. The factory, which was busted on Saturday, is the second illegal synthetic drug manufacturing unit to be dismantled in the vicinity of the MP capital within ten months. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the DRI, working in coordination with police forces from multiple states, including Mumbai and Surat, raided the clandestine Mephedrone manufacturing facility as part of a focused and coordinated operation code-named Operation Crystal Break. The operation commenced on Saturday with the search of the illegal factory located in Jagdishpur (Islamnagar) village of Huzur Tehsil in Bhopal district. It led to the seizure of 61.20 kg of liquid Mephedrone, valued at 92 crore in the illicit market. Additionally, 541.53 kg of raw materials were recovered, including Methylene Dichloride, Acetone, Monomethylamine (MMA), Hydrochloric Acid (HCL), and 2-Bromo, along with a full set of drug-processing equipment, according to an official statement from the DRI released on Monday. The secluded factory had been deliberately concealed from all sides to avoid detection. Two individuals, including the chemist responsible for producing the Mephedrone, were arrested on-site while engaged in the illegal manufacturing process. The initial raid was swiftly followed by operations in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, which helped unearth the full extent of the inter-state drug cartel. A key operative was arrested in Basti district, eastern Uttar Pradesh, responsible for overseeing the supply of raw materials from Bhiwandi (Mumbai) to Bhopal. Two suppliers who had illegally provided the chemicals were apprehended in Mumbai, along with a logistics handler responsible for transporting the raw materials to the Bhopal facility. Preliminary investigations revealed that funding for the cartels operations was being routed through hawala channels from Surat and Mumbai to Bhopal. A close associate of the cartel managing the funds transfer was also apprehended in Surat. All seven arrested individuals have confessed to their respective roles in the illicit Mephedrone manufacturing racket, allegedly operating under instructions from an overseas kingpin involved in coordinating the synthetic drug trade across India. Mephedrone, a psychotropic substance listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, is considered a serious threat to public health due to its psychoactive properties and effects similar to those of cocaine and amphetamines. This is the sixth clandestine Mephedrone factory dismantled by the DRI in the past year across India and the second such facility uncovered by central agencies in Bhopals outskirts in the last ten months. In October 2024, the largest illegal synthetic drug factory in the country was busted in the Bagroda Industrial Area near Bhopal, during a joint operation by the Gujarat Police Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Delhi. That raid led to the seizure of 907.09 kg of Mephedrone (in both solid and liquid forms), reportedly worth 1,814 crore in the international market. The facility had the capacity to produce 25 kg of Mephedrone daily, with an estimated street value of around 50 crore per day.

Smugglers break into Surat factory, flee with diamonds worth Rs 25 crore

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat's Surat, also known as the diamond hub of India, witnessed one of the biggest heists in recent years as smugglers broke into Diamond Company in Kapodra during the festive holidays and stole diamonds worth over Rs 25 crore, cash, and CCTV-DVRs. Taking advantage of a three-day holiday shutdown, the gang struck the factory located on the fourth floor of a building in Kapoorwadi. Before forcing their way in, they had disabled the fire alarm outside the factory so that no siren would ring while they used their gas cutter. With only one entry point available, they smashed the wooden door and slipped inside. What ensured the heist's success was the absence of CCTV cameras on that floor. Once inside, the gang showed no hesitation. They removed the office glass panel to reach the main chamber and cut open a three-layered safe, leaving behind a 12x10 inch hole as proof of their precision. The burglars also dismantled one outside camera and two inside cameras, ensuring no trace of their movement remained. By carrying away the DVRs, they eliminated digital evidence also. The alarm bells rang only when the owner returned after the holidays. Police rushed in with teams from the DCP, ACP, city crime branch, and forensic experts. Investigators collected traces, including a lighter, while probing the scene. Early estimates suggest it took the thieves nearly two hours to slice through the fortified locker, indicating they were not amateurs but a gang armed with modern tools. DCP Alok Kumar confirmed that the factory had been shut since the 15th, with no guard present. The accused broke CCTV cameras, took away the DVR, and used a gas cutter. This is not ordinary theft but a conspiracy executed with expertise, he said. The possibility of an international diamond smuggling gang being involved is not being ruled out. Police teams have already fanned out across cities, while local CCTV footage is under scrutiny. The theft has triggered unease in Surats diamond belt. With 50 shops and several cutting units on the road leading to the factory, police suspect the burglars had inside knowledge of its location and security gaps. Factory owner Devendra Chaudhary revealed the stolen consignment had arrived just a week earlier. The company had goods worth Rs 25-30 crore. It was a holiday, and today morning I was alerted by the floor tenant. When I came, the safe had been cut and everything was gone, he said. Investigators believe at least two to three men executed the burglary. Police are now checking call data records, examining road footage, and questioning possible suspects. Forensic samples and broken tiles from the scene suggest a getaway vehicle was used. As the probe deepens, the heist has cast a long shadow over the security of Surats diamond industry, already vulnerable due to poor surveillance in several units.

Heavy rains in Mumbai; flight ops hit, schools & colleges shut as IMD issues red alert

MUMBAI, Aug 18: The IMD issued a red alert, predicting extremely heavy rains at isolated places in Mumbai and neighbouring areas on Monday, prompting the city civic body to declare a holiday for all schools and colleges, officials said. A Mumbai airport spokesperson said nine flights conducted go arounds before finally landing, while one flight was diverted to Surat (in Gujarat) till 12 noon due to the heavy rains. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) appealed to residents to step out [] The post Heavy rains in Mumbai; flight ops hit, schools & colleges shut as IMD issues red alert appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

The carousel maker from Surat | How Priyanka Shahs furniture is getting noticed at Indias restaurants

Known for her fantastical furniture seen at restraunts such as Papas and Subko in Mumbai, Shah describes Sheds 10-year journey

Illegal betting app: ED freezes Rs 110 crore worth bank funds; seizes 1,200 credit cards

