Ranji Trophy: Saharan Ton Overshadows Gill's Return, Rinku, Arya, Badoni Hit Centuries
Skipper Uday Saharan: Skipper Uday Saharan struck an unbeaten century to rescue Punjab after Shubman Gill's return to the Ranji Trophy lasted just five balls, while Rinku Singh, Priyansh Arya and Ayush Badoni also notched up hundreds on day one of the second round of the prestigious competition on Sunday. In the Elite Group B clash at the new PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, Saharan's unbeaten 106, laced with 13 fours, lifted Punjab to 269/4 against Chhattisgarh. Rinku's 118 not out, coming off 186 balls and laced with 11 fours and two sixes, pulled Uttar Pradesh out of trouble to 202 Goa, before the latter reached 43/0 in 12 overs. Arya, playing his first game of the season, fell one run short of a maiden double hundred in first-class cricket, while captain Badoni hit 115 not out to put Delhi in command by taking them to 381/4 against Gujarat. Saharan, who captained India to runners-up finish in the 2024 Mens U19 World Cup, used the sweep and the slog sweep to good effect against Chhattisgarh's left-arm spin pair of Dharmendrasinh Jadeja and Ajay Mandal. Openers Vihaan Malhotra (40 off 77 balls) and Harnoor Pannu put on another half-century stand to see off the new ball, before the duo were trapped lbw by Jadeja and Mandal respectively. Gill, playing his first Ranji game of the season before departing for India's tour of New Zealand, came in at number four but fell for one. Mandal drew him forward and beat him through the gate to knock back the stumps. Saharan and Prabhsimran Singh (62 off 133 balls) then rebuilt the innings with a 130-run stand for the fourth wicket. Though Prabhsimran was trapped lbw by Jadeja before tea break arrived, Saharan marched forward to bring up his third first-class hundred off 168 balls. Wicketkeeper-batter Salil Arora (38 not out off 75 balls) ensured Punjab added 71 runs in the final session without further loss. In Elite Group A game at Green Park in Kanpur, Rinku hit his 11th first-class century, his second in successive games this season, to single-handedly drag Uttar Pradesh from 137/9 to 202 against Goa. At Reliance Stadium in Vadodara, Raj Limbani's four-wicket haul helped Baroda bowl out Bihar for 166, before they reached 77/3. At Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, debutant Kawalpreet Singh fell four runs short of a century but rescued defending champions Jammu and Kashmir, who were all out for 260 in 82.5 overs against Vidarbha. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh's pacers bowled out Puducherry for 177, with the former finishing on 23/ 2 at stumps. In Elite Group B, a maiden fifty from Manvanth Kumar led a lower-order fightback for Karnataka, who reached 281/8 after birthday boy Jaydev Unadkat and Chetan Sakariya had made early inroads for Saurashtra in Alur. Sibsankar Roy's half-century steered Assam to 228/6 against Tripura, while Andhra spinners Saurabh Kumar and T Vijay bowled out Hyderabad for 275. Andhra were 9 for no loss at stumps and trail by 266 runs. In Elite Group C, without veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, Bengal were bowled out for 184 by Services, but the visitors came back to leave the hosts at 83/5. Sachin Baby's unbeaten 112 rescued Kerala, who reached 245/6 against Odisha. Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Vicky Ostwal's four-wicket haul helped Maharashtra dismiss Jharkhand for 169, with the hosts reaching 85/3 at stumps at Pune. In Elite Group D, Mumbai bowled out Himachal Pradesh for 140 at Bilaspur and were 107/2 at stumps, and trail by just 33 runs. At the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh (4-34) and left-arm spinner and captain R Sai Kishore (4-40) shared eight wickets as Tamil Nadu bowled out Uttarakhand for 134 in 56.2 overs. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. In reply, Tamil Nadu reached 85/2 in 27 overs at stumps and trail by 49 runs. N Jagadeesan made 37 off 53 balls, while Pradosh Ranjan Paul was unbeaten on 37 off 73 deliveries. Overnight rain in Chennai and a wet outfield delayed the start until 10.30 am, and bad light brought an early end to the day's play at 5.28 pm. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
News In Frames: A circle for all
At the historic Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Garba is more than a celebration of devotion and dance; for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, it offers a space to embrace their identities and find a sense of belonging within a centuries-old tradition
Identity row, brawl, parking protest mar garba revelry
Vadodara councillor seeks answers over allocation of three LNG stations
Raja Ravi Varmas paintings to travel for exhibitions: Vadodara royal Radhikaraje Gaekwad
Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum undergoes an expansion, a state-of-the-art new storage facility will be ready next year
Five killed, six injured in reactor blast at Gujarat pharma unit
