Andhra CM Naidu meets PM Modi, raises key development issues of state
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and raised several key issues concerning the development of the state. Naidu also briefed the prime minister on the major development projects in Andhra Pradesh, its economic situation, and issues relating to agriculture and irrigation. Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Chandrababu Naidu, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the prime minister's office posted on X. Congratulating Modi on completing 25 years as head of government, Naidu praised him for the rare achievement of serving the nation and lauded his inspirational leadership as both chief minister of Gujarat and the prime minister, an Andhra Pradesh government statement said. On irrigation, Naidu discussed the latest status of the Polavaram project and detailed the benefits of linking the Godavari and Cauvery rivers. He said the Godavari-Cauvery river-linking project would ensure adequate water availability to the southern stat
Arnav Bugga Stars As Delhi U19 Pull Off Thrilling Chase Against Gujarat In Vinoo Mankad Trophy
The Delhi U19 Men: The Delhi U19 Men's Cricket Team started off their Vinoo Mankad Trophy 2026 campaign in style with a win against Gujarat in their opening encounter. The team delivered a masterclass, completing a spectacular and hard-fought victory against the Gujarat U-19 Men's Cricket Team. In what ended up being a high-scoring thriller, Delhi successfully chased down a massive target, reaching 341/7 in 49.5 overs. Batting first, Gujarat set a daunting total, finishing their innings at 338/6. Despite the challenging conditions for the fielding side, Delhi's bowling attack found a standout performer in Varun Vanjani, who delivered a disciplined spell, taking two wickets for 36 runs in 10 overs. Chasing a stiff target, the Delhi lineup responded with a fantastic team effort. The fighting chase was anchored by a phenomenal innings from Arnav Bugga, who dismantled the opposition bowling to top-score with 139 runs. He found exceptional support at the other end from Aaryan Sharma, who played a crucial supporting role with a brilliant 77-run knock. Aryavir Sehwag also contributed vital runs to the chase, with a half-century to keep Delhi firmly in the hunt, the DDCA informed in a release on Thursday. Speaking after Delhi U19's win, Rohan Jaitley, President of the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), said: This outstanding victory by our U-19 team is a moment of great pride for DDCA. Chasing such a big total reflects not just talent, but the robust youth development system we have built. The composure shown by Arnav, Aaryan and Aryavir under pressure is a testament to our grassroots programmes and reaffirms our mission to nurture the next generation of Delhi cricketers. Aryavir Sehwag also contributed vital runs to the chase, with a half-century to keep Delhi firmly in the hunt, the DDCA informed in a release on Thursday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gujarat: Sabarmati station redevelopment nears completion
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 8 (IANS) The redevelopment of Sabarmati Railway Station has reached an advanced stage, with around 85 per cent of the Rs 335-crore project completed, as the station is being developed as a multimodal transport hub with links to the metro and the high-speed rail station. The redevelopment by Western Railway is aimed at upgrading passenger facilities, improving movement and accessibility, introducing smart-building systems and creating infrastructure to handle the growing passenger footfall at the station. The redeveloped station will have an integrated smart-building system comprising Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Building Management System (BMS), along with integrated CCTV surveillance, public address systems, access control, IT networking and a Passenger Information System. The latter will provide real-time information on train timings, arrivals, departures and other passenger-related information. The project includes 28 lifts and 28 escalators. The lifts will have Braille facilities, guide and warning tiles, and directional signage. Disability-friendly ticket counters, Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) and drinking water facilities will also be provided. Separate arrival and departure zones are being developed at the station, along with dedicated parking facilities for two-wheelers, cars, autos and buses and EV charging facilities. The passenger concourse will include waiting areas, toilets, baby-care rooms for women and children, commercial facilities and cafeterias. Connectivity between platforms and the concourse will be provided through lifts, stairs and escalators. Three foot-over-bridges (FOBs) are being provided at Sabarmati BG station and three at Sabarmati (SBT) station. The redevelopment includes seven platforms at Sabarmati BG and three at Sabarmati (SBT). Platforms will have through-roof covering, while skylights have been proposed to make better use of natural light. Currently, 19 trains originate from Sabarmati Railway Station, and 22 trains pass through it, with more than 35,000 passengers using the station every day. The roof of Sabarmati (SBI) station is around 20 metres high, while the station premises from the Ahmedabad-side FOB to the Delhi-side FOB cover more than 3.2 million square feet. A two-storey holding area spread across around 86,000 square feet is also being developed, with each floor covering approximately 43,000 square feet. It will have the capacity to accommodate 10,000 passengers and is intended to help manage crowds during periods of heavy passenger movement, including festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Chhath Puja and travel towards religious destinations. The holding area will have seating, drinking water, refreshment centres and separate toilets for men, women and persons with disabilities. A Rapido Travellers Lounge has also been established at the station, offering a dedicated passenger lounge, connectivity with almost zero waiting time and on-ground assistance. The project also incorporates environmental measures, with the station planned as an IGBC Gold-rated green building. A 1,300-kilowatt solar power plant has been proposed on the station premises. A key component of the redevelopment is its planned connectivity with Sabarmati Metro, AEC Metro and the high-speed rail station, enabling interchange between different modes of transport. Several works have entered the final stage. The east wing of the main station building is largely complete, with UTS, PRS and ticket counters already operational. The waiting area has also been shifted to the east wing, while its lifts and escalators are operational.
