22, 24 carat Gold prices up across other cities on November 3
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 3 (IANS) Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan recently recalled a hilarious incident involving his wife, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, from the time they were shooting for their 2008 film Tashan in Ladakh. Appearing on the quiz-based reality show Kaun Banega Crorepati, hosted by megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Saif opened up about his first-ever bike ride with Kareena and how the actress ended up digging her nails into him because she was petrified of the speed of the ride. During the episode featuring Saif and Akshay Kumar, Saif said, Shuru-shuru mein, Kareena aur mein zyada baat nahi kar rahe the us waqt pe... just being polite co-stars. Toh kisi ne kaha ki 'Why don't you ask her for a bike ride? Wo bahut pasand karti hain motorcycles.' Aur us waqt main maine ek bike hire kiya tha. Ladakh ki roads bahut khubsurat hai toh main headphones laga ke shooting pe aata tha bike chalate hue. Toh unhone kaha ki 'Why don't you give her a bike ride?' Toh maine poochha unko ki 'Would you like to go on a bike ride?' And she said, 'Yes, I... you know, I would love to, I love bikes.' Toh maine kaha chalo. (Initially, Kareena and I weren't talking much at that time. We were just being polite co-stars. Then someone suggested, 'Why don't you ask her for a bike ride? She really likes motorcycles.' At that time, I had hired a bike. The roads in Ladakh are very beautiful, so I used to ride to the shooting location wearing headphones. Then they suggested, 'Why don't you take her on a bike ride?' So I asked her, 'Would you like to go on a bike ride?' And she said, 'Yes, I... you know, I would love to, I love bikes.' So I said, 'Come on, let's go) Recounting how Kareena got frightened during the ride, the actor said, So I took her on a little ride, and every two seconds,... she dug her nails into me and said, 'Stop stop stop stop! Roko roko roko roko..' You know, I was like, 'But...' So I was driving again, she said, 'Stop, stop, not so fast, not so fast..' And after a while she said, 'No, I hate bike rides..' (So I took her on a little ride, and every two seconds, she dug her nails into me and said, 'Stop, stop, stop, stop! Stop, stop, stop, stop.' I was like, 'But...' I started driving again, and she said, 'Stop, stop, not so fast, not so fast.' After a while, she said, 'No, I hate bike rides) Concluding the amusing anecdote, Saif shared what went through his mind after Kareena repeatedly asked him to stop. He said, So I said, 'Then why are we on this bike?' Then I thought, 'Ah... okay, maybe there is something else to it.' So I think we liked each other, but she did not like the bike.. For the uninitiated, Saif and Kareena's love story blossomed on the sets of Tashan, which also starred Akshay Kumar and Anil Kapoor. The two eventually fell in love while filming the action entertainer and went on to become one of Bollywood's most celebrated couples. They also worked together in films such as Omkara, Kurbaan and Agent Vinod. Saif and Kareena eventually tied the knot in October 2012. The couple are now parents to two sons, Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan.
India's 1st bullet train: 280 kmph speed, 557 passengers, 8 coaches; top 20 features
Indian Railways is working towards starting trial runs of the B28 train on the 100-km Surat-Vapi stretch of the Ahmedabad-Mumbai High Speed Rail corridor by May-June 2027. Commercial services on this section are expected to commence in August 2027. What will be special about Indias first bullet train? What are the features that passengers can look forward to? We take a look:
Anurag Kashyap gets bailable warrant in case over remark against Brahmins
A Surat court has issued a bailable warrant against Anurag Kashyap after he failed to appear despite multiple summonses in a case over his alleged offensive remarks against the Brahmin community on social media in April 2025. The next hearing is on December 24
&K Deaf Cricket Team wins National T20 Cricket Cship
Srinagar, Nov 2: Jammu & Kashmir Deaf Cricket Team emerged champions of the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026, bringing pride to the region with an impressive performance in the national-level tournament held in Surat, Gujarat. The championship was organised by Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) in association with the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS). It was held from October 26 to November 1 at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore, with teams from 14 states and regions participating. Jammu & Kashmir's Shariq Majeed added to the team's achievement by receiving the Player of the Match award in the final for his outstanding performance. The closing ceremony was attended by Santosh Kumar Rai, Special Secretary, Home Department, Government of Delhi, as the chief guest. He congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on winning the championship and appreciated the efforts of players, coaches, officials and organisers. IDCA President Sumit Jain congratulated the J&K team and said the successful championship marked another milestone in strengthening deaf cricket in India. The tournament provided a national platform for deaf cricketers to showcase their talent, discipline and sporting abilities. The participation of 14 teams reflected the growing reach of deaf cricket across the country. The closing ceremony also featured a special felicitation for Parth Gajjar in recognition of his contribution and service to Indian Deaf Cricket. Jammu & Kashmir's championship victory stands as a proud moment for the region and highlights the determination, hard work and sporting excellence of its deaf cricketers.
Two SMC officials held for taking bribe for firecracker licence
Asian Games gold medallist cheated of 69L
Banter in 'Salman Khan Insta group ends in double murder of teens
MTech engineer turns to cybercrime; dupes Surat trio of 2 crore
Digital Desk | Surat, Nov 2 (IANS) A man posing as a government cyber forensic specialist allegedly cheated a Surat-based petrochemical businessman of Rs 1.24 crore by promising lucrative returns through forex trading, cryptocurrency and overseas funds, before using the money to purchase property and luxury cars in Mumbai, police said on Monday. The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell has arrested the main accused, Priyank Vyas, 34, from Mira Road in Mumbai. A chartered accountant, Rohan Kelawala, who allegedly introduced Vyas to the complainant and facilitated the transactions, is absconding. According to the police, the accused and his associates collected Rs 1,29,25,100 from the complainant and his friend in 21 instalments over 11 months, between November 2025 and October 2026. Of this, Rs 4.70 lakh was returned to the complainant, leaving Rs 1,24,53,900 unpaid. The fraud came to light after the complainant, a petrochemical businessman, approached a chartered accountant in Surat in November 2025 for assistance with banking and loan-related work. The accountant allegedly told him that he invested clients' money in forex trading and introduced him to Vyas, describing him as a cyber forensic expert and cryptocurrency specialist. The two met at a hotel in Mumbai. To gain the businessman's confidence, Vyas allegedly displayed a fake identity card bearing the national emblem and identifying him as Dr Priyank Samirbhai Vyas Forensic Cyber Crime Specialist, Cyber Forensic Department, Mumbai. He also claimed that his car carried a government board and used a UPI ID named 'fslcyberforensic' and an email address named 'fslmumbai'. Vyas initially sought Rs 18 lakh, claiming that the amount was required to renew the IP address of a terminal developed by him. He promised to return Rs 30 lakh within 60 days and also offered the complainant a 20 per cent partnership in his business. On January 21 this year, the complainant sent Rs 18 lakh in cash to the chartered accountant's office. The accused subsequently communicated with the complainant through a 'Work' group on the BOTIM application, discussing IP purchases, software updates, cryptocurrency transactions and pre-authorised cards. Screenshots of USDT transactions and photographs of VISA cards issued by foreign banks were allegedly shared to reinforce the impression that the transactions were genuine. Between February and October 2026, Vyas allegedly demanded further payments on various pretexts, including a Rs 15 crore server fund, a Rs 153 crore fund from Argentina, the withdrawal of 5.3 million US dollars from a card and the recovery of Bitcoin from the wallet of a person in Nashik. The money was collected as gas fees, transaction charges, withdrawal charges, processing fees and personal loans through cash, bank transfers, Google Pay, angadia channels and USDT. Police said the accused repeatedly displayed large balances on a laptop, sent screenshots showing 'Transaction Success' and subsequently claimed that transactions had failed. He cited reasons such as IP-related banking errors, withdrawal limit issues, an Ethereum server outage and 83,768 ETH being blocked because of the size of a transaction. He also claimed that a wallet audit had identified 17 errors, comprising 15 yellow and two red alerts, and demanded additional fees to resolve them. The accused allegedly returned small amounts at intervals, including Rs one lakh, Rs 15,000, Rs 5,000 and Rs 3.5 lakh, to maintain the victims' confidence and persuade them to make further payments. On some occasions, the complainant and his friends were called to hotel rooms in Mumbai, where Vyas allegedly demonstrated a purported live transfer of 1.96 BTC on a laptop described as a government terminal. He also added the complainant's bank account as a beneficiary and shared screenshots showing 'Payment Initiated', 'RTGS' and 'Withdrawal Processed Successfully'. The police said the money was not used for any server, fund or cryptocurrency transactions. Instead, Vyas allegedly purchased a property in Mumbai worth around Rs 1.5 crore, bought a BMW luxury car and booked another flat for which he paid approximately Rs 80 lakh as a token amount. Investigators are collecting documentary evidence to establish that these assets were acquired using the proceeds of the fraud and initiate legal action for their seizure or freezing. The investigation has also revealed two other alleged victims in Surat. One of the complainant's friends paid Rs 74.90 lakh in