Digital Desk | Bharuch, Oct 17 (IANS) At least five workers were killed and six injured after a 15-kilolitre reactor exploded during a hydrogenation process at a pharmaceutical manufacturing unit in Gujarats Bharuch district late on Friday night, with a reported methylene dichloride (MDC) gas leak adding to the impact of the incident, according to reports on Saturday. The explosion occurred at SynZeal Pharmachem in the Saykha Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) estate in Vagra taluka. The force of the blast sent debris from the reactor beyond the company premises, while machinery parts and metal sheets were scattered across the plant, according to reports. The subsequent gas leak reportedly left the area shrouded in dust and haze, with workers and others at the site complaining of severe eye irritation. The injured were taken to hospitals in Bharuch and Vadodara for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were shifted to Bharuch Civil Hospital. The incident triggered panic across the industrial estate, prompting police and district authorities to reach the site and initiate rescue operations. Teams from the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) and the Industrial Safety and Health Department also began an investigation into the explosion and the circumstances surrounding the reported chemical leak. Bharuch Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Manisha Manani, said the blast occurred during the hydrogenation process. Officials are examining the cause of the explosion and whether the unit complied with applicable industrial safety requirements. The precise cause has not yet been established. Four of the deceased were reportedly identified as Jaideep Patel, 27, a shift in-charge from Vagra; Aniketkumar Harikishor, 24; Arjun Ramsingh Gautam, 20; and Vrund Talavia. Authorities were still verifying the identity of the fifth victim. The company had reportedly begun operations with 53 employees and had not completed a year at the Saykha GIDC estate. The investigation is expected to establish what caused the reactor to explode, the extent of the chemical release and whether any safety lapses contributed to the deaths and injuries.
Expired products found at dairy outlet, 25k penalty imposed
SSG Hospital launches pain clinic for non-surgical treatment
Man held for assaulting two cops in court
Crocodile strays into cattle shed
Vadodaras SHE Team on guard as women celebrate Garba during Navratri
Vadodaras SHE Team on guard as women celebrate Garba during Navratri
We have to play fearless, smart cricket: Shafali ahead of T20Is vs Zimbabwe
India and Zimbabwe will face off in a three-match T20 series here before moving to Vadodara for three ODIs
Cops crack 13 bike theft cases, accused held
Three city-based doctors win outstanding researcher award
Labour officer held for taking 70k bribe
Free Entry For Female Spectators For India-Zimbabwe Womens T20Is In Raipur
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Female spectators will be allowed free entry to the three women's T20Is between India and Zimbabwe, starting at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium here, following a suggestion from the states Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The matches will be played on October 16, 18 and 20, with all three games starting at 7 pm. A Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh (CSCS) source said to IANS on Thursday that the decision was taken after the chief minister floated the idea when office-bearers of the association invited him to watch the T20I series. The Chhattisgarh CM suggested free ticketing for female spectators yesterday when he was invited to watch the T20I games by the state association. This happened because of the CM's suggestion, as one cannot refuse the CM's suggestion. Navratri is also going on, and having as many female spectators as possible in the T20I matches will add more spark to the festive season in Raipur, further said the source. The invitation was extended to Sai by CSCS president Mohan Das, director Vijay Shah, former president Mukul Tiwari, secretary Vintesh Agrawal, along with G S Murthy, Vinay Bajaj and other office-bearers. The association announced the initiative on its social media accounts on Thursday and urged female fans to turn up in large numbers and fill the stands in support of the Indian team. The series marks the start of Smriti Mandhana's tenure as India's full-time captain and is Zimbabwe's first bilateral series against India. It will also be the first time Raipur hosts a women's international match. After the T20Is, the two teams will move to Vadodara for a three-match ODI series from October 23 to 28. Meanwhile, Surat will host Elite Group A games in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy, which New Delhi was to stage originally. But with Arun Jaitley Stadium set to undergo drainage and pitch upgrades, and Palam Grounds occupied with the Ranji Trophy, there werent sufficient grounds to stage the games. CK Pithawala Ground and Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat will now host Elite Group A games starting on October 26. It will also be the first time Raipur hosts a women's international match. After the T20Is, the two teams will move to Vadodara for a three-match ODI series from October 23 to 28. Meanwhile, Surat will host Elite Group A games in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy, which New Delhi was to stage originally. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Newly appointed T20I vice-captain Shafali Verma said on Thursday that her role in the Indian team leadership group will go beyond that title, adding that the side are aiming to play a fearless yet smart brand of T20 cricket in next years Champions Trophy. India, to be now captained by Smriti Mandhana, will begin its preparation for the inaugural six-team tournament, to be played in Mumbai and Vadodara in February 2027, when they open the T20I series against Zimbabwe at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on Friday. Just talking about vice-captaincy, I have done captaincy in the Under-19 World Cup as well. So, I have that experience. I know vice-captaincy is not just a title. It's a big responsibility. I know we have to just take care of each and every player and make them in a very good headspace. So, I am just trying to make every player very comfortable and just help the captain, Shafali said in the pre-match press conference. She also credited former captain Harmanpreet Kaur for the growth of the women's game and said the team had already mapped out its approach for the road ahead. Harman di has done a lot of growth to women's cricket. The current shape of women's cricket, it's