NEW DELHI: Funds worth Rs 110 crore kept in mule bank accounts have been frozen and 1,200 mule credit cards were seized following recent searches against the Indian operations of a Cyprus-based illegal online betting platform named Parimatch, the Enforcement Directorate said on Thursday. Parimatch app, as per the federal probe agency, gained visibility in the country through aggressive marketing, including sponsorship of sports tournaments and partnerships with well-known celebrities. It is alleged to have cheated investors luring them with high returns and generating more than Rs 3,000 crore in a year. They also set up Indian entities to run surrogate advertisements under the names 'Parimatch Sports' and 'Parimatch News'. Payments to these agencies were made via foreign inward remittances, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said in a statement. The agency had conducted searches at 17 locations in Mumbai, Noida, Jaipur, Surat, Madurai, Kanpur and Hyderabad on August 12 as part of a case registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against the operations of Parimatch. The ED case stems from an FIR filed by the cyber police station of Mumbai Police against parimatch.com for duping users through online betting. The agency said funds worth about Rs 110 crore kept in various bank accounts belonging to persons/entities used as mule accounts (bank accounts used for money laundering and similar criminal activities) and/or for layering purposes were frozen. More than 1,200 mule credit cards, found in a single premises during the searches, have also been seized, it said. Describing the alleged modus operandi deployed by the betting platform, the ED said it routed users' fund through mule accounts using different strategies across the country. In one case, it said, funds deposited by users into mule accounts were withdrawn in cash in a specific locality in Tamil Nadu. This cash was handed over to hawala operators, who used it to recharge virtual wallets of a UK-based company. These wallets were used to buy cryptocurrency in the name of mule crypto accounts, which were actually operated by Parimatch agents, it alleged. In western India, the ED said, Parimatch engaged services of domestic money transfer (DMT) agents. Funds collected in mule accounts controlled by these DMT agents were sent to Parimatch agents through payments made by mule credit cards. The ED said it found that payment companies whose application for payment aggregator licences were rejected by the RBI offered their services to Parimatch in garb of technology service providers (TSPs) and offered their API (application programming interface) to facilitate user fund collections. These TSPs offered the API to Parimatch agents who onboarded mule accounts opened in the name of e-commerce companies and payment solution provider companies for collection of funds from users, the ED probe found. The money so collected through UPI transfers was layered and transferred out in the garb of e-commerce refunds, chargebacks, vendor payments etc effectively concealing the actual flow and purpose of funds, it said.

GSTAT passes order against Subway franchisee for not passing rate cut benefit to customer

NEW DELHI, Aug 13:In its first order in profiteering case, the newly constituted GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) has held Urban Essence, a franchisee of Subway Ltd, guilty of not passing GST rate cut benefit of Rs 5.47 lakh. The Goods and Services Tax Appellate Authority (GSTAT) order dated August 5 upheld the Directorate General of Anti-profiteering (DGAP) report that Urban Essence has profiteered to the extent of Rs 5.47 lakh by not passing on a commensurate reduction of the [] The post GSTAT passes order against Subway franchisee for not passing rate cut benefit to customer appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Surat CA Accused Of Usurping Client's Business In Rs 18 Crore Fraud

Surat police registered a corporate fraud case filed by businessman Vijay Shah against his CA, Kailash Chandra Lohia and Lohia's relatives, amounting to Rs 18.73 crore

Ahmedabad Diary | Secret BJP-Congress deal in Amul Dairy power play?

A hush-hush pact is reportedly shaping the upcoming Amul Dairy polls in Anand, set to be declared any time after the August 12 voter list. According to sources, a Surat-based industrialist close to state BJP chief CR Patil brokered a secret meeting between BJP and Congress leaders, sealing a 75 seat split with BJP claiming the chairman post and Congress the vice-chair. The formula mirrors 2020, but BJP is wary after the High Court scrapped its extra government-appointed directors last time. Meanwhile, ex-Amul chairman and now BJP MLA Ramsinh Parmars disgruntled loyalists are said to be plotting to undercut BJP candidates in Kheda and Mahisagar. Police rejig fuels talk of political undercurrents Visavadars police postings have triggered a storm in Gujarat, with four officers shuffled in just three months, fuelling talk of political undercurrents. After the June 23, 2025 election results, Visavadar PI Y.B. Rana was shunted to leave reserve and Bhesan PI R.B. Gadhvi moved to SOG within days. Replacements came, but B Division PI A.B. Gohil never joined, leaving Visavadars charge to rotate among PSIs. The latest Mendardas woman PSI S.M. Sumra, who earlier clashed with the AAP MLA during a cheap-grain brawl has now taken charge, sparking buzz over the political overtones of her appointment. Gambling racket sparks BJP public showdown Gujarats law-and-order row has exploded, with BJP MLA Arvind Ladani taking on his own police force. While the MoS for Home Affairs praised the cops, Ladani alleged gambling dens in Manavadar and Bantwa bring run under police patronage, paying `70,000`80,000 monthly instalments. He claimed that the youth are being ruined and innocents tortured to boost crime statistics. On August 9, he led a dharna at Manavadar police station, demanding a probe. Police hit back, saying a fugitive from a recent Bantwa raid misled him. Three arrests were made, 12 escaped. The clash has laid bare a rift within the ruling partys ranks. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com

SURAT HOSTED A LARGEST WOMEN-LED KAWAR YATRA UNDER BLESSINGS of OMGURU

Surat's Largest Women-Led Kanwar Yatra under the blessings of Omguru is held every year.

Repair works begin on Surathkal-Nanthoor stretch of NH 66

The works would be taken up during off-peak hours, that is, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and also at night

Mumbai to Ahmedabad in just 2 hours: BIG update on India's 1st bullet train corridor, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says...

India's first bullet train will cover a distance of 508 kilometres between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Starting from the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai, it will connect key cities in Gujarat including Vapi, Surat, Anand, Vadodara, and Ahmedabad.