instalments through bank transfers and cash, while another Surat resident allegedly paid Rs 7.5 lakh. Police suspect that the accused may have collected nearly Rs two crore from victims in the city and are investigating whether more people were cheated. Police said Vyas and Kelawala had earlier been cheated while trading on a platform named GlobalSwiftPay. Although the platform displayed large US dollar balances, the money could not be withdrawn. Investigators suspect that the two subsequently used the same concept of displaying fictitious balances and demanding fees to cheat others. The police also alleged that Kelawala played a key role in introducing the complainant to Vyas. He had assured the businessman that the money would be returned with profits within 30 days and said the responsibility for repayment was his. He received the initial Rs 18 lakh at his office and sent a message stating '1800 received'. He was also the administrator of the BOTIM group and shared transaction screenshots and photographs of foreign bank cards. When the complainant sought updates, he allegedly replied, 'Waiting bro'. The case was registered at the Surat City Cyber Crime Police Station on October 30 under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. The FIR includes Sections 318(4), 204, 205, 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the BNS. A team led by Police Inspector N R Patel conducted the investigation under the supervision of senior officials. Investigators analysed transaction records, wallet screenshots and trace reports, and verified wallet addresses and transaction IDs through blockchain explorers. Technical analysis and human intelligence led the team to Vyas's location at Mira Road in Mumbai. Police have seized two mobile phones, two laptops, two hard disks, two pen drives, three cryptocurrency wallet cards, a chip, the fake Cyber Forensic Department identity card, a card of the Crime Grievance and Intelligence Council, two cheque books, two bank passbooks and documents relating to a flat in Mira Road. A BMW and a Honda City were also seized. The police have valued the seized items at a total of Rs 9.65 lakh. Kelawala remains absconding, and efforts are underway to arrest him. The police have urged people to verify investment platforms and brokers before transferring money, avoid offers promising guaranteed or unusually high returns, and refrain from paying additional amounts in the name of withdrawal or tax-processing fees.
J&K Crowned Champions Of IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship For Deaf
IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship: Jammu & Kashmir emerged champions of the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026, while Rajasthan finished runners-up in the tournament held in Surat, Gujarat. Tamil Nadu Deafs Sai Akash was named Player of the Series and also received the Best Batsman of the Series award. Rajasthan Deafs Sanju Sharma was adjudged Best Bowler of the Series, while Jammu & Kashmir Deafs Shariq Majeed received the Player of the Match award in the final. Organised by the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), in association with the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS), the championship was held from October 26 to November 1 at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore. Teams representing 14 states and regions across India participated in the tournament. The 10th edition marked the first time Surat hosted the national-level T20 championship for deaf cricketers, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. The closing ceremony was attended by Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, Special Secretary, Home Department, Government of Delhi, as the chief guest. He congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on winning the title and Rajasthan on finishing runners-up, while acknowledging the contributions of the participating players, coaches, officials, organisers, sponsors and volunteers. These talented deaf cricketers have demonstrated that hearing impairment is never a barrier to achieving excellence in sports. Such initiatives provide a valuable platform for deaf athletes to showcase their talent, promote inclusion and equal opportunities, and inspire future generations, Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, said, IDCA president Sumit Jain said the tournaments successful conclusion marked another milestone in the associations efforts to strengthen deaf cricket in India. The successful conclusion of the 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf marks another important milestone in our efforts to strengthen the platform for deaf cricket in India. Bringing together 14 teams from across the country in Surat, for the first time, reflects the growing reach of the sport and the commitment of everyone working to advance it. We congratulate Jammu & Kashmir on winning the championship and Rajasthan on finishing as runners-up. Our appreciation goes to GDCA, DCAS, the participating teams, officials, volunteers and partners whose collective efforts made this edition possible, Sumit said. GDCA general secretary Mittal Shah also highlighted the significance of hosting the national championship in Surat. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. The closing ceremony also featured a special retirement felicitation for Parth Gajjar in recognition of his contribution and service to Indian Deaf Cricket. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
22, 24 carat Gold prices see mixed trend across other cities on November 2
India and EU discuss trade facilitation, market access under FTA
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) India and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the comprehensive economic and strategic partnership, discussing opportunities for strengthening trade and investment ties, improving market access, enhancing supply chain resilience and advancing cooperation under the free trade agreement (FTA), an official statement said on Monday. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held high-level meetings in Brussels with Ditte Juul Jorgensen, Director-General, Directorate-General for Trade and Economic Security (DG TRADE); Koen Doens, Director-General, Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA); and Gerassimos Thomas, Director-General, Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD), European Commission. The engagements reflect the growing breadth of IndiaEU cooperation across trade, investment, development partnership, taxation and customs, and reaffirm the shared commitment of both sides to further strengthening their strategic partnership, according to Commerce Ministry. During the meeting with Jorgensen, both sides discussed measures to facilitate two-way trade, improve market access, strengthen supply chain resilience and create new opportunities for businesses in India and the European Union. They reaffirmed their commitment to a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial agreement and agreed to maintain close engagement to address the remaining procedural and implementation-related issues. In the meeting with Doens, both sides exchanged views on strengthening IndiaEU development cooperation and strategic partnerships, with discussions covering sustainable development, clean energy, green technologies and related areas, according to Commerce Ministry. The meeting with Thomas focused on customs cooperation, trade facilitation and preparations for the implementation of the IndiaEU FTA. Both sides recognised the importance of efficient, transparent, and digitally enabled customs procedures in supporting businesses, reducing transaction costs, and ensuring the smooth movement of legitimate trade. Meanwhile, Agrawal also met stakeholders from the diamond industry, including representatives associated with the Antwerp diamond ecosystem. The discussions covered the global diamond value chain, certification and traceability requirements, responsible sourcing, and opportunities arising from India's growing diamond market and manufacturing ecosystem. India and Belgium have identified gems and jewellery as an important area for deeper cooperation, with Antwerp, Mumbai and Surat recognised as major diamond centres. The Commerce Secretary also participated in a BusinessEurope roundtable with European industry representatives, highlighting India's strong economic growth, reform momentum and investment opportunities across key sectors, and invited European businesses to deepen their engagement with India and participate in its expanding value chains.
Gujarat: Vande Bharat transports live donor heart from Surat to Ahmedabad for third time
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 2 (IANS) A live donor heart was transported from Surat to Ahmedabad aboard a Vande Bharat Express, marking the third time the semi-high-speed train has been used to facilitate the movement of a heart for transplantation. The heart was carried on Train No. 20901, the Mumbai Central-Gandhinagar Capital Vande Bharat Express, which departed from Surat on Sunday. It was brought from New Civil Hospital in Surat and safely loaded into coach C-12 at Surat railway station. On arrival at Ahmedabad railway station, a green corridor was created on Platform number 1 to ensure that the organ reached the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre in the shortest possible time. Railway commercial department staff, personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), and state police officials coordinated the transfer. The heart will be transplanted by the specialist medical team at the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre in Ahmedabad. Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash said, This was the third occasion on which the Vande Bharat Express had been used for the swift and safe transportation of a live heart. The movement of donor organs is time-sensitive, as a heart must be transplanted within a prescribed period after retrieval. The use of a scheduled train service is intended to reduce transportation time and ensure that the organ reaches the recipient hospital within the required window. Western Railway said it had coordinated with the hospitals concerned, the state police, medical teams and railway officials and staff to facilitate the transportation. The operation involved creating a green corridor at Ahmedabad station and ensuring a quick transfer from the platform to the hospital, where the transplant procedure is to be carried out.