25 years of Sewa: Narendra Modi
Jagdish Sewhani October 7 marks an extraordinary milestone in the public life of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Twenty-five years ago, on October 7, 2001, he took oath as Chief Minister of Gujarat. What began that day has become one of the most remarkable journeys in contemporary Indian public life first leading Gujarat and, since []
The Gym Jihad controversy has erupted in Gujarat after police arrested a gym owner in Surendranagar following a raid that reportedly uncovered more than 1,300 photographs and videos involving women. The seizure has raised disturbing questions about privacy, surveillance and the alleged misuse of personal images, while investigators work to determine how the material was [] The post Gym Jihad Shock in Gujarat appeared first on Tfipost.com .
QR Code Key To Arrest In Mad Sandhu Murder Case
Punjab Police, in a joint operation with Gujarat Police, arrested Parminder alias Kaka, the main shooter in the murder of social media influencer Mad Sandhu, after tracking him via a QR code. Five other individuals, including the shooter's brother, were also apprehended. The murder, which occurred on October 3, was claimed by foreign-based gangster Goldy Dhillon.
Unintentional errors can be rectified; deliberate mistakes wont be tolerated: Gujarat CM
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 8 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday said deliberate mistakes in road and infrastructure works would not be tolerated, while calling for strict adherence to tender procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain quality. Patel was speaking at the inauguration of the first two-day Chintan Shibir of the state Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department in Gandhinagar, organised around the theme Gati-Gunvatta-Gaurav Accelerating Infrastructure for Viksit Gujarat 2047. Unintentional errors can be rectified, but deliberate mistakes will not be tolerated, the Chief Minister said, stressing that there should be no compromise on the quality of work. He called for particular attention to the tender process, adherence to SOPs and timely completion of projects through collective efforts. The Chief Minister said the R&B Department was a key department of the state government as its work on roads, bridges and other infrastructure directly benefits citizens. He noted that people were quick to raise concerns when shortcomings were found in such works, making it important for the department to ensure that the best possible work was delivered. Referring to the tradition of Chintan Shibirs initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2003, Patel said: Coming together is the beginning, thinking together is progress, and working together is success. The continued Chintan Shibir process is aligned with the spirit of Main Nahin, Hum and the goal of Swayam thi Vyam. Patel also urged officials to use the exercise for self-reflection and said deliberation could bring positive changes in personal life as well as in official functioning. He expressed his resolve to keep Gujarat at the forefront of efforts towards the Prime Ministers vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. He urged officials to work towards Viksit Gujarat for Viksit Bharat through sustainable development. At the inaugural session, the Chief Minister released publications on Building Health Monitoring and Bridge Asset Management and felicitated engineers and officials for outstanding performance based on the Governance Performance Index (GPI). The R&B Department maintains and repairs a road network of 1.29 lakh km, more than 11,000 bridges and government buildings across villages and cities. Under the 'Mukhyamantri Gram Sadak Yojana', it covers more than 18,000 villages and 14,000 hamlets. Chief Secretary M K Das described the department as a key driver of Gujarats development and said it also played an important role during disasters and emergencies. Referring to the historical and mythological significance of roads and bridges, he cited Maharaja Prithu, described in the Shrimad Bhagavata Purana as the first to build level roads, the Ram Setu mentioned in the Ramayana, the Grand Trunk Road built by Sher Shah Suri and roadside amenities as examples of the enduring role of road infrastructure in public service. The departments budget had increased from Rs 12,000 crore to Rs 30,000 crore in a short period. Achieving the 'Viksit Gujarat @ 2047' goal and a USD 3.5 trillion economy would require 11 times more construction work over the next 20 years than had been undertaken in previous centuries, he said. He stressed the need for faster, stronger and high-quality roads to meet rising traffic requirements. He called for a from the ground up approach, greater field presence and accountability among contractors. He also urged participants to deliberate openly and prepare a clear Action Plan for 2047. R&B Secretary P R Patelia said the Chintan Shibir is intended to go beyond routine departmental functioning by encouraging self-reflection and exploring innovative ideas and technologies to achieve the goal of Viksit Gujarat @ 2047 Fast, Safe and Sustainable Infrastructure. Measures including the GPI for officials, Performance-Based Rating for contractors and the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) system had been introduced to improve transparency and efficiency. The timeline for tender approvals had also been shortened to speed up implementation, he added.
