Gujarat govt. vetting delays disbursal as 90,000 diamond workers seek aid
Bank finance for projects: Gujarat and Maharashtra in an investment league of their own
Gujarat has remained the top state in attracting investments as it got the most number for projects in each year between FY15 and FY25, while Maharashtra has retained the second place for the last four fiscal years, showed data available in a study by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) staff.
Gujarat: Ahmedabad To Host 11th Asian Aquatics Championship 2025; Official Jersey Unveiled
Cultural Activities Minister Harsh Sanghavi: Gujarat Youth, Sports and Cultural Activities Minister Harsh Sanghavi unveiled the official jersey of the 11th Asian Aquatics Championship Ahmedabad 2025, at Sector-21 Gymkhana in Gandhinagar. The event is being organised by the Swimming Federation of India. Speaking on the occasion, Sanghavi said Indian athletes have consistently brought pride to the nation by excelling at global tournaments, and Gujarat is committed to strengthening Indias swimming team for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. It is a matter of pride that Gujarat has been chosen to host several major international tournaments. The state has always been at the forefront of providing world-class facilities to athletes, he said, thanking the Federation for selecting Gujarat to host such a prestigious event. The 11th Asian Aquatics Championship will be held from September 28 to October 11, 2025, at the newly constructed Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad, with participation expected from athletes representing more than 30 countries. Significantly, the tournament will also serve as a qualifying event for the Asian Games 2026. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Arjuna Awardee and double Olympian Sajan Prakash, double Olympian Srihari Nataraj, 2023 Asian Games swimmers Kushagra Rawat and Advait Page, Paris 2024 Olympian Dhinidhi Desinghu, and Swimming Federation of India Secretary Monal Chokshi. Gujarat has rapidly emerged as a hub for world-class sports infrastructure in India, with significant investments in stadiums, training facilities, and academies. The state is home to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the worlds largest cricket stadium with a seating capacity of over 130,000, and the newly built Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, designed as a multi-sport complex to host international events. In addition, the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad is set to host the 11th Asian Aquatics Championship 2025, highlighting Gujarats growing global sports presence. Cities like Gandhinagar, Surat, Rajkot, and Vadodara are also equipped with modern indoor stadiums, swimming pools, shooting ranges, and athletics tracks. In addition, the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad is set to host the 11th Asian Aquatics Championship 2025, highlighting Gujarats growing global sports presence. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Through a mix of mega stadiums, specialised academies, and rural outreach programs, Gujarat is positioning itself not just as a sporting host but also as a breeding ground for future Olympians. Article Source: IANS
MSUs AIPRIS, TERI sign MoU for policy research collaboration
International workshop on scenic, costume design held at MSU
MSU fine arts student off to ENSBA in Paris
Ambulance operator caught for theft of ventilator
VMC releases water from Ajwa reservoir
Woman accuses psychiatrist of rape
Two arrested in multi-state SUV theft case
Man drives car with LRD jawan hanging on
Vague Allegations, Abuse Of Law': Gujarat HC Quashes FIR Against In-Laws In Dowry Case
The court said criminal proceedings against the in-laws could not be sustained as the allegations were general and lacked any specific instances of cruelty.
Families of over 90,000 Gujarat diamond workers wait for aid despite government promises
AHMEDABAD: Despite a Gujarat government scheme announced on May 24 promising Rs 13,500 annual school fee aid for children of diamond workers hit by global crises like wars and tariffs, zero relief has reached Surat, the hub of the diamond industry. In the past year, 70,254 applications were filed in Surat, yet not a single family received aid. Ahmedabad saw just 170 beneficiaries against 3926 applications, while 2,306 families in Amreli and 13,462 in Botad remain empty-handed. The figures revealed in the Assembly highlight a massive gap between promises and delivery. The state government admitted that not a single diamond artisan family in Surat, Amreli, and Botad has received the promised school fee assistance announced months ago. This disclosure has sparked anger among opposition MLAs, who accused the government of making hollow announcements while the diamond industry spirals into crisis. The data tabled by the Industry Minister paints a grim picture. In the past year, 70,254 applications were filed in Surat city and district seeking Rs 13,500 annual school fee aid for children of affected diamond artisans, yet zero payouts have been made. In Ahmedabad, 3,926 applications were received, but assistance reached only 170 families, totalling a meagre Rs 24.03 lakh. From glitter to gloom: Gujarats diamond and textile hub hit by US tariff shock Meanwhile, Amreli (2,306 applications) and Botad (13,462 applications) reported no disbursal at all. In total, over 90,000 families are still waiting, with the government claiming that all applications are currently under scrutiny and payments will be made only after verification as per the schemes provisions. This aid program was announced through a circular on May 24, 2025, amid growing distress in the diamond sector. The scheme promised Rs 13,500 per child for the 2025-26 academic year to support artisans whose livelihoods were hit by global disruptions. Surat, the epicentre of Indias diamond polishing industry, has been battling multiple shocks. First, the Russia-Ukraine war disrupted the global rough diamond supply chain, leading to a severe slowdown. Then, a 50% tariff imposed by former US President Donald Trump on Indian goods froze $4.8 billion worth of gem and jewellery exports, triggering mass layoffs. Out of Gujarats 15 lakh diamond artisans, nearly 40% face imminent job losses, with Surat alone accounting for 8 to 9 lakh workers. As workshops close and debts rise, reports of suicides among diamond artisans have surfaced. The governments failure to deliver on its much-publicised aid scheme has further fueled anger in the industry. With zero relief reaching Surat the very city the scheme was designed to help, opposition parties are demanding immediate action and accusing the state of abandoning the very workers who built Gujarats glittering diamond empire.
Julia Chaigneau, a French designer residing in India, expressed that she feels exceptionally safe in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, more so than anywhere else. Her positive experience stems from the city's cultural practices, policies like being a dry state, and her secure residence in a gated community.