Bank employee siphons off 55L from friend, FIR filed
A farmers final gift gives new lease of life to four
Surats Khajod dump site goes up in flames again
Woman kills stepfather after tiff over domestic chores
Drugs worth Rs 13 crore seized at Ahmedabad Airport, two held
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 1 (IANS) Ahmedabad Customs officials have arrested a man and a woman from Surat district after seizing 13.012 kg of hydroponic marijuana, estimated to be worth around Rs 13 crore, from their luggage after they arrived from Bangkok at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The seizure was made on Sunday by officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Ahmedabad Customs following passenger profiling. The two passengers were travelling on Thai Airways flight TG-343 from Bangkok. During X-ray screening of their check-in luggage, officials noticed suspicious images in the trolley bags. A detailed examination led to the recovery of 14 vacuum-sealed packets concealed inside the bags. Preliminary testing of the substance found in the packets returned positive results for ganja. The total weight of the recovered hydroponic marijuana was 13.012 kg. A Customs official told IANS, The two passengers, one male and one female, are both residents of Surat. The estimated value of the seized contraband is approximately Rs 13 crore. The narcotic substance was seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and both passengers were arrested. Further investigation is underway. The seizure comes amid a series of hydroponic marijuana interceptions at Ahmedabad airport in recent months. On September 22, Customs officials arrested a Mumbai resident after recovering 8.9 kg of hydroponic marijuana from his checked-in baggage following his arrival from Bangkok. Earlier, on September 6, officials seized 5.5 kg of the drug concealed in cookie boxes and a cornflakes packet from a passenger arriving from Ho Chi Minh City.
Major Drug Bust At Ahmedabad Airport
Customs officials at Ahmedabad airport arrested two passengers from Surat, Mohammed Akeel Sheikh and Kaniz Zahera Momin, for allegedly smuggling over 13 kg of hydroponic ganja. The contraband, valued at approximately Rs 13 crore in the illicit market, was discovered in their trolley bags after their arrival from Bangkok. The duo faces charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, with further investigation ongoing.
Video: Coffee At -86 Degrees Celsius? This Surat Cafe Has The Internet Stunned
Prepared in a frost-covered cup straight out of a specialised freezer, the unusual drink has sparked a wave of reactions online.
Mumbai man who posed as cyber forensics officer to swipe 1.24cr held
Weavers accuse textile firm of withholding dues, abusing community
AI must be integrated into thinking and work, says NITK Director
Artificial intelligence should be integrated into ones thinking and working practices, while ethics, compassion and a sense of responsibility towards society must remain central to technological advancement, says B. Ravi, Director of the National Institute of Technology, Surathkal
AI must be integrated into thinking and work, says NITK Director
Artificial intelligence should be integrated into ones thinking and working practices, while ethics, compassion and a sense of responsibility towards society must remain central to technological advancement, says B. Ravi, Director of the National Institute of Technology, Surathkal
From Statue of Unity to defence manufacturing, Gujarats journey on display at Ekta Diwas parade
Digital Desk | Ekta Nagar, Oct 31 (IANS) From the Statue of Unity and the Sardar Sarovar Dam to Vadodaras emerging defence manufacturing sector, Gujarats cultural heritage, industrial development and cooperative movement featured prominently in a series of tableaux presented during the 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' celebrations at Ekta Nagar on Saturday. The tableaux formed part of a larger presentation on Indias cultural diversity and heritage, inspired by the spirit of Vande Mataram. Officials described the display as a celebration of public participation and awareness, bringing together the countrys folk traditions, art, craft, history and natural landscapes. The opening tableau represented Ekta Nagar in Narmada district and was dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It depicted his role in integrating the princely states and strengthening farmers, with the message that national unity was the countrys greatest strength. The presentation also recalled Patels contribution to the idea of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Another tableau brought together the religious and architectural heritage associated with Dwarka, Somnath and Modhera. It featured the Dwarkadhish temple, the Somnath temple and the Sun Temple at Modhera, presenting them as enduring symbols of faith and Indias civilisational history. The educational legacy of Vallabh Vidyanagar in Anand district was represented through a tableau highlighting the towns identity as a centre of learning. It traced the journey from traditional knowledge to modern education, research and innovation, with an emphasis on the role of young people in shaping the countrys future. A replica of the Sardar Sarovar Dam highlighted water conservation, irrigation and renewable energy. The presentation referred to the Jal Jeevan Mission and the Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation (SAUNI) scheme, which aims to carry Narmada water to water-scarce areas. Vadodaras growing identity as a defence manufacturing hub was showcased through a tableau titled Vande Shakti. It highlighted indigenous defence production, including drones, technology and the BrahMos missile, as symbols of the drive towards self-reliance in national security. Surats diamond and textile industries featured in another tableau, while the Rann Utsav presentation showcased the white salt desert, the full-moon landscape and the tribal culture of Kutch. The cooperative movement and the White Revolution, associated with Anand and Banaskantha, were also represented, recalling the role of milk producers and cooperative institutions in transforming rural livelihoods. The presentation paid tribute to cooperative pioneers Tribhuvandas Patel and Verghese Kurien. A tableau on the 'Khelo India' initiative highlighted youth participation and sporting excellence. The available event commentary ended during its introduction. The celebrations are being held at Ekta Nagar, near the Statue of Unity, to mark Patels 151st birth anniversary on October 31. The Statue of Unity, inaugurated in 2018, commemorates Patels role in the integration of India after Independence. The annual 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' programme includes a parade and cultural presentations highlighting national unity and the countrys diversity.
Todays Gold Rate: Gold prices down in Coimbatore, Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Jaipur
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across other cities on October 31
Ex-professor among 3 held in 1.5cr cyberfraud case
Man held within hours of murder at Surat railway station
Co-op banks seek fresh notes for Diwali in other states
Gujarats first bullet train power substation nears completion at Bilimora
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) The first Traction Substation (TSS) for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is nearing completion at Bilimora in Gujarats Navsari district, as work progresses on the 14 substations planned to supply power along the 508-km high-speed rail corridor. The substation, spread across approximately 18,000 square metres, is at an advanced stage of construction, with equipment installation, testing and commissioning activities under way. Installation work in the control panel, changeover switch, transformer and circuit breaker buildings has been completed. Work on all gantry towers and beams has also been finished. A total of 14 traction substations (TSS) are being developed along the corridor to ensure an uninterrupted power supply for the bullet trains. These substations will receive electricity from the grid, transform it to the required voltage levels and feed it into the traction power system that powers the trains. Of the 14 substations, five will be located in Maharashtra at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar and Thane Depot, while the remaining nine will be in Gujarat at Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Mahemdavad, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati Depot. In Gujarat, the traction substations will receive electricity from the Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited's (GETCO) 220 kV Ambetha Grid Substation. The power will subsequently be supplied to the overhead equipment (OHE) installed along the viaduct through the 2 25 kV traction power supply system adopted for the corridor. The system is designed to distribute electricity to the overhead equipment, which transfers power to the trains through their pantographs. The entire traction power supply network will be monitored in real time from a centralised control centre to oversee the electricity supply along the corridor. The 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor is India's first bullet train project, connecting Maharashtra and Gujarat. The 14 traction substations will form a key part of its power infrastructure, supporting the operation of trains along the route.
