Gujarat

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Dismisses Congress Claims of Disputes within Election Commission

Gujarats CM refutes Congress allegations of Election Commission disputes, emphasizing transparency and consensus in voter list amendments. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Dismisses Congress Claims of Disputes within Election Commission

Gujarat to promote homestays in 100 villages under new tourism push

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 28 (IANS) Gujarat will promote modern homestay facilities in 100 selected villages across the state as part of its 'Gujarat Tourism Year 2026-27' initiative, with the government seeking to expand rural and community-based tourism while creating new employment opportunities. The announcement was made on World Tourism Day at an event held at GIFT City in Gandhinagar, where Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi launched the official logo of Gujarat Tourism Year and the Gujarat Film Shooting Permission Portal. Minister of State for Tourism, Jayram Gamit, also attended the programme organised by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. Under the new Homestay Policy, the selected villages will receive homestay facilities designed to retain their traditional character while providing modern amenities to visitors. The government said it is also focusing on skill development and improved hygiene facilities in rural and tribal areas as part of its wider tourism strategy. The state will train more than 1,000 additional tourist guides to create employment opportunities for young people. The government will also consider providing gap funding to tour operators, based on representations received, to help attract international tourists to cultural festivals including Kawant Holi, Uttarayan and Navratri, as well as destinations such as Dharoi Water Reservoir and Shivrajpur. Sanghavi called for collective efforts by all stakeholders in the tourism sector and urged hotels, restaurants, tour operators and taxi and rickshaw drivers to focus on cleanliness, health and soft-spoken skills to improve the experience of visitors. Development of religious and spiritual destinations such as Somnath, Ambaji, Pavagadh and Dwarka needed to be accompanied by cleanliness and civic responsibility at the local level, he said. He also stressed the need to link cultural programmes and festivals with tourism. As part of efforts to promote sports tourism, Sanghavi announced that the global fitness event 'HYROX' will be held in Gandhinagar from November 26 to 28. More than 10,000 tourists, including over 1,000 foreign athletes, are expected to participate. The Tourism Corporation will organise a special Bhajan Clubbing programme for participating athletes in the evening. An Ironman/Half-Ironman event will also be held in Ahmedabad on February 14, he announced. Sanghavi also launched the Gujarat Film Shooting Permission Portal, a single-window digital platform intended to simplify and speed up the process of obtaining permissions and no-objection certificates for film shoots in the state. Eight MoUs were signed during the event covering sports, technology, education and skill development. The partnerships include collaborations with HYROX/Ironman for sports tourism and BookMyShow for digital ticketing, besides agreements involving Kutch University, Ahmedabad Management Association, SVNIT, Kaushalya The Skill University, Tata Community Initiatives Trust (Tata STRIVE) and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India for skill development and related initiatives. Gamit urged tour operators to develop attractive packages around Gujarat's festivals, including Navratri, the Kite Festival and Kawant Holi in Chhota Udepur, rather than relying solely on government initiatives. He said the government would support the sector through policies, training and gap funding. He also highlighted the need to promote homestays, improve hygiene facilities in rural and tribal areas and strengthen skill development to expand tourism-linked employment. During the programme, Gir Somnath homestay operator Parth Hadia and Kutch tourist guide Ketan Giri Goswami shared their experiences. Homestay operators and tourist guides from different parts of Gujarat were also felicitated as Tourism Champions. A panel discussion on Hospitality, MICE and Investment was held during the programme, while artisans demonstrated Meenakari, woodcraft and Agate stone craftsmanship.

FIR against two loan sharks for misusing cheques, extortion

Computer dealer duped of 9.64L in car loan fraud

Nippon Express targets $380 mn revenue as India chip ecosystem expands

Japanese logistics major plans a dedicated semiconductor facility in Gujarat in 2027 and will train its Indian staff to handle specialised chip logistics

Ha Tuj Maro Prem Chhe - Official Trailer

Watch the Official trailer from gujarati movie 'Ha Tuj Maro Prem Chhe' starring Vipul Vaghela , Ranjana Thakor and Fenisha. 'Ha Tuj Maro Prem Chhe' movie is directed by Pankaj Nimavat. To know more about 'Ha Tuj Maro Prem Chhe' trailer watch the video. Check out the latest gujarati trailers, new movie trailers, trending gujarati movie trailer, and more at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.

Gujarat Police Launch Investigation into Alleged

Gujarat police have filed a case against the BJP and its officials over a massive political donation scam involving 1,143 crores. Gujarat Police Launch Investigation into Alleged 1,143 Crore Political Donation Scam

Prasidh Krishna press conference: Virat Kohli, Gurnoor Brar and bowling depth

Prasidh Krishna opens up on Virat Kohlis stunning knock, Indias fast-bowling competition, the challenge of bowling hard lengths and his bond with Gujarat Titans teammate Gurnoor Brar.

Rs 1,100 Crore In 'Donations': Cops Bust Gujarat Party's Tax-Evasion Racket

According to official investigative findings, the Bharatiya National Janata Dal collected more than Rs 1,143 crore in fake political donations from over 56,000 taxpayers between the financial years 2019-20 and 2024-25.

Gujarat Minister Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for Neglecting Development Issues

Gujarat Minister Praful Panseriya accuses Rahul Gandhi of tarnishing Indias image abroad while ignoring development and unity. Gujarat Minister Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for Neglecting Development Issues

Amit Shah Flags Off India's 1st LNG-Powered Train From Gujarat's Sabarmati

The initiative is aimed at reducing dependence on conventional diesel fuel and promoting the use of alternative energy sources in railway operations.

Weather tomorrow, September 28: Heavy rain alert in Karnataka, Uttarakhand, UP, Maharashtra, Gujarat & other states; IMD forecasts thunderstorms on Monday

Weather updates tomorrow: The IMD has forecast rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across several parts of India on September 28. Uttarakhand, parts of northeast India, Maharashtra and southern states are likely to see rainfall, while isolated heavy rain is expected in some areas. The weather comes as the southwest monsoon continues to withdraw, with multiple weather systems influencing conditions across the country.

CBI conducts searches in 10 States over 11.42 crore Gujarat digital arrest; 2 more arrested

The arrested men, Himanshu Prasad and Unis Biswas, are accused of having received, layered and dispersed the proceeds of crime

Indias first LNG-powered train is here: 1,400 HP power cars to replace nearly 40% of diesel use while cutting carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides & particulate emissions

Indias first LNG-powered train is here: Amit Shah flagged off Indias first LNG-powered train in Gujarat and launched railway projects worth more than Rs 1,542 crore at Sabarmati. The projects include a diesel-LNG dual-fuel train, Kavach safety system across 404 km, automatic signalling, a Rs 700 crore WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed and the Sabarmati-Sarkhej line doubling project.

'Viksit Bharat' will be inclusive where no one is left behind: V-P Radhakrishnan

Digital Desk | Kollam, Sep 27 (IANS) Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday participated in the Vishwa Seva Dinam celebrations at Mata Amritanandamayi Math at Amritapuri in Kollam, and called for ensuring that Viksit Bharat is an inclusive Bharat where no one is left behind. Speaking at an event organised on the occasion of the 73rd birthday of Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, the Vice-President said, Bharat is progressing towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat, and development requires infrastructure, technology, investment, innovation and economic growth. However, Vice-President Radhakrishnan stressed that development must also have a human face. While marching towards attaining a Viksit Bharat, we must ensure that modernity and our civilisational values move together, he said, adding that Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi should be the guiding mantra. He also called for ensuring that Viksit Bharat is an inclusive Bharat where no one is left behind. Vice-President Radhakrishnan offered his respectful pranam to Mata Amritanandamayi Devi and said that 'Amma' (referring to Mata Amritanandamayi Devi) is a miracle and should continue to guide us in serving society and the nation, an official statement said. He expressed the hope that the noble movement would continue to touch millions of lives and that 'Seva' (serving people) would become the foundation of a more peaceful, sustainable and compassionate world. The programme was attended by Governor of Keralam and Tamil Nadu Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar; Chief Minister of Keralam V.D. Satheesan; Union Minister for Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu; Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi; Speaker of the Keralam Legislative Assembly Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan; Ministers of the Keralam government; Justice Gopinath of the Kerala High Court; MPs N.K. Premachandran and Shashi Tharoor, Ambassador of Nepal to India Surender Thapa, MLAs, devotees and volunteers. The Vice-President said the true test of 'Seva' often comes during times of crisis and highlighted the Math's humanitarian response to disasters and emergencies. He referred to the organisation's assistance during the Indian Ocean tsunami, Gujarat earthquake, Uttarakhand floods, Keralam floods, Covid-19 pandemic and Wayanad landslides. He also highlighted the Math's contribution of Rs 100 crore to the Union government's Namami Gange programme, along with tree plantation, cleanliness drives and initiatives for sustainable rural living. Referring to the Amala Bharatam initiative, the Vice-President said it has undertaken large numbers of cleanliness drives across the country, while more than 10 lakh trees have been planted worldwide as part of the UN Billion Tree Campaign. He added that the spirit inspiring Amma's work is deeply connected to the civilisational ethos of Bharat. He said that Seva has no boundaries of caste, creed, language, region or nationality and recognises only one identity -- humanity. He described this as the underlying philosophy of Vishwa Seva Dinam, the statement said.