The Chola Tigers and their storyteller Amish Tripathi
Author Amish Tripathi is in utter awe of Rajendra Chola the man he was, the conquests he made, and the beautiful temples and city of Gangaikonda Cholapuram he built. What a man he was! he exclaims. This sheer awe of one of the mightiest emperors of India comes across in Amishs latest book The Chola Tigers: Avengers of Somnath, which is a part of his Indic Chronicles. The first in this series was Legend of Suheldev, released in 2020, which recounted the role of a King from Shravasti who mobilised Indians to fight the Turkic army after the destruction of the Somnath temple. The book mentions the Chola general Narasimhan telling King Suheldev that they got vengeance from Mahumd as well. The King then asks to hear that story too to which, General Narasimhan hints that perhaps an author will write about it. Im here. The author is here, laughs Amish. Along with Narasimhan, the other passengers in this journey of revenge sought against Mahumd is a Chalukya king whose father was a rival of the Cholas, a Gujarati merchant, a member of the Vavar community of Kerala whose sole duty is to protect Lord Ayyappa, and a Chola officer. Their story, told in The Chola Tigers is a celebration of a dynasty and a piece of history that hasnt gotten its due. Excerpts follow: Why did you plan on the Indic Chronicle series? The Indic Chronicles is a relook at the narrative of the last 1,300 years. There are various problems in the way history is taught to us. Even if the facts are still the same, the way they are presented to us has a very biased approach. Our history has an excessive focus on Delhi. Most other regions are ignored. If you notice, Eastern India is ignored, Central India, King Bhoj is ignored; Western India is ignored. Most of the history of the last 1,300 years essentially focusses on the region between Khyber and Agra. Delhi is an important area but it is not the only important area of India. This entire story of the last 1,300 years is presented as one of repeated defeats. The subtle or, in fact, not so subtle message given to us was, our ancestors were either cowardly or disunited because they kept losing battles. In summary, they were looking towards Khyber Pass for the next invader to come, and then there would be a battle at Panipat, which we would obviously lose. And then there would be the next oppressor oppressing us. The only difference between the British and the Turks was that the British came from the sea. Why did the British Raj come up with a historical narrative like this? Basically, to tell all of us Indians, It is your job to be slaves. My understanding of it is completely different. The same invaders who came here Arabs, Turks, Persians, Europeans, British, Portuguese went to every other ancient culture in the world. All those other ancient cultures are dead. The Aztecs, the Inca, Central America, Zoroastrianism in Persiaso many across the world, all dead. India is still standing. My interpretation of it is that the last 1,300 years is not a story of repeated defeats, but it is a story of the greatest resistance in human history. No indigenous culture anywhere in the world has fought so hard, and so long, to protect its culture. Only our ancestors did. If there is an interpretation like this, we would feel proud of our ancestors. They werent cowards; they werent disunited, they were actually the toughest people around. That is the real story of the last 1,300 years. Indic Chronicles aims to give that part of the story. Cholas and their contribution are well-known, at least in the south Why are our great ancestors reduced to regional history? Why is Chhatrapati Shivaji reduced just to Maharashtra history? Why are Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola reduced just to Tamil history? Why is Emperor Bhoj reduced just to Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarhs history? Why are the Gurjar Pratiharas reduced just to Western India, Gujarat, and Maharashtra? The Rashtrakuta is reduced to only Karnataka. Why? Emperor Rajendra Chola conquered much of Southeast Asia as well. The Bay of Bengal was essentially Emperor Rajendra Cholas pond. His empire was as big as Akbars. Thats not the impression we get from our history books. In the last 1,300 years, the only national history is our invaders. Why is that? And this needs to be rebalanced. Emperor Rajendra Chola, Rajaraja Chola were not just Tamil kings, they were Indian kings. They were our ancestors too. When Emperor Rajendra Chola conquered up to Eastern India, up to the Ganga, he changed his title. He took the title Gangaikondan. It was clearly an emotional moment for him. He renamed his capital as Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Our nationalism was much more liberal and relaxed. We must celebrate that. Is there an unusual amount of spotlight on the Cholas, and are they being used as a political tool? The spotlight is going on many ignored heroes, not just the Cholas across India. The Marathas, for example. They were ignored for so many decades. The Peshwas, the Rashtrakutas, the Parmars. This is all, I think, a cultural reclaiming of our ancestors. I think its a good thing. Is there some politics with it? Yes. But there is a cultural reawakening. Lachit Borphukans memory is being revived in Assam. So many of our great heroes have been forgotten. Culturally, I think its very good. Isnt it nice if North Indians know about the Cholas, or South Indians get to know King Bhoj? King Bhoj and Emperor Rajendra Chola were allies. But this will be a shock to many. King Bhoj was also a scholar emperor. Hed written 70-80 books. These things arent spoken of in our history books. Where do you draw the line for fiction when you write historical fiction? The reality of writing historical fiction is that therell always be basic facts, and then you have to try and put a story together for two reasons. One, real life usually actually does not make sense. But a story that youre reading, you expect it to make sense. Secondly, real life is usually boring, which is why many pure history books are boring. You have to add the storytelling style to it. Thats the very nature of historical fiction. Some facts are so obviously wrong that you cant use them. But you have to update the story of it. Braveheart or Ponniyin Selvan, a lot of it is fiction. It has to be done that way. Besides your research for your books, what are you reading currently? I read more non-fiction. I just finished a long read, The Singularity is Near, and The Singularity is Nearer by Ray Kurzweil. AI is going to impact everything. If you want to understand AI and how new tech is going to impact our world, you cant do better than Ray Kurzweils books. I am also going through a series of books now by a British historian called David Starkey, who has written magisterial books on how England and the UK were created from King Alfred onwards. Of course, he is a lover of the British Empire. Your mind expands when you are willing to read someone who has a different point of view. These days, we dont do that enough. We want to be in our echo chambers. Its only when you interact with someone who disagrees with you that your mind gets exercised. I always believed that if you want to read someone who has an opposing point of view, there can be two strategies: One, read the idiot, which will make you feel superior, or go to the best thinker on the opposite side, read them and then you are actually forced to think and expand your mind. You canwatch the interview on YouTube @thenewindianxpress
SPU gets 45L grant to fortify semiconductor science course
Two booked for drug trafficking
House collapses, seven rescued in Anand village
40 lakh revamp of MSUs applied chemistry lab begins
Svarnim Puducherry participates in national Changemakers meet in Gujarat
Organised by the National Changemakers meet Network, Banas Dairy, and India Foundation from September 4 to 7, the gathering witnessed the participation of 51 changemakers from 27 States across the country
CHANDIGARH: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Monday announced to provide certified wheat seed to farmers for one lakh acres of land and distribute 500 trucks of maize silage and compressed hay. SAD also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce a Rs 20,000 crore package for the flood victims. Announcing the partys relief package after an emergency meeting of senior leaders and district presidents who have been charged with implementing it, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal said that he had booked 500 trucks of maize silage for distribution at the village level. He also announced that arrangements had been made to purchase 500 trucks of compressed hay (dry fodder). Besides this, he announced that the party had purchased 500 fogging machines, which would be distributed in flood-affected areas and would be manned by party volunteers to ward off the spread of malaria and other diseases. Asserting that the SAD would not only provide relief material, Badal said, We will distribute certified wheat seed to farmers for one lakh acres of land. He said, besides this, 30,000 quintals of seed would be distributed in flood-affected areas to fulfil the ration needs of the people. He also announced that the Shiromani Committee had acceded to his request to hold 125 medical camps headed by doctors and staff of the Guru Ramdas hospital, Amritsar, simultaneously in flood-affected areas. Twenty-five teams of veterinary doctors have also been constituted to ensure the welfare of livestock in flooded areas. He also announced that volunteers would help in clearing sand from farmers' fields. Speaking about efforts needed to be put in by the centre and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, Badal demanded a central and State government loan waiver for all flood-affected farmers while asserting that the six-month moratorium on loans would not help farmers who would need two to three years to recover their losses in the floods. He also demanded the State government increase ex- gratia for loss of life to Rs 10 lakh per victim instead of Rs 4 lakh as announced, compensation of Rs 1 lakh per animal for loss of livestock, besides compensation for all damaged houses. He demanded that compensation for crop losses be given to the cultivator, be it the owner or the lessee, and that those who were cultivating kutcha lands should also be given compensation. Badal also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce an Rs 20,000 crore flood relief and rehabilitation package for Punjab during his visit to the State tomorrow. A special monitoring committee should be instituted to disburse this relief measures to ensure it is not misused as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government does not have an answer to what it has done with the Rs 13,000 crore lying with it under the Disaster Management Fund. Urging the industry to come forward to extend help to the flood victims, he said, It is unfortunate but true that even though Punjabis have served the earthquake-hit in Gujarat, the tsunami-stricken in Tamil Nadu and people of Nepal to provide humanitarian aid, no one has come to help us in this time of crisis. I have been in the field for the last fifteen days. People have come up to me and told me that nothing was done to strengthen their bundhs. It is also a fact that the mandatory flood control and review meeting was not held as per schedule. This compounded the suffering of the people, he added.
Strong monsoon flows throw up rare deep depression over West India
Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls lash parts of Saurashtra and Kutch; Rajasthan; north Gujarat
Gujarat scam complaints pile up, just Rs 7.5 crore recovered out of Rs 402 crore
AHMEDABAD: On Day 1 of the Gujarat Assembly session, Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani grilled the state government on scam complaints under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act-2003. The Home Department revealed 81 complaints were filed in the past two years, with a staggering Rs 402.21 crore trapped. To recover the money, the state seized and auctioned properties of two companies, but only Rs 7.53 crore has been returned to duped investors so far leaving a massive gap still unresolved. The monsoon session of the Gujarat Assembly opened with a storm on Monday, as Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani dropped the bombshell on the state government. On Day 1, Mevani asked the Home Department about the fraudulent Ponzi schemes and scam companies that duped thousands of investors across Gujarat. In his query, Mevani demanded details on how many complaints were filed under the Gujarat Protection of Interest of Deposits Act, 2003, how much public money is stuck, and how much has actually been recovered. The governments reply shocked the House as 81 complaints were lodged in the past two years, trapping a staggering Rs 402.21 crore of investors' money. Despite this massive figure, action was taken against only two companies, with seized assets auctioned off. The recovery? A meagre Rs 7.53 crore returned to investors. This revelation comes against the backdrop of two mega scams that rocked Gujarat in the last two years. In 2024, Bhupendrasinh Zala, CEO of BZ Group, allegedly pulled off a Rs 6,000-crore Ponzi scam by luring over 14,000 investors with promises of double returns in three years and lucrative monthly payouts. Gandhinagar CID Crime teams raided multiple locations across Sabarkantha, Vadodara, Gandhinagar, and Rajasthan, uncovering transactions worth Rs 175 crore linked to the group. BZ Financial Services, at the scam's core, was found to be completely unauthorised. As the BZ scandal was still unfolding, 2025 brought another crypto-fueled scam, this time in Rajkot. A company named Blockora duped 8,000 investors, including 40 from Rajkot alone, siphoning off Rs 300 crore. The scheme promised daily returns of Rs 4,000 on an initial investment of Rs 4.25 lakh. Investors were pushed to buy a fake cryptocurrency called TABC, only for the companys founders and partners to vanish overnight.