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) More than 52 lakh farmer families in Gujarat received over Rs 1,051 crore under the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on Friday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi released over Rs 18,680 crore to more than 9.34 crore farmer families across the country. The instalment was released at a national-level 'PM Kisan Utsav Day' programme held at Bhildi in Banaskantha district, where PM Modi was present. The amount was transferred directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The event was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani, Minister of State for Agriculture, Ramesh Katara and other Cabinet members, MPs, MLAs and senior officials. Parallel programmes were organised at more than 2,100 locations across Gujarat at district, taluka and village levels. Lakhs of farmers watched the live telecast of the main event in the presence of ministers, MPs, MLAs, district panchayat presidents and local representatives. Among the districts, Dahod recorded assistance of Rs 54.84 crore to 2,74,201 farmers, while Anand saw Rs 52.43 crore credited to more than 2.61 lakh beneficiaries. In Mehsana, Rs 50 crore was transferred to 2.49 lakh farmers, while Bhavnagar's 2.10 lakh-plus beneficiaries received Rs 42.08 crore. In Panchmahal, more than 2.02 lakh farmers received Rs 40.61 crore, while 1.95 lakh farmers in Rajkot received Rs 39 crore. In Patan, Rs 37.70 crore was credited to 1,88,524 farmers, and in Bharuch, 1.70 lakh farmers received Rs 34.54 crore. Surendranagar recorded transfers of Rs 32.10 crore to more than 1.60 lakh farmers, while Junagadh saw Rs 30.82 crore credited to 1.53 lakh beneficiaries. In Kutch, 1.19 lakh farmer families received Rs 23.91 crore, and 1.16 lakh farmers in Surat received Rs 23.20 crore. In Jamnagar, Rs 21.57 crore was transferred to 1.07 lakh farmers. Devbhoomi Dwarka recorded assistance of more than Rs 13 crore to over 68,000 farmer families, while Botad's 66,063 beneficiaries received Rs 13.21 crore. In Sabarkantha, 2.23 lakh farmers benefited from the instalment. District-level events were also organised in Morbi, Surendranagar and other districts. In Morbi, around 25 minority citizens who had migrated from Pakistan were also presented with Indian citizenship certificates at the programme held at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Gor Khijadiya. The district-level events included felicitations for progressive farmers and those practising natural farming. Approval letters for assistance under agricultural schemes and farm equipment were also distributed. Exhibition stalls were set up, while experts provided guidance on natural farming, modern agricultural technology, drip irrigation, farm mechanisation and government schemes. In Surat, the district-level programme was held at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Panaas in the presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil, with events organised at 72 locations across the district. In Kutch, the main event was held at Kotda Ugamna in the presence of Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Kanti Amrutiya, and MP Vinod Chavda, alongside programmes at 75 other locations. Other district-level events were held at Khambhalia APMC in Devbhoomi Dwarka, Motibaug Open Air Theatre in Bhavnagar, Botad APMC yard, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Town Hall in Surendranagar, the Police Parade Ground in Mehsana, Bilkha in Junagadh, Godhra in Panchmahal, Bedi APMC in Rajkot, the Vegetable Market Yard in Patan and Jambusar in Bharuch. Speaking at the events, ministers and other representatives said: DBT mechanism had eliminated the role of middlemen in the transfer of assistance under the PM-KISAN scheme. They added that the money is reaching beneficiaries' bank accounts directly and that the financial support helped farmers meet seasonal expenses and requirements during the sowing period.
Gujarat doctor duped of Rs 1.50 crore over 8 years; retired professor among three held from UP
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 30 (IANS) Three persons, including a 64-year-old retired professor, have been arrested for allegedly cheating a senior citizen doctor of around Rs 1.50 crore over eight years by promising refunds on insurance policies, with the police tracing the accused to Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh using a single mobile number that had since been switched off. The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell said on Friday that the accused had posed as representatives of the Insurance Ombudsman and persuaded the complainant to purchase around 15 insurance policies in 2018. After gaining his trust, they allegedly contacted him over the last two to three years, claiming that the money invested in his policies could be refunded if he paid various charges. The complainant was allegedly made to transfer money in small instalments of Rs 10,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 25,000 and other amounts. Over the period from 2018 to 2026, he lost approximately Rs 1,50,33,004 (Rs 1.50 crore), police said. The complainant approached the cybercrime police around two to three months ago. Investigators examined the mobile numbers from which he had received calls and WhatsApp messages and conducted technical analysis of their call detail records. A team subsequently spent a week in Ghaziabad tracing the accused on the basis of a single calling number, which had become inactive. The arrested accused have been identified as Atulkumar Sharma (64), a retired professor who holds BSc and MBA degrees and had worked at IMT College; Mahesh Sharma (43), who has worked in vehicle loan arrangements, electricity meter reading and as a salesman for an Ayurvedic medicine company; and Sonu Thakur (32), a Class 12 pass-out who had previously worked as a telecaller at a call centre. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Cell) Bishakha Jain, Atulkumar allegedly arranged SIM cards and bank accounts by approaching financially needy people on the pretext of helping them obtain gas connections. He got accounts opened in their names and retained the SIM cards, net banking credentials, passwords and bank kits before passing the SIM cards to Mahesh Sharma, she said. Mahesh allegedly forwarded the SIM cards and bank account details to Sonu Thakur, who used different mobile handsets to contact insurance policyholders and demand money on the pretext of processing refunds. Jain said, Sonu had worked in the call centre operations of insurance companies since 2018 and was familiar with the process of obtaining policyholder data. During searches, police recovered around 70 pages of printed Excel sheets containing insurance policyholders' details. The sheets had markings indicating which people had already been contacted and which were yet to be approached. The accused used these sheets to identify and call different victims. They would tell them that if they wanted their insurance policy money back, they would have to deposit a certain amount towards charges, Jain added. The money deposited by victims was withdrawn through the bank accounts arranged by Atulkumar. He allegedly retained 35 to 50 per cent of the withdrawn amount as commission and passed the rest to Mahesh, who kept another 15 to 20 per cent before transferring the remaining amount to Sonu. Police recovered nine mobile phones, 42 cheque books, 17 passbooks, 90 debit cards, 25 SIM cards of different companies, around 80 empty SIM card trays and Rs 28,740 in cash from Atulkumar. Two mobile phones were seized from Mahesh. From Sonu, police recovered three mobile phones, Rs 1.77 lakh in cash and 70 printouts containing policyholder details. Investigators also identified 47 bank accounts linked to Atulkumar on the basis of the cheque books and passbooks recovered from his residence. A check of these accounts on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP) revealed 73 complaints registered across 15 states, involving alleged online fraud of approximately Rs 33.10 lakh. Telangana accounted for the highest number of complaints at 15, followed by Tamil Nadu with 14, Maharashtra with seven, Karnataka and Goa with six each, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan with five each, and Bihar with four. Gujarat accounted for three complaints, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh two each, while Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Tripura had one complaint each. The complaints could involve other cyber fraud groups as well, as such gangs were suspected of sharing policyholder data, DCP Bishakha Jain said. She said insurance policy frauds of this nature were frequently reported from Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad, where different groups allegedly exchanged data to target policyholders. The case has been registered under Sections 319(2), 318(4), 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act, 2008. The police have advised insurance policyholders not to respond to unsolicited calls promising bonuses or refunds on policies and to verify such claims directly with the insurance company.
How Indian Food Found A Home In Burma And Came Back With A Story
From the Samoza Kari to Surats Khao Sa, Burma Burmas new limited-edition menu explores how migration, trade and communities shaped the shared food traditions of India and Burma. Co-founder Ankit Gupta talks about the histories behind the dishes and how food continues to connect cultures.