just all about Harman di only. So, just thanks to her and just talking about how we have to move forward in women's cricket. First of all, we have to play a fearless brand of cricket in T20, with smartness as well. So, we have just talked in this series that we have to play the Champions Trophy, the fearless brand of cricket with the smartness and we have done lots of meetings. So, everyone knows what to do and you guys can also see the growth. So, we are just trying to keep growing series by series, she added. Shafali, who has been in prolific form via scores of 64, 68, 40 not out, 100 not out and 48, traced her resurgence to the work she put in after being left out of the ODI side in 2025, before a call-up came following Pratika Rawal's injury led to her dramatic return to the ODI World Cup team and capped it off with a Player of the Match performance in the final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. When Pratika got injured, I got a direct call to be back in the team. Luckily, at that time I was playing state T20 games from Haryana. So, I worked a lot on myself in 2025 and I think that hard work which I did in 2025, it gave me lots of help right now. So, I am just trying to keep my head down and just keep learning everything. Every day brings every new experience, and I am just trying to learn everything, she said. Shafali recalled that spending time out of the team forced her to take a hard look at her game. I think in 2025, when I got out of the team, I sat down and analysed myself which things I have to work on. First of all, consistency and then fitness, which meant I had to work on my body. Mentally, I have to grow more. So, these three things, I did hard work at that time. I think because of that, everything is going well. So, I am just trying to be more consistent. Shafali, who has also been chipping in with her off-spin, said she had long prepared for the possibility of bowling at the international level. Bowling is nothing new for me because I have been bowling for Haryana since 2021. So, I know when I used to bowl for Haryana, I used to think that someday I will have to bowl for India. So, I used to keep myself mentally prepared at that time that if I get bowling in the Indian team, then how do I have to prepare. With God's grace at that time, I am just trying to get used to the thinking that when I will get bowling in the Indian team, then what do I have to do and luckily I did that. Mentally, I have been ahead only and it's a great thing. Aware that opponents now plan specifically for her, Shafali said she recreates various match scenarios in the nets. I know that the other opponent team does all the preparation for me. So, in the net sessions, I always prepare for that. If my hitting is not good in the net session, then how do I play along the ground? So, I put myself in various situations in every net session. So, I think it is easy for me to go into the match because of that practice. On every skill, on short balls, even on spinner's back foot punch and even the pull shots as well. So, I have worked on that and I can see a very good reflection. So, I have to just keep doing the hard work. In the absence of injured Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali said the batting order had coped well and backed youngster Niki Prasad to step up. Jemi is recovering. But, in the Asia Cup and Asian Games, we were very good in the middle order. We didn't feel so much absence of it. So, I think it is easy for me to go into the match because of that practice. On every skill, on short balls, even on spinner's back foot punch and even the pull shots as well. So, I have worked on that and I can see a very good reflection. So, I have to just keep doing the hard work. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mandhana Captaincy Era Set To Begin As India Take On Zimbabwe (Preview)
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: A new chapter in Indian women's cricket will commence on Friday when Smriti Mandhana leads the side as full-time captain for the first time in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe, who are still searching for their first win in the format this year. Fridays clash will mark the start of Zimbabwe's first-ever bilateral series against India, and the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium is set to host a women's international match for the first time. Smriti, who takes over from Harmanpreet Kaur after being the vice-captain for almost ten years, inherits a side brimming with confidence after winning the Asia Cup and the Asian Games gold medal. Captaincy is hardly unfamiliar territory for Smriti - she has led Maharashtra in domestic cricket and guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to two WPL titles. She has also captained India in 18 T20Is, winning 11 and losing six of them, with the first of those coming seven years ago against England in Guwahati when Harmanpreet was injured. Her elevation to captaincy comes when Smriti is at the peak of her batting powers. The left-handed opener has struck two hundreds and 15 fifties in T20Is over the last three years and has pushed her strike rate to a career-best 148.25 in 2026. While Harmanpreet still remains a key figure in the dressing room, her now being free from leadership duties means she could well be more destructive with the bat. The main selection puzzle to solve for India is the number three slot, left vacant by Jemimah Rodrigues, who is recovering from a right hamstring tear. G Kamalini batted there twice, but Anushka Sharma and Niki Prasad pushed their case after posting strong showings against Australia A. Prema Rawat could come in with Shreyanka Patil not included for the series. India will also have huge hopes from vice-captain Shafali Verma and left-arm spinner N Sree Charani to continue their sparkling run. Zimbabwe, led by Josephine Nkomo, have lost all of their T20Is this year and last won in the format against Namibia in September 2025. They will, however, draw belief from their maiden ODI win over the West Indies at home in September. Opener Kelis Ndhlovu, the only Zimbabwean with a T20I fifty this year, will be a key figure with the bat. The three T20Is will be followed by three ODIs in Vadodara from October 23 to 28. When: October 16, 2026, 7:00 PM Where: Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Star Sports Network channels on TV and live-stream is available on the JioHotstar app and website. Squads India: Smriti Mandhana (captain), Shafali Verma (vc), Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, Sree Charani, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita, and Minnu Mani Squads Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