Gujarat textile mill tragedy: Death toll climbs to seven as families protest for justice
AHMEDABAD: The death toll in the horrific Palsana textile mill blast continues to rise, leaving families shattered and a village in mourning. With four workers succumbing to their injuries in just two days, Jolva village in Surat district of Gujarat has been plunged into grief and anger. What began as a routine day at Textile Mill on September 1 turned catastrophic when a chemical-filled drum exploded, sparking a massive fire. Two workers were charred to death on the spot, while over 15 others suffered severe burns. Firefighters, ambulances, and police rushed to the site, with 11 critically injured workers shifted to a private hospital in Udhna, Surat. Three days later, Priyanka Devi (36) became the third victim to die during treatment. Tragedy deepened when Jogendra Munilal Prajapati (35) and Preeti Nagendra Singh (28) succumbed to their injuries on Monday. Today, Sushma Ganesh Mishra (39) and Munna Vishwanath Das (24) passed away, pushing the death toll to seven. Two more victims remain in a critical condition. Families of the deceased staged a dramatic protest outside the Udhna hospital, where grieving women formed a human chain and blocked the road, demanding proper compensation. Police had to intervene to pacify the crowd. The dead bodies were later shifted to the New Civil Hospital for postmortem. The mill owner has pledged financial support to the victims families Rs 15 lakh each, including Rs 50,000 cash upfront, Rs 4 lakh via cheque, and an additional Rs 10 lakh through insurance. The management has also promised to cover the education expenses of the deceased workers' children. Meanwhile, the Industrial Safety Department has shut down the mill and launched a probe, though the investigation report is still pending.
Saldi Village: A Tiny Gujarat Hamlet With A Global Ice Cream Fame
Saldi in Amreli is famed for its Kothi Ice Cream, street food, and strong community spirit. A model village where progress meets tradition and togetherness.
Gujarat's Cultural Heritage Comes to Life in Udaipur with Pre-Navratri Festival, Free Garba Workshops, and a Unique Post-Navratri Garba Mahotsav in Delhi Travel And Tour World
Gujarat Desert Turns Into Sea As Banas River Overflows Amid Torrential Rains
Torrential rains in Banaskantha turned the desert into a raging sea. Highways flooded, roads washed away, and the Banas River overflowed its banks..
Horror genre gets extra legs with new releases
Hindi cinema is witnessing a horror genre resurgence, influenced by Hollywood and Gujarati films. 'The Conjuring: Final Rites' and 'Vash Level 2' dominate the box office, while stars like Kartik Aaryan explore zombie themes. Successes like 'Shaitaan' and folklore-based horror-comedies are driving this trend, with major studios investing in diverse horror projects and blending genres to captivate audiences.
Proposed new integrated medical course to be of over 5 years, with one year internship: RTI
NEW DELHI: The centres proposed new integrated medical course combining MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) and BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) at the JIPMER in Puducherry is an over five-year degree course, with a one-year internship to award the dual degrees, an RTI reply has revealed. The proposal, which is prepared by Auroville Foundation and announced with great fanfare by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, on May 27, also states that the syllabus for phase 1 is ready and is prepared on the competency-based curriculum (CBME) proposed by the National Medical Council (NMC), a statutory body that regulates medical education, medical professionals, institutes, and research. However, what is ironic is that the key regulatory bodies, including the National Medical Commission (NMC) and the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), which decide on new courses and syllabi, have not met once or been involved in the proposal, as per RTI documents. This paper was the first to report on the centres push for an integrated medical course that would combine MBBS and BAMS. Following the report, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), representing over four lakh medical practitioners, strongly condemned the move to mix different systems of medicine unscientifically and demanded that the government withdraw the regressive proposal in the best interest of the people's health. What is also interesting is that despite its proposal of starting an Integrated, Dual Degree Undergraduate Medical course on January 25, 2024, and the announcement by the Union Minister, the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) has refused to share the details after Kerala-based activist Dr K V Babu filed an RTI. Moreover, Auroville Secretary Dr. Jayanti S Ravi, who acknowledged in her January 25 letter that discussions were held over the last several months with Dr VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog; Dr. Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, AYUSH, and others, has also failed to share comments on the integrated course with the Union Health Ministry despite repeated reminders - not once or twice but four times. Speaking with this paper, Dr Babu said: There is no provision under any law in India to award MBBS and BAMS degrees after pursuing any course. From the files availed using RTI, it seems the government is supporting the proposal to start a new course to award a dual degree of MBBS and BAMS by the Auroville Foundation in association with JIPMER and some satellite centres. There is nothing to suggest that the regulatory body in this case, the NMC, had ever discussed it in a joint meeting with other regulatory bodies, which is mandatory under the statute, he said. Pushing political decisions via regulatory bodies is not a good sign for medical education and public health in our country, he added. In her letter, Dr Ravi, the former Gujarat-cadre IAS officer, who initiated the course, said, It is meant to be a bold experiment to allow for synthesis of the ancient and modern in various disciplines and aspects of life. In view of this, there will be no other place better than Auroville Foundation to start the course to provide an integral approach to healthcare. The curricula are now being fine-tuned for detailed integration of the two streams of science, said the letter, which was shared with Dr Babu on August 22 by the Union Health Ministry following his RTI. It further said the ministry should eventually consider setting up a satellite centre of the Institute of Teaching and Research (ITRA) in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, as well as a satellite centre of JIPMER as the Auroville-JIPMER-ITRA at Auroville Foundation. As its vision, the proposal said it is to develop curricula and resource material which can help medical students across the globe to learn an integral approach to health. It also said their mission is to become an apex institute of the highest degree for the synthesis of modern medicine and Ayurveda; to provide undergraduate education of the highest quality in contemporary medicine and Ayurveda, and to produce talented doctors who are capable of identifying and delivering the best possible therapeutic options from modern medicine and Ayurveda. How long will we allow our national educational system to exclude our own ancient healthcare treasures and the greatest spiritual insights? The health benefits of modern medicine are indisputable. However, its deductive analytical approach must be synthesised with a holistic approach of Ayurveda. It is the beauty of Ayurvedic interventions that they are well blended with daily life and appropriate for people of all ages. They provide early prevention besides supplanting modern treatment. It is here that the innovation in Medical Education becomes imperative. India, the source of Ayurveda, needs to develop an all-inclusive healthcare system and show the world a way of perfect synthesis. We need a national system of medical education which provides training of both modern and Indian systems of medicine in a systematic manner. Such an innovation will be good not only for our country, but also to the world at large. India can and must take the lead in this direction. It further said the proposal to establish a medical college that offers inclusive training in modern medicine and Ayurveda stems from an aspiration to make the medical education centered on the Indian system, to make doctors patient-centric, and the approach human-centric, deeply founded in the principles of integral Health as pronounced in the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.
SC issues notice to ED, Gujarat on journalist Mahesh Langas bail plea
Kapil Sibal, for Mahesh Langa, argues the cases lodged against his client were based on baseless allegations
Money laundering case: SC seeks Gujarat govt, EDs responses on journalists bail plea
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday sought response of the Gujarat government and the Enforcement Directorate on a bail plea of journalist Mahesh Langa seeking bail in a money laundering case linked to an alleged financial fraud. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi issued notice on Langas plea challenging denial of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SC issues notice to ED in money laundering case against Journalist Mahesh Langa
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and others, after hearing an appeal filed by the Gujarat-based journalist Mahesh Langa, accused in a money laundering case lodged in connection with two FIRs which included the offence of cheating. Langa, a senior journalist in a national newspaper, moved the apex court after the Gujarat High Court had on August 1 dismissed his regular bail plea in the money laundering case. During the course of the hearing on Monday, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the accused Langa, argued that Langa secured anticipatory bail in the first and second FIRs, but in the third FIR he was accused of income tax evasion. After hearing this, Justice Surya Kant said, There are very genuine journalists. But there are people on scooter saying we are patrakaar (Journalists) and what they do, everybody knows. Sibal, however, replied that these were all allegations. Langa approached the top court after being denied regular bail by Gujarat High Court. According to the prosecution, the money laundering case against Langa stems from two FIRs filed by the Ahmedabad Police on charges of committing fraud, criminal misappropriation, criminal breach of trust, cheating and causing wrongful loss of lakhs of rupees to certain people. The Gujarat HC had dismissed his regukar bail, after observing that he had a number of antecedents and that while being in custody he had influenced witnesses.