Gujarat-Varanasi Seva Sankalp Yatra Enters Haryana: CM Nayab Saini Leads Grand Welcome

Gujarat: CBI team searches 22 locations, nabs 2 accused in Rs 11.42 crore digital arrest case

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 27 (IANS) Intensifying its crackdown on the digital arrest crimes under Operation Chakra-VI, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted searches at 22 locations across 10 states and arrested two more accused persons in a major digital arrest case from Gujarat. The action forms part of CBI's sustained offensive against the syndicates behind the menace. The particular case pertains to the digital arrest of a victim for about three months, by the cybercriminals impersonating as police officers and officials of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). He was coerced into transferring Rs 11.42 crore to accounts controlled by the syndicate. The CBI searches, planned on the basis of detailed financial and technical analysis of the money trail, led to the seizure of incriminating banking documents, account-related records, digital devices and other crucial evidence, which are now being forensically examined to unravel the wider financial and technological infrastructure sustaining the digital arrest syndicates operating across state boundaries. Examination during the searches brought out the specific and material roles of the two accused, Himanshu Prasad and Unis Biswas, in receiving, layering and dispersing the proceeds of crime. Investigators found that the bank account of M/s Hexaquest Global Private Limited was used to receive Rs 2.5 crore out of the Rs 11.42 crore, defrauded from the victim. Investigation also revealed that both the accused were allegedly involved in using bank accounts and installing APK files to siphon off proceeds generated through digital arrest frauds and other cybercrimes. Several incriminating chats, messages and documents were also recovered from the digital devices seized from their possession. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the remaining members of the network. The CBI has taken over a number of digital arrest cases from various states, in each of which the victims were digitally detained by cybercriminals impersonating as law-enforcement and government officials and coerced into transferring large sums of money. In past one month, the CBI has conducted extensive, coordinated searches at 142 locations spanning 22 states and arrested 17 accused persons, striking simultaneously to trace the proceeds of crime, unmask the beneficiaries and handlers behind the syndicates, and secure incriminating material before it could be destroyed.

Railways diesel use falls sharply as electrification nears 100 pc: HM Shah

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 27 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday cited a sharp decline in diesel consumption and a rapid expansion of railway electrification to highlight changes in Indian Railways since 2014. Speaking at a railway programme in Sabarmati, HM Shah said diesel consumption for railway operations had fallen from 293 crore litres in 2015-16 to 108 crore litres in 2024-25, and said the eventual target is to bring diesel use for traction down to zero. The figures cited by the Home Minister are consistent with data released by the Railway Ministry, which said diesel consumption for traction fell by 185 crore litres between 2015-16 and 2024-25. The ministry attributed the reduction primarily to the expansion of electric traction. HM Shah also pointed to the pace of electrification, saying only around 75 km had been electrified annually in 2010-11 compared with 7,188 km in 2023-24. He compared Indias electrification level with other countries, saying: The country had reached a level close to complete electrification. Railway Ministry data puts Switzerland at 100 per cent, India at 99.6 per cent, China at 82 per cent, Spain at 67 per cent, France at 60 per cent and the UK at 39 per cent. The Home Minister also cited increases in the railway safety budget and locomotive production capacity, putting the rise at 67 per cent and 66 per cent respectively. He referred to the expansion of bio-toilets and LHB coach production, claiming that 97 per cent of the bio-toilets and 87 per cent of LHB coach production had been achieved during PM Modis government. On railway investment in Gujarat, HM Shah said: The state had received Rs 589 crore annually during 2009-14, compared with a railway allocation of Rs 17,366 crore for 2026-27. The Home Minister attributed the changes to the Modi government's emphasis on electrification, indigenous manufacturing and railway infrastructure, saying the figures represented a significant shift in the scale of investment and modernisation.

Capacity scale-ups to drive Epigral's 5,000 crore target by FY31: CMD

Specialty chemicals manufacturer Epigral is targeting revenue of Rs 5,000 crore by 2030-31, driven by upcoming production scale-ups in CPVC Resin and Epichlorohydrin (ECH), a senior company executive said. The company expects to reach Rs 2,900 crore in revenue this fiscal year following revenue of Rs 2,5002,530 crore in 2026. In FY26, we ended with around Rs 2,500-2,530 crore of revenue, and at the current pace of growth, we expect around Rs 2,900 crore this financial year. The capacity increase in production of CPVC Resin and ECH will start adding to the revenue from next year. Therefore, we are expecting to double our revenue to around Rs 5,000 crore by 2030-31, Epigral Chairman and Managing Director Maulik Patel told PTI. The company's CPVC Resin capacity is being doubled from 75,000 TPA to 1,50,000 TPA, while ECH capacity is being doubled from 50,000 TPA to 1,00,000 TPA at the company's existing units in Dahej, Gujarat. Both capacity expansions are expected to be commissio

Amit Shah flags off Indias first LNG-powered train from Sabarmati

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 27 (IANS) Indias first LNG-powered train was flagged off from Sabarmati on Sunday by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, marking the introduction of LNG as an alternative fuel for railway operations in the country. The initiative is aimed at reducing dependence on conventional diesel fuel and promoting the use of alternative energy sources in railway operations. The train uses a diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel system developed for its Driving Power Cars (DPCs). Two 1,400 HP DPCs at the Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot have been converted to the dual-fuel system, allowing LNG to be used alongside diesel. More than 2,000 km of field trials have been completed on the two converted DPCs to assess the performance and reliability of the technology. Under the system, LNG can replace up to around 40 per cent of diesel consumption. According to trial data released by the Railways, the use of LNG is expected to reduce fuel expenditure and emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. The earlier railway assessment estimated annual savings of around Rs 11.9 lakh from one DPC and around Rs 23.9 lakh from an eight-coach rake. The dual-fuel system allows the engine to switch between LNG and diesel depending on fuel availability, providing operational flexibility. The system has been designed to retain the power and operational capability of the conventional diesel engine while enabling partial substitution of diesel with LNG. Each converted DPC has an LNG tank with a capacity of around 2,200 litres, capable of holding approximately 850-900 kg of usable LNG. A full LNG fill is expected to provide sufficient fuel for around 1,600 km of operation, reducing the need for frequent refuelling. The launch was part of a series of railway projects inaugurated and launched during HM Shahs visit to Ahmedabad. The package includes projects worth more than Rs 1,542 crore covering railway safety, signalling, line capacity and freight infrastructure. Earlier in the day, HM Shah inaugurated the Rs 700-crore WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed at Sabarmati and flagged off a WAG-12 electric locomotive. The programme also included the commissioning of the indigenous Kavach train protection system on the Ahmedabad-Palanpur and Ahmedabad-Samakhiyali sections, automatic signalling on two railway sections and the launch of doubling work on the Sabarmati-Sarkhej section. The LNG train launch marks another step by the Railways towards using alternative fuels in its operations, with the technology being tested for its potential to reduce fuel consumption and operating costs while maintaining train performance.