PM e-Bus Sewa: Vadodara Increases Electric Bus Fleet from 50 to 80 with Latest Addition
18 new machines to upgrade cataract surgery facilities at Gujarat hospitals
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 15 (IANS) Government hospitals and medical colleges across Gujarat will receive 18 advanced phacoemulsification machines for cataract surgeries at an estimated cost of more than Rs 8.85 crore, following approval by state Health Minister Praful Pansheriya, on Thursday. The machines will be distributed among government healthcare institutions in Ahmedabad, Surat, Bhavnagar, Vadodara, Jamnagar, Morbi, Gandhinagar, Vadnagar and Himmatnagar. The state government said the equipment would help patients to access modern eye treatment free of cost. The M and J Institute of Ophthalmology in Ahmedabad will receive seven machines, while Government Medical College in Bhavnagar, and GMERS Hospital in Morbi, will receive two each. One machine each has been allocated to New Civil Hospital and Old Civil Hospital in Surat, GG General Hospital in Jamnagar, ESIC General Hospital in Vadodara, and GMERS institutions in Gandhinagar, Vadnagar and Himmatnagar. The machines are designed to improve precision during cataract surgery by allowing surgeons to control ultrasound energy, vacuum and fluid flow. Their technology helps break down and remove cataract fragments, with the aim of providing greater control during procedures and supporting faster recovery. The equipment features an elliptical movement technology in its handpiece and a peristaltic pump system to regulate fluid flow and vacuum, enabling cataract particles to be removed through a suction tip. A foot-pedal control system allows surgeons to adjust ultrasound energy, vacuum and fluid flow according to the requirements of each operation. The machines also incorporate CASE (Chamber Stabilisation Environment) technology, which regulates changes in vacuum and fluid flow to help maintain stable pressure inside the eye during surgery and reduce the risk of a sudden pressure drop, known as a post-occlusion surge. The handpiece is designed to reduce excessive heat generation near the small incision made during surgery. This can help minimise corneal oedema, or swelling of the cornea, and other post-operative complications, supporting quicker recovery. The approval was given at a meeting chaired by Pansheriya as part of the state government's efforts to strengthen eye-care facilities at government medical colleges and hospitals.
Smriti Mandhana era begins as India look to fix T20 flaws against Zimbabwe
India will begin their T20 series against Zimbabwe under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana on Friday. The series marks the first bilateral encounter between the two teams in history. India is looking to improve their performance in T20s after recent World Cup exits. Zimbabwe enters the series on a high after their recent ODI victory over West Indies. Both teams will follow the T20 matches with three ODIs in Vadodara.
ODI World Cup triumph not enough, India must work hard in T20Is: Mandhana
Newly appointed captain Smriti Mandhana on Wednesday said India may have won the ODI World Cup recently, but the team still needs to work hard in the shortest format, with the inaugural edition of the Women's Champions Trophy set to be held early next year. India will host the six-team tournament in the T20 format at Mumbai's Brabourne Stadium and the BCA Stadium in Vadodara from February 14 to 28. Mandhana is set to lead India in her first assignment as full-time captain when the hosts take on Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series starting here on Friday, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara. She took charge from Harmanpreet Kaur. Mandhana said India would look to make the most of the six T20Is ahead of the Women's Champions Trophy. The first bilateral (series) with Zimbabwe, I think, is very exciting. It is our first time playing with them, Mandhana told reporters here. Sometimes, playing with Zimbabwe and all the Associate nations, it feels like you can learn a lot from them a
VMC proposes projects worth 1,110 crore for city
MSU hosts elocution event to promote public-speaking skills
VMC adds 30 more eBuses, expanding fleet to 80
Man dies after falling into gorge
Bull run ruse turns into 15L bear trap
Mandhana Says India Need To Work Hard in T20Is Despite ODI World Cup Triumph
Mandhana is set to lead India in her first assignment as full-time captain when the hosts take on Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series starting on Friday, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara
IAF Chief A. P. Singh Joins Maa Chandraghanta Aarti at Vadodara Garba Mahotsav
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh attended a Baroda Navratri Garba Mahotsav in Vadodara during Navratri 2026.He along with family members and accompanying officers, were invited to participate in the auspicious Maa Chandraghanta Aarti during the evening's festivities.