IMD issues red alert for flash floods in Rajasthan, Gujarat
NEW DELHI: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, warning of an imminent threat of flash floods likely to occur in Gujarat and Rajasthan over the next two days due to the influence of a depression. Additionally, a fresh western disturbance is expected to bring rainfall to Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, as well as western and eastern Uttar Pradesh this week. A well-marked low-pressure area over southern Rajasthan has moved westward and intensified into a depression over southwestern Rajasthan, subsequently affecting northern Gujarat. Due to this, the IMD predicts extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 300 mm, in these regions over the next two days, which increases the risk of flash floods in several watersheds, particularly in the Banaskantha, Patan, and Saurashtra, and Kutch districts. The risk is also heightened in Barmer and Jalore districts in western Rajasthan, and in Sirohi district in eastern Rajasthan. In its bulletin, the IMD explained that the monsoon trough has shifted south of its normal position. Furthermore, a trough extends from the cyclonic circulation associated with the depression over northern Gujarat and adjacent southwestern Rajasthan to Chhattisgarh. In addition to the extremely heavy rainfall predicted for Gujarat and Rajasthan, the Konkan region is also expected to experience heavy rainfall. Under the influence of western disturbances, moderate rainfall is likely over Jammu Division and Himachal Pradesh on September 7; Uttarakhand on September 7, 8, 12, and 13; and western Uttar Pradesh on September 12 and 13, with eastern Uttar Pradesh seeing rainfall between September 11 and 13. In its advisory for fishermen, the IMD has advised them to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea between September 7 and September 12. In the Bay of Bengal, the IMD has advised fishermen to refrain from venturing out between September 7 and 9, particularly along the Tamil Nadu coast and in many parts of the southwestern Bay of Bengal. In its agricultural advisory, the IMD has suggested draining excess rainwater from crops and vegetable fields in the affected areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Maharashtra. It also recommended providing mechanical support to horticultural crops and ensuring proper staking for vegetables and young fruit-bearing plants to prevent damage from strong winds. So far, India has received 108.7 per cent of normal rainfall this monsoon season, with only the eastern and northeastern regions experiencing a deficiency of around 18 per cent. The cumulative rainfall recorded between June 1 and September 7 is 813.3 mm, compared to the normal of 748.3 mm.
Vikram Solar bags 336 MW module supply order from L&T for Khavda solar project
NEW DELHI, Sept 8: Solar solutions provider Vikram Solar on Monday said it has secured a 336 MW module supply order from L&T Construction for the Khavda solar project in Gujarat. As part of this order, Vikram Solar will supply its advanced Hypersol G12R modules, based on N-type technology, a company statement said. The usage of G12R Modules will enhance the Balance-of-System (BOS) efficiency and help drive down the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), making it more cost-effective and [] The post Vikram Solar bags 336 MW module supply order from L&T for Khavda solar project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gujarati woman caught shoplifting at US Target store; bodycam VIDEO goes viral
A bodycam video of an Indian woman caught shoplifting at a Target store in the US has gone viral.
Delhi experienced a weekend of humidity and light rain, while Punjab faces severe flooding with significant casualties and displacement. Gujarat's Vadodara is grappling with waterlogging after heavy rainfall. The IMD has issued alerts for heavy showers in East Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Gujarat FDCA utilises Rs. 42 crore under CSS to modernise its flagship drug testing lab in Vadodara Pharmabiz.com
'Red alert' issued for heavy rainfall in Gujarat - Punjab News Express
'Red alert' issued for heavy rainfall in Gujarat Punjab News Express
ISSO National Games Chess Competition: Adani International School, Shantigram, successfully hosted the ISSO National Games Chess Competition 2025, a two-day event that brought together more than 370 student players from 80+ schools across 10 states. The tournament turned the campus into a hub of strategy and sporting spirit, drawing over 650 attendees including parents, coaches, and supporters. The competition featured four categoriesUnder-11, Under-14, Under-17, and Under-19providing a platform for young players to test their skills in high-pressure games. The opening ceremony was graced by Namrata Adani, Promoter of Adani International School, who encouraged participants with her interaction. Chess stalwarts Bhavesh Patel, former Secretary of the Gujarat State Chess Association and Vice-President of the All India Chess Federation, and Grandmaster Ankit Rajpara also addressed the gathering, inspiring players with insights from their own journeys. After two days of intense competition, Chatrabhuj Narsee School, Mumbai emerged as the Overall Champion, while Indus International School, Hyderabad secured the Runners-Up title. Speaking about the significance of such tournaments, school officials emphasised Indias rising stature in global chess, propelled by young stars like R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh, and underscored how grassroots competitions at the school level are shaping the next generation of champions. The closing ceremony celebrated outstanding performances across categories, with medals awarded to the winners. Results: Under-11 Winners: Boys: 1. Ayaanraj Kottapally (Shreenidhi International School); 2. Anay Agarwal (Indus International School, Hyderabad); 3. Ahaan Kataruka (Nita Mukesh Ambani Junior School) Girls: 1. Amaya Agarwal (Indus International School, Hyderabad); 2. Teesha Byadwal (Jayshree Periwal Global School); 3. Mrunmayee Daware (HVB Global Academy) Under-14 Winners: Boys: 1. Nirvaan Nirav Shah (Don Bosco International School); 2. Amay Jain (Rockwoods International School); 3. Udbhav Sharma (Neerja Modi School) Girls: 1. Naisha Khandelwal (Neerja Modi School); 2. Aadya Reddy Konda (The Gaudium School); 3. Shreya Tirthani (Bharati Vidyapeeth Rabindranath Tagore School of Excellence) Under-17 Winners: Boys: 1. Aman George Thomas (Vidyashilp Academy); 2. Aditya Kunal Patil (Dhirubhai Ambani International School); 3. Devansh Khandelwal (Scottish High International School) Girls: 1. Hasitha Reddy Patelu (Manchester Global School); 2. Ananya Khandelwal (JBCN International School, Parel); 3. Suhaani Lohia (Dhirubhai Ambani International School) Under-17 Winners: Boys: 1. Aman George Thomas (Vidyashilp Academy); 2. Aditya Kunal Patil (Dhirubhai Ambani International School); 3. Devansh Khandelwal (Scottish High International School) Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Girls: 1. Jhalak Byadwal (Jayshree Periwal Global School); 2. Dhyana Doshi (Aditya Birla World Academy); 3. Nibha Manchal (Sanjay Ghodawat International School). Article Source: IANS
Pavagadh ropeway deaths: Case filed, tech panel formed
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Alert employees foil jewellery showroom robbery in Mahisagar
In Gujarats Mahisagar, section of road leading to historic Mangadh Hill site washed away; car slips into valley The Indian Express
Delegation Appeals for Special Indian Visas for Pakistani Hindu Brides, married to Indian citizens
Sindh Minority Migrants Seek Humanitarian Intervention from Shri Shankarlal Lalwani M.P. (Lok Sabha) A delegation of Pakistani Hindu migrants, currently residing in Gujarat, met Respected Shri Shankarlal Lalwani MP on 23rd July 2025 in New Delhi, submitting a passionate plea for special visa provisions for Pakistani Hindu girls who are married to Indian citizens but [] The post Delegation Appeals for Special Indian Visas for Pakistani Hindu Brides, married to Indian citizens appeared first on World Hindu News .
