3rd T20I: Prema replaces Charani as India Women elect to bat vs Zimbabwe
Digital Desk | Raipur, Oct 20 (IANS) India won the toss and elected to bat against Zimbabwe in the third Women's T20I of the series at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Tuesday. India captain Smriti Mandhana said the team opted to bat first to give the middle order more time in the centre, with a target of scoring 180-plus. In T20 cricket, we have to play positively, and I dont have a number in mind, but we are looking at 180-plus, she said. Mandhana added that Sree Charani was rested for the match, with Prema Rawat coming into the side, and expected the team to hit more sixes with power-hitter Shafali Verma in the line-up. Zimbabwe captain Josephine Nkomo said her team was keen to bat first and make the most of the powerplays, adding that the side would focus on rotating the strike and maintaining a positive approach. I dont think the conditions will change much and we are looking to do well in the powerplays. We are trying to rotate the strike more and play positively, she said. Nkomo stressed that consistent improvement required hard work and a willingness to learn from every game, adding that Zimbabwe were aiming to perform well across all formats. India Women have already sealed the three-match T20I series after winning the first two matches. They are now hoping to make a clean sweep by winning the third match. TheT20I series will be followed by a three-match ODI series at Vadodara, with matches scheduled on October 23, 26 and 28. Playing XIs: India Women: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana (c), Anushka Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, Niki Prasad, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, Nandani Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Prema Rawat Zimbabwe Women: Kelis Ndhlovu, Beloved Biza, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Sharne Mayers, Josephine Nkomo (c), Nyasha Gwanzura, Modester Mupachikwa (wk), Kudzai Chigora, Loryn Phiri, Tendai Makusha, Nomvelo Sibanda
Gujarat govt gifts part of disputed Vadodara plot to Yusuf Pathan
The proposal comes nearly four months after the Lok Sabha MP, as part of a rebel TMC group, broke away from the Mamata Banerjee-led fold and merged with the NCPI to join the BJP-led NDA
Digital Desk | Vadodara, Oct 20 (IANS) The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has proposed allotting a disputed 978 square-metre (sq mtr) plot next to former cricketer and MP Yusuf Pathans family home, with 500 square metres to be gifted to him and the remaining area offered at a 45 per cent concession. The proposal, submitted by the municipal commissioner, is scheduled to come up before the standing committee of the BJP-ruled civic body on October 23 for final approval. If cleared, it would provide a route to resolve a dispute over the municipal land that has continued for more than a decade. Under the proposal, the remaining 478 square metres would be allotted at 55 per cent of the rate determined by the Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) Valuation Committee. The allotment would be subject to specific terms and conditions under a 2024 resolution of the state government's Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. Pathan has been seeking to purchase the land in the Tandalja locality since 2012. The VMC had initially agreed to his request, but the state government rejected the proposed sale in 2014. The dispute resurfaced in 2024, when the civic body issued Pathan a notice asking him to remove an alleged encroachment and vacate the municipal land. By then, Pathan had been elected to the Lok Sabha from Baharampur in West Bengal on a Trinamool Congress (TMC) ticket. Pathan challenged the notice in the Gujarat High Court, arguing that the matter dated back more than a decade and that the civic body should have issued a show-cause notice before directing him to remove the alleged encroachment. He also contended that the land belonged to the municipal corporation, rather than the state government. The High Court upheld the state government's rejection of his original allotment request. Pathan subsequently challenged the order before a Division Bench, but withdrew the appeal in August after his lawyer informed the court that he was pursuing the matter under the state government's policy. The latest proposal follows an earlier attempt by the VMC to prepare the plot for public auction. In July, the civic body's standing committee approved a valuation of Rs 2.10 lakh per square metre, putting the estimated value of the entire 978-square-metre parcel at around Rs 20.5 crore. The proposal was later withdrawn after the VMC's general board raised questions about the alleged encroachment and the disposal of the land before the dispute had been resolved. The Gujarat government's resolution approving the proposed allotment was issued on August 13 and reached the VMC on August 29. Pathan withdrew his appeal two days later. The civic body's land estate department has since initiated the process of securing the necessary approvals for the allotment. The proposal comes after Pathan's departure from the Trinamool Congress in June this year. He was among 20 MPs who broke away from the party led by Mamata Banerjee and joined the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), aligning with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Parliament. The standing committee's decision on October 23 will determine whether the proposed allotment can proceed to the next stage of the civic body's approval process.