Ex-Gujarat CM Vaghela says party needs early candidates, stronger grassroot connect
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 8 (IANS) Nearly three decades after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) first came to power in Gujarat, veteran politician and former Chief Minister Shankersinh Vaghela said on Thursday that the Congress can come to power in the state only if it starts preparing its candidates and reconnecting with voters much ahead of the 2027 state polls. In an interview with IANS, Vaghela, who is in talks with the Congress over a possible return to the party, said the Opposition needed to move beyond last-minute ticket distribution and build a sustained grassroots campaign centred on candidates who were known and trusted by voters. I am saying at least six months should be given to a candidate, Vaghela said, noting that early selection would reduce the scramble for tickets and give prospective candidates time to establish themselves in their Assembly constituencies. His prescription for the Congress is rooted in what he describes as a lack of human touch in public life. A candidate, he said, should regularly meet people, understand their problems and remain present during difficult times rather than appearing only during an election. Public life has a lack of human touch, he said, adding that voters should be able to recall a candidate who stood by them during a medical emergency, helped with a child's education or supported a family in distress. Vaghela's assessment comes as he holds discussions with senior Congress leaders over returning to the party he left in 2017. He has already held talks with Congress state in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala and other state leaders. Gujarat Congress President Amit Chavda subsequently confirmed that discussions with Vaghela were underway. In the IANS interview, Vaghela said the latest discussions were recent and that there was no bitterness in his relationship with the Congress. He also ruled out seeking an organisational post or personal political position if he returned, saying his focus would be the 2027 election and defeating the BJP in Gujarat. My only condition was to replace the BJP government in the state. My present political outfit, the Praja Shakti Democratic Party, would not be brought into an alliance arrangement if the Congress talks materialise. Instead, the party could be merged into the Congress, with a single party and symbol, if an agreement was reached, he confirmed. The proposed return would mark another turn in a political career that has repeatedly crossed party lines. Born in Vasan in Gandhinagar district in 1940, Vaghela began his political career with the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and later became a prominent BJP leader. He was elected to the Lok Sabha from Kapadvanj in 1977 and subsequently served in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha from Gujarat. Parliament records show that he was elected to the Lok Sabha multiple times and served as Union Textiles Minister from 2004 to 2009. Vaghela broke ranks with the BJP in 1996 and formed the Rashtriya Janata Party. With Congress support, he became Gujarat Chief Minister in October 1996, serving until October 1997. His party subsequently merged with the Congress, beginning another major phase of his political career. He later served as Gujarat Congress President and became Leader of Opposition in the Assembly. He left the Congress in July 2017 after a bitter fallout with the party leadership and subsequently pursued other political formations, including the Jan Vikalp Morcha and the Nationalist Congress Party. His latest political vehicle, the Praja Shakti Democratic Party (PSDP), was formally announced in 2024 after an earlier Praja Shakti initiative. Vaghela had said the party was intended to provide an alternative political platform in Gujarat. Yet, despite having his own party, Vaghela now says that the larger political objective is to defeat the BJP, which has governed Gujarat continuously since 1998. He believes the Congress still has an opportunity if it begins preparing early and develops credible local leadership. He pointed to what he sees as a leadership vacuum created when senior Congress leaders moved to the BJP, saying that the party should identify replacements before vacancies emerge. Workers should be promoted on the basis of trust and sustained work rather than merely being considered when an election approaches, he told IANS. Vaghela also sees a wider political opening ahead of 2027. He said the Congress should focus on taking its organisation back to the grassroots and making voters feel that the party belongs to them. He predicted that, if the Congress maintained its current momentum among workers through the 2027 campaign, the BJP would no longer be in government in the state by the end of the election. I think with full confidence that there will be no BJP government here, he said.