ED searches 11 premises in Mumbai, Surat linked to international drug traffickers
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized incriminating material and digital devices during searches across 11 premises in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra) as well as Surat and Bhavnagar (Gujarat) linked to trace international drug trafficking network, an official said on Friday. The ED's Mumbai Zonal Office-L, conducted search operations on Wednesday, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, against international narcotics syndicate led by Navin Chichkar, Dhiraj Chichkar, and their aides, the official said in a statement. Searches were conducted to trace the modus through which drug sale proceeds received mainly in cash, infused in financial economy and further layered so as to project the same as legitimate income, the statement said. The searches across 11 premises in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), as well as Surat and Bhavnagar (Gujarat) were intended to trace the drug trafficking network and proceeds of crime (PoC) generated through the illicit drug trade acquired by a well-established international narcotics syndicate, it added. The ED investigation was initiated on the basis of a complaint filed by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Mumbai, under various provisions of the NDPS Act, following the seizure of substantial quantities of high-grade hydroponic cannabis (Ganja), cocaine and unaccounted cash in Mumbai/Navi Mumbai. Navin Chichkar and others were allegedly involved in an established international network engaged in the sale of cocaine, hydroponic cannabis, LSD and cannabis edibles, largely sourced from outside India, the statement said. During the searches, various incriminating material and digital devices, including high-end smartphones, laptops, and internal storage media, along with commercial books of accounts, financial ledgers, and investment records were seized, it added. The searches revealed that proceeds generated from the sale of narcotic drugs were routed and cash was converted into foreign currencies, including US dollars and Thai Baht, which were subsequently made available to the accused, it said. Moreover, proceeds of crime in cash were also invested in certain legitimate businesses so that the same is shown as untainted money, the statement said. Searches were also conducted at the premises relating to Crypto Trader(s) which revealed details of certain Crypto Wallets/Assets prima-facie linked to the proceeds of crime, the ED said. It is gathered that the suspected persons was operating a number of Crypto trading accounts from outside India. The identified details are being examined to trace linked accounts, transaction histories, and to secure proceeds of crime, the ED said.
'Modi kahin nahi jaayega': Gujarat turns Kharge remark into a show of support for PM Modi
Digital Desk | Bhildi, Oct 30 (IANS) Days after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's controversial remark about alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late father triggered a political row, the slogan Modi kahin nahi jaayega (PM Modi will not go anywhere) echoed across Banaskantha during the Prime Minister's visit to the district on Friday, with Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi leading a public show of support for PM Modi. The slogan was raised by students as PM Modi arrived to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for development projects. Addressing the gathering at Bhildi, Sanghavi referred to the slogan being heard in villages across Banaskantha during public programmes and cleanliness drives organised ahead of the Prime Minister's visit. He then asked the audience to repeat it, linking PM Modi's continued leadership to a series of national development goals. Until India becomes one of the world's leading economies, Modi kahin nahi jaayega. Until India becomes self-reliant and a manufacturing hub for the world, Modi kahin nahi jaayega, Sanghavi said, urging the crowd to raise the slogan together. He also linked it to the government's goals of providing permanent houses to every poor family, eliminating poverty, creating more Lakhpati Didis, taking development to remote areas and ending dynastic and appeasement politics. Until India becomes a developed nation, Modi kahin nahi jaayega, he said. The slogan was a direct political counter to the controversy that erupted after Kharge's remarks at an event in Patna on October 25. While speaking about alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, Kharge was interrupted by a man in the audience who shouted that PM Modi would not go anywhere. Kharge responded, Modi ka baap bhi jayega (Even Modi's father will have to go). The comment drew criticism from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, who accused him of making an objectionable remark about the Prime Minister's late father. At Bhildi, Sanghavi, who described his remarks as those of a young citizen rather than merely a Deputy Chief Minister, accused the Congress and its leaders of repeatedly using abusive language against PM Modi. He alleged that the Prime Minister's late parents had also been dragged into political attacks and said the response from people across the country had demonstrated their support for him. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from villages to city streets, the same slogan is being heard Modi kahin nahi jaayega, he added. Assembly Speaker and Banas Dairy Chairman Shankar Chaudhary also praised PM Modi's contribution to the transformation of Banaskantha. Recalling the region's earlier shortages of water and electricity, he said: The introduction of round-the-clock power, the Sujalam Sufalam canal network and other initiatives had changed the lives of farmers and livestock owners. Chaudhary said the Govardhan scheme had helped turn cattle dung into an economic resource rather than waste. He claimed that arrangements had allowed livestock owners to earn more than Rs 100 crore annually from cattle dung. Referring to the newly inaugurated Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre, he said: Its objective is to improve milk productivity, with one cow eventually producing as much milk as four cows under existing conditions. Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi also recalled his family's migration from Banaskantha to Surat around 50 years ago because of water and electricity shortages. The arrival of Narmada water, the Sujalam Sufalam scheme and drip irrigation had changed the district, which had since emerged as a major dairy centre, he added. Citing figures, he said the annual profit reaching Banaskantha's livestock owners through Banas Dairy had increased from around Rs 30 crore in 2003 to Rs 1,400 crore. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in his address, highlighted the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN, the bovine breeding centre, Banas Dairy projects, improved rail and road connectivity and the inauguration and foundation stone laying of Anganwadi-related works. The Prime Minister's visit marked 25 years since he first took oath as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001. The programme in Bhildi included the release of the PM-KISAN instalment and the inauguration and launch of projects in the agriculture, dairy and infrastructure sectors.
SOG nabs nine quacks in Dindoli
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No recognised medical degree: Nine fake doctors held in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 29 (IANS) As many as nine fake doctors were apprehended during simultaneous raids on clinics in the Dindoli area of Surat on Thursday, with the police and health department seizing medicines, injections, syrups and medical equipment worth around Rs 95,000, officials said on Thursday. The raids were conducted jointly by the Surat City Special Operations Group (SOG) and teams from the District Health Department after dummy patients were sent to the clinics to verify information that individuals without recognised medical qualifications were treating patients. Deputy Commissioner of Police (SOG) Rajdeepsinh Nakum told IANS that the operation had been planned in coordination with the office of the Chief District Health Officer, Dr Anil Patel. Raids were planned from the morning by the SOG and the Chief District Health Officers team. Several locations were raided simultaneously, and nine bogus doctors were apprehended, Nakum said. He said the accused had different educational backgrounds, including schooling up to Classes 10 and 12, a Bachelor of Arts degree and training in electropathy. However, they were allegedly practising as doctors without the required recognised medical qualifications. Some of them were earning Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 a day and were practising as bogus doctors. The SOG and Health Department teams carried out an intensive operation and apprehended all of them, he added. According to the police, the accused were identified as Rohit Patil, Parmanand Patel, Aartidevi Maurya, Mahesh Rajput, Kamalaprasad Gond, Sopan Patil, Manoharlala Kumawat, Dinesh Bharti and Kishor Vishwas. The police said Patil had allegedly been running Mauli Clinic in Navagam of Dindoli for three years and had previously worked as a compounder at a hospital in Sangamner. He was also arrested in Aurangabad of Maharashtra, in 2024 in a case involving the alleged sale of fake pregnancy medicines. Patel had allegedly operated Manisha Clinic for five years, while Maurya, who had studied for a Bachelor of Arts degree, had run Aashi Clinic for one-and-a-half years. She had previously worked as a nurse at Amardeep Hospital in Godadara of Surat for five years, according to the police. Rajput had allegedly run Maya Clinic for eight years, while Gond had operated Krishna Clinic for 10 years. Gond had reportedly worked as a compounder at a hospital in Uttar Pradesh. Sopan Patil had allegedly operated Shree Sai Clinic for seven years and had studied electropathy. Kumawat, who had studied pharmacy, had reportedly run Shree Radhekrishna Clinic for six months. Bharti had allegedly operated Sahgar Clinic for three years, while Vishwas had run Sadguru Sant Kripal Clinic for six years. Both had studied up to Class 12 and had previously worked at other clinics or hospitals. The police said the accused had allegedly earned between Rs 1,000 and Rs 3,500 a day through their practices. The raids followed instructions from Surat Police Commissioner Wabang Jamir to identify clinics being run by people without medical degrees or on the basis of allegedly fabricated qualifications. SOG teams, acting under the supervision of DCP Nakum and the supervision of Police Inspector A.S. Sonara, conducted checks across the city before verifying the information about the Dindoli clinics. The seized material was valued at Rs 95,138. Cases have been registered against the nine accused at Dindoli police station. The District Health Department will initiate separate proceedings under the Clinical Establishments Act, officials said.