Gujarat teen suffers kidney failure after custodial arrest, police deny allegations
The family of a 17-year-old Muslim boy in Gujarats Botad district has alleged their son was subjected to sexual and physical abuse during police detention a month ago. Aryan Makhiala worked as a daily wage labourer. After the death of his parents, he became the sole breadwinner of his family, including his grandparents and two Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Show courage, impose 75% tariff on US imports: Kejriwal dares PM Modi
RAJKOT: Aam Aadmi Party's convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show some courage and impose 75 per cent tariff on imports from the US in response to its 50 per cent tariff on Indian exports. At a press conference here, Kejriwal claimed the Centre's decision to exempt 11 per cent duty on cotton imports from the US till December 31, 2025 would hurt the Indian cotton farmers. It will make the US farmers rich and Gujarat cultivators poor, he added. India currently has an import duty exemption for raw cotton until December 31 this year to support the textile industry and lower input costs. Kejriwal said, We demand from the prime minister to show courage, the whole country is standing behind you. America has imposed 50 per cent tariff on exports from India. You impose 75 per cent tariff on imports coming from America, the country is ready to bear it. Just impose it. Then see if Trump bows down or not. He also demanded 11 per cent duty on cotton imported from the US, fixing Minimum Support Price and procurement of cotton at Rs 2,100 per 20 kg, as well as subsidy on fertilizers and seeds to help the Indian farmers. The former Delhi chief minister claimed USA's 50 per cent tariff on India has also affected diamond workers because the Modi government has fallen on its knees in front of President Donald Trump. The Centre last month said its decision to extend the import duty exemption on cotton until December 31 will strengthen India's position in export markets, reviving orders for small and medium enterprises as well as export-oriented units. The move comes at a time when the steep 50 per cent tariffs imposed on Indian goods by the US come into effect, with America being the largest export market for the country's textile and apparel exports. Kejriwal was in Gujarat to attend 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' at Chotila in Surendranagar district, which was adjourned due to heavy rains. When Trump imposed 50 per cent tariff on India, Modi did not increase it in return but reduced it (on cotton imports from the US) by 11 per cent, Kejriwal said and questioned why the PM owed down and became weak. India is the world's biggest market and people here stand behind Modi, the AAP leader pointed out. The whole country is standing behind Modiji. He (Trump) imposed 50 per cent tariff, Modiji should have imposed 100 per cent tariff on cotton. Trump would have had to bow down. Trump is a coward, a timid person. He had to bow down to all countries that defied him. Shut down four American companies and they will be in trouble, he claimed. Due to India's policy decision to remove 11 per cent duty on cotton imported from the US, the produce of Indian farmers will not be sold when they take it to the market in October-November, Kejriwal said. When cotton from the US will arrive (in India), farmers here will get less than Rs 900 in the market. This is what is happening with the farmers -- their (US) farmers are being made rich and the farmers of Gujarat are being made poor, he further claimed. The central government first removed this duty for 40 days - from August 19 to September 30. But now it has been extended and removed till December 31, Kejriwal said. Now, farmers of our country have no way to sell their cotton. The farmer of our country has bought seeds and fertilizers by taking a loan, has paid money to (farm) labourers, now how will he repay the loan? He will have no option left except to commit suicide, the AAP convener claimed. He also questioned India's helplessness in front of America. Under Trump's pressure, our central government forced farmers of the country to commit suicide, by removing the 11 per cent duty, he charged. The other countries on which Trump imposed tariffs responded strongly and the US president had to ow down and remove tariff, but India did not take any action, Kejriwal claimed.
Three Syrians who raised money for Gaza held at Delhi airport
Ahmedabad: Gujarat Police have arrested three fugitive members of a gang of Syrian nationals who allegedly solicited funds from mosques in Gujarat by claiming to aid Gaza war victims, then spent the money lavishly, an official said Sunday. A group of four Syrians had entered India on tourist visas and violated tourist visa rules, an Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gujarat's 2025 monsoon season is marked by extreme weather, including floods and droughts. The IMD has issued warnings to fishermen due to a depression over North Gujarat, forecasting rough seas. Dams are nearing full capacity, while relief efforts continue for those displaced by heavy rainfall, highlighting the monsoon's erratic nature across the state.
Gujarat Weather: IMD Issues Red Alert, Heavy Showers Likely To Continue
IMD issues red alert for Gujarat and Rajasthan as heavy rains cause waterlogging in Subhanpura, Tarsali, Vadsar, and river levels rise. Sanchore in Jalore records 210 mm rainfall.
Gujarat Man Claims He Was Tricked Into Sterilisation And Cheated Of Money
Sabarkantha man alleges sterilization without consent, claims he was lured with 4,000 but never paid. Health dept calls charges false.
School Students Assaulted In Gujarat Hostel, Videos Go Viral
Two students of a private school were allegedly brutally assaulted by their hostel mates in separate incidents in Gujarat's Junagadh city last month, sparking concerns of safety and well-being of students across educational institutes.
There's a Reason Why Shadloui is Called the Showstopper: Sunil Taneja
Speaking exclusively on KBD Live, JioStar expert Sunil Taneja analysed Gujarat Giants all-rounder Nitin Panwars defensive brilliance, Mohammadreza Shadlouis unique outing, Pawan Sehrawats struggles
Gujarat records 102.89% rainfall this monsoon; South region highest at 107.99%: SEOC
Gujarat has experienced a robust monsoon season, with an average rainfall of 102.89 per cent, with the southern region leading at 107.99 per cent. Kaprada received the highest rainfall at 10 inches, while 139 talukas across the state reported significant rainfall. Meanwhile, North India is grappling with severe flooding, with Punjab reporting a rising death toll and submerged villages.
The India Meteorological Department reported a depression over North Gujarat and adjoining Southwest Rajasthan, moving south-southwestwards at 15 kmph. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and other parts of India over the next few days. In Jaipur, two people died after a building collapsed due to incessant rain.
Six labourers die after ropeway cable break causes bogey fall in Gujarats Panchmahal
BJP and RSS victims of wrong media narratives
Shall we start with your entry into films? Though noted filmmaker Ramu Kariat was my uncle, my entry into cinema had nothing to do with that family connection. As a youngster, I did dream of becoming a film director, but my foremost ambition was to join the Army. I tried several routes, like the NDA and SSB, but none worked out. So I joined a company, where I got to do an MBA. Later, I started a company that manufactured phenyl. I was the managing director, representative, cashier, and everything else! During that time, Victor Leenus, who was the correspondent of Blitz, told me about a novel, Vellam, written by N N Pisharody. I read it, and it had a profound effect on me. It was based on the 1960-70 period, when feudalism collapsed and communism emerged. The director in me visualised making it into a film. Victor, however, dissuaded me. I too realised I was not mature enough to direct such a film. I felt that established writers and directors could do justice to the subject. So I met director Hariharan, and he agreed to direct it. I suggested that M T Vasudevan Nair should write the screenplay. I decided to produce the film. My father had given me money for establishing a business, and that amount ended up funding the project. Unfortunately, my first film (Vellam, starring Prem Nazir and Madhu) did not do well commercially. It was mainly due to my inexperience and lack of proper marketing. I still believe it had the potential to be a hit. How did that setback affect you? The financial strain caused by that failure pushed me into acting. Around that time, I came across an advertisement by Devar Films, inviting those who knew martial arts to an audition. Most of my family members were trained in Kalaripayattu, and I had been practising it since the age of 10. So I decided to give it a shot. My motivation was not just love for cinema, but also my financial struggles. Even if I earned just Rs 500, it would have been a big relief at that time. We shot fight sequences without rehearsals. After the shoot, I returned with the team in a van, expecting to be paid. I waited, watching everyone pack up. There was no payment. That was my first film acting experience a small role in a Tamil film with Suman as the hero. We have heard that you were quite active as a student politician with KSU By the time I completed high school, I realised that politics was like the air a nation breathed everyone, in some way, was a politician. There was no politics or protests in my school. But once, when I was in Class 10, my friends and I heard about a protest at the nearby St Thomas Boys High School. Curiosity drove us there. As we neared the gate, there was pandemonium inside: students running, fights breaking out, several being beaten up Near the main gate, I noticed a lean man dressed in white. Though bleeding, he stood firm and guided a lot of students to safety. That scene left a deep impression on me. The next day, I learned it was V M Sudheeran, a Youth Congress leader at that time. He had risked his own safety to protect others. I was impressed by that sincerity and courage. Later, when I entered college, it felt natural to join KSU. At that time, KSU was strong, while SFI was just starting to emerge. I became actively involved in KSU for five years, but never held an official position. It is said that your family had a close rapport with K Karunakaran? Yes. My father was an assistant public prosecutor, and there was once a case involving Karunakaran. Despite being on opposite sides in court, they formed a bond. My father was an exceptionally honest man. I used to tell my mother he wasnt really suited for a lawyers life because he never compromised on integrity. Karunakaran respected that quality. They became close, and he often sought my fathers opinions. When did you decide to pursue acting as a career? To be honest, I always believed I didnt know how to act. I never intended to continue in films. But one day, while shopping at Spencers on Mount Road in Chennai, a bearded man was following me. He introduced himself as an assistant to filmmaker John Abraham, and said he had written a script for an independent, art-house film. Seeing me sporting a beard and kurta, he felt I was perfect for the role. I told him I wasnt interested. Yet, he took my contact details and later even came home to meet me. Meanwhile, my friends lambasted me for rejecting the offer, pointing out that people would queue-up for a role in a John Abraham film. I told them I didnt know how to act. But they encouraged me to give it a try, and thats how I landed my first Malayalam film. My role was of an unemployed rebel, and the story was set in a brick