Tesla approves $29 billion in shares to Elon Musk as court case rumbles on

Tesla said in a statement it will award a distribution of 96 million Tesla shares to Musk as it intends to compensate its CEO for his future services commensurate with his contributions to our company and shareholders

Gujarats employment engine stalls: MSME shutdowns, zero PMEGP uptake in key districts

AHMEDABAD: The Prime Ministers Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has virtually failed in Gujarat, with not a single application from key districts like Surat and Navsari in 202425. A sharp 60 per cent decline in applications over five years, coupled with the closure of 7,269 small and medium enterprises, has left over 33,000 people jobless, exposing the Gujarat governments failure in translating employment promises into reality. In a damning indicator of policy failure, Gujarat has witnessed a breakdown in the implementation of the PMEGP, particularly in major districts like Surat and Navsari, which recorded zero applications for the scheme in 202425. This shocking data has emerged from a central government reply in the Rajya Sabha to Gujarat MP Narhari Amin, laying bare the states crumbling employment generation apparatus. The collapse is not isolated. PMEGP applications have plummeted from 19,654 in 202021 to just 7,793 in 202425, a drop of over 60 per cent, clearly revealing that Gujarats youth are losing faith in the scheme. Even in tribal districts where the scheme was meant to be a lifeline, the numbers are alarming: only seven applications in Dang and Mahisagar, 16 in Chhota Udepur, and just two in Narmada. Despite the states aggressive advertising campaigns and repeated tall claims on employment, this dramatic fall in applications underscores a deeper issue: a complete disconnect between government rhetoric and ground-level impact. Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee spokesperson Dr. Hiren Banker minced no words, calling the scheme employment generation in name only and slamming the state for its failure to extend any real benefits to job-seeking youth. But the crisis runs far deeper than just dwindling application numbers. In response to a question by Congress President and Rajya Sabha MP Mallikarjun Kharge, the government revealed alarming data on the state of Gujarats small and medium enterprises (SMEs) long considered the backbone of its economy. Over the past five years, 7,269 MSMEs have shut down, leading to the loss of 33,361 jobs. The pace of closures has surged drastically from just 67 units in 202021 to a staggering 3,329 in 202425 alone, resulting in 14,746 job losses in a single year. Gujarat misses top skill rankings, youth bear the brunt of job crisis This trend clearly illustrates that self-employment is no longer a viable option for Gujarats youth, thanks to administrative apathy, lack of guidance, and an indifferent attitude from both the state and central governments. Even banks are tightening approvals; only 2,733 loans were sanctioned in 202425, down from 4,265 in 202021. Whats worse, the decline has affected both urban and rural regions, revealing that the schemes failure is systemic, not localised. Despite the PMEGPs intent to encourage grassroots entrepreneurship, the lack of proper support, handholding, and follow-through has rendered the scheme ineffective across the state. The Gujarat Congress spokesperson Dr. Banker demanded an immediate overhaul of the state's MSME policy, urging the BJP government to move beyond flashy advertisements and take real, corrective action in the public interest. Until then, Gujarats youth will continue to face a bleak future betrayed by promises, trapped in unemployment, and increasingly forced to migrate in search of opportunity.

Surats Maitri bungalow stands as 80-year-old symbol of friendship passed through generations

In Surat's Bhatar, 'Maitri' bungalow embodies an enduring friendship. Bipin Desai and Gunwant Desai, friends since 1940, fought for independence together. They became business partners. Their bond fostered unity across generations. Their families live together at Maitri. They share responsibilities and festivities. Their unity is a legacy. Their friendship, built on faith, proves stronger than blood.

Bullet train corridor work in Gujarat on fast track, to be completed by 2027

NEW DELHI: The railways has accelerated work on the bullet train corridor between Vapi and Sabarmati in Gujarat, aiming to complete it by December 2027. A target has also been set to finish the entire projectfrom Maharashtra to the Sabarmati sectionby December 2029. The country will also be heading to Lok Sabha elections the same year. According to a recent update shared with the Lok Sabha by the Ministry of Railways, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project, spanning 508 km, is currently under execution with technical and financial aid from Japan. The bullet train route will pass through Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, with 12 stations planned at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Billimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati. Construction work at these stations is progressing at full pace. The railways added that the total estimated cost of the project now stands at `1,08,000 crore, with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funding 81%. The remaining 19% is being financed through equity contributions from the Ministry of Railways (50%), and the governments of Maharashtra and Gujarat (25% each). As of 30 June 2025, a cumulative expenditure of Rs 78,839 crore has been incurred on the project. The Railways acknowledged that delays in land acquisition in Maharashtra had affected the project timeline up until 2021, but all civil contracts have now been awarded. Out of a total 28 tender packages, 24 tender packages have been awarded. Till now, 392 km of pier construction, 329 km of girder casting and 308 km of girder launching have been completed. The work of the under-sea tunnel (21 km approx.) has also started, railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently informed Parliament. He further added saying that detailed project reports (DPRs) are being prepared by National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), to meet growing passenger demands, and to expand High Speed Rail (HSR) network in India beyond the MAHSR corridor. Vaishnaw also said that the MAHSR project involves an affordable fare-structure keeping in mind the socio-economic conditions of clientele.

Crater-ridden NH 66 on Surathkal-Nanthoor stretch drives motorists into tizzy

Top layer of carriageways has almost worn out on New Mangauru Port stretch between Baikampady and Kuloor Bridge

Surat Man Poisons Children, Takes Own Life Over Wife's Suspected Affair

A man named Alpeshbhai in Surat poisoned his two children and died by suicide over suspicions of his wife's affair. His wife and her alleged lover have been arrested.

International travels script Indias aviation growth story

NEW DELHI: The desire for international travel among Indians is triggering aviation boom, says the Airports Authority of India. And smaller airports, compared to those in capital cities, have picked up patronage. The AAI Air Traffic Data for the first three quarters of this financial year shows nearly two crore flyers went abroad this year, marking a 7% rise in international travel. The overall passenger growth stands at 5.6% with 105.15 million flyers taking to the skies in April-June 2025 over the 99.54 million of April-June 2024. The domestic growth figure is 5.3% with 85.32 million travelling this quarter as compared to 81 million in the corresponding period last year. As expected, following the Pahalgam attack and air spaceclosure, Srinagar airport has taken a massive hit. Bhopals Raja Bhoj airport, whose international destinations cover West Asia and South East Asia, has recorded an 80% growth figure over the past year, the maximum among all airports in the country. It is followed by Pune airport, which has recorded a 76.7% growth, and Bagdogra with 72.4% growth. Coimbatore, Surat, Mangaluru, and Guwahati have all recorded growth figures of over 33%. The hubs of international travel, IGIA and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport are inching along with a 3% (52,40,482 passengers) and 4.5% (38,96,278) increase, respectively, in international patronage. Post the opening of the second terminal, the growth of Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport appears unstoppable with 17,33,432 international travellers. It has recorded the maximum surge among the big airports.