HM Shah unveils Rs 1,542-crore rail projects; inaugurates WAG-12 maintenance shed in Gujarat

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 27 (IANS) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday inaugurated a WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed at Sabarmati and flagged off a high-capacity WAG-12 electric locomotive as part of a package of railway projects worth more than Rs 1,542 crore in Gujarat. HM Shah inspected the newly developed maintenance shed before dedicating it to the nation. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi were also present during the programme. The Rs 700-crore shed has been developed for the homing and maintenance of up to 300 WAG-12 HHP electric locomotives, which have a capacity of around 12,000 HP and are designed to haul heavy and long freight trains. According to railway authorities, 154 WAG-12 locomotives have already been homed at the Sabarmati facility, with the total fleet planned to reach 300 by 2027-28. The WAG-12 locomotive flagged off by HM Shah from Sabarmati is part of the railway expansion and modernisation measures being undertaken in the Ahmedabad Division. The locomotives are intended to support higher-capacity freight operations and improve the availability of electric traction for heavy freight movement. The programme also includes the launch of the country's first LNG-powered train, with HM Shah flagging it off from Sabarmati railway station. The train uses a diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel system, with two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars converted for LNG use. More than 2,000 km of field trials have been completed on the two converted DPCs. The broader package includes the rollout of the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system over 404 km of railway network in the Ahmedabad Division at an estimated cost of around Rs 411 crore. Automatic block signalling has also been provided across 122.57 km of the Sabarmati-Kalol-Bhandu Motidau and Sabarmati-Sanand-Jakhwada sections at an estimated cost of Rs 118.83 crore. HM Shah is also scheduled to inaugurate and launch the doubling of the 21-km Sabarmati-Sarkhej railway section, estimated to cost around Rs 313.27 crore and targeted for completion by March 2028. The project covers Sabarmati, Gandhigram, Vastrapur and Sarkhej stations and includes works involving bridges, road underbridges and level crossings. The series of projects cover railway safety, signalling, freight capacity, line expansion and alternative fuel use in Gujarat. The programme is part of HM Shah's visit to Ahmedabad on Sunday, during which he is also attending a programme marking the 92nd birth anniversary of Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj.

Mumbai police arrest two for submitting forged letter to secure US visa

The accused have been identified as Harshkumar Thakor, a resident of Gojariya in Gujarat's Mahesana district, and Vinay Pathak, who allegedly acted as an agent in the case

PM Modi highlights Modheras resilience, from Sun Temple destruction to Indias first solar village

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the 138th edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday, highlighted the history and resilience of Gujarats Modhera, drawing a link between the destruction of its famed Sun Temple and the villages transformation into Indias first solar-powered village. Recalling the Somnath Swabhiman Parv held earlier this year, PM Modi said the country had begun the year with a celebration of its civilisational heritage and pride. We started this year with a Mahaparv of Swabhiman. The Parv was Somnath Swabhiman Parv. 1,000 years ago, in 1026, Mahmud Ghazni invaded the Somnath Temple for the first time. But the people who came to erase Indias identity by destroying the Somnath Temple have left no trace today. The Somnath Temple, standing in all its grandeur near the sea, continues to bless India with the spirit of immortality. That is why this year we proudly celebrated Somnath Swabhiman Parv. PM Modi said he was referring to the history of Somnath again while highlighting the parallel history of Modhera, where the famed Sun Temple was attacked around the same period. I am mentioning this again today because when Somnath was attacked by Ghazni in 1026, the famous Surya Mandir (Sun Temple) in Modhera, Gujarat, was also attacked in the same period and was destroyed. This year also marks 1,000 years of the Modhera Temple. At that time, it had been built only a year earlier, in 1025, by Raja Bhimdev I. When a centre of immense faith was destroyed, it could shake the strength of any administration. But Raja Bhimdev I not only fought Ghazni but also rebuilt the Modhera Sun Temple within a short period. He said the reconstruction of such monuments reflected the resilience that enabled Indias cultural heritage to endure repeated attacks. It was because of this resilience that the Somnath Temple continued to be rebuilt despite being destroyed again and again. PM Modi further recalled that the Modhera Sun Temple faced attacks in later periods as well, including during the reign of Alauddin Khilji. Attacks on the Modhera Sun Temple did not stop in later periods either. Later, Alauddin Khilji once again destroyed this architectural marvel of a temple. But the people of Bharat not only worship the Sun through architecture or temples; our worship of the Sun also signifies light, energy, science and the inspiration of continuity. Linking the historical significance of the Sun Temple with Modheras present-day identity, PM Modi said the village had transformed its relationship with solar energy. That is why Modhera today is not only known for the Sun Temple, but this village in Gujarat has become the countrys first solar village. Modhera today runs entirely on solar energy.

Indias renewable energy hub Khavda gets its own pin code

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 27 (IANS) Giving Indias renewable energy hub a distinct geographic identity, the Khavda Renewable Energy Park in Kutch, Gujarat, has been assigned a dedicated postal index number (PIN) code 370246 along with its own India Post delivery office. Khavda Post Office will provide Speed Post, parcel booking and delivery, Post Office Savings Bank products and India Post Payments Bank services, including Aadhaar-enabled digital banking. The dedicated postal facility comes as Khavda has evolved from a sparsely inhabited part of Kutch into a large renewable energy hub with a growing workforce, residential townships and supporting infrastructure. Postal services in the area were earlier routed through the Post Office, which is about 70 km away and Kuran Branch Post Office. With the expansion of the renewable energy park and the increase in the number of people living and working there, a dedicated facility was required. The new PIN code gives the renewable energy park a distinct postal address, connecting it directly to India Posts delivery network and supporting the everyday requirements of businesses, workers and service providers at the site. A PIN code also plays a wider role in determining serviceability for banking, insurance, logistics, and e-commerce services. For Khavda, 370246 creates a unique geographic identity for the renewable energy hub, distinguishing it from surrounding areas and reflecting its growing importance as a centre of economic activity, infrastructure development and strategic national significance. The dedicated PIN code is another reflection of how Khavda has transformed since the Adani Group began developing the renewable energy project in the region. The renewable energy park is being developed by Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) and other developers. The AGEL plant is spread across approximately 538 sq km. More than 10 GW of renewable energy capacity is already operational at Khavda by Adani, with the AGEL project targeted to reach 30 GW by 2029. The Adani Green Energy plant has about 15,000 workers and staff residing at site, with healthcare facilities, retail outlets, recreation areas and banking services supporting the growing community.

Amla, Moringa drive rural empowerment, nutrition push: PM Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on Sunday, highlighted the growing economic and nutritional significance of Amla and Moringa, underscoring how traditional produce is creating new livelihoods while strengthening the fight against malnutrition. Amla, long valued in Indian households for pickles, murabba, juice and as a key ingredient in Chyawanprash during winters, is now opening fresh avenues for farmers and women entrepreneurs, he said. The deep-rooted connection between Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh and Amla has been further strengthened through the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. Nearly 100 local units in the district are engaged in Amla processing, with self-help groups of women playing a central role, PM Modi told citizens through his popular programme. One such group, the 'Savitri Phule Self Help Group' in Devgarh Kamasi village, produces Amla candy, murabba and juice, he said, and further informed, expanded market access has significantly raised the income of its members. Similarly, the Vindhyavasini Self Help Group makes Amla pickle and digestive powder. These women received processing machinery, access to loans and opportunities to participate in local trade fairs, resulting in a marked rise in their earnings. The Prime Minister stressed that every region of India possesses unique fruits, traditional arts or special skills. The ODOP campaign aims to take these beyond local markets to other parts of the country and even global markets. This, he said, reinforces the Vocal for Local movement and supports the goal of a self-reliant India. He urged citizens to keep the spirit of Vocal for Local alive during the upcoming festive season. On the nutrition front, September has been marked by multiple efforts to combat malnutrition, PM Modi said. In Chhattisgarh, he informed, the 'Har Ghar Munga' campaign is encouraging families to include nutritious Moringa (locally called Munga) in their daily diet. Gujarat has organised 'Vangi Spardha', a competition featuring dishes made from millets and other local nutritious ingredients, drawing participation from over two lakh people, PM Modi shared the information. Maharashtra is witnessing growing local involvement in similar nutrition-focused drives, while Mizoram has launched a collective campaign for the care and maintenance of Poshan Vatikas (nutrition gardens), he said. These initiatives, the Prime Minister noted, complement the digital strengthening of Anganwadi centres, which now have nearly nine crore beneficiaries registered, enabling better care for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers. He called for sustained efforts to make the country completely free from malnutrition by promoting affordable, locally grown superfoods such as Amla and Moringa.