Vadodara Cops Go Undercover In Garba Attire To Ensure Women's Safety
Cops have issued a stern warning that any suspicious activity or attempts to harass women will be met with immediate and strict legal action.
Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train hits another milestone; 14 portal beams completed in Vadodara
Viral Video: IAF Chief AP Singh Tries Garba At Gujarat's Record-Setting Navratri Event
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh attended the third night of the United Way of Baroda Navratri Garba Mahotsav 2026 in Vadodara, Gujarat. A video showing the Air Force chief trying a few Garba steps at the
AIKYAM 2026 puts citys heritage in global spotlight
Beyond midnight: Rediscovering the magic of traditional garba
Cyberfraudsters dupe GM of 1cr
Insurance bought after snake bite, denial upheld
19-year-old forges call letter for police job
Mobile thefts mar Navratri celebrations at United Way Garba
Jewellery order ends in 8.28cr heist
Bullet train clears key hurdle in Vadodara
Over 500 attend seminar on fasting, holistic health
Bullet train project construction integrates with railway network at Vadodara
The 14 portal beams have been constructed along the complex Vadodara stretch, where the Bullet Train alignment crosses multiple operational railway lines.
Bullet train project construction integrates with railway network at Vadodara
The 14 portal beams have been constructed along the complex Vadodara stretch, where the Bullet Train alignment crosses multiple operational railway lines.
Gujarat govt clears incentives for 25 industrial units with Rs 3,903 crore investment
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 12 (IANS) Gujarat has approved final eligibility certificates for 25 industrial units seeking incentives under two state industrial policies, covering proposed investments of Rs 3,903.30 crore and expected to generate more than 8,178 employment opportunities. The approvals were granted at a high-level committee meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, according to a statement issued by the state Industries and Mines Department on Monday. Of the 25 units, 22 have been approved for investments worth Rs 1,631.90 crore under the Industrial Policy-2015. The remaining three large industrial units have received final approval for investments totalling Rs 2,271.40 crore under the Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme-2022. The units are spread across Ahmedabad, Morbi, Bharuch, Kutch, Vadodara, Mehsana, Kheda and Surendranagar districts. They operate in sectors including automobiles, textiles, plastics, paper, chemicals, ceramics and metals. The state government provides financial incentives to eligible industrial units under the two policies, including assistance linked to net state goods and services tax (SGST), interest subsidies and reimbursement of employees' provident fund (EPF) contributions. The latest approvals cover both large industrial projects and smaller enterprises, with the government seeking to support investment across different segments of the state's industrial sector. The department said the incentive framework was intended to promote industrial development, encourage investment and support the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) alongside larger industries. The approvals come as Gujarat continues to use policy-linked financial assistance to attract industrial investment across its districts and manufacturing sectors. The department said the projects covered by the latest decisions were expected to create approximately 8,178 jobs.
GujCTOC accused held hours after escaping custody
Woman harassed by ex-lover for ending affair
City girl receives global essay competition commendation
Hardik Pandya home: Hardik celebrated his 33rd birthday with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. Hardik Pandyas family home in Vadodara is a 6,000 sq ft penthouse made from four joined flats. It has a 2,500 sq ft balcony garden, four big bedrooms, an open living area and skyline views.