Gujarat woman dies by suicide after poisoning seven-year-old son; financial woes suspected

AHMEDABAD: A 34-year-old woman in Gujarats Surat allegedly died by suicide after feeding her seven-year-old son poison-laced milk before consuming it herself. While the child survived and is undergoing treatment, the woman died during medical care on Thursday. Police suspect financial distress may have driven the act. According to police, the incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Laskana police station. On the morning of July 30, the woman, originally from Dedkani village in Amreli and currently residing in Surats Laskana area, left home with her son, citing a hospital visit for his fever. When the two did not return by evening, the family began searching for them. Around 9 pm, after receiving distress messages from the woman stating she had consumed poison, her friends alerted the family. The mother and child were found near a temple she was unconscious, and the boy was sitting beside her. Both were rushed to a nearby private hospital. During transit, the boy began vomiting. When asked what had happened, he reportedly told relatives that his mother had given him poison before taking it herself. Doctors administered emergency treatment and later shifted the woman to Surat Civil Hospital, where she died during treatment on the morning of July 31. The child remains under care at the private hospital. Surat DCP Alok Kumar confirmed that the woman had consumed a poisonous substance called Selfoss and had mixed the same in her sons milk. The case is being investigated as attempted murder and accidental death. Postmortem proceedings are underway, and statements from the family are being recorded. The woman had experienced personal turmoil in recent years. Her first husband died in an accident in 2020. A second marriage ended unsuccessfully, after which she returned to live with her father in the Laskana area of Surat. Though the exact reason behind the drastic act remains unclear, police suspect financial hardship may have been a trigger. Laskana police continue to investigate to establish the full sequence of events and the underlying motive. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

Lumpy skin disease resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 cattle infected across eight districts

AHMEDABAD: The dreaded lumpy skin disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.

Lumpy Virus Resurfaces in Gujarat, 300 Cattle Infected Across Eight Districts

AHMEDABAD: The dreaded Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has once again raised its head in Gujarat, infecting nearly 300 cattle across eight districts in just 15 days, reigniting fears among cattle breeders and authorities alike. With memories of the devastating 2022 outbreak still fresh, when over 6,000 cattle perished, the fresh surge has triggered renewed concern among cattle breeders. While the state government claims the situation is under control in half of the affected regions, active measures like mass vaccination drives and awareness campaigns are being rapidly executed to halt its spread. Fresh cases have emerged from Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Sabarkantha, Morbi, and Dwarka, prompting urgent intervention from the Animal Husbandry Department, which has launched an aggressive vaccination drive in the affected zones. In response, over 5 lakh cattle have already been vaccinated to contain the spread. Amid rising anxiety in rural belts, Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel offered some relief, stating that 250 of the 300 infected cattle have recovered, while eight deaths have been recorded so far. He added that the outbreak is now under control in four out of the eight districts. He was speaking at a one-day technical seminar on Animal Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Disease Prevention and Animal Welfare. Officials have also appealed to cattle breeders in the vulnerable regions to ensure swift vaccination and maintain biosecurity measures to prevent further escalation. The current surge draws haunting parallels to Gujarats 2022 LSD outbreak, which devastated livestock populations, claiming the lives of over 6,000 bovines, nearly 1,000 cattle, and 1,500 other animals across multiple districts including Kutch, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. That outbreak, marked by fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk yield, had crippled the rural dairy economy and exposed gaps in veterinary preparedness. In a proactive move, the state also convened a one-day state-level seminar today, aiming to review containment strategies, vaccine logistics, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure a repeat of 2022 is averted.

Mumbai-Delhi Expressway, Indias Longest, To Be Ready By Year-End: Why Its The Path To Easy Commute

Except a small section around Surat, the entire Delhi-Mumbai expressway can be expected by year-end, a senior official from the MoRTH told News18

Gujarat HC dismisses plea challenging state UCC panel over no minority representation

AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday dismissed a petition challenging the composition of a state-appointed five-member committee, formed to assess the need for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state, on the ground that it did not include any member from minority communities. A bench of Justice Niral S Mehta dismissed the plea moved by Surat-resident Abdul Vahab Sopariwala. Dismissed, the court said while pronouncing the judgement. A detailed order is awaited. On February 4 this year, state Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the formation of the committee to assess the necessity of the UCC and also to draft a bill for it. Challenging its composition of the panel, the petitioner argued that it does not have members from religious minorities, adding that inclusion of such stakeholders was crucial to ensure that diversity of opinions and practices is considered. The committee set up to examine the need for the UCC in Gujarat does not have a single scholar from minority communities, the petition said. Without appropriate representation from every community and relevant stakeholders, this committee violates the fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 14 (right to equality), 15 (prohibition of discrimination), and 25 (right to freedom of religion) of the Constitution of India, it added. The petitioner said he had made a representation to the chief minister on March 16 before approaching the high court. The plea had made a prayer to the high court to direct the respondent government to reform the committee with fresh members, who are the known persons of subjective law and effective parties of the said code. It also sought a direction to the government to engage in a consultative process involving all religious and cultural communities before any move to impose a UCC. The constitutional, legal and cultural framework demands that the personal laws of various communities, which are integral to their identities, be respected and preserved, it added. It also said that no notification was issued for the formation of the committee to examine the need of the UCC in Gujarat. The committee is chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai. It has retired IAS officer C L Meena, advocate R C Kodekar, former vice-chancellor of Veer Narmad South Gujarat University Dakshesh Thakar and social activist Geetaben Shroff as its members.