Mammootty faces hate comment over tilak in Gujarat

Consumers brace for 3-day bank strike; certain banks open on Sunday

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 27 (IANS) State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda (BoB), Punjab National Bank (PNB) and several other public sector banks are open on Sunday (September 27), giving customers an opportunity to complete their banking work before a proposed three-day nationwide bank strike from September 28 to September 30. The special Sunday opening applies to public sector banks (PSBs) and regional rural banks (RRBs), following a direction aimed at ensuring the availability of regular banking services ahead of the proposed strike. Customers who need to visit a branch for important banking work can therefore use the additional working day, subject to the operational arrangements and staffing at individual branches. The decision to open PSBs and RRBs on Sunday was taken following a meeting held on September 21 between officials from the Finance Ministry, public sector banks, regional rural banks, the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and NABARD. The move assumes significance as September 26 and 27 fall on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. With the proposed bank strike scheduled immediately after the weekend, customers could otherwise have faced several consecutive days with limited access to physical branch services. The Sunday opening has consequently been planned to provide an additional opportunity to complete important banking transactions before the strike. Among the public sector banks operating today are State Bank of India, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, Bank of India, Indian Bank, Union Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, UCO Bank, Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank and Punjab & Sind Bank. The arrangement also covers 28 regional rural banks across the country. These include Andhra Pradesh Grameena Bank, Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank, Assam Gramin Bank, Bihar Gramin Bank, Chhattisgarh Gramin Bank, Gujarat Gramin Bank, Haryana Gramin Bank, Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank, Jammu and Kashmir Grameen Bank, Jharkhand Gramin Bank, Karnataka Grameena Bank, Kerala Grameena Bank, Madhya Pradesh Gramin Bank, Maharashtra Gramin Bank, Manipur Rural Bank, Meghalaya Rural Bank, Mizoram Rural Bank, Nagaland Rural Bank, Odisha Grameen Bank, Puducherry Grama Bank, Punjab Gramin Bank, Rajasthan Gramin Bank, Tamil Nadu Grama Bank, Telangana Grameena Bank, Tripura Gramin Bank, Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank, Uttarakhand Gramin Bank and West Bengal Gramin Bank. However, the Sunday opening arrangement does not automatically extend to private sector banks. The special Sunday banking arrangement comes ahead of the proposed three-day nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) and other bank unions from September 28 to September 30.

Adani's Dhamra Port becomes Indias first large private multi-cargo port to run fully on renewable electricity

Dhamra Port in Odisha has achieved a milestone by transitioning to fully renewable electricity, aligning with Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone's ambitious Net-Zero strategy. This shift powers over 90 lakh units monthly, significantly cutting emissions. Notably, 25-30% of the energy comes from a hybrid power plant located in Gujarat, enhancing the port's role as a crucial link for mineral-rich areas in eastern India.

Gujarats Kandla To Get Indias First Port-Based E-Methanol Plant With 150-Tonne Daily Capacity; To Supply Green Fuel To Ships

Lost Ticket Can't Defeat Compensation: Top Court On Man Who Fell From Train

The Supreme Court set aside the order of the Gujarat High Court rejecting the compensation awarded to the parents of Maheshbhai, who died falling off the general compartment following a sudden jerk and jolt while travelling to Surat via Ahmedabad on September 27, 2017.

MSU student selected for semester exchange at Japan univ

Navrachana University inaugurates Lord Bhikhu Parekh Study

SC vacates interim relief to former Anand RAC Ketki Vyas

28 rescued from 4-storey building in Katargam as staircase collapses

71,938 Ganesh idols immersed in Surat over two days

Woman travels 250km to give her milk to newborns she would never meet

Police honour man for rescuing 17 from burning bus

Minister warns of disruption if pollution not addressed

HM Amit Shah to visit Gujarat tomorrow; three programmes lined up in Ahmedabad

Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 26 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Gujarat on Sunday for a series of programmes in Ahmedabad, including the inauguration of a WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed and the launch of the countrys first LNG-powered train from Sabarmati railway station. HM Shahs Gujarat visit will begin at 10 a.m. at Shela in Ahmedabad, where he will attend a programme organised to mark the 92nd birth anniversary of Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj. He will then travel to the Sabarmati locomotive shed at 11 a.m. to inaugurate the WAG-12 maintenance shed, which has been developed for the maintenance of high-capacity electric locomotives used for freight operations. The final programme of the visit is scheduled at Sabarmati railway station at 11:30 a.m. HM Shah will inaugurate development works at the station and flag off Indias first LNG-powered train. The railway projects being inaugurated and launched during the visit are part of a package of projects worth more than Rs 1,542 crore in the Ahmedabad area. Besides the WAG-12 maintenance shed and LNG train, the package includes the automatic block signalling system on sections of the Ahmedabad Division, the doubling of the SabarmatiSarkhej railway line and the Kavach train protection system on the AhmedabadPalanpur and AhmedabadSamakhiyali sections. The WAG-12 shed has been developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 700 crore for the homing and maintenance of 300 WAG-12 HHP electric locomotives. The locomotives have a capacity of around 12,000 HP and are designed for hauling heavy and long freight trains. At present, 154 WAG-12 locomotives have been homed at the shed, with the total fleet planned to reach 300 by 2027-28. The LNG train initiative involves two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars converted to a diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel system. More than 2,000 km of field trials have been completed on the two converted DPCs. The system allows the use of LNG as a partial replacement for diesel while retaining diesel as an alternative fuel. The visit also comes against the backdrop of ongoing railway capacity and safety works in the Ahmedabad Division. A total of 404 km is being equipped with the indigenous Kavach system at an estimated cost of around Rs 411 crore, while automatic block signalling has been provided across 122.57 km at an estimated cost of Rs 118.83 crore. The 21-km SabarmatiSarkhej doubling project, estimated to cost around Rs 313.27 crore, is targeted for completion by March 2028.

Assam and Gujarat inaugurate Rs 2,300 crore e-methanol project at Kandla port

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Bengal: PMs advisor inspects Dankuni station upgradation works

Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 26 (IANS) Tarun Kapoor, advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, visited Dankuni station of Eastern Railway (ER) on Saturday to review ongoing development work. ER General Manager Gitika Pandey and other senior officials accompanied him. Earlier in the day, Kapoor held a meeting at the ER headquarters to review and accelerate infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on upgrading passenger amenities. Dankuni, an important station on the Howrah/SealdahNew Delhi route, is close to Kolkata and is being developed into a major freight and coaching terminal. Kapoor inspected the stations operating layout, booking counter and One Station One Product (OSOP) stalls. The primary objective was to assess passenger amenities, enhance operational efficiency and ensure swift completion of pending projects. Dankuni station, built in 1917, handles an average daily footfall of more than 30,000 passengers. Officials said redevelopment work is being undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 18.66 crore. Completed works include the ground floor of the main station building, renovation of the elevation, porch construction, circulating and parking areas, platform surfaces and sheds, upgraded illumination systems and train information/GPS clock systems (TIB/CGDB). Earlier this year, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament about remodelling work at the Dankuni yard. This involves extending the shunting line and upgrading signalling/interlocking arrangements at a sanctioned cost of Rs 27.18 crore. He also said preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Dankuni coaching terminal has been taken up. The Union Budget 2026 announced a new Dedicated Freight Corridor connecting Dankuni to Surat in Gujarat. Work to prepare and update the DPR for this corridor has also begun.