Yusuf Pathan disputed property: The Gujarat government has approved a proposal to allot a 978-square-metre Vadodara Municipal Corporation plot to former India cricketer Yusuf Pathan, with 500 square metres to be gifted to him and the remaining land transferred at a 45% concession. The allotment, linked to a dispute dating back to 2012, is subject to approval from the civic body's Standing Committee and general board.
A Plot Twist: Months After Yusuf Pathan's TMC Exit, Gujarat Govt Gifts Him Disputed Vadodara Land
The Gujarat government has approved a proposal to allot a disputed 978-square-metre Vadodara Municipal Corporation plot in Tandalja to former India cricketer and ex-TMC MP Yusuf Pathan. Under the proposal, 500 square metres will be gifted for residential use, while the remaining 478 square metres will be transferred at 55% of the assessed valuation. The plots estimated market value is Rs 20.53 crore. The allotment still requires approval from VMCs Standing Committee and General Board. The dispute dates back to 2012, when Pathan sought a long-term lease of the land. After the government rejected the earlier proposal in 2014, VMC alleged encroachment. The Gujarat High Court upheld the rejection in 2025, and Pathan withdrew his appeal unconditionally on August 31, 2026.
After TMC Exit, Gujarat To 'Gift' Part Of Disputed Vadodara Plot To Yusuf Pathan
Pathan had been seeking the 978-square-metre residential plot located next to his family home in Vadodara's Tandalja locality since 2012, but faced years of legal hurdles and encroachment notices from the civic body.
After TMC Exit, Gujarat Govt Moves to 'Gift' Part of Disputed Vadodara Plot to Yusuf Pathan
Months after Yusuf Pathan broke away from the Trinamool Congress, the Gujarat government has proposed to hand over a long-disputed municipal plot in Vadodara to the former cricketer, gifting 500 square metres of the land and offering the rest at a
Yusuf Pathan Secures Controversial Land Plot Approval from Gujarat Government
Former cricketer Yusuf Pathan receives approval for a disputed land plot in Vadodara from the Gujarat government. Yusuf Pathan Secures Controversial Land Plot Approval from Gujarat Government
NDA 'Joining Bonus' For Yusuf Pathan? A 'Plot' Twist In Long Legal Battle
A plot of land adjacent to the Pathan family home in Vadodara that Yusuf Pathan had wanted since 2012 and was embroiled in a long legal and administrative battle will finally be his.
After ditching Mamata Banerjee, Yusuf Pathan gets a gift from Gujarat government
Muslim actor who played Lakshmana for 14 years to enact Kevat, Meghnad in Ram Leela
24-year-old stabbed to death outside garba venue
8,136kg of spurious ghee worth 42L seized
LNG tanker collision triggers panic on expressway
The Manipur Amateur Kho Kho Association MAKKA will be conducting State team trial selection on October 26 in view of the 45th Junior National Kho Kho Championships 2026 to be hosted by Gujarat in Vadodara from November 21 to 25 The trial selection for the boys and the girls teams will be held from 7 am at UYLA ground, Porompat Thawanthaba, said MAKKA in a press release Interested eligible players should report to Kh Imo Singh, NISKK and M Manglem Singh, NISKK at the venue Source The Sangai Express
Baroda bowler Bhargav Bhatt plays his 100th first-class match
FIR lodged against contractor for shoddy bridge work
2 men arrested with bogus ex-army ID cards
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
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.
Cops, fishermen rescue man who jumped into Mahisagar river
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
Three city-based doctors win outstanding researcher award
Cargo trolley on Pavagadh ropeway crashes into cabin
No Casualties, Accident Occurred During Maintenance
Labour officer held for taking 70k bribe
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
VMC adds 30 more eBuses, expanding fleet to 80
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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.
Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], October 14: Total Sports & Fitness, India's leading Multi-Brand, Multi-Sports retail chain, has opened its first store in Vadodara, marking its third store in Gujarat, following its presence in Surat and Ahmedabad, and another milestone in its expansion across India. Located on Vasana-Bhayli Road, the new 1,500 sqft. store brings together sports equipment, fitness gear and active lifestyle products from over 100 brands across sporting categories, with a key focus on cricket and badminton, catering to athletes, fitness enthusiasts, coaches and recreational players across the city.
Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train hits another milestone; 14 portal beams completed in Vadodara
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
Singer who paid 5,000 for his first break now helps others find theirs
Jewellery order ends in 8.28cr heist
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
Class 11 basketball player popularises the game for a cause
Woman harassed by ex-lover for ending affair
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
Anandalaya School sweeps junior and senior titles at MGM science quiz
Man jumps from hospital floor, injures ambulance driver
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.
GSFC University Partners with Lupin Manufacturing Solutions Ltd
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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.
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