Retired forest official from Gujarat's Rajkot duped of Rs 8.93 lakh in digital arrest scam

AHMEDABAD: In a cyber fraud mirroring the recent Rs 19 crore scam in Gandhinagar, a retired forest head clerk from Gujarats Rajkot, has fallen prey to a digital arrest con and lost Rs 8.93 lakh. Posing as officials from TRAI and Maharashtra Cyber Crime, the scammers extorted money from the elderly man by threatening him with criminal charges and arrest. The victim, a former Forest Head Clerk at Bahumali Bhavan, lives near Patidar Chowk in Rajkot. On November 28, 2024, he received a call from a woman identifying herself as Diya Sharma from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). She claimed that two Jio SIM cards linked to his number were being misused and needed to be deactivated immediately. Minutes later, a second call came, this time from someone posing as Inspector Mohit Handa from the Maharashtra Cyber Crime Cell. The caller alleged that an HDFC Bank account had been opened using the victims Aadhaar-linked SIM, through which Rs 68 lakh had been fraudulently transacted. The scammer claimed the money belonged to a woman who had since died by suicide and that an arrest warrant had been issued against the retired clerk. As the victim hesitated, the imposter escalated the pressure. Through a video call, he showed a man in police uniform seated at what appeared to be a police station and claimed the only way to avoid arrest was to provide a security bond of Rs 2 lakh. Terrified, the retired official agreed to cooperate. The accused then shared a WhatsApp link during the video call. Following the instructions, the victim unknowingly transferred Rs 8.93 lakh via UPI in multiple transactions to different bank accounts. Realising he had been duped, the victim immediately contacted the cybercrime helpline 1930 and filed a complaint with the Rajkot City Cyber Crime Police Station. The police have launched an investigation using phone numbers, video call metadata, and other digital traces. The FIR names multiple unknown account holders under charges of cheating and breach of trust. Investigators believe the fraud is linked to a larger inter-state racket exploiting fear and authority to extort money under the guise of digital arrests. Recently, a woman doctor in Gujarat was digitally trapped and defrauded of Rs 19 crore by cybercriminals who pressured her over months with threats and surveillance. The fraudsters made her transfer money into 35 accounts, even taking a loan against her gold. Realising the scam too late, she alerted her family, prompting a CID Cyber Crime probe on July 16. One suspect has been arrested in Surat; a massive manhunt is on for the rest of the syndicate. With similar high-stake scams emerging across Gujarat, police have issued fresh advisories urging citizens to remain vigilant against fake officials and to never share sensitive information or make payments under threat.

Surat Woman Attacked By Husband With Hammer, Gang-Raped By His Friends And Thrown Into River

The husband allegedly attacked her with stick and hammer and gang-raped her with his friends in Surat.

VinFast Inaugurates First India Showroom In Surat As EV Market Gears Up

VinFast aims to launch 35 dealerships by year-end across more than 27 Indian cities,

Retirement of MiG fighter jets, concerns grow over delayed Tejas induction, shrinking combat strength

NEW DELHI: While preparations are underway to bid adieu to the last squadron of MiG aircraft on 19 September at Chandigarh this year, anxieties persist regarding the falling number of combat squadrons and, more significantly, the slow pace of production of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) intended to replace these longest-serving fighter jets. The jets of the Number 23 Squadron, MiG-21, will be flying for the last time. Inducted into the IAF in 1963, the MiG-21 was initially acquired for the role of a high-altitude interceptor. It was later retasked for ground attack. The USSR had designed it to counter aircraft such as the American U-2 spy plane. The first induction of the Russian-origin single-engine MiG-21 fighters took place in 1963, with different versions joining the IAF subsequently. As of now, the IAF continues to operate one squadron of the MiG-21 Bison at Suratgarh. A squadron in the IAF comprises 1618 aircraft. However, an element of anxiety persists within the combat fraternity of the Air Force: following the retirement of the 23 Squadron, the IAFs combat squadron strength will fall to its lowest ever29 squadronsagainst the sanctioned strength of 42. It is a logical move as there is a shift in aerial combatfrom close combat to acquisition and attack with missiles, which initially ranged a few kilometres but now exceed 100 kms, said a fighter pilot, adding, The war now includes electronic warfare and has progressed to an informatised format. The move was long due and aligns with existing plans, as the aircraft has long lived its age. The Pakistan Air Force, which inducted the F-104 long back, no longer operates that aircraft, said a source. The concern, however, is not the retirement of the MiGs itself; it is the absence of a clear and timely replacement. The delays in induction of indigenously manufactured Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, said the source. Overall, the Indian Air Force operated 24 fighter squadrons and four training units of MiG-21s. The IAF flew over 850 MiG-21s over six decadesa scale unmatched by most air forces. The aircraft, often nicknamed the Flying Coffin, saw approximately 300 losses in accidents. Interestingly, the birth of Tejas is closely linked with the MiGs phase-out. It is due to delays in the LCA project that the IAF took time in retiring the MiG-21s and replacing them with the indigenously developed Tejas, the source explained. The LCA was conceived in the late 1980s to replace the MiG-21s. After decades of delays due to production issues, the IAF now possesses 40 of the initial lot of Tejas aircraft. Last year, the IAF signed a 48,000-crore deal for 83 Tejas Mk1A fighters. As The New Indian Express reported earlier, the IAF is keen to induct close to 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters. Once this order is fulfilled over the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mk-1A, and at least 120 LCA Mk-2 aircraft. The first Tejas aircraft flew in 200117 years after the programme was initiated. The actual induction started 15 years later, in 2016. The first indigenous LCA was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF squadron to receive the Tejas was No. 45 Squadron, the Flying Daggers, which was earlier a MiG-21 Bis squadron. Tejas Mk1A is the newer and improved version of Indias single-engine, 4.5-generation delta wing multirole combat aircraft, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency. The delays in Tejas deliveries have caused anxiety, culminating in a no confidence remark from the IAF Chief in February. The delay in the delivery of Tejas fighter aircraft by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) led to the comment by Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. While inspecting an aircraft at Aero India 2025, Singh was heard telling HAL officials, I can only tell you what our requirements and our worries are... At the moment, I am just not confident of HAL, which is a very wrong thing to happen. The video was captured and posted by the defence news channel NationalDefence. However, HAL officials have expressed confidence in delivering 12 Tejas fighters in this financial year. The Air Chief highlighted that the force has yet to receive all 40 Tejas Mk1 jets ordered in 2010. The Indian Air Force currently operates only 36 Tejas Mk1 jets, with four deliveries still pending. Since the 1960s, MiGs have touched the lives of every IAF pilot, directly or indirectly. As September approaches, the feeling of melancholy among them is only natural.