kiln near Aluva. The project, however, stalled midway. But the rushes of that unfinished film changed my path. Subsequently, director Rajasenan and script-writer Tulasidas, who had noticed me during the making of Vellam, offered me the role of a singer, a character modelled somewhat on Yesudas. That was my second film Rajasenans Aagraham, with Menaka as the heroine. Soon after, director Ambili cast me in Ashtapadi. Around that time, Hariharan sir was observing my work. Later, as I did a few smaller films, he advised me not to destroy my career with weak projects. He told me about Amrutham Gamaya, written by MT, and wanted me to play the rich villain opposite Mohanlal. Next, New Delhi came my way. It earned me recognition for my villain role. That marked my transition into negative characters. I followed it up with another villain role in Nair Saab. After back-to-back cruel roles, I took on Minnaminunginte Nurunguvettam, where I got to romance Parvathy. Soon after, I was invited to Telugu cinema. So by then, had you accepted that you were destined for cinema? There was no other way. Moreover, my father was proud that I became a film actor. He had kept a framed photo of mine, from the time of Ekalavyan, on his office table. I got emotional on seeing that. Unlike mothers, fathers are usually not so expressive. My mother used to say that my father often walked out of the theatre towards the end of the film, saying he could not bear to see me getting killed. My mother would also accompany him out. You had the opportunity to collaborate with legends like MT and Hariharan at an early stage, including a film like Aranyakam Aranyakam is one of the best films in my life. The character, though a Naxal, held political views similar to mine. I was asked to grow a beard for the role. I was naturally excited to play a key part in the MT-Hariharan collaboration. But later, I received a call from Hariharan sir, informing me that MT sir doubted whether I could pull off the character, as it was originally written for Mammootty. That left me devastated. Some days later, while I was in Chennai, I received a call asking me to reach Kalpetta by 6am the next day. As soon as I arrived, I was asked to put on the costume and face the camera. It turned out that though Mammootty had agreed to do the role, he got held up with some emergency. Hariharan sir insisted the shoot should proceed, and the role landed on me. Someone working on the film even mocked me, asking how I could possibly play a role that was written for Mammootty. Thats what I call fate if something is meant for us, it will come our way. There is a line in the film that felt true to me: I have lots of books to read. My parents provided me with the opportunity to receive a good education, and I have been fortunate enough to have sufficient financial means to live comfortably. But all these blessings shouldnt be just restricted to me. There is a big community in our country that doesnt have these. MT sir had captured it perfectly. This resonates with my core ideology. In fact, I founded my party in 2004 based on this very thought. To what extent were you able to implement your ideas after launching the party? I have done many things. I made political interventions in issues such as Smart City and the Mullaperiyar Dam. In the Mullaperiyar issue, no other party made such strong representations. I went there and found that the dam wouldnt break. When the case came before the Supreme Court, I always noted certain observations made by the bench. One was: why not come to an amicable settlement? When I investigated, I found that, constitutionally, Tamil Nadu was in the right. Why dont our leaders acknowledge this? The then irrigation minister N K Premachandran had asked me to engage with the Tamil Nadu government. But later, he told me not to, since the prime minister had spoken to the Tamil Nadu chief minister. I told him, You dont know Tamil Nadu politics the way I do. Jayalalithaa wont budge. After the SC verdict, Premachandran again approached me. I went to Tamil Nadu with a solution beneficial to both sides. Jayalalithaa agreed, and an inter-state ministerial meeting was decided upon. But at the last moment, Premachandran backed out, leaving me embarrassed before the Tamil Nadu ministerial team. Similarly, I made a major intervention in the Smart City project. There would have been massive corruption if the Kerala government led by Oommen Chandy had signed the initial agreement with TECOM. I never opposed the project per se as portrayed by some sections of the media, but the agreement especially conditions like freehold lands. The agreement was detrimental to Keralas interests. There has been a change of guard In AMMA. Women have come into leadership. You too contested to the top post. How do you view the shift? I did not involve much in the associations internal affairs for some years, as it was functioning smoothly with Mohanlal as president. I became active again when an ad hoc committee was appointed. I studied the developments. There are issues in the association. One problem is mismanagement, though not deliberate. There is a lack of awareness about how to lead an association. For example, AMMA has faced GST and income tax show-cause notices over the past three years. We owed Rs 2.25 crore in GST and Rs 3.25 crore in income tax. Nobody knew this. When the election was declared, I checked with the department. They said even those who responded to the notices didnt know the nitty-gritty. Officials claim we earned Rs 90 crore from shows. But ours is a social-charitable association. Ninety-five per cent of our funds go to the members welfare. Then the question arises: why havent we registered under 80G (nonprofit category)? Thats why I said it is mismanagement due to lack of awareness. We were probably treating it like a club. Whether the new leadership can solve these issues remains to be seen. They must. I am not part of the leadership team, but if they seek help, I will assist. I dont have ego issues. Such associations need to take strong stands. Did AMMA take one on the Hema Committee and other internal issues? Often, it responds only under public pressure. Have you felt so? Yes. But we can act only if we have power. As an actor, I cannot. But as a politician, I can bring about change. As a member, I feel the new executive committee is off to a good start because they are addressing these issues. And we now have more women eight in the executive committee. What are your views on AMMAs response to past issues like the actress assault case? We have bylaws. In the actress assault case, I strongly said that before expelling someone, we must give them a chance to speak. A show-cause notice must be issued, and the person heard. But nobody was willing to. There was pressure to expel Dileep. In the case of technical issues like taxation, do you believe AMMA could be run better if people with more time to spare are elected to leadership? Yes. But there is a problem. Cinema is a glamorous field. Mohanlal was accepted by everyone. If he goes to someone with an issue, nobody will refuse him. If I go, I may not get the same reception. That is a problem we dont have such a figure now. There were doubts after Mohanlal resigned. I believed that even if he said no to continuing at the helm, he would eventually yield. Thats usually how it used to be. When he says hes quitting, everyone pleads, Laletta, please dont leave, and he would agree to continue. Thats the kind of democracy there not based on voting, but faith. We need someone who can inspire that kind of confidence. You have worked in Tamil, Kannada, and other industries. How is Malayalam different? The Malayalam industry has grown with more exposure. People now have the space to enter without fear. Yes, there are allegations and demands, but not all are practical. Maybe a few untoward incidents happened, but people have misunderstood them. In AMMA, everyone is equal. Earlier, we had strong leaders. I dont know how things will be going forward. During the election, too, there were issues. Matters like the memory card case (regarding an AMMA women members meet that was videographed) are serious. We must stand by the victims. Are you an actor-turned-politician or a politician-turned-actor? I am a politician-turned-actor. As said earlier, I was deeply involved in student politics with strong ideals and a vision for society. I formed the Kerala Peoples Political Party because I was unhappy with the state of affairs here. I am the only actor in Kerala who has dared to form a political party and work directly with people. For this, I have been attacked and my party office ransacked. I survived thanks to martial arts training. In May 2004, I contested elections not only to register my presence but also to gauge peoples pulse. At one point, I was approached by an anti-national group that offered funds and MLAs. I flatly refused. I would never align with such forces. How do you assess Keralas current political scenario? Dismal. Its shapeless, like liquid without form lacking direction or clarity. What we see is utter disarray and chaos. You said you joined the BJP as you found it to be the better option. Within it, do you find space for your ideals? Yes. I didnt simply join I merged my party with the BJP. In 2016, I had a one-on-one meeting with Amit Shah in Delhi, but many of my questions went unanswered. Later, in 2021, I formally merged my party with the BJP. You once said that you would contest in the general election and prove that you could win. Whats your view now? I still believe that. I have time to prove myself. I know the BJP hasnt yet reached a stage where winning a seat would be easy. I joined BJP with the purpose of contributing to its growth. What are your expectations for BJP in the upcoming elections? I see a bright future for the BJP. However, there is still much more work to be done. Personally, I maintain strong connections with people of different religions. I have close ties with the Muslim community and feel welcome in their homes. I also share a good rapport with the Christian community. I follow Sree Narayana Gurus philosophy: One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind. That is Sanatana Dharma for me. I am also deeply inspired by Gurudevans words: One may follow any religion, but whats paramount is to be a good human being. Do you believe the BJP truly follows these ideals? Absolutely. The media has created a wrong narrative about the BJP and the RSS. I have studied the RSS deeply. I firmly believe the RSS is one of the most misinterpreted organisations. The RSS was strongly opposed to Empuraan. What is your opinion? I too am completely against Empuraan. To me, it is anti-national, and I will say this anywhere. The events shown in the film were misleading it was a manipulated narrative. Empuraan showed only one side [of the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat]. Like the media, cinema also has a duty to be truthful. We should not amplify one-sided stories. But doesnt cinema have artistic liberty? Not to the extent of spreading canards especially against India. I am firmly against that. The first thing we all must do is to learn to love India. India is a great nation. And now under Modiji, we have grown strong enough to stand up to global powers. Do you follow social media? Trolls call you Devji... how do you view such memes? I rarely pay attention to such things. Sometimes friends show me. I do appreciate the creativity at times. For instance, I once saw a clip of me speaking passionately, cut abruptly to Mohanlal asking, Vattaanalle? (You are mad, right? dialogue from Kilukkam). That was creative. What are your upcoming projects? I am planning to direct a film. The script is ready. It will be a large-scale, pan-national project.