2nd T20: 'Now Much More Mature', Says Kotak As He Backs Kishan To Deliver On Home Turf In Ranchi
T20 World Cup: Having worked closely with Ishan Kishan for a long period, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak appreciated the local lad's growth as a much more mature and tactical match-winner ahead of India's second T20I against West Indies, set to happen at the JSCA Ground in Ranchi on Friday. Originally from Patna, Kishan plays domestic cricket for Jharkhand and is having a dream run in the shortest format leading the run-making charts by amassing 1042 runs in 30 innings and becoming a T20 World Cup winner. As a batting coach, whichever ground Ishan plays in, he considers it his home ground. Actually, when he came back after the World Cup, he has been doing really well for the Indian team in any situation. When he was young, I saw him when I worked in the IPL, where he was in the Gujarat Lions setup. But even then, he used to play aggressively. If anything, I would say that he is much more mature now. So, he plays according to the needs of the team and the situation of the team, and he has been doing really well. So, we just hope that he does well on his home ground, Kotak said in the pre-match press conference. Reiterating India's approach of an unrelenting and high-intensity version of playing the game, Kotak said that the pitch conditions in Ranchi will not impact the team's attacking approach. I think the way we are approaching with the fearless and team-first approach - that's the same way we'll go. No matter, it might be a different wicket also, but in T20s generally we get a good wicket. So, that'll be the same thing; the way we want to approach the T20s, we'll continue. I think it's a good batting wicket. So, it should be a high-scoring pitch. The team has not decided yet. So, I don't know. Chances are for everyone in 15 to be in the 11, he added. On managing the workload and rotation of stars such as Jasprit Bumrah, who has been rested from the series, Kotak said that while it does impact results, overall the team's strong bench strength helps to ensure that a balanced squad is maintained at all times to prepare for multiple international events. Obviously, because, see, some games we are not playing, and Bumrah has been given a rest. In some games, some other senior players are also not playing. So, obviously any team in the world will require bench strength, and somewhere and somewhere you have to give them chances. So, sometimes results do suffer, but normally I think we have enough strong bench strength that our results also don't suffer as much, he added. Commenting on the issues raised regarding young pace bowler Mayank Yadav's performance in the first game, where his batting returns were expensive, Kotak felt he will bounce back strongly. See, Mayank also played here after playing in Zimbabwe. Any bowler will feel that it will take certain matches to get rhythm. Obviously, any bowler or bowling coach and team management will think about where they gave runs or where the runs go or in which particular bowls did the runs go and then think of how they can cut off, whether it is length or pace or change of pace. So, that is a non-stop work that is going on, he said. Expanding on the issue of balancing the need for victories with nurturing young talent, Kotak praised the healthy pool of competitive players available for selection across multiple squads. To tell you the truth, when you test players and if you win, then it continues. If you lose, there is a very thin line between keeping that balance. But obviously, we try to do that because of the promising players that we have, the way the BCCI and CoE run, our bench strength; if two or three of our teams go, it looks strong. Expanding on the issue of balancing the need for victories with nurturing young talent, Kotak praised the healthy pool of competitive players available for selection across multiple squads. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gujarat Cracks Down on Illegal Drug Sales, Revokes Licenses of Four Companies
Gujarats FDCA has permanently revoked licenses of four companies for illegal drug sales, including codeine-based cough syrup and tramadol. Gujarat Cracks Down on Illegal Drug Sales, Revokes Licenses of Four Companies
Tremor hits Maharashtra's Palghar near Gujarat-Dadra and Nagar Haveli border
Gujarat govt plans Rs 100-crore marine biotech corridor in Porbandar