Family denies drug peddling allegations against tribal youth killed in crossfire in Jammu

SRINAGAR: The family of 21-year-old tribal youth Mohammad Parvez who was killed in cross firing in Jammu Thursday evening, has denied the police's claim that the deceased was a drug peddler and asserted that he was innocent. He is innocent. He was not involved in any wrongdoing. They killed him by firing bullets at him. He is totally innocent and has no links with drug peddling or drug peddlers, said one of his female relatives. Parvez, who had got married a few months back, was allegedly shot dead by police during a cross-firing incident in Jammu Thursday evening. According to the police, they were chasing suspected drug peddlers in Sure Chak area in Satwari area of Jammu. Police said there was firing against them and in the crossfire, Parvez was killed while another person escaped. The Gujjar activist and lawyer Guftar Ahmad, while disputing the police claim, said not a single FIR was registered againstParvez. See the condition of family. What will his wife do he got married 3 months back. Young Mohd Pervaiz was killed in an encounter last evening. Not a single FIR was registered on his name & he was declared criminal just for promotion, Guftar posted on X. He urged Home Minister Amit Shah and Lt Governor Manoj Sinha totake strong action against officials involved in the killing of tribal youth.FIR has been registered in the killing ofMohammadPervaiz.Administrationhas also announced Job & compensation for the family. 2 cops have been suspended. HopefullyJ&k policewill take strong action against culprits who are involved in the killing of Pervaiz. Police should set an example, he said. ZahidParwazChoudhary,State President , J&K Gujjar BakerwalYouth Welfare Conference alleged that the selective killing of Gujjar youth in Jammu through fake encounters is deeply concerning and raises serious questions. We strongly condemn this intolerable targeting of our community across the State under the pretexts of encroachment, drugs, and cattle smuggling. This clearly reveals a strong conspiracy against us. What was the fault of Parvez Ahmed? Why was he murdered, he questioned. Parvez's only fault was that he was a Gujjar, a young man from a leaderless community with no one to speak for him, which is why he was killed. Now, whoever speaks up for him will be charged under PSA or UAPA, while the one who kills will get a medal. If the officer who encountered Parvez is not dismissed and jailed, we will not remain silent(sic), Zahid posted on X. Former J&K Chief Minister and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti in a post on X said, Mohammad Parvez, a tribal youth waskilled by the police at Surat Chak Police Station in Satwari yesterday. Hes now been labelled as a drug dealer but even that may be the case we still live in a democratic country where justice is served through rule of law as opposed to khap panchayats or kangaroo courts. Sincerely hope the DG takes cognisance of this shocking incident by ordering a time bound impartial probe. We must not descend or condone a culture of extrajudicial encounters because thats precisely what alienates people, she said. Mohammad Parvez a tribal youth was killed by the police at Surat Chak, Police Station in Satwari yesterday. Hes now been labelled as a drug dealer but even that may be the case we still live in a democratic country where justice is served through rule of law as opposed to khap pic.twitter.com/HYfsinF7d6 Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) July 25, 2025 Former minister and BJP leader Chowdhary Zulfikar Ali said the inhabitants of the area and prominent community members have reached out tohimstating that the deceased was not involved in any illegal activity.This incident follows other recent incidents in Jammu, causing widespread outrage among the Gujjar community. The community demands a free, fair, and unbiased probe into the matter, he said. The BJP leader urged Lt Governor, IGP Jammu and Divisional Commissioner Jammuto order a judicial investigation into the incident.

International air travel sees 5 per cent surge in May 2025; Domestic traffic also grow

NEW DELHI: Air passenger traffic in the country continues its growth trajectory month-on-month, with a 3 per cent increase in overall passengers in May 2025 compared to May 2024. Data released by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) reveals a higher demand for international travel, with a 5% increase recorded during the same period. The Air Traffic Report for May, made public by AAI, reveals that 6.76 million passengers flew abroad compared to 6.44 million last year. They form part of the 35.38 million who travelled in May 2025, compared to 34.34 million in May 2024. Air Traffic Movements (flight arrivals and departures) recorded a 5.9 per cent increase, with 2.78 crore movements in May this year compared to 2.63 crore in May last year. A total of 67,62,343 people opted to fly abroad in May 2025, versus 64,41,392 during the same month last year. Relatively smaller airports, compared to the top five, are showing a significant surge in demand for international travel. Goa recorded a nearly 300 per cent surge in international flyers, with 26,211 passengers in May 2025 compared to May 2024. In terms of percentage, Pune followed with a high growth of 85 per cent (34,388 flyers) during the same period. Coimbatore Airport, with 28,809 flyers, registered a 48.4 per cent increase in patronage over the previous year. Mangaluru and Surat saw a 35.1 per cent increase, with 62,159 and 18,790 flyers respectively in May this year. Similarly, Kannur Airport, with 1,00,993 international flyers, and Nagpur, with 10,471 flyers, each recorded a 20.7 per cent increase over their previous figures. The boom in international travel from Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) continued, with 6,05,742 flyers in May this year, up by a significant 25 per cent over the same month last year. In comparison, other major airports like Mumbai (13,42,584 flyers) and Delhi (17,04,549 flyers) recorded single-digit growths of 2.6 per cent and 1.2 per cent, respectively, over their May 2024 figures. Hyderabad recorded a healthy 11.2 per cent increase with 4,52,243 flyers. Domestic front data On the domestic front as well, relatively smaller airports showed strong growth in May 2025 over May 2024. Jharsuguda recorded 40,808 flyers (a 92.2% increase), Jabalpur 46,924 flyers (90.3%), Gorakhpur 1,00,404 flyers (87.5%), Shivamogga 14,104 flyers (80.6%), Agra 22,521 flyers (77.2%), Kanpur 35,720 flyers (58%), Tirupati 1,06,200 flyers (a 53.7% increase), Rajahmundry 54,963 flyers (50.5%), Tiruchirappalli 74,343 flyers (46.5%), Kannur 46,923 flyers (49.6%), Patna 4,07,993 flyers (34.6%), and Bhuj 18,861 flyers (30.8%).

Infra, roads raising night temps in cities by 3-4 degrees, Delhi vulnerable to floods: Report

A World Bank report reveals that Indian cities experience significantly higher night-time temperatures than rural areas due to infrastructure. Lucknow faces a 5C difference, while Chennai and Surat see 3-4C increases. The report projects a rise in heat waves and pluvial flooding, potentially causing billions in annual losses by 2030, especially impacting densely populated areas.

Surat airport's largest-ever gold smuggling bid foiled: How did Gujarati couple hide 28 kg of pure gold in clothes?

A Gujarati couple was apprehended at Surat International Airport for attempting to smuggle 28 kilograms of gold paste from Dubai. The gold, concealed under their clothing, was discovered due to suspicious behavior noticed by a CISF officer. Authorities estimate the haul could yield over 20 kilograms of pure gold, marking it as the airport's largest smuggling attempt.