MSU girls, staff seek removal of asst professor for harassment
Man who jumped off SSG Hospital building dies
GujCTOC detainee escapes from SSG Hospital
Cultural Diplomacy Shines at Vadodaras Lakshmi Vilas Palace
Ambassadors from around the world gathered at Vadodaras Lakshmi Vilas Palace for a cultural diplomacy event showcasing Indian art. Cultural Diplomacy Shines at Vadodaras Lakshmi Vilas Palace
50 evacuated after fire breaks out in Godhra hospital
Man jumps from hospital floor, injures ambulance driver
Man held from MP for duping investors of over 70L
Farmer killed in crocodile attack
MSU scientists turn turmeric, rice husk into antibacterial coating
Councillor seeks probe into VMC gate lockdown during water crisis protest
Gujarat to host 40 Chandigarh students under Yuva Sangam initiative
Students To Explore States Cultural Heritage
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 10 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has said that several development initiatives launched in the state under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership had subsequently been expanded nationwide, as he congratulated the Prime Minister on completing 25 years in public service. Addressing a press conference in Gandhinagar alongside Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and government spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani, Patel on Friday added that PM Modi's political journey, which began with his tenure as the Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001, had been guided by the principles of Service, Not Power and Nation First. PM Modi had introduced a new approach to governance based on development and performance, with the mantra of 'Reform, Perform, Transform', and had sought to turn challenges into opportunities through a clear vision and decisive leadership, he said. Recalling PM Modi's tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister, Patel cited the Jyotigram Yojana, which improved electricity supply to villages, the Narmada canal network, which expanded access to water, and the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investment Summit, launched in 2003 to attract investment to the state. Patel said the development model pursued in Gujarat had contributed to PM Modi securing a national mandate in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. As Prime Minister, he had continued to serve as the countrys 'Pradhan Sevak', ushering in an era of development-focused and performance-driven politics, he noted. He said that development under PM Modi went beyond roads, bridges and industries, and was intended to bring tangible changes to the lives of disadvantaged sections of society. Initiatives relating to housing, sanitation, financial inclusion, healthcare security and Garib Kalyan Melas were aimed at ensuring that welfare benefits reached people directly, he added. Patel also highlighted PM-KISAN, the promotion of natural farming, the Ujjwala Yojana and efforts to increase women's participation in decision-making as initiatives supporting farmers, women and other sections of society. Drawing parallels between Gujarat's schemes and national programmes, Patel cited the expansion of MA Amrutam into Ayushman Bharat, Jyotigram into the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana, Nirmal Gujarat into the Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Mandir into Amrit Sarovar and Kanya Kelavani into 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. He also pointed to the transition from Khel Mahakumbh in Gujarat to the nationwide Khelo India programme. Highlighting projects expected to support Gujarat's economic growth, Patel referred to the Ahmedabad-Dholera rail and expressway projects, the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, the railway locomotive manufacturing unit in Dahod and defence aircraft manufacturing in Vadodara. He also cited the International Financial Services Centres Authority and India International Bullion Exchange at GIFT City. The Chief Minister said, The hybrid renewable energy park at Khavda in Kutch, the CNG terminal in Bhavnagar and the expansion of the semiconductor sector are positioning Gujarat for growth in clean energy, advanced technology and manufacturing. Six semiconductor projects under the Semiconductor Mission were part of the state's efforts to emerge as a major semiconductor hub. Patel also referred to India's response to the Covid-19 pandemic, saying PM Modi had demonstrated global responsibility by promoting the development of indigenous vaccines and supplying them to other countries. Guided by the principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', or the world as one family, PM Modi had strengthened India's international standing while seeking to balance development with environmental protection, he said. He added that the Prime Minister's emphasis on self-reliance, innovation and skill development was creating opportunities for young people and supporting the goal of Viksit Bharat-2047.
Gujarat: Khel Mahakumbh participation crosses 76 lakh, up from 16.5 lakh in 2010
Digital Desk | Vadodara, Oct 9 (IANS) Participation in Gujarats Khel Mahakumbh has crossed 76 lakh in its 2026 edition, up from around 16.5 lakh in the inaugural event in 2010, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Friday while inaugurating the statewide sporting initiative along with Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi in Vadodara. Patel said the event, launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of promoting sports with the mantra Khele Te Khile, had provided a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and helped foster a sporting culture across the state. Gujarat has always had talented sportspersons. By providing them with the right platform and opportunities, Khel Mahakumbh has fostered a new sports culture in the state, the Chief Minister said. He said the Centres Khelo India initiative and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) had created opportunities for athletes to develop their abilities from the grassroots level and progress to national and international competitions. The state