Gujarat on red alert as IMD warns of torrential rains for two days
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat is bracing for two days of torrential rains as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts. The state government has swung into action, deploying 12 NDRF and 20 SDRF teams across the state, while urging citizens to stay safe, especially during Ganesh Visarjan celebrations and the GPSC examination scheduled for tomorrow. As dark clouds loom over the state, Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi convened an emergency review meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), Gandhinagar, on Saturday, to assess preparedness. With heavy rainfall predicted on September 6 and 7, the IMD has sounded red alerts for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mehsana, and Surendranagar districts on Saturday, and in Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana, and Kutch for Sunday. Meanwhile, orange alerts have been issued in Patan, Gandhinagar, Morbi, Rajkot, and Botad. During the high-level meeting, attended by Additional Chief Secretary Jayanti Ravi and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey, district collectors were directed via video conference to stay on high alert. Joshi ordered round-the-clock presence of officials at district headquarters and directed them to monitor water levels in dams, release excess water when needed, and warn low-lying villages in advance. With large crowds expected for Ganesh Visarjan, the Chief Secretary emphasised strict crowd management near immersion sites. Ensure safe immersion by keeping people away from dangerous water bodies, Joshi instructed, highlighting the dual challenge of heavy rains and mass gatherings. The upcoming GPSC examination also came under focus, with orders issued to strengthen security and maintain vigilance at all exam centers. Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF deployment will be reinforced in red-alert districts, and an additional NDRF team has been kept on standby in Vadodara. The review also saw coordination with multiple departments, including Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, Energy, Health, Panchayat, Urban Development, Irrigation, and Roads, to ensure readiness for any emergency situation. So far, Gujarat has received 98% of its seasonal average rainfall, and the next 48 hours could prove crucial as authorities race to prevent floods, ensure public safety, and maintain order amid natures fury.
Bodies of all missing workers found at Mahisagar power plant
Ropeways on Pavagadh have history of accidents
Two MSU scientists appointed to roll of scientific advisers
Six killed as Pavagadh ropeway crashes after cable snaps on hill
Constable dies of heart attack at Anand police station
Six Dead As Cargo Ropeway's Wire Snaps At Pavagadh Hill In Gujarat
The incident at Pavagadh Hill, which is famous for the Mahakalika Temple at the summit, occurred around 3pm
6 Killed After Cable Wire Of Cargo Ropeway Snaps At Pavagadh Hill In Gujarat
Six persons died after the cable wire of a cargo ropeway snapped at Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat's Panchmahal district on Saturday, officials said.
Delhi: Ramlila cards honouring army, air force, navy to replace Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman depictions
The Lav Kush Ramlila at Red Fort will showcase a Somnath Mandir replica. Invitation cards will feature the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The Ramlila will use LED lights, 3D projection, and light shows. Political leaders and actors will participate. Artists from Gujarat, Kashi, Rajasthan, and Mathura-Vrindavan are working on the set.
Ropeway Snaps At Pavagadh Hill Temple In Gujarat; 6 Killed | Video
Six people died after a cargo ropeway trolley collapsed at Shaktipeeth on Pavagadh Hill, Panchmahal. Victims included residents from Kashmir and Rajasthan.
Gujarat: 6 Die As Cargo Ropeway Wire Snaps at Pavagadh Hill Temple
The temple is situated at a height of around 800 metres, with pilgrims either choosing to climb some 2000 steps or use cable cars to reach the summit
Gujarat tragedy: 6 dead after cargo ropeway cable snaps near Pavagadh Hill temple; rescue ops on
Gujarat tragedy: 6 dead after cargo ropeway cable snaps near Pavagadh Hill temple; rescue ops on Times of India
Gujarat: Cargo ropeway at Pavagadh Hill temple breaks down, leaving 6 dead
Six people died after a trolley carrying construction material for the ropeway broke down at the Pavagadh Hill temple in Panchmahal district of Gujarat, according to local police. The incident occurred when a cable wire of the cargo ropeway snapped, causing the trolley's fall.
Surat lawyer who once represented Rahul Gandhi dies by suicide after leaving cryptic call
AHMEDABAD: Gujarats Surat city was left stunned when senior lawyer and former Surat Congress legal convener, Advocate Feroz Pathan, died by suicide by jumping into the Tapi river late on Thursday night. Battling depression due to family disputes and financial troubles, the prominent lawyer, who had once represented Rahul Gandhi, left behind a phone call before taking the extreme step. His body was recovered from Ubharat beach early on Friday morning. Surats legal fraternity woke up in shock on Friday after the tragic death of Advocate Feroz Pathan, a well-known lawyer and former legal convener of the Congress party. Feroz, who once represented Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, ended his life by jumping off the cable bridge into the Tapi river at around 11 pm on Thursday night. Hours before his death, Feroz made a disturbing phone call to his junior lawyer, Deepak, cryptically saying, If anything happens to me, come to the bridge near the court. Alarmed, Deepak tried to comfort him and asked if he was in the office. Feroz calmly replied that he was. But when Deepak rushed there, he found the office empty. Worried, Deepak called Ferozs son and headed towards the cable bridge, only to find a crowd gathered near the river. A sight awaited them, Ferozs car was parked under the bridge, confirming their worst fears. Police and family members were immediately alerted, and the fire department launched a night-long search in the strong currents of the Tapi. By early morning, their grim hunt ended when Ferozs body was found washed up on Ubharat beach, miles away from where he had jumped. According to friends, Feroz had been battling depression for months, weighed down by domestic disputes, property loans and crushing financial problems. These personal struggles had reportedly pushed him into a dark mental state. The tragic incident occurred on the day of Eid Milad, adding a layer of sorrow to an already heartbreaking event. His death has plunged Surats legal circle and his grieving family into deep mourning. Police are investigating further, while the legal community remembers Feroz as a sharp lawyer whose life ended in a tragic turn of despair.
Six dead as wire of cargo ropeway snaps at Pavagadh Hill temple in Gujarat
Tragedy struck Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat. A cargo ropeway cable snapped. This unfortunate incident led to the death of six people. The accident occurred in the Panchmahal district. Police and fire brigade teams promptly responded. They initiated rescue and relief operations at the site. The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination. It attracts millions of visitors annually.