Ahmedabad Customs Seizes Nearly 25 Kg Gold At Surat Airport

Based on concentration levels of the paste, officials estimate the pure gold yield to be over 20 kg, he said.

Urban climate funding: Indian cities need $2.4 trillion by 2050 to withstand floods, heatwaves - World Bank

A World Bank report indicates Indian cities need significant investment. This investment is for resilient, low-carbon infrastructure by 2050. Cities face rising climate risks like floods and heatwaves. Economic losses could surge without action. Delhi, Chennai, Surat, and Lucknow are most vulnerable. The report urges fiscal changes and private capital to bridge the infrastructure gap.

Indian cities will need over $2.4 trillion by 2050 to tackle climate risks: World Bank Report

A World Bank report warns that Indian cities face rising climate risks. Floods and heatwaves threaten economic growth. Investments of over 2.4 trillion US dollars are needed by 2050 for resilient infrastructure. Cities like Delhi, Chennai, Surat, and Lucknow are particularly vulnerable. Heat-related deaths could surge. The report urges increased private sector investment and stronger urban local bodies.

Smuggling bid foiled at Surat airport; 28 kg gold seized from Dubai-returned passengers

NEW DELHI: In a breakthrough, the CISF vigilance team at Surat airport foiled a large-scale gold smuggling attempt, seizing 28 kg of gold paste (believed to contain around 23 kg of pure gold) from two Dubai-returned passengers. The swift and alert response by the security personnel thwarted a potential smuggling operation worth crores. Surat airport witnessed high drama late on July 20, after the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) vigilance team cracked a major gold smuggling attempt. The male and female passengers had arrived on Air India Express flight IX-174 from Dubai around 10 pm. During routine surveillance in the arrival area, CISF personnel noticed the duo behaving suspiciously. The team immediately detained them for a thorough check. Acting swiftly, CISF officers, in coordination with customs officials, initiated a detailed search of their luggage and personal belongings. What followed was a shocking discovery: nearly 28 kg of gold paste concealed ingeniously on their bodies. Officials estimate that around 23 kg of it is pure gold. The entire operation stands as a testament to the CISFs vigilance and efficiency in cracking down on smuggling operations at Indian airports. Their timely intervention not only prevented a high-value crime but also exposed the increasingly creative tactics adopted by smugglers. Customs authorities have now launched a detailed investigation to trace the origin, route, and end network of the seized gold, raising concerns about the scale of such international smuggling operations through regional airports.

Hidden cameras, Pegasus-like systems were used to honeytrap MLAs of MVA government: Sena (UBT)

MUMBAI: Hidden cameras and a Pegasus-like surveillance system were used to honeytrap Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) MLAs and MPs, leading to the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government in 2022, the Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed on Tuesday. A Saamana editorial stated that some MLAs of the undivided Shiv Sena and the NCP switched loyalties due to pressure from Central agencies. At least 18 MLAs and four MPs were honeytrapped, prompting them to join hands with the BJP to save their image. It further said Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar had alleged that MPs and MLAs were blackmailed and as a former leader of the opposition, his remarks must be taken seriously. Hidden cameras and a Pegasus-like system from Israel were used (for surveillance) to its fullest extent. It is now clear that the MVA government collapsed due to this (honey) trapping, the editorial said. Pegasus is a spyware developed by Israeli cyber-arms company NSO Group. The BJP had a system to honeytrap, and even policemen conducted surveillance on the opposition, the Saamana said. When a pen drive containing evidence of honeytrapping, which involved Shiv Sena MPs and MLAs, was handed over to Eknath Shinde, they set out on their journey to Surat, Guwahati and then to Goa. This is all like a suspense thriller, the editorial said. The Sena (UBT) was alluding to the split engineered by Shinde in the undivided Shiv Sena in 2022. The Saamana stated that Shinde initially lacked the numerical strength and had the backing of only nine or ten MLAs at the time. However, the people from the home department and the then leader of the opposition, Devendra Fadnavis, blackmailed MPs and MLAs. The editorial stated that Shiv Sena ministers Sanjay Shirsat, Yogesh Kadam and Dada Bhuse, and their NCP colleague Manik Kokate should be sacked from the state cabinet. Some ministers were honeytrapped, and they will also have to go. The conduct of some ministers indicates that a cabinet reshuffle is on the cards in Maharashtra, the Saamana added. Uddhav: MVA squabbles, ego clashes led to Maharashtra poll rout Amid tensions between BJP and Shinde's Sena, Maharashtra CM Fadnavis invites Uddhav to join govt

Couple returning from Dubai held at Surat airport with 20kg gold paste

Surat: A couple coming from Dubai were apprehended by the CISF and Customs at the Surat airport for allegedly smuggling in over 20 kg of gold paste by concealing it under their clothes, officials said. The incident took place around 10 pm on July 20. The couple were first noticed by a plainclothes official 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 .

Mercedes Stunt Fails At Surat's Dumas Beach, Car Gets Stuck In Sand | Watch

Authorities have not yet stated whether any action will be taken against those involved in the incident.

I suddenly began hearing: Surat woman regains hearing after 20 years following dental implants

After nearly two decades of silence, Jaibunnisha M from Surat experienced a miraculous return of hearing following extensive dental implant procedures. Initially scheduled for cochlear implant surgery, her hearing spontaneously improved, surprising both her family and medical team.