Political donation scam | Gujarat police register FIRs against 3 parties alleged to have defrauded taxes over Rs 600 cr - deccanherald.com

Gujarat CM joins 'Seva Setu' offering 56-plus services in one place

Digital Desk | Gandhidham, Sep 26 (IANS) More than 56 government services, ranging from certificates and Aadhaar corrections to welfare assistance and health cards, were brought together at a single venue in Gandhidham on Saturday as the first 'Seva Setu' programme of a 12-phase initiative in Kutch was held under the state governments 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. The programme, organised by the Gandhidham Municipality, was aimed at providing multiple government services at one place and resolving citizens issues on the spot, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel interacting directly with beneficiaries and reviewing the services being provided at various departmental stalls. Patel visited the stalls and spoke to beneficiaries about their access to government schemes. He also distributed sanction orders and approval letters under the PM Awas Yojana, PM Svanidhi Yojana, Free Ship Card and Ayushman Bharat schemes. Equipment assistance was also provided to persons with disabilities through the initiative of Shri Ram Krishna Seva Trust. The services available at the programme included income certificates, caste certificates, Aadhaar card corrections, ration cards, Ayushman cards, widow assistance and old-age support, among others. A large number of citizens availed themselves of the services, with the programme providing access to more than 56 services at a single location. Addressing beneficiaries, Patel said the government was working with the mantra of service, good governance and welfare of people experiencing poverty. Through programmes like Seva Setu, the government itself reaches the peoples doorstep to resolve their issues. Our resolve is that the last person in society must benefit from government schemes, and no citizen should remain deprived of public services, he said. Seva Setu is a significant step in this direction, where all types of government services are made available at one place, Patel added. The Gandhidham programme was the first of 12 Seva Setu programmes planned in Kutch as part of the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. The initiative is focused on making government services and welfare schemes accessible to citizens through a single platform and facilitating the resolution of grievances and service-related requirements at the local level. Minister of State for Labour, Skill Development and Employment, Kantilal Amrutiya, and Minister of State for Higher and Technical Education, Trikam Chhanga, attended the programme. Lok Sabha MP Vinod Chavda, District Panchayat President Prabhaben Hun, MLAs Malati Maheshwari, Aniruddhbhai Dave and Virendrasinh Jadeja, Gandhidham Mayor Divyaben Nathani, Deputy Mayor Navin Jeru, Collector Anil Ranavasia, District Development Officer Utsav Gautam and Gandhidham Municipal Commissioner B.D. Davera were also present. Leaders Devjibhai Varchand and Dhaval Acharya, district administration officials and a large number of citizens attended the programme.

Influence carries responsibility: Maha FDA backs Prez Murmus message to film stars

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 26 (IANS) Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on Saturday said celebrities and advertisers have a responsibility to ensure that products they endorse do not compromise public health, backing President Droupadi Murmus recent appeal to film personalities to refrain from promoting substances harmful to health. Mundhe made the remarks during an interaction with students at Karnavati University, where he was speaking during his first visit to Gujarat. The discussion covered food safety, public health, regulation and the responsibilities of public figures. President Murmu had urged successful film artists at the 72nd National Film Awards at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat on September 22 to promote a disciplined lifestyle and avoid endorsing products harmful to health, noting the influence popular artists have on children and young people. Asked about steps beyond such an appeal, Mundhe said Maharashtra had already started acting on existing legal provisions. The law is very clear; you cannot endorse anything that is not as per the law. We cannot endorse anything where you can claim something which is not truthful, he said. Mundhe referred to Section 24 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which restricts misleading advertisements and claims relating to food. He also cited the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, which are part of the regulatory framework governing food advertisements and claims. FSSAI lists the 2018 advertising and claims regulations among its food safety regulations. If you speak to the drug sector, there is an MDR Act 1954, which is a magical remedies act. It also prevents claims about purity or magical remedies; this will be done, this will be cured, he said, referring to the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954. Mundhe said the issue was therefore not the absence of laws but their implementation. So, the acts do exist, rules do exist; what we need to do is implement them and implement them very, very stringently, he said. His comments came amid regulatory action involving Bollywood actors over a Vimal Elaichi advertisement. The Maharashtra FDA had issued show-cause notices to Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff in August in connection with the advertisement. Mundhe also stressed that responsibility did not end with regulators. Ethically and morally, everybody, every citizen, every endorser, every advertiser has a responsibility if they don't act just in the commercial interest, he said. People of India are not because of somebody. So, we as a nation need to practise what is right, which is correct, which is ethically also correct, he added. Mundhe said public health had to remain central to decisions involving food, drugs and advertising, and that celebrities could not be treated separately from the legal and ethical responsibilities applicable to others.

India to set up first port-based e-methanol plant at Kandla for 2,300 cr

In a boost to maritime decarbonisation, the government on Saturday laid the foundation stone for its first port-based e-methanol production facility at Kandla, involving an investment of Rs 2,300 crore. The 150-tonne-per-day green fuel plant - a joint venture between the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) and Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd (APCL)-will supply cleaner fuel to international vessels navigating the busy Asia-Europe trade corridor. India is moving up as the world's leading maritime power and it will now power the world's ships with green energy, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said. Sonowal was speaking at an event to lay the foundation stone for the country's first port-based e-methanol plant at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, Gandhidham, Gujarat. According to an official statement, the 150-tonne-per-day plant will use renewable power, water and biogenic CO2 to produce e-methanol, a green fuel that will enable cleaner shipping, and supply it to vessels plyin

Assam, Gujarat Join Hands To Power India

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday laid the foundation stone for a 150-tonne-per-day (TPD) e-methanol plant at Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat. The project, with an investment of over 1,200 crore in its first phase, is expected to produce up to 50,000 tonnes... The post Assam, Gujarat Join Hands To Power Indias Green Energy Push; E-Methanol Plant Launched At Kandla first appeared on Northeast Today .

India lays foundation for first port-based e-methanol plant at Kandla

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 26 (IANS) India on Saturday took a major step towards becoming a global supplier of green fuel with the foundation stone laid for the countrys first port-based e-methanol plant at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, Gujarat. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma laid the foundation stone for the Rs 2,300-crore project, which is being jointly developed by DPA and Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd (APCL), based in Namrup, Assam. The plant will have a total production capacity of 150 tonnes of e-methanol per day and will use renewable power, water and biogenic carbon dioxide to produce the green fuel. The e-methanol will be supplied to vessels operating along the Asia-Europe International Trade Corridor, positioning Kandla as a potential green-fuel hub for international shipping. The project is expected to produce green methanol at a significantly lower cost than prevailing global rates. The plant is projected to produce the fuel at around $750 per tonne, compared with a global rate of about $1,300 per tonne, strengthening India's potential to compete in the global green-fuel market. The project will be implemented in two phases using scalable modules. The first phase, involving an investment of Rs 1,200 crore, will add 50 tonnes per day of production capacity and is targeted for completion by January 2027. The second phase will add another 100 tonnes per day at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore, with completion targeted for March 2027. DPA and APCL will contribute capital in a 76:24 ratio. DPA's contribution includes equity capital of Rs 567.32 crore, 75 acres of land, desalinated water and renewable energy in the form of green hydrogen. The facility is expected to be among India's largest e-methanol production plants and create more than 3,500 direct and indirect jobs. It is also expected to support the development of a broader green-energy ecosystem around Kandla, including transportation, storage, supply and other ancillary activities linked to the production and movement of green molecules. The project is aligned with India's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and the government's focus on energy self-reliance, Make in India and Make for the World. It also comes as India seeks to expand its maritime capabilities and strengthen its position in global shipping. The government plans to add 100 new ships to India's merchant fleet over the next five years and aims to make the country one of the world's top five ship-owning nations by 2047. Global shipping major Maersk has also started placing orders for containers manufactured in India.

Gujarat CID Files Cases In Major Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Gujarat CID-Crime has registered FIRs against three political outfits – Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party, Satyavadi Rakshak Party, and Garib Kalyan Party – for allegedly orchestrating a 'poll donation scam' amounting to Rs 314 crore in tax evasion. These parties reportedly collected donations, returned money after deducting commissions, and facilitated tax rebates for donors, with chartered accountants also implicated. The scam involved submitting false contribution reports to the Election Commission.