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 8 (IANS) The Gujarat government has proposed a Rs 100-crore investment over five years to establish a Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor (M-BRIC) at Mocha village in Porbandar district, bringing marine research, biomanufacturing, startups and coastal livelihood programmes under a single ecosystem. The proposed project, an initiative of the Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission (GSBTM) under the Department of Science and Technology, is intended to develop the state's marine biological resources into high-value products and support technology-driven industries along the Gujarat coast. A memorandum of understanding will be signed between GSBTM and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSIR-CSMCRI) for establishing M-BRIC in the presence of Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia and Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Cooperation, and Animal Husbandry Minister Jitu Vaghani. Mocha has been identified as the principal hub, with a proposed 30-acre ecosystem comprising research facilities, industrial infrastructure, field demonstration areas, processing facilities, and incubation support. Specialised activities and partnerships could also extend across the Saurashtra region and the wider Gujarat coastline. The proposed corridor will cover the marine biotechnology value chain, from exploration of marine biodiversity and scientific research to technology development, pilot-scale validation, industrial scale-up and commercialisation. The resources being considered include seaweeds, microalgae, marine microorganisms and saline ecosystems. The government plans to explore applications including biofertilisers, biostimulants, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, aquafeed, animal nutrition products, enzymes, biosurfactants, pharmaceutical intermediates and marine-derived biomaterials. Seaweed-derived agar, alginate and carrageenan are also among the substances proposed for value addition. A dedicated seaweed-processing cluster is planned at Mocha with facilities for receiving raw material, washing, pre-processing, extraction, drying, powdering, packaging, storage and quality control. The ecosystem is also expected to include a state-level seaweed brood bank supplying elite planting material of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Gracilaria dura. Marine microalgal biofactories are proposed to produce omega-3 fatty acids and other high-value bioactive compounds, while an integrated seaweed biorefinery would focus on phycocolloids, biostimulants and other value-added products. Research facilities are planned for marine bioprospecting, genomics, microbiology, natural products, and biotechnology development. Incubation facilities and pilot-scale bioprocessing and biomanufacturing infrastructure would support startups and entrepreneurs in moving technologies from laboratories towards commercial applications. The proposed ecosystem would also assist with prototype development, technology validation, intellectual property protection, regulatory assessment, licensing, technology transfer and industry partnerships. CSIR-CSMCRI has been identified as a key scientific knowledge partner, with expertise in seaweed biotechnology, marine bioproducts, saline agriculture, halophytes, bioprocessing and technology transfer. Microalgal biorefineries are also proposed at salt-pan facilities associated with CSIR-CSMCRI in Bhavnagar. The project also envisages capacity-building programmes under the Seaweed Mission for coastal youth, seaweed farmers, fishing communities, women-led enterprises, MSMEs, entrepreneurs, students and industry professionals. Training would cover areas such as seaweed cultivation, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, genomics, bioinformatics, marine diagnostics, natural products, bioprocessing, environmental monitoring, entrepreneurship, intellectual property and technology commercialisation. Environmental monitoring, biodiversity assessment and environmental impact assessment are proposed as part of the ecosystem, alongside responsible utilisation of marine genetic resources. The project also envisages research on Blue Carbon and climate-resilient coastal development, including monitoring of seaweed and coastal ecosystems. The corridor is being developed in alignment with Gujarat's biotechnology ecosystem, the BioE3 framework, India's Blue Economy priorities and the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.
SEA elects Angshu Mallick as its President
He headed Dhara operations at the National Dairy Development Board and held various responsibilities across sales, marketing, distribution and exports at the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation
Gujarati Oondhiyu: The Forgotten Village-Style Preparations Behind the Famous Dish
Gujarati cuisine is celebrated for its remarkable ability to create complex flavours from seasonal vegetables, grains, pulses, spices, and fresh herbs. Among its most recognizable dishes, Oondhiyu occupies a particularly important place. Often associated with winter, festivals, family gatherings, and the culinary identity of southern Gujarat, Oondhiyu is generally known today as an elaborate mixed-vegetable [] The post Gujarati Oondhiyu: The Forgotten Village-Style Preparations Behind the Famous Dish appeared first on FoodNosher.Com .