Benefits never reached poor under RJD-Congress rule, alleges PM Modi at Bihar rally

PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged people to save Bihar from the ad intentions of the RJD and Congress, accusing both parties of doing politics in the name of the poor, backwards, Dalits and Adivasis over the years. What to speak of giving equal rights to the poor, backwards, Dalits and Adivasis, they cannot give even respect to the people outside their families, Modi commented in a public rally in Bihar Motihari, while obliquely targeting RJD chief Lalu Prasad after a portrait of Babasaheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar was placed near his feet by one of his supporters during his birthday celebrations. Avoiding responding to the allegations being made by RJD and its allies about the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of the election rolls in Bihar, Modi said that RJD had put the brakes on the development of Bihar as even benefits were not reaching the poor when RJD and Congress were in power. He said that UPA released only around Rs 2 lakh crore when it was in power at the centre as it was taking revenge against Bihars NDA government headed by Nitish Kumar and the state itself. PM said, I stopped this old politics as the central assistance to Bihar increased manifold after the formation of the NDA government at the Centre in 2014. PM Modi said that NDA government at the centre provided more funds to Bihar for its development than that of the previous UPA government led by Congress. He also listed mis-governance during the previous RJD-Congress government in the state. We (NDA) have provided pucca houses to people in Bihar more than population of Norway, Singapore and New Zealand, he pointed out. Highlighting the achievements of the NDA government, PM Modi said that tremendous results have been coming out of women empowerment as over 20 lakh women have become lakhpati Didis in Bihar alone. He lauded by efforts made by Nitish Kumar for women empowerment through Jeevika Didis and their self-help groups. PM Modi said that Bihar had to be made a developed state if the eastern India had to be taken forward on the path of growth. Today, development work is happening in Bihar so fast because there is a government working for Bihar at the centre and in the state, he remarked. Our resolve is that in the coming times, Motihari should be known in the east just like Mumbai is in western India. Just like there are opportunities in Gurugram, Gaya should also have similar opportunities. Like Pune, there should be industrial development in Patna. Like Surat, Santhal Pargana should also develop. Like Jaipur, new records of tourism should be made in Jalpaiguri and Jajpur. Like Bangalore, the people of Birbhum should also progress, he added. PM Modi thanked Nitish for taking initiatives for the welfare of youths. Nitish Kumars government is giving jobs to youths in support of the Centre, he said, adding that Mudra Loan scheme was being strengthened to provide loans to make youths self-reliant. PM Modis visit to Motihari, district headquarters of East Champaran, is the 53rd tour to Bihar since 2014 and third in one and a half months. Earlier, PM Modi laid foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over Rs.7,200 crore.

Beat the Heat, Tiger Style

It's pouring in many parts of India, but at the Sarthana Nature Park in Surat, this tiger and leopards are trying to beat the heat.

Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Lucknow named top 3 clean cities

Ahmedabad has been named the cleanest big city in the latest Swachh Survekshan, while Indore, Surat, and Navi Mumbai were recognized for exceptional sanitation efforts in a new 'Super Swachh League Cities' category.

Indore named cleanest city for 8th year in Swachh Survekshan 2024-25

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 awards with Indore retaining the title of India's cleanest city for the eighth time in a row. Surat stood second and Navi Mumbai third in the Central government's annual ...

Swachh Survekshan awards: Indore, Surat, Navi Mumbai among cleanest Indian cities - check new entrants

The government released the annual cleanliness survey. Indore secured the top spot for the eighth consecutive year. Surat and Navi Mumbai followed closely. President Droupadi Murmu presented the Swachh Survekshan awards. Ahmedabad, Bhopal, and Lucknow emerged as new clean cities. Prayagraj was recognized as the best Ganga town. Secunderabad Cantonment received the best Cantonment Board award.

Surat teen dies by suicide after harassment by minor; incident sparks community tension

AHMEDABAD: In a case from Surats Katargam area, a 19-year-old tuition teacher, Nenu Vavadia, died by suicide after alleged sustained harassment, threats, and extortion by a minor boy and his father. The incident, which unfolded on the evening of July 16, has now spiralled into a two-community flashpoint, pitting two prominent groups against each other, with police arrests, political demands, and social media firestorms intensifying the fallout. According to the FIR lodged on Tuesday, the victims father alleged that a minor boy who used to drop his niece at the tuition class where Nenu taught, began stalking and harassing her. The complaint states the minor allegedly pressured her repeatedly to enter into a relationship, abused her over the phone, and even demanded a ransom of Rs 30,000. When the girl's father confronted the boys father, he allegedly sided with his son, verbally abused Nenus father, and failed to intervene. On Wednesday, Singanpore police detained the minor and arrested his father, both of whom have been booked under charges related to abetment of suicide, extortion, and harassment. The father was produced before court and remanded to one-day custody, while the minor remains under questioning. Preliminary investigations reveal that the boy had allegedly been persistently following Nenu to and from her tuition classes, using vulgar language and threats to mentally torture her. In a statement to the local media, Nenus father said, My daughter was abused and threatened repeatedly. Despite informing the boys father, he supported his son and even abused me. My daughter was so mentally tortured that she saw no way out but to end her life. As the police tightened their case, the incident ignited sharp tension between two communities. The accused father and son belong to Gujarats influential Rabari (cattle rearers) community, while the deceased girl is from the Patidar community. Social media platforms exploded with viral messages and chat screenshots allegedly exchanged between the victim and the accused. While some groups are portraying the messages to defend the accused, others led by the girls father have circulated counter messages demanding strict legal action. Amid mounting tensions, the Patidar community publicly urged the Chief Minister of Gujarat to ensure an impartial probe. Patidar leader Mathur Savani said, Weve written to the Chief Minister, demanding action against the police for any negligence and seeking justice for a young girl who took her life due to unchecked social harassment, he said. As the investigation deepens, what began as a tragic suicide has now turned into a case entwined with harassment, alleged extortion, community fault lines, and demands for administrative accountability. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

Cleanliness Survey: Indore retains top ranking for 8th consecutive time

New Delhi, July 17 Indore has once again clinched the title of Indias cleanest city, marking its eighth consecutive win in the governments annual Swachh Survekshan rankings. Surat and Navi Mumbai followed closely, securing the second and third spots, respectively. The 2025 rankings, announced on Thursday, also saw Noida top the category for cities [] The post Cleanliness Survey: Indore retains top ranking for 8th consecutive time appeared first on Northlines .

Cleanliness survey: Indore retains top ranking for 8th time

Surat, Navi Mumbai came second and third respectively

Indore Declared India's Cleanest City For Eighth Time In A Row

Indore bagged the cleanest city of India title for the eighth time in a row, while Surat was ranked second in the Central government's annual cleanliness survey, the results of which were announced today.

7 members of gang linked to Chhota Shakeel held for kidnapping dealer

Mumbai: The Mumbai Police crime branch has arrested seven members of an international gang allegedly linked to underworld don Chhota Shakeel, in connection with the kidnapping and assault of a drug dealer and his associate for extortion, officials said on Wednesday. The drug dealer, identified as Sajid Electricwala from Surat, had been held captive by 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 .