Gujarat: 320 arrested in 257 narcotics cases in Surat this year; ganja tops list with 178 cases
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 29 (IANS) Surat City Police registered 257 narcotics cases and arrested 320 people in 2026 so far, with cannabis accounting for the largest share of cases, according to data presented at a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (N-Cord) committee on Thursday. The meeting, chaired by the Surat Police Commissioner Wabang Jamir, reviewed action taken against drug-related activities and discussed measures to improve coordination between government agencies to curb drug trafficking and related offences. Of the 257 cases, 178 involved ganja, in which 219 people were arrested. The police reported seizing 414 kg of ganja, valued at Rs 1.92 crore. The remaining cases involved substances including MD drugs, hybrid ganja, brown sugar, heroin, opium, poppy husk, codeine syrup and intoxicating tablets. According to the data, 54 cases involving MD drugs led to the arrest of 70 people, with 2.211 kg of the substance valued at Rs 75.08 lakh. Six cases involving hybrid ganja resulted in the seizure of 778 grams, valued at Rs 27.23 lakh, and the arrest of seven people. The figures also recorded one brown sugar case, involving seven grams valued at Rs 1.40 lakh, and five heroin cases involving 58 grams valued at Rs 11.75 lakh. Five opium cases involved 3.339 kg valued at Rs 16.46 lakh. One case involving poppy husk led to the seizure of 1.767 kg valued at Rs 26,505. Three cases involving codeine syrup and one involving intoxicating tablets were also recorded. The total value of the seized substances was reported at Rs 3.34 crore, with 320 arrests across the 257 cases. The meeting also reviewed the work of the NDPS squads established at all police stations in Surat City on April 22, 2025, on the directions of the Police Commissioner. The police said the squads had helped improve the detection of cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. The N-Cord committee brings together representatives of 25 departments and agencies, including the district administration, Surat Municipal Corporation, Narcotics Control Bureau, Customs, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central GST, Forest Department, education and agriculture departments, the Indian Coast Guard, health authorities, the Prohibition and Excise Department and the Intelligence Bureau. The committee meets every month to review action taken during the preceding month, assess the prevailing drug situation and prepare an action plan for the next period. Its agenda includes monitoring narcotics trafficking, exchanging intelligence and ensuring that departments share information, including small but potentially significant leads, to support coordinated enforcement. The meeting sought to strengthen cooperation among the agencies so that information on narcotics-related activities could be exchanged more effectively and action taken through a coordinated effort.
Nine individuals operating clinics in Surat's Dindoli area without proper medical qualifications were arrested on Thursday by the police's Special Operations Group. The accused, with minimal educational backgrounds, had been practising medicine for up to a decade, leading to the seizure of medical equipment and medicines worth Rs 95,138.
MCC Commissioner directs parking of waste collecting vehicles in front of Surathkal UPHC
MCC Commissioner directs parking of waste collecting vehicles in front of Surathkal UPHC
Major Fraud Uncovered in Gujarats Weight Loss and Skin Treatment Sector
Five individuals arrested in Surat for a nationwide scam involving fake weight loss and skin treatment products, with millions involved. Major Fraud Uncovered in Gujarats Weight Loss and Skin Treatment Sector
Final Arrest In Surat Medical College Ragging Suicide
The last absconding resident doctor, Nirali Vasave, has been arrested in connection with the suicide of first-year postgraduate student Harsh Pandya at Government Medical College, Surat. Pandya allegedly faced severe ragging and harassment from four senior resident doctors, leading to his death on August 9. The case is registered under abetment of suicide and the SC/ST Act.
22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across other cities on October 29
US demand slowdown hits apparel, diamond exporters as factories shut and orders dry up
The apparel industry in Noida is experiencing significant upheaval, with a reduction of operational units from 2,400 to 1,800 in just six months, all due to a decline in orders. The unpredictable US tariffs have caused confusion in negotiations and production timelines. In a related trend, Surat's diamond manufacturers have extended their Diwali shutdowns, resulting in the closure of roughly 300 small businesses.
Showroom manager siphons off 27.28L
Man booked for abetment after wifes suicide
Ex-Congress councillor, son booked under Atrocities Act
Diamond broker cheats trader of 7.45 crore
DCB busts online cricket betting racket in Pal
Gym Trainer Arrested for Online Fraud in Gujarat, Duping Victim of
A gym trainer from Uttar Pradesh was arrested for his role in duping a Surat resident of 5.88 lakh through an online scam. Gym Trainer Arrested for Online Fraud in Gujarat, Duping Victim of 5.88 Lakh
Haryana CM meets Bhupendra Patel, invites Gujarat counterpart to business summit
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 28 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday met his Gujarat counterpart Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar and invited him to attend a business summit scheduled to be held in Haryana in April 2027. Saini, who is on a two-day visit to Gujarat with a delegation, arrived in Gandhinagar from Surat on Wednesday afternoon and paid a courtesy visit to Patel. Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh was also present at the meeting. The visit is part of Haryana's investment outreach initiative, Happening Haryana 2.0 Invest in Haryana, Invest in the Future, under which Saini and his delegation are holding meetings with business leaders in Surat and the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar region to explore investment opportunities in the state. The invitation to Patel comes as Haryana seeks to attract fresh investments and strengthen industrial cooperation with Gujarat ahead of the proposed Happening Haryana Global Investors Summit in April 2027. During his visit, Saini has held meetings with industrialists and investors to encourage them to expand their businesses in Haryana. The state has highlighted its industrial infrastructure, connectivity, investment-friendly policies and opportunities across sectors including manufacturing, textiles, engineering, pharmaceuticals and logistics. The Haryana government has also announced investment proposals worth more than Rs 50,000 crore during the Gujarat visit, covering sectors such as defence, real estate, oil and gas, semiconductors, agriculture and food processing. The proposed April 2027 summit is expected to provide a platform for investors to explore business opportunities in Haryana and establish partnerships with industries in the state.
Promised e-commerce profits, cheated Gujarat man of Rs 5.88 lakh; UP gym trainer held
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 28 (IANS) The Cyber Crime Branch of Surat City Police, Gujarat, has arrested a 32-year-old gym trainer from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly helping siphon off money obtained through an online fraud in which a complainant was cheated of Rs 5.88 lakh on the promise of high returns from an e-commerce business. The accused, Abdullah alias Sonu Mazid, allegedly facilitated the movement of the cheated money through bank accounts obtained on a commission basis and converted part of the proceeds into USDT, a cryptocurrency linked to the US dollar, as instructed by an absconding accused based in Dubai, police said on Wednesday. According to the police, the complainant was contacted through a dating app and sent a link to a fake website. The accused allegedly persuaded the complainant to create an account on the website, claiming that investing in e-commerce activities would generate good returns. The complainant was subsequently induced to transfer a total of Rs 5,88,909 to different bank accounts. The money was not returned. A case was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station under Sections 318(4), 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act, as amended in 2008. During the investigation, police traced Mazid to Varanasi and arrested him following a technical investigation conducted by a team led by Police Inspector A M Mori. The operation was carried out under the directions of senior officials. Police said Rs 1,77,590 belonging to the complainant had been transferred to an HDFC Bank account linked to another accused, Imran Yusuf Khilchi, who had been arrested earlier in connection with the case. According to the police, the absconding accused had the money deposited through cash deposit machines into bank accounts arranged by Mazid in exchange for commissions. Mazid allegedly withdrew the money through ATMs and cheques, retained Rs 12,590 as his commission and used the remaining Rs 1.65 lakh to purchase USDT before transferring it as instructed by the absconding accused in Dubai. The previously arrested accused, Imran Yusuf Khilchi, 46, is a businessman from Mumbai in Maharashtra. The Surat City Police have urged residents not to allow others to use their bank accounts in exchange for commissions or other inducements, warning that such accounts may be used to route proceeds of cyber fraud. Account holders could face legal action if their accounts are used in criminal activities.