Gujarat Police Marks 2026 Out - Check PSI Wireless
GPRB has activated the marks check for PSI (Wireless) and Technical Operator (Advt. GPRB/202526/2), written exam held on 23 August 2026. Check the direct link, login details, last date to view marks (15 October 2026) and step-by-step instructions.
OPINION | Why do people elect Modi again and again?
Narendra Modi has set a new record. On October 7, 2026, he completed 25 years as head of governments in Gujarat and Centre. Modi said, for me, mission is bigger than ambition... I live for...
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Akie Abe, wife of late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in New Delhi on Thursday and expressed appreciation for her continued association with India. PM Modi described Shinzo Abe as a dear friend and a visionary leader who played a defining role in elevating bilateral ties to new heights. He welcomed the inauguration of the Abe Memorial Corridor at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi, calling it as a fitting tribute to Shinzo Abe's lasting contribution to ties between India and Japan. Pleased to meet Mrs. Akie Abe, wife of late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Deeply value her enduring association with India. Abe San was a dear friend and a visionary leader who played a defining role in elevating India-Japan relations to new heights, PM Modi posted on X. The inauguration of the Abe Memorial Corridor at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Varanasi yesterday is a fitting tribute to his lasting contribution to India-Japan friendship, he added. The 'Abe Memorial Corridor', a memorial site for India-Japan friendship and cultural ties, was inaugurated in Varanasi on Wednesday in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Akie Abe. Yogi Adityanath described the Abe Memorial Corridor as a living symbol of Shinzo Abe's contributions to strengthening the historical, cultural, and diplomatic relations between India and Japan. Today, in the dignified presence of Mrs. Akie Abe, the wife of the late former Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Shinzo Abe, the 'Abe Memorial Corridor' a vibrant memorial site for India-Japan friendship and cultural ties was inaugurated in Varanasi, Yogi Adityanath posted on X. This Memorial Corridor is a living symbol of Mr. Shinzo Abe's contributions to strengthening the historical, cultural, and diplomatic relations between India and Japan. On behalf of the Hon'ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and 140 crore Indians, humble tributes to him, he added. Former Japanese PM Abe had made immense contributions to elevate India-Japan relations to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. His association with PM Modi went back many years, having known the Indian PM since his long stint as Gujarat Chief Minister. India had announced a one-day national mourning as a mark of respect for PM Abe, who was shot dead while making a campaign speech in Japan's Nara on July 8, 2022. Following Abe's death, PM Modi, in an emotional message, expressed grief and shock at the ragic demise of one of his dearest friends, and also attended the state funeral of the late leader. He called Abe a owering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator who dedicated his life to making Japan and the world a better place.
EAM Jaishankar congratulates Ethiopian Foreign Minister on re-appointment
Digital Desk | Abidjan, Oct 8 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday congratulated Gedion Timothewos Hessebon on his re-appointment as Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and said that he looked forward to meeting him soon to further strengthen the strategic partnership. EAM Jaishankar's congratulatory message came after Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in his new cabinet reappointed Gedion Timothewos Hessebon as Minister of Foreign Affairs. Congratulate Gedion Timothewos Hessebon on your re-appointment as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia. Look forward to meeting you soon to further strengthen our Strategic Partnership, EAM Jaishankar posted on X. The Ethiopian House of Peoples' Representatives (HoPR) on Monday established the new federal government as the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) appointed Abiy Ahmed Ali as Prime Minister for a second five-year term. During the election, the Prosperity Party (PP) secured win in 438 of the 486 contested seats in the HoPR, securing the parliamentary majority needed to form the federal executive branch for a second term, Xinhua News Agency reported. EAM Jaishankar is set to travel to Ethiopia after concluding his ongoing visit to Cote d'Ivoire. During his visit, EAM Jaishankar will hold meeting with Ethiopia's leadership to discuss entire gamut of bilateral ties and exchange perspectives on regional and global matters of mutual interest. He will also chair the Regional Heads of Mission (HoMs) Conference in Addis Ababa, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). On Wednesday, Abiy Ahmad Ali congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years as the head of the government. I express my warmest congratulations to you dear friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as you mark a key milestone: 25 years as Head of Government, first as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 and as Prime Minister of India since 2014, Abiy Ahmed Ali posted on X. Ethiopia and Indias partnership has grown stronger over the past few years. From Indias support for Ethiopias accession to BRICS, to welcoming you to Addis Ababa last December and my first visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September of this year. I look forward to further strengthening this partnership, he added. In response to his wishes, PM Modi thanked Abiy Ahmed Ali and congratulated him on assuming office for another term. PM Modi recalled his visit to Ethiopia in December last year and their recent meeting in New Delhi. Thank you, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, for your warm wishes. I also extend my congratulations and best wishes on your assumption of office for another term. I fondly recall my visit to Ethiopia last December and our recent meeting in New Delhi. India greatly values its Strategic Partnership with Ethiopia and I look forward to working closely with you to further deepen our cooperation and friendship, PM Modi posted on X.