Gujarat CM stresses simplified policies, faster subsidies to boost industrial growth - India Tribune - Chicago

Ride-Hailing Fear: Inside Bharat Taxi Coercion Allegations In Gujarat - Inc42

Deendayal Port Authority, Assam Petro-Chemicals lay foundation stone for 2,300-crore e-methanol plant in Gujarat

The 2,300-crore project is aimed at supplying cleaner fuel to the maritime sector and is part of the ports plan to develop itself as a green-fuel and bunkering hub

Gujarat University Research Associate/ Teaching Assistant Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online

Gujarat University has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 2 vacancies, including Research Associate and Teaching Assistant posts. Eligible candidates can submit their applications by email on or before 06-10-2026. The detailed notification and application details are available on the official website of Gujarat University.

Parul University Marks World Peace Day with Choose Your Response Initiative, Engaging 5,000 Students in Conscious Decision-Making

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], September 26: On the occasion of World Peace Day 2026, Parul University organized Choose Your Response, a university-wide experiential activity by the Universal Human Values (UHV) Cell

Juhi Chawla praises safety at Mumbais Ganpati festivities: Thousands, lakhs of people, but everyone is safe

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 26 (IANS) Actress Juhi Chawla praised the atmosphere and safety arrangements at Mumbais Ganpati celebrations, where she further highlighted how thousands of devotees, including men and women, were able to participate in the festivities safely and peacefully. Speaking about the celebrations, Juhi said she was struck by the respectful and joyful atmosphere surrounding the festival, with devotees coming together to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. As you can see, what can I say, there is a very happy and respectful atmosphere here. So many people are going to worship Baba, with so much respect. I am surprised that, and a very good thing, there are women here, men too, and everyone is going safely, she told IANS. Juhi further said, Everyone is going safely, and you can see, there are so many people, thousands, lakhs of people, but everyone is safe. And everyone is going with ease, with their happiness, to worship Baba. It is a very beautiful atmosphere, she added. I think this is the pride of Mumbai, and thank you, Shaina, for inviting me here. Watching this on TV is one thing, but actually watching it in real life, fills the heart, Juhi said. The actress also spoke about the significance of Ganpati celebrations in Maharashtra and Gujarat, describing the festival as a special part of the region's cultural celebrations. I am saying the same thing, that, first of all, this festival is very important for Maharashtra, for Gujarat. Here, we celebrate this with a lot of love, and this is very special. What you are seeing here, maybe this doesn't happen anywhere else in the world. Where else in the world is such a festival celebrated? she said. Alongside praising the festivities, Juhi also used the occasion to make an appeal for greater environmental consciousness. She urged organisers of large Ganpati pandals to take the lead in adopting eco-friendly practices. And I say to the big pandals, the big Ganpatis, I say to them, please, when will you make an eco-friendly Ganpati? When will you? When you do, all the pandals will follow you. So please, first try to become eco-friendly, she said. Known for her work across Hindi cinema, Juhi Chawla has remained associated with many social and environmental causes over the years. She has been a part of the entertainment industry for over four decades.

Jailed for helping minor escape marriage to 34-year-old, Gujarat man gets bail - The Indian Express

India: Gujarat deploys 30 electric buses in Gandhinagar - electrive.com

Vrattini hails singing Amba Ramva Aave for Gujarati film Amba

Water conservation shared duty, ideas must translate into action: Union Jal Shakti minister

Patil says that technical cooperation between Indian and Dutch institutions has gained momentum, particularly in the context of the Kalpasar project in Gujarat

Deon Energy files draft papers with Sebi to raise funds via IPO

Deon Energy, an Ahmedabad-based solar EPC firm, is set to launch an IPO to gather capital. This offering will feature a fresh equity share issue coupled with a promoter's sale of shares. The funds raised aim to establish a 30 MW solar power plant in Gujarat while also boosting working capital and covering essential corporate expenses.

Kishanganj police arrest one after video of assault on woman circulates on social media

Digital Desk | Patna, Sep 26 (IANS) Kishanganj police have arrested one person and launched a search for others after a video allegedly showing a young woman being assaulted and verbally abused near Tulsia Halt railway station in the Dighalbank police station area was sent to Superintendent of Police (SP) Santosh Kumar. According to police, the video was received on the SP's WhatsApp at around 12:30 a.m. on September 25. The SP immediately directed the technical team to examine the footage. The preliminary investigation indicated that the incident had taken place near Tulsia Halt railway station, police said. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was subsequently constituted under the leadership of Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO)-02, and raids were launched at suspected locations to identify and apprehend those allegedly involved. Police said the video appears to be approximately four to five months old. The footage allegedly shows several youths taking a young woman into a house, followed by an altercation in which she was allegedly subjected to verbal abuse and physical assault. After receiving the video, the SP directed a police team to inspect the suspected location and ordered immediate action. Based on the technical examination of the footage and other Intelligence inputs, police initially identified several suspects. They were identified as Afsar alias Hati, son of Tajmul and a resident of Mustafaganj; Zuber Khan, son of Md Basir and a resident of Shripur; Mizan alias Salman, son of Jahagir and a resident of Dahibhanga; Kamil, son of Ashauddin and a resident of Muharar Toli; and Shahnaz, son of Sabir and a resident of Janirpasti Dahibhanga. Police said preliminary verification indicated that some of the identified suspects are currently living outside Bihar. Afsar alias Hati is reportedly residing in Gujarat, Zuber Khan in Haryana, Mizan alias Salman in Karnataka and Kamil in Punjab. Efforts are underway to verify the whereabouts of the remaining suspects. Police said the woman has been identified and her statement has been recorded during the investigation. According to her statement, she had gone to the railway station to meet a friend when she was allegedly noticed by some youths from nearby villages. The youths allegedly made objectionable remarks and assaulted her. Police said a village-level panchayat meeting was subsequently held in the presence of the village Mukhiya in an attempt to resolve the dispute. Based on the woman's complaint and statement, an FIR has been registered, and further investigation is underway. Police are also examining the roles of other individuals who may have been involved. Acting on the evidence gathered during the investigation, Kishanganj police arrested one of the named accused, identified as Shahzad, aged around 21, a resident of Shabbir Tola, Jagir Dahibhat, under Dighalbank police station. Shahzad was arrested in Dighalbank and is currently being interrogated, police said. Meanwhile, raids are continuing at suspected hideouts to apprehend the other accused. Investigators are using technical evidence as well as human Intelligence to trace those allegedly involved in the incident. SP Santosh Kumar said that all individuals found to be involved would face legal action in accordance with the law after their roles are established during the investigation.

No train ticket found: SC restores compensation claim for passenger's death

The Supreme Court has said the absence of recovery of a train ticket from a deceased passenger cannot result in defeating the compensation claim, as it restored the payout awarded to the parents of a man who died after falling from a moving train in Gujarat in 2017. A bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and AS Chandurkar set aside the order of the Gujarat High Court rejecting the compensation awarded to the parents of Maheshbhai, who died falling off the general compartment following a sudden jerk and jolt while travelling to Surat via Ahmedabad on September 27, 2017. The bench on Friday said, The high court gave undue importance to the absence of the railway ticket without taking into consideration the statement made on oath by the victim's father and the fact that the victim had been hospitalised for a period of more than one month. On the preponderance of probabilities, it can be concluded that the victim was a bona fide passenger and that absence of recovery of his ticket cannot ...

Samagra Shiksha DNH DD Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 32 DEO, Accounts Clerk and More Posts

Samagra Shiksha DNH DD has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 32 vacancies across various posts. The online application process will be conducted up to 09-10-2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website. The recruitment drive includes BRP Language (Gujarati) and other positions.

Non-recovery of train ticket from deceased passenger can't defeat compensation claim: SC

The Supreme Court restored an award of compensation for the parents of Maheshbhai, a deceased passenger. He died after falling from a moving train in Gujarat on September 27, 2017. The court noted the absence of a train ticket should not invalidate their claim for compensation. The Railways Claim Tribunal had held Maheshbhai was a bona fide passenger deserving of compensation, which was initially undermined by the Gujarat High Court.

Gujarat Vs Kerala: A Tale Of Two States - Rediff

Gujarat Vs Kerala: A Tale Of Two States

Comparing the two states is comparing an apple to an orange. I ate apples for years. Then I felt I needed some citrus, and I moved to oranges. That doesn't make the apple a lesser fruit, reflects Binu Alex.