Gujarat visit goes beyond exploring investment opportunities: Haryana CM
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said his two-day visit to Gujarat went beyond exploring investment opportunities, with a strong emphasis on fostering closer cooperation, mutual engagement and stronger ties between the two states. During the visit, the Chief Minister interacted with members of the Haryanvi community in Surat and Ahmedabad, where they shared their achievements, concerns and expectations. Acknowledging the issues raised during these interactions, CM Saini reiterated the Haryana governments commitment to safeguarding the interests of Haryanvis living outside the state and expanding facilities for their welfare. Addressing the Haryanvi community in Surat, the Chief Minister announced that the government would develop a dedicated online portal for the prompt and effective redressal of their grievances. The portal will enable Haryanvis residing outside the state to register their complaints and ensure their resolution within a stipulated timeframe. The initiative is expected to strengthen their connection with the Haryana government and make grievance redressal more accessible. Another significant initiative is the proposed establishment of a Haryana Bhavan in Gujarat, on the lines of the facility in Maharashtra. Steps have already been initiated in this direction. The proposed Bhavan will serve as a centre for cultural, social and administrative activities of the Haryanvi community while also acting as a cultural bridge between Haryana and Gujarat. The Chief Minister emphasised that cooperation between Haryana and Gujarat would not be confined to investment and economic opportunities but would also extend to strengthening social, cultural and people-to-people ties. He expressed confidence that the growing partnership with Gujarat, the birthplace of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would give fresh momentum to Haryanas development journey and take the states growth story to new heights. Meanwhile, CM Saini met his Gujarat counterpart Bhupendra Patel and discussed various issues, with a focus on further strengthening coordination and cooperation between the states. Discussions were also held on sharing experiences and exploring opportunities for cooperation in various areas of development.
Man Facing Case Over Beach Incident Dies By Suicide, Protest Outside Surathkal Police Station
The protesters alleged that the couple was responsible for Somanath's death and demanded that an FIR be registered against them.
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Haryana signs MoUs worth Rs 12,000 crore on first day of Gujarat visit
Digital Desk | Chandigarh/Surat, Oct 27 (IANS) Haryana signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) involving proposed investments of around Rs 12,000 crore on Tuesday, with commitments spanning defence textiles, renewable energy, industrial machinery and waste-to-energy projects, as the state seeks to attract fresh industrial investment ahead of its global summit in April 2027. The agreements were signed on the first day of a high-level delegations visit to Gujarat, led by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The proposed investments include Rs 5,000 crore in defence textiles, Rs 2,000 crore in technical textiles and Rs 500 crore in industrial machinery. A further Rs 4,000 crore has been proposed for the waste-to-energy sector, while solar energy and cosmetics manufacturing together account for investments worth Rs 400 crore. During the visit, Saini held one-to-one meetings with founders, managing directors and chief executive officers of various companies to discuss the expansion of their existing operations in Haryana, the establishment of new industrial units and potential investment proposals. Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh also attended the meetings. The Chief Minister said the state government was committed to supporting investors and entrepreneurs and attracting investment to generate employment opportunities for young people. Haryana is working to improve the ease of doing business and provide a favourable environment for industrial development. The government aims to offer investors a combination of supportive policies, industrial infrastructure, connectivity and essential facilities, while simplifying procedures and ensuring time-bound approvals, he said. Saini said the state is focusing on better coordination between government departments to reduce procedural hurdles and facilitate the establishment and operation of industrial projects. Haryanas single-window clearance system, investment promotion schemes and plug-and-play industrial facilities were among the measures intended to make the state more attractive to businesses. The government is also seeking to ensure that industries investing in Haryana receive applicable incentives, necessary approvals and departmental assistance in accordance with the rules. Feedback from industry representatives would be considered to improve policies and procedures and help companies implement projects on schedule, he said. He described the MoUs signed on Tuesday as steps towards expanding industrial activity, developing ancillary industries and encouraging new business partnerships. Their implementation could create employment opportunities, strengthen the local economy and increase Haryanas industrial capacity. The Chief Minister invited industrialists and investors to attend the 'Happening Haryana Global Summit', scheduled to be held in April 2027. During the meetings, industry representatives discussed investment opportunities across various sectors and expressed interest in Haryanas industrial infrastructure, business facilitation measures and investment promotion policies.
48-year-old man found dead at his home in Surathkal
Dr. Suresh Surathkal memorial programme on Oct. 29
Ahmedabad Customs seize gold paste worth Rs 72.28 lakh concealed inside trolley bag
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 27 (IANS) Ahmedabad Customs officials seized 495.04 grams of 24-carat gold worth Rs 72.28 lakh from a passenger arriving from Sharjah at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) on Tuesday after detecting gold paste concealed beneath a plastic sheet inside a trolley bag. The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) intercepted the passenger on October 27 after profiling passengers arriving on Air Arabia flight G9-418 from Sharjah, according to Customs. During X-ray screening of the passengers checked-in baggage, officers noticed a suspicious image. A detailed examination revealed an additional layer or patch inside the trolley bag. When the bag was opened, officers removed its inner plastic layer and found a thin, black-coloured plastic sheet pasted along its inner side. Gold paste had been uniformly concealed beneath the sheet, the release stated. Officers carefully extracted the material and melted it to recover 495.04 grams of 24-carat gold, with a market value of Rs 72,28,574. The recovered gold was seized under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, and the passenger was arrested under the Act. Further investigation is underway. The seizure comes amid a series of gold smuggling cases detected at Ahmedabad airport, where officials have found gold concealed in luggage and other everyday items. On October 19, Customs officials seized 133.45 grams of 24-carat gold worth around Rs 20.12 lakh from a passenger arriving from Dubai. The gold paste was concealed beneath a cloth patch inside a trolley bag and was recovered after officers examined the suspicious section of the luggage. In another case reported on October 16, a passenger arriving from Abu Dhabi was arrested after officials found 282.9 grams of 24-carat gold worth Rs 42.5 lakh concealed in metal strips fitted to three trolley bags. The strips contained six gold wires coated with white rhodium, which were recovered during a detailed examination of the luggage. Separately, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence announced on October 19 that it had dismantled an alleged gold smuggling syndicate operating through Ahmedabad and Surat airports. The investigation involved 13.017 kg of foreign-origin gold valued at approximately Rs 19.41 crore, with three people arrested. The latest seizure at Ahmedabad airport is being investigated further by Customs officials.