Speeding Truck Runs Over Flock Of Sheep And Goats On Gujarat Highway, 25 Animals Killed
The CCTV footage shows the truck approaching the flock at high speed before crashing into the animals.
Influencer Mad Sandhu murder: Shooter arrested in Gujarat
The Ahmedabad Crime Branch has made a significant breakthrough, arresting Parminder Kaka alias Parminder Prasad, an alleged associate of the Goldy Dhillon gang, for his suspected role as the shooter in the high-profile murder of Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu in Amritsar.
Key shooter in Punjab influencer Mad Sandhu's murder held by Gujarat Police
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 8 (IANS) The Ahmedabad City Crime Branch has arrested a man allegedly involved in the killing of Punjabi social media influencer and make-up artist Mad Sandhu in Amritsar on October 3, identifying him as the shooter who also arranged the motorcycle used in the attack, police said on Thursday. The accused has been identified as Parminder Prasad alias Parminder Kaka. According to Ahmedabad Crime Branch DCP, Ajit Rajian, Parminder carried out the firing that killed Sandhu and arranged the motorcycle used by the assailants. His role is that of the shooter. He did the firing and also arranged the bike, Rajian told IANS. The arrest followed an input from Amritsar Police and coordination between the Punjab and Gujarat police teams. The accused was traced to Ahmedabad, where the Crime Branch took him into custody as part of the investigation into the murder. A case has been registered as FIR No. 186/2026 under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at Cantonment Police Station in Amritsar. Further legal proceedings are underway, he confirmed. Sandhu, whose real name was Madhusudan Sandhu, was shot on October 3 by two motorcycle-borne assailants near a car wash centre on Loharka Road in Amritsar. Police had said the attackers opened fire before fleeing from the spot. Sandhu was taken to a private hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The killing had initially led police to examine several possible angles. Investigators collected CCTV footage from the area and examined Sandhu's movements and digital records to identify the attackers. Amritsar Police had reportedly detained two persons while probing a possible contract-killing angle. Sandhu, 29, had a substantial following on social media and was known for his work as a make-up artist and for speaking about make-up artistry and gender-related issues on podcasts and digital platforms. He had more than two lakh followers on Instagram and had also appeared in the Punjabi film 'Oye Bhole Oye'. The case also drew attention after social-media posts allegedly linked to foreign-based gangsters claimed responsibility for the killing. However, Punjab Police had earlier said the authenticity of such posts had not been established. Investigators have also been examining possible links to the network of gangster Goldy Dhillon. The latest arrest is expected to help investigators establish the sequence of events leading to the killing, identify other persons involved and determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged contract killing.