Gujarat Students Can Now Order Textbooks Online via Amazon

Gujarat students can now order textbooks online through Amazon, ensuring home delivery at printed prices without extra charges. Gujarat Students Can Now Order Textbooks Online via Amazon

BJP Launches Statewide Service Campaign in Gujarat Ahead of Gandhi Jayanti

The BJP in Gujarat will conduct a series of welfare activities statewide until October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. BJP Launches Statewide Service Campaign in Gujarat Ahead of Gandhi Jayanti

Gujarat CM urges youth to drive development for Viksit Bharat-2047

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Gujarat Police chief launches drive to expand CCTV network statewide

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Father demands CCTV footage in doctors suicide case

Shah Rukh Khans Rs 200 crore home Mannat is a 27,000-square-foot mansion the Khans rebuilt around its 200-year-old heritage shell, with diamond nameplates, art gym, swimming pool and private theatre

SRKs splendid house, Mannat, is now a cultural landmark in Mumbai. The house reportedly had royal origins. Before the superstar bought the house in 2001 for Rs 13 crore, Gujarati entrepreneur Nariman Dubash owned it, registered it under the Bai Khorshed Bhanu Sanjana Trust, and it was known as Villa Vienna. Raja Bijai Sen, the ruler of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, is said to have built it in the 1800s.

MSU marks C C Mehtas 125th birth anniversary

Officials bring lost 90-year-old Navsari woman to safety

Man kills self by jumping from hotel room

Hotel employee booked for siphoning off 54,000

Leadership deadlock ends at Sumul Dairy, Gamit elected chairperson

4 from Mumbai killed on e-way as SUV hit parked truck

Peacemaker pays the ultimate price

Delhi's Initial Ranji Games May Happen In Palam Due To Major Drainage Revamp At Arun Jaitley Stadium

Palam Air Force Ground: Delhis initial home matches in the 2026/27 Ranji Trophy season could be shifted to the Air Force Ground in Palam as the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) prepares to undertake a major overhaul of the drainage system at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The venue, which recently hosted three T20Is between India and Afghanistan earlier this month, will require an extended period of downtime once the civic work commences. A proposal has been sent out to improve the drainage system at the venue. Right now, people concerned are waiting for the final approval. Lets be clear - this process needs time; in winter, it takes time for the grass to grow, and for this, proper sunshine is needed, and you can have an idea of it by seeing the weather in December and January, a source familiar with the matter told IANS on Friday. Delhi, which kicks off their Elite Group C campaign against Bengal in Kalyani from October 11, have two scheduled home fixtures in the first phase - against Gujarat (October 1821) and Services (November 25). Both matches are now expected to take place at the Palam Air Force Ground. The upgradation in the drainage system will also lead to the soil-based outfield being converted into a sand-based one. The process will involve a lot of watering, and the invitation for tenders is expected to begin soon. People who have worked in upgrading drainage systems at other Test venues and are known to the BCCI are expected to be preferred for this work. A final confirmation is likely to come by the first week of October, added the source. The timeline for the outfield work, initially understood to be of four months, could also cast doubt over New Delhi hosting the mens ODI between India and Sri Lanka, to be played on December 13. Should the upgradation work and grass cultivation face delays, the BCCI may have to look at an alternative venue for the match. Delhi will have a second-phase Ranji Trophy home game against Maharashtra, slated to be held from February 1 to 4. Previously, former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya was appointed head coach of the Delhi men's domestic team for the 2026/27 season and will take over from Sarandeep Singh, who was on the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and notably recommended his name for the role. Should the upgradation work and grass cultivation face delays, the BCCI may have to look at an alternative venue for the match. Delhi will have a second-phase Ranji Trophy home game against Maharashtra, slated to be held from February 1 to 4. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This marks Dahiya's fourth stint in charge of Delhi, after having previously guided them to their last Ranji Trophy title in 2007/08, besides coaching Uttar Pradesh to the semi-finals in 2021/22. A seasoned coach, Dahiyas extensive resume includes IPL assistant coaching roles with Gujarat Titans, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders, and he coaches Purani Dilli 6 in the Delhi Premier League (DPL). Article Source: IANS

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Encourages Youth to Embrace Skills and Contribute to Nation-Building

CM Bhupendra Patel urges youth in Gujarat to develop skills and contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Encourages Youth to Embrace Skills and Contribute to Nation-Building

Tamil Nadu moves to top of equity FDI table in Q1

The surge was driven by a landmark MUFG-backed Shriram Finance deal and broader momentum in manufacturing and GCC investments, even as Karnataka and Maharashtra saw declines and Gujarat posted modest gains

Railway Ministry approves tri-weekly Amrit Bharat Express between Bhuj in Gujarat, Barauni in Bihar

Train No. 19427 Bhuj-Barauni Amrit Bharat Express will depart from Bhuj at 5:30 p.m. and reach Barauni at 04:05 a.m.. In the return direction, Train No. 19428 Barauni-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express will depart Barauni at 11.55 pm and reach Bhuj at :15 pm, says a press statement from the Railway Ministry

Railway Ministry approves tri-weekly Amrit Bharat Express between Bhuj in Gujarat, Barauni in Bihar

Train No. 19427 Bhuj-Barauni Amrit Bharat Express will depart from Bhuj at 5:30 p.m. and reach Barauni at 04:05 a.m.. In the return direction, Train No. 19428 Barauni-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express will depart Barauni at 11.55 pm and reach Bhuj at :15 pm, says a press statement from the Railway Ministry

India clocks 6 per cent rise in FDI at $19.81 bn during April-June

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) Foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into India recorded a 6 per cent increase to $19.81 billion in the April-June quarter of the current financial year compared to the corresponding figure of $18.62 billion in the same quarter of 2025-26 despite the global uncertainties, according to figures compiled by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The month-wise figures show that FDI inflows nearly doubled in April this year to 12.1 billion from $6.6 billion in the same month of the previous year, after which they declined in May to $2.8 billion before picking up some momentum at $4.91 billion in June. Japan emerged as the highest investor during the first quarter of the current financial year with FDI to the tune of $5.71 billion, followed by Singapore at $5.22 billion, Mauritius ($2.31 billion), the Netherlands ($1.38 billion), the US ($1.34 billion), and the UAE ($868 million). FDI from the US declined by over 76 per cent to $1.34 billion in April-June 2026-27 from $5.61 billion in the same period of the previous financial year, while inflows from the UAE dropped $868 million compared with $1 billion in the first quarter of 2025-26. The main sectors that have attracted healthy inflows include services ($7.04 billion), computer software and hardware ($2.84 billion), trading ($1.92 billion), non-conventional energy ($1.24 billion), and auto ($622 million). Total FDI, including equity inflows, reinvested earnings and other capital, increased about 22 per cent to $30.65 billion during April-June 2026-27. Tamil Nadu led among the Indian states, attracting as much as $5.95 billion in FDI during the first quarter of the current fiscal year, with Maharashtra coming in the second position as receipts touched $4.22 billion, followed by Delhi ($2.67 billion), Karnataka ($2.11 billion), and Gujarat ($1.3 billion), which made up the rest of the top five in the FDI list.

Health check-up camp organised at BJPs central office under Seva Sankalp Abhiyaan

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) A large-scale free health check-up camp was organised at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s Central Office in the capital on Friday under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, a nationwide month-long campaign marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in public life. At the health camp, many party office staff and their family members underwent comprehensive health check-ups by reputed doctors and medical experts from across the country and received necessary medication and medical advice. The health check-up camp, inspired by PM Modi's vision for public service and Arogya Bharat (Ayushman Bharat initiative), sought to address the health concerns of party functionaries, educate them about the importance of fitness, and motivate them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Many senior party functionaries, including BJP national Vice-President Lal Singh Arya, party national General Secretary (Organisation) B. L. Santosh, national secretary Swadesh Singh, Delhi and Haryana organisation general secretary Pawan Rana, national office secretary Mahendra Pandey, partys national media coordinator Ashish Usha Agrawal, office superintendent Sarvendra Kumar, along with all party support staff, participated in the health camp. With enthusiastic participation from office employees and their family members, the medical experts offered important advice. They guided them on healthy lifestyle practices, contributing to the realisation of the Prime Ministers resolve of Fit India and Aarogya Bharat. Many office support staff praised the initiative and said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP has brought a spirit of public service and sensitivity, beyond its political role, and this has made every member of the organisation feel valued and taken care of. Notably, the Seva Sankalp Abhiyaan is a month-long campaign organised across the country by the BJP to observe and link PM Modis long years of public life with the spirit of seva. As the Prime Minister formally completes 25 years in office on October 7, 2026 (since becoming Gujarat CM), his role of Pradhan sevak and jan seva (public service) is set to take centre stage, with the party seeking to portray this as governance coupled with public service.