Idca 10th T20 national cricket championship for deaf begins in Surat
The News Mill
IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 opens in Surat
The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), in association with the Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS), has commenced the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 in Surat, Gujarat. Scheduled from October 26 to November 1, 2026, the championship is being held for the first time in Surat, bringing together 14 teams from across India for a week of competitive cricket, as per a press release. Bringing together 14 teams from across India, the championship highlights the breadth of talent within the country
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across other cities on October 27
Doctors certificate alone not enough for skin disorder exclusion
Undertrial in murder-robbery cases found hanged in Lajpore jail
Task scam leaves accountant poorer by 2L
Nepali gang arrested for murder of retired IPS officers wife in Hyderabad
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 26 (IANS) More than five months after Tanuja Ranjan, wife of retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ray Vinay Ranjan, was brutally murdered at their residence in Hyderabad, police on Monday arrested four Nepalese. Those arrested include the domestic worker, Dharma Tiruwa alias Kalpana, who had worked at the victims residence. The arrests were made following a five-month-long investigation spanning several states and the India-Nepal border. Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar announced the arrests at a press conference. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), probing rising property offences committed by Nepali gangs across the three Police Commissionerates, arrested four accused near Nampally Railway Station on Monday (October 26). Dharma alias Kalpana, 26, is from Surkhet district in Nepal. Ganesh B.K. alias Ganesh Bishwakarma alias Dinesh Thapa, 31, is a labourer who was residing in Pune; Chandra Bahadur Tamang alias Ranjeet Thapa alias Shanker Chandra Lama alias Kancha, 44, a cook whose listed Indian address is in Gurugram, Haryana; and Ganesh Bahadur Shahi, 37, a watchman who was residing in Pune. Police said two other accused remained absconding and that teams were continuing efforts to trace them. The police had earlier arrested two other accused in the case. Police said the accused entered the house in Prashasan Nagar on the night of May 78, restrained Tanuja Ranjan and smothered her. They allegedly escaped with 225 grams of gold jewellery and other valuables. The police investigation revealed that Dharma came to Hyderabad in June 2025 through a relative and began working as a domestic help at the Jubilee Hills residence for a monthly salary of about Rs 20,000. During her employment, she allegedly remained in contact with Bikas, a Nepal national based in Pune, who repeatedly asked about her employer, the households assets and the valuables inside the house. He eventually proposed a robbery in return for a share of the proceeds. In April 2026, Dharma travelled to Pune to visit her ailing father and came into contact with other members of the alleged gang. On May 4, when her employer left for Bengaluru, she allegedly alerted the group. The police account says Ganesh Bahadur Shahi, Shanker Chandra Lama and Sunil Pariyar met at Kalamboli in Raigad district, Maharashtra, on May 4 and travelled to Pune in a hired Maruti Ertiga. The next day, they met other alleged accomplices, including Ganesh B.K., before setting out for Hyderabad. On the morning of May 7, Ganesh B.K. and Suresh Shahi allegedly met Dharma near her workplace, surveyed the premises and discussed how the group could enter the house. Two groups allegedly carried out the operation. According to police, the gang assembled at Ravindra Bar near the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station area on the evening of May 7. It allegedly split into two groups under a plan devised by Sujan Shahi, also known as Suresh Shahi. One group, comprising Ganesh B.K., Suresh Shahi and Shanker Lama, was assigned to enter the house and carry out the robbery. The other, comprising Ganesh Bahadur Shahi, Sunil Pariyar and Netra Shahi, allegedly remained near Nampally railway station as a lookout team. During the intervening night of May 7 and 8, Dharma allegedly opened the door to let the others in. Police said Tanuja woke up during the incident. The attackers allegedly gagged and restrained her, causing her death by suffocation. The group then searched the house, broke open cupboards and took gold jewellery and other valuables. After leaving through the rear gate, the accused allegedly travelled to Nampally and joined the lookout team. Investigation revealed that the group subsequently travelled towards Kazipet, moved into isolated hilly terrain and divided the stolen property into nine equal shares. Members then split into smaller groups, fled towards Nepal and disposed of the valuables at different locations. On May 22, Task Force teams arrested Sunil Bahadur Aauji alias Sunil Pariyar and alleged receiver Dilip Bahadur Mijar alias Sonar. Police recovered 26 grams of the stolen property from them. The investigation continued across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Patna, Delhi, Lucknow and Uttarakhand. The SIT also carried out field inquiries near the India-Nepal border, spending more than five months gathering intelligence in remote and hilly areas. Police said local informers helped the team track the suspects alleged hideouts, travel routes, employment and contacts.
ICA | GemLab India Launches Gemological Laboratory in Surat
The facility will offer testing and reporting services for diamonds, coloured gemstones and jewellery Surat (Gujarat) [India], October 26: ICA | GemLab India, an internationally recognised organisation specialising in diamonds,
Haryana CM Saini to lead investment outreach in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 26 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will lead a high-level delegation to Gujarat on October 27-28 to attract investments, strengthen industrial cooperation and promote business opportunities in the state, the state government said on Monday. The delegation will visit Surat and Gandhinagar, where it will hold meetings with investors, engage with industry representatives and organise the Haryana Investment Roadshow. Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh will also accompany the Chief Minister. The outreach comes as Haryana seeks to attract investments worth around Rs 5 lakh crore and generate more than 10 lakh employment opportunities by 2030-31 under its Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026. Amit Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary (Industries and Commerce), said Saini would hold one-to-one meetings with investors in Surat on October 27 to discuss investment prospects, industrial expansion and opportunities for setting up businesses in Haryana. The programme will also include a Pravasi Milan Samaroh, bringing together members of the Haryana diaspora and prominent business representatives. The event will highlight the state's cultural heritage, development trajectory and industrial capabilities. On October 28, Haryana will organise an investment roadshow in Gandhinagar, bringing together industrialists, investors and representatives from various sectors. The roadshow will showcase Haryana's industrial infrastructure, investor-friendly policy framework, connectivity and skilled workforce, while highlighting opportunities across sectors, Agrawal said. The delegation will hold discussions with industry representatives on prospective investments, projects and business partnerships. The state will also explore the possibility of signing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) linked to investment proposals. The government aims to use the engagements to establish direct links with investors and encourage companies to consider Haryana for new industrial units and expansion projects. The Make in Haryana Industrial Policy -- 2026 is aimed at accelerating industrial development, strengthening manufacturing and creating a conducive environment for domestic and international investors, according to the state government. Under the policy-led investment push, Haryana has set a target of attracting approximately Rs 5 lakh crore in fresh investments and creating more than 10 lakh jobs by 2030-31. The Gujarat outreach is intended to familiarise investors with the state's industrial ecosystem and encourage investment proposals that could support manufacturing growth, technological innovation and employment generation. The government expects the engagements in Surat and Gandhinagar to open avenues for new industrial ventures, expansion of existing businesses and partnerships with companies across sectors. The visit forms part of Haryana's broader effort to widen investor engagement and position the state as a destination for industrial investment and business expansion.
Tiger Shroff's Attackers Had A Return Plan For Weapons. It Failed In Surat
The four accused -- Sumit, Kunal, Radha and Babita, who were arrested in Delhi and Haryana last week -- were sent to police custody until October 28 today.
Surat doctor Bhavin Patel brings village eye care, with 30,000 free surgeries and 40 monthly camps
Surat-Made Steel Powers INS Mangrol, Strengthening Indias Naval Defence Capabilities
Surat/Hazira (Gujarat) [India], October 26: The Indian Navys newly commissioned Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft INS Mangrol carries a strong Surat connection, having been built using 100% specialised steel supplied
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across other cities on October 26
A National Unity Rally comprising 150 motorcycles was flagged off in Surat on Monday as part of an anti-drug campaign, with participants from different states joining the initiative to mark National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas). Surat SP Rajesh Gadiya highlighted the participation of representatives from different states and the welcome extended to them by local groups, including NCC cadets, college students, industrial workers and village heads. Speaking to ANI, he said,
150-motorcycle national unity rally flagged off in Surat to promote anti-drug campaign
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BJP Accuses Congress of Protecting Intruders During Save Democracy March in Surat
BJP leaders in Surat claim Congress is undermining democracy by protecting intruders and opposing voter list revisions. BJP Accuses Congress of Protecting Intruders During Save Democracy March in Surat
'Congress protecting infiltrators: BJP launches Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' march in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 25 (IANS) The Gujarat unit of BJP on Sunday accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators and opposing their removal from electoral rolls, as it launched a Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy campaign in Surat, alleging that the Opposition party is attempting to undermine public confidence in democratic institutions and the election process. State BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma made the remarks while addressing a march held in the presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil. The campaign, according to the BJP, aims to counter what it described as misleading propaganda against democratic institutions, the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the election process. Congress is working to protect infiltrators. It does not want infiltrators to be removed from electoral rolls, Vishwakarma said, accusing the party of attempting to create unrest and disrupt the country's atmosphere. He alleged that Congress is unwilling to accept the people's mandate and is instead spreading confusion and distrust about the country's democratic institutions. He also accused the party of attempting to incite young people by acting at the behest of foreign forces. India's youth stand with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the public has complete faith in the country's democratic institutions, Vishwakarma said, adding that the alleged designs of Rahul Gandhi and his associates would never succeed. The state BJP president further alleged that Congress is using what he described as a politics of lies to create an atmosphere of anarchy. The people are aware of the party's political tactics and would not forgive it for allegedly conspiring to defame India, he said. Referring to PM Modi's leadership, Vishwakarma said the country is moving towards becoming a developed nation and achieving self-reliance under the 'Make in India' initiative. He also noted that PM Modi had recently completed 25 years of public service and dedication. According to Vishwakarma, the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) are in power in 22 states. The march began near Prime Market in Adajan and passed through Presidency Circle, Machhli Circle and Varun Hospital Circle before concluding at Bhulka Bhavan Circle. Participants raised slogans including Congress supports infiltrators, Those who are friends of infiltrators are traitors to the country and The country will not tolerate the insult to the people's mandate in the name of vote theft. The march was attended by state Minister Naresh Patel, BJP state general secretary Prashant Korat, Surat city BJP president Paresh Patel, party office-bearers, MPs, MLAs, elected representatives, religious and community leaders, traders' association representatives, women, NGO representatives and other citizens.