Pavagadh Ropeway Disaster Goods Cable Snaps, 6 Killed | Gujarat News | Ropeway Accident | News18
| Tragedy in Pavagadh, Gujarat: Goods ropeway cable snaps, 6 killed in major mishap n18oc_india News18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Gujarat on high alert as IMD predicts extreme rainfall; red alert in six districts
AHMEDABAD: Gujarat is bracing for two days of torrential rains as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts. The state government has swung into action, deploying 12 NDRF and 20 SDRF teams across the state, while urging citizens to stay safe, especially during Ganesh Visarjan celebrations and the GPSC examination scheduled for tomorrow. Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi convened an emergency review meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), Gandhinagar on Saturday, to assess preparedness. With heavy rainfall predicted on September 6 and 7, the IMD has sounded red alerts today for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mehsana, and Surendranagar districts. Red alert has been issued for Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana, and Kutch for tomorrow. Meanwhile, orange alerts have been issued in Patan, Gandhinagar, Morbi, Rajkot, and Botad. During the high-level meeting, attended by Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Jayanti Ravi and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey, district collectors were directed via video conference to stay on high alert. Joshi ordered round-the-clock presence of officials at district headquarters and directed them to monitor water levels in dams, release excess water when needed, and warn low-lying villages in advance. With large crowds expected for Ganesh Visarjan, the Chief Secretary emphasised strict crowd management near immersion sites. Ensure safe and smooth immersion by keeping citizens away from dangerous water bodies, Joshi instructed, highlighting the dual challenge of heavy rains and mass gatherings. The upcoming GPSC examination also came under focus, with orders issued to strengthen security and maintain vigilance at all exam centres. Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF deployment will be reinforced in red-alert districts, and an additional NDRF team has been kept on standby in Vadodara. The review also saw coordination with multiple departments, including Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, Energy, Health, Panchayat, Urban Development, Irrigation, and Roads, to ensure readiness for any emergency situation. So far, Gujarat has received 98% of its seasonal average rainfall, and the next 48 hours could prove crucial as authorities race to prevent floods, ensure public safety, and maintain order amid natures fury.
Kejriwal to begin Gujarat visit, address farmers' rally in Chotila on Sunday
Three engineering students killed, eight injured as SUV overturns on Gujarat highway
RAJKOT: Three students from an engineering college were killed and eight others sustained injuries after their SUV overturned on a highway in Gujarat's Rajkot district on Saturday, police said. The accident occurred near Jangvad village in Jasdan taluka around 1.30 am, when a group of students was travelling to Diu, an official said. The deceased were identified as Naresh Kodavati (19), Mothi Harsha (17) and Afrid Syed (17), all hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Inspector R S Sakaria of Atkot police station said. A group of 12 students from RK University in Rajkot were travelling to the coastal town of Diu in a rented SUV for a holiday, he said. One of the students who was driving lost control of the vehicle at a bend, causing it to overturn on the state highway and killing three occupants, the official said. Of the eight injured students, two sustained fractures and were discharged after treatment, the official said, adding that the bodies of the deceased were shifted to Rajkot civil hospital for postmortem.
3 Engineering Students From AP killed, 8 Injured as SUV Overturns on Gujarat Highway
The accident occurred near Jangvad village in Jasdan taluka around 1.30 am, when a group of students was travelling to Diu
CM meets diplomats in Delhi, says connectivity key strength of Gujarat
NEW DELHI: Gujarat has established itself as a hub of robust global connectivity by attracting $69 billion in FDI and contributing 27% to Indias exports, CM Bhupendra Patel has said. Patel made the observation while interacting with diplomats and heads of missions in New Delhi as a prelude to the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC). The event was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, and representatives from about 45 nations. In this session, the CM said, Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, which began in 2003, has grown into a resounding success. By providing policy-driven governance, an investor-friendly environment, and well-structured infrastructure, the state has become the best destination for foreign investors. The CM emphasised that connectivity and the industrial ecosystem are the states strengths. With the countrys longest coastline, 49 ports, and a multimodal transport network under PM Gati Shakti, it has secured a leading position in logistics and exports. It contributes 18% to the countrys industrial output, he said. Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division of the Ministry of External Affairs said, The VGRCs are an important step following the success of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit and will serve as a platform to showcase regional strengths and promote grassroots development.
Shobini G, final-year undergraduate student The first thing that comes to mind when I think of my guru, Binesh Mahadevan is his performances. On stage, his emotions feel so real that the audience is drawn in instantly. But what always stood out to me was his attention to dressing and accessorising. At every Arangetram or performance, his bracelets and unique accessories caught my eye, setting him apart even when others were equally dressed up. His style carried a sharpness and elegance that made him memorable, and it quietly taught me to value simplicity and grace in how I present myself. A moment Ill never forget was during my Arangetram practice in 2017, when he told me that if I worked hard enough, my efforts would outshine any flaws. His words and his fashion sense have guided me since my school days, both on stage and beyond. JB Brittina Jaden, final-year undergraduate student When I think of Pushpa Rani Miss from school, the first image is always her accessories. She blended her Gujarati roots with the simplicity of Tamil style in such a graceful way. I can still hear the soft jingle of her bangles, imagine the neatly chosen earrings that matched every sari, and picture the tiny bindis that added character to her face. What stood out the most were her big, oxidised rings, each specially made in Gujarat. They werent just ornaments but pieces of her heritage she carried every day, bold yet completely her own. While other teachers kept their look simple, her rings always caught the light and our attention, especially when she gestured while teaching. Through her, I learned something bigger to embrace my roots and carry them proudly, letting them be a part of who I am. Madhumitha D, professor at a private institution The first image that comes to mind when I think of one of my favourite school teachers is her perfectly-draped sari, subtle accessories, and a calm, confident presence. Even on the busiest mornings, she never appeared rushed her style carried a sense of consistency that became part of her identity as much as her teaching. What made her fashion sense stand out wasnt extravagance, but thoughtfulness. Graceful, neat, and approachable, she balanced professionalism with warmth. Small details a watch, simple jewellery, the way she tied her hair showed us that being disciplined and presentable didnt mean being dull. Her style reflected her personality, teaching us silent lessons in confidence and self-respect. Today, when I prepare for presentations or interviews, I remember her. For us, her fashion sense became more than appearance; it was presence, a symbol of consistency, confidence, and care. Nivedhitha R, teacher at an NGO In college, Niveda maam stood out instantly. With her sari and simple bun, she carried herself so calmly that her fashion felt comforting, almost like a friend rather than a teacher. What made her unique was that her style wasnt about perfection sometimes her messy hair or floating sari pleats made her look different and cute, breaking the stereotype of teachers always being perfectly traditional. At the same time, she had a knack for looking pretty and eye-catching every day, with makeup, accessories, and neatly styled saris that never felt monotonous. While other staff often looked the same, she brought variety and freshness in her appearance. Personally, she made me realise that dressing up is about effort and expression, not just rules. Now, as a teacher myself, I see that students respect how you treat them more than what you wear. Meghanand S, final-year undergraduate student When I think of my Data Science visiting professor, the first thing that comes to mind is the way she carried herself. She wasnt flashy or loud, but she had a presence that made every student turn toward her the moment she walked in. Her style was simple and professional, but on the days she wore a saree, she looked so graceful that it felt like the attire was made for her. What impressed me most wasnt the clothes, but how her confidence and calmness gave those clothes meaning. She taught me that style is not just about fashion choices, but about the aura you bring into a space. To us, she wasnt just a teacher but someone whose presence itself became a statement a queen in her own classroom.
Urban Company IPO Date, Review, Price, Allotment Details - IPO Watch
Urban Company IPO Date, Review, Price, Allotment Details IPO Watch
22 river monitoring stations record severe flood situation: CWC
New Delhi: The Central Water Commission on Friday warned of widespread flooding across several states, with 22 river monitoring stations reporting severe flood situation and 23 others above normal water levels. According to the daily flood situation report, eight stations each in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and one each in Gujarat, Delhi, Jharkhand, Odisha, Rajasthan []
Contradictions spark new row over ex-MSU VCs PhD
50 villages in Anand, Narmada on alert as rivers swell
House collapse kills sleeping 70-year-old man
3.4 MT material used for each pothole, reveals VMC data
Heavy police deployment for Ganesh immersions in old city
Four hydel plant workers still not found