Gujarat govt makes textbooks available on Amazon with home delivery at printed price

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 25 (IANS) Students and parents in Gujarat can now order textbooks online and have them delivered to their homes at the printed price, under the state government's Books to Students with Just One Click initiative. The Gujarat State Board of School Textbooks has entered into an MoU with e-commerce platform Amazon to make textbooks available online without any additional delivery charges, providing an alternative to purchasing books from physical bookstores. The initiative covers books published by the board for all standards and mediums. While the state government provides some textbooks to students free of cost, students must purchase other books, particularly those studying in self-financed schools. Under the arrangement with Amazon, students and parents can order these textbooks through the platform and receive them at home at the printed price, without paying an additional delivery cost. Kinjal Makwana, a parent from Ahmedabad, said the facility was useful for working parents who found it difficult to visit bookstores. My child studies in Class 1. We had ordered the books from Amazon through the Gujarat Textbook Board. Both of us are working, so we did not have time to travel back and forth. We had limited time, so we ordered the books from Amazon. We easily got all the books, and they were delivered to our home without any difficulty, she said. Manubhai Pavra, Executive President of the Gujarat State Board of School Textbooks, said the agreement aimed to ensure books could be delivered to students and parents at home at no additional cost. We recently held discussions with Amazon and signed an MoU under which textbooks can be delivered to children and parents at home at the printed price, without them having to pay any additional cost. Accordingly, whenever children need a book, they will now be able to receive it at the printed price through Amazons e-commerce platform, Pawar said. The Gujarat State Board of School Textbooks distributes around 1.5 crore textbooks every year. The online facility is also intended to serve students who need additional copies or books beyond those provided through the governments distribution system. The initiative lets parents and students access the boards textbooks through an online ordering system, so they don't have to visit bookstores for every requirement.

Gujarat: RRU, CAPSI join hands to develop indigenous Bharat Gold Standard for private security sector

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 25 (IANS) Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop an indigenous framework for training, assessment and professional certification of private security personnel, with a proposed Bharat Gold Standard aimed at aligning skills with Indias regulatory, operational and technological requirements. The initiative follows Union Home Minister Amit Shah's vision for a trained, technology-enabled private security sector capable of serving as an effective first line of response and complementing public security institutions. The MoU brings together RRUs academic, training, research, simulation and assessment capabilities with CAPSIs industry network and understanding of operational requirements. The partnership seeks to establish common professional standards linking training with practical assessment and certification. During the signing ceremony at the RRU campus in Gandhinagar, Vice Chancellor Prof Bimal Patel interacted with the CAPSI delegation on the broader direction of professionalising private security in India. RRU was represented by Nimesh Dave, Director, SICSM, Lt Col B. S. Rao, Coordinator, and other university representatives. Chairman Kunwar Vikram Singh led the CAPSI delegation. It included Secretary General Mahesh Sharma, National Vice President Anil Puri, President V. V. Katti, COO of SSSDC Col A. K. Singh, President of CAPSI Gujarat Chapter Dr Sheetal Nair, National Vice Presidents Dr R. K. Tyagi and R. P. Chauhan, National Secretary (Reforms) Sanjeev Bhardwaj, Honorary Secretary of SAG Anil Rai, General Secretary of CAPSI Gujarat Rajesh Pillai, Vice President I. P. Singh, Deputy General Secretary Rajesh Yadav and Treasurer of SAG R. K. Chaturvedi. RRU's Advanced Security Skills Training Centre will serve as the institutional platform for the initiative. The centre is intended to cater to young entrants; security personnel seeking career advancement; veterans and former police personnel transitioning to civilian security; private security agency owners and managers; and professionals in risk, compliance, and facility management. The training ecosystem combines classroom instruction with simulation, laboratory exposure, scenario-based learning and physical preparedness. It includes driving and firing simulators, OSINT and technology laboratories, drone training, K9 exposure, maritime-security facilities, a dedicated Private Security Lab, moot-court exposure and human-performance infrastructure. The proposed framework places technology literacy alongside traditional security skills. With private security operations increasingly involving CCTV analytics, electronic access control, alarm systems, drones, digital communications and AI-enabled platforms, personnel would be trained in prevention, detection, reporting, escalation and first response. The proposed professional pathway would link deployment with skills, assessment, certification, specialisation and professional mobility. It is intended to allow personnel to progress from entry-level guarding and site duties to supervisory and specialised roles, including K9, drones, OSINT and technology-enabled security, and subsequently to managerial, consulting and entrepreneurial positions. The initiative also envisages training of trainers, executive education and continuing professional development to extend these competencies across private security organisations. CAPSI estimates that India's private security workforce comprises around 10 million personnel deployed across industrial facilities, financial institutions, corporate establishments, hospitals, educational campuses, residential communities, logistics networks and other public-facing spaces. The proposed Bharat Gold Standard is envisaged as a professional ecosystem covering occupational competencies, structured curricula, qualified trainers, practical learning, assessment, certification and continuing education. The framework is intended to evolve with changes in technology, security threats and operating environments. Through the partnership, RRU and CAPSI aim to establish an Indian framework that links training and assessed competence with specialised skills and continuing professional development across the private security sector.

Dont compare yourself with others: Gujarat CM tells youth

Digital Desk | Bhavnagar, Sep 25 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday urged young people to develop skills, gain practical knowledge and contribute to the governments vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, while stressing that development must extend beyond major cities to villages and every section of society. Addressing students at a Yuva Samvad programme at Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University, Patel said youth could play an important role in nation-building and creating a better society through skill development, positive thinking, sensitivity and self-confidence. The interaction was organised under the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan', marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modis public service. Students raised questions on employment, education, agriculture, healthcare, sports, womens empowerment, cybercrime, de-addiction, infrastructure and Viksit Bharat-2047. Viksit Bharat would not be achieved only through the development of major cities, but by ensuring that development opportunities and the benefits of government schemes reach villages and every citizen, he said. He also urged young people not only to make use of government schemes themselves but to help needy people and friends access them. Highlighting employment opportunities emerging in Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), Patel called on youth to acquire technical skills suited to the requirements of upcoming industries. The government is working with companies to provide skill development training, particularly in sectors such as semiconductors, he asserted. On physical and mental well-being, the Chief Minister advised young people not to compare themselves with others and said they should move ahead according to their own abilities. If success is not achieved, one should make another attempt, he said, while highlighting yoga and positive thinking for maintaining a healthy mind and body. Responding to a question on agriculture, Patel said modern farming methods, suitable seeds, technology and equipment could help young people improve their own farms and contribute to agricultural development in their villages. He encouraged students to supplement classroom learning with practical experience by visiting model farms and exploring value addition of agricultural produce. On cybercrime, Patel highlighted government initiatives to create awareness among students about cybersecurity and online fraud. On sports, he said: Sports infrastructure is being developed across Gujarat, and government support is there for projects to develop hockey and other sports facilities in Bhavnagar. The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of womens participation in policy-making and highlighted efforts to increase their representation in local self-government institutions. Learning other languages is important, but there should be no hesitation in speaking ones mother tongue, he said. Patel expressed confidence that the youth could make a significant contribution to nation-building through skills, positive thinking, sensitivity and self-confidence.

Gujarat Deploys 6,000+ Personnel To Secure Ambaji Pilgrims Amid Recent Accidents

With lakhs of devotees travelling to Ambaji for Bhadarvi Poonam, Gujarat has intensified security, traffic management and emergency assistance along pilgrimage routes.

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel highlights reforms at Ship Recycling event

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