government is committed to identifying talented sportspersons, providing specialised training and preparing them for international-level events, he added. Patel said around 410 athletes from Gujarat were being trained under Khelo India, while around 11 athletes from the state were part of TOPS and represented India at the international level. He also highlighted the Shaktidoot Scheme, launched in 2006 to support talented athletes. Referring to the Prime Ministers goal of strengthening Indias participation across more sporting disciplines by 2036, Patel said: Gujarat had taken the challenge as an opportunity and is working towards preparing athletes for international competitions. The Chief Minister also urged young people to reduce screen time and participate in outdoor sports. Referring to the Prime Ministers appeal to move away from PlayStations and towards playgrounds, he said regular physical activity was important in the digital age. He called on sportspersons to encourage their peers to exercise and adopt a healthy lifestyle as ambassadors of the Fit India campaign. Young people could also contribute to the vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat and urged athletes to follow the Prime Ministers mantra of 'We Will Do It' in working towards a Viksit Bharat, he said. At the inauguration, Patel and Sanghavi felicitated the top-performing schools from Khel Mahakumbh-2025. Knowledge High School in Nadiad, Kheda district, secured first place and received a trophy and Rs 5 lakh. Urmi School in Vadodara came second and received Rs 3 lakh, while S.R. High School in Devgadh Baria, Dahod district, finished third and received Rs 2 lakh. Mehsana was declared the overall state champion among districts, followed by Kheda as state runner-up and Ahmedabad as second runner-up. Among municipal corporations, Surat secured the overall state championship, Ahmedabad finished runner-up, and Vadodara came third. The winning municipal corporations were presented with trophies. Addressing the gathering, Sanghavi said the government was making efforts to encourage students and young people from schools, villages and cities to participate in the event and spend less time on mobile phones, television and other digital platforms. Sports instil sportsmanship in youth, teaching them to accept defeat gracefully and remain humble in victory, he said. Sanghavi said Khel Mahakumbh, which began in 2010 with around 16 lakh participants, had developed into a major sporting initiative and helped nurture athletes who had represented Gujarat and India at the Asian Games and other international events. He added that the budget for athletes training and facilities had been increased fourfold under Patels leadership. The number of athletes selected under the Shaktidoot Scheme had also risen from 50 to 500, allowing more sportspersons to benefit from support, he said. The state government is working to strengthen sporting facilities at the taluka and rural levels, Sanghavi said, adding that Gujarat aimed to host the Commonwealth Games and other international sporting events in the coming years.
A cool twist to Navratri: Garba moves into AC domes
SOG seizes MD worth 56k, arrests man
Protesters say monument project dropped, celebrate victory
26.55cr ticketing contract proposed for PM e-Bus service in city
Private schools announce non-cooperation over pending demands
Duo pose as cops, dupe farmer of gold worth 2.5L
Three held for stealing copper wire from bullet train site
Liquor worth 1.20cr seized at Gujarat-MP border
PM Modi to address nation today; BJP to hold 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' across Gujarat
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation virtually on Wednesday as Gujarat unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organises a 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' across all districts and metropolitan areas to mark his completion of 25 years in public service. PM Modi will address the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' around 9 a.m. and lead a collective pledge to create 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047'. The Prime Minister's address will be broadcast live from the yatra's departure points across the state. The programme is part of the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan', being organised to mark 25 years of his public service, first as the Gujarat Chief Minister and subsequently as the country's Prime Minister. Before PM Modi's address, BJP National President Nitin Nabin will also address the gathering. Following the Prime Minister's address, local leaders will light the 'Seva Jyot', after which the 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' will begin from designated locations in each district and metropolitan area. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will participate in the Ahmedabad programme at Pujya Pramukh Swami Marg-Riverfront Road near Riverfront House. State BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma will attend the programme at the Arts and Commerce College on New Civil Hospital Road in Sabarkantha district. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi will participate in the programme at Shri Vardayini Mataji Temple in Rupal village of Gandhinagar district. State BJP General Secretaries Aniruddh Dave, Prashant Korat, Ajay Brahmbhatt and Hitendrasinh Chouhan will attend programmes in Rajkot, Surat, Ahmedabad and Vadodara respectively. State Ministers, BJP office-bearers, MPs, MLAs, party leaders, workers and local residents are also expected to participate at designated locations. The nationwide 'Seva Sankalp Yatra', which began on September 17, will also conclude on Wednesday at Vadnagar in Gujarat and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. The two locations are associated with PM Modi's birthplace and political career. In Vadnagar, the concluding programme will include a water offering at the historic Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple. Chief Minister Patel, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi, State BJP President Vishwakarma and Yatra In-charge V.D. Sharma are scheduled to attend.
Protest held against concretisation of Sayajibaug
Medical superintendent held for taking 40k bribe from students
13 nomination forms filed for VMC school board; 12 BJP-backed
Couple commit suicide on Insta live in Dahod forest
Bootleggers held with 455 bottles concealed in two scooters
Mandhana to lead as BCCI announces squads for Zimbabwe series
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced Indias squads for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Zimbabwe, with Smriti Mandhana set to lead the womens team as full-time captain for the first time. Mandhanas appointment as captain was announced by the BCCI earlier on Tuesday after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the leadership role across formats. Mandhana, who has previously led India in 18 T20Is and four ODIs, will now begin her full-time tenure with the Zimbabwe series. Opener Shafali Verma has been named vice-captain for the three-match T20I series, while all-rounder Deepti Sharma will serve as Mandhanas deputy in the ODI format. Harmanpreet remains part of both squads. The T20I squad includes maiden call-ups for Niki Prasad and Jintimani Kalita, while Anushka Sharma, Minnu Mani and Prema Rawat have returned to the setup after missing out in the recent assignments. Niki has been part of Indias A setup and impressed in domestic cricket, while Jintimani has also featured for India A. Both were part of the India A group that faced England A earlier this year. Prema, a leg-spinner, has also represented India at the international level and was brought into the T20 World Cup squad earlier this year after Shreyanka Patil was ruled out with injury. However, she didn't get many chances after the tournament. Prema had previously impressed for India A, including an eight-wicket haul in five matches during Indias victorious Womens Asia Cup Rising Stars campaign. The series will be Indias first assignment after their womens cricket team retained the Asian Games gold medal in Aichi-Nagoya. India had entered the Games as defending champions, having won the womens cricket gold at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou. Compared to the T20I squad that was part of Indias gold-medal-winning campaign, there are five changes. Niki, Anushka, Jintimani, Prema and Minnu have come into the squad, replacing Bharti Fulmali, Pratika Rawal, Renuka Thakur, Radha Yadav and Shreyanka Patil. For the ODI series, Tejal Hasabnis and Sayali Satghare have been recalled. The duo was part of India. A side that toured England earlier this year, with Hasabnis scoring an unbeaten 57 in a one-day match against England A. Mandhanas appointment also marks the beginning of a new leadership phase for Indian womens cricket. The left-handed opener has been part of the national team since 2013 and has led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Womens Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026. India will play the three T20Is in Raipur on October 16, 18 and 20, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara on October 23, 25 and 28. Squads: Indias T20I Squad: Smriti Mandhana [C], Shafali Verma [VC], Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh [WK], G Kamalini [WK], Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, Sree Charani, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita, Minnu Mani India's ODI Squad: Smriti Mandhana [C], Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol, Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma [VC], Richa Ghosh [WK], Yastika Bhatia [WK], Vaishnavi Sharma, Nandni Sharma, Sree Charani, Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare, Renuka Thakur.
Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], October 6: Taking an initiative to focus on Quantum Computing research, industry-academia collaboration, and future-ready talent building in Gujarat, Vadodaras Parul University has signed an MoU with
Gujarat horror: Man, teen girl die by suicide in Dahod forest; act livestreamed on Instagram
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 6 (IANS)Young tennis players Khush Parikh and Raghavi Jajoo of Adani Sportsline Academy finished runners-up in their respective doubles categories at the All India Ranking Championship Series Tennis Tournament 2026, held at Mamta Tennis Academy in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Khush finished runner-up in the Under 14 Boys Doubles, while Raghavi secured the runner-up spot in the Under 14 Girls Doubles. Both also reached the semifinals of the Under 14 Singles event. Raghavi joined Adani Sportsline Academy in April 2024 and has stood out for her resilience and determination on court, often fighting for every point. Khush, who joined in August 2025, has worked on his ball placement, angled shots and consistency, while developing greater composure in tight matches. Their progress has been supported by regular work with the academys coaching team on stroke technique, footwork, match play and decision-making. The focus has been on strengthening their fundamentals and helping them handle the demands of competitive tennis. Both players qualified for the School Games Nationals in 2025. Khush was runner-up in Under 14 Doubles at an All-India Tennis Association Championship Series tournament in Vadodara, while Raghavi finished runner-up in Under 12 Doubles at an All-India Tennis Association Championship Series tournament in Ahmedabad. Both have also won Gujarat State Tennis Association ranking tournaments. At Adani Sportsline Academy, the players have access to dedicated coaching, training facilities and regular competitive opportunities as they continue to develop their game. Khush and Raghavi will now return to training as they prepare for their upcoming competitions.
Garbas new luxury flex: Valet, VVIP seats and butlers
Fire truck sent 24km to wash MLA Bachu Khabads bungalow
VMC to attempt a world record with Viksit Bharat Sankalp Garba
PU makes debut in Times Higher Education World University Rankings
GSFC University uses AI to bridge skill gaps among students
Congress opposes monument in Sayajibaug
Man held hours after killing live-in partner
Firemen called for fire call, end up washing BJP MLAs bungalow in Gujarat
Sitar maestros two-day masterclass at MSU