'Selling without prescription': Gujarat cops raid two medical stores, seize over 18,000 tablets
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 8 (IANS) The Surat City's Special Operations Group (SOG), along with the Food and Drugs Department, in Gujarat, raided two medical stores in the Salabatpura-Mandarwaja area for allegedly selling medicines used for intoxication without doctors prescriptions and seized 18,316 tablets and three bottles of codeine syrup valued at Rs 2.75 lakh. The action was carried out on Wednesday at Smit Sai and Daruwala Shivshakti medical stores located at Halpati Colony on the 80-foot road from Kinnari towards Bhathena. According to the SOG, the action followed instructions from Surat Police Commissioner Wabang Jamir to identify medical stores allegedly selling intoxicating syrups and tablets without prescriptions, and in violation of regulations. The police said such medicines could be misused for intoxication, including by young people. SOG Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajdeepsinh Nakum supervised the operation, while SOG Police Inspector A.S. Sonara formed separate teams to keep watch on medical stores suspected of selling medicines used for intoxication. The SOG said it received information that intoxicating medicines were being sold without doctors prescriptions at two medical stores in the Salabatpura-Mandarwaja area. Following the information, SOG personnel conducted the raids along with Food and Drugs Inspectors G.U. Upadhyay, Jeelben Gameti and Pinalben Vavaiya. During inspections, the Food and Drugs Department found stocks of medicines that were allegedly being kept in violation of regulations and could be used for intoxication. The seized stock comprised 1,440 Pyeevon Sas Plus tablets, 144 Spas Tracenp tablets, 6,920 Spasmo Proxyvon tablets, 750 Apcolam tablets, 3,840 Calic tablets, 5,200 Prehabalin tablets and 20 Pregout Kit tablets. In addition, three bottles of codeine syrup were recovered. The total number of tablets seized was 18,316, while the combined value of the seized medicines and syrup was estimated at Rs 2,75,068, the SOG said. The Food and Drugs Department has begun further investigation into the stock recovered from both medical stores. The police said that if the medicines are found to have been kept or sold illegally, legal action will be taken against the licence holders and operators of the two medical stores. The SOG said the operation was undertaken as part of efforts to identify medical stores involved in the unauthorised sale of medicines that are liable to be misused for intoxication.
Pharmacy Business Awards honour pharmacy
PHARMACYS best were celebrated for their crucial contribution to healthcare at the 26th annual Pharmacy Business Awards in London last Friday (2). More than 680 guests attended the event, which pays tribute to the exceptional dedication of pharmacists who safeguard the health and wellbeing of local communities, as well as the industry that supports them. Pharmacy teams, leading products, wholesalers and manufacturers were recognised on the night. Rajan Shah and Sanjay Patel of West Ealing Pharmacy in London took home the top honour, the Pharmacy Business of the Year Award. Their small premises was transformed into a larger, modern, state-of-the-art community pharmacy, using a range of technology. It has six consultation rooms, offers a wide range of services to patients and works in collaboration with local GPs. The Ram Solanki Editors Award, named in honour of Ramniklal Solanki CBE, founder and editor-in-chief of hosts Asian Media Group and Pharmacy Business, was presented to Olivier Picard, chair of the National Pharmacy Association. Guests at the ceremony AMG For more than a decade, Picard has been a powerful voice for the profession at national level, serving on the sectors key negotiating and representative bodies, appearing regularly on television and radio and making pharmacys case to MPs. He said he was surprised and humbled to be honoured. Hosted by Asian Media Group (AMG), publishers of Pharmacy Business, Eastern Eye and Garavi Gujarat, the Pharmacy Business Awards also brought together pharmaceutical industry leaders, healthcare executives and leading politicians at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in central London. Chief guest Lord Leong CBE, minister for small business and enterprise, told attendees that community pharmacies make a strong contribution to building healthier communities and stronger local economies. Before entering public service, I spent more than four decades building and running businesses. I know the satisfaction of building a team and earning a customers trust. I also understand the responsibility of meeting payroll, managing cash flow and making difficult decisions when costs rise. For pharmacy owners, those responsibilities sit alongside a profound duty of care to patients. That deserves recognition and a government that recognises the connection between a sustainable business and a dependable local health service. As small business minister, I want businesses like yours to have the confidence to invest, develop your teams and adopt technology that makes your working life easier. So, we must listen to your experience when deciding how to remove unnecessary barriers. Strong community pharmacies help build healthier communities and stronger local economies. He went on to recognise the contribution made by community pharmacy owners and pharmacy teams. Lord Leong AMG Every nomination reflects a collective effort often sustained over many years. Thank you to Pharmacy Business for bringing that work into the spotlight. To every finalist and winner, congratulations. You should be proud of what you have achieved, and to everyone here, thank you for the businesses you built, the people you employed and the care you give. Shailesh Solanki, executive editor of Pharmacy Business , discussed prime minister Andy Burnhams aspirations for health and social care and for bringing hope and belief back to the country. Pharmacy can play an important part in that, he said. Our new prime minister offered a message of hope and of a Britain that starts to believe again. Pharmacy should be central to that ambition, with growing prescribing capability and a network embedded in communities across the country. Pharmacies are accessible health hubs that can relieve pressure on general practice, reduce hospital admissions and directly support local economic revival. The prime minister promised a circuit breaker for Britain, and a government that puts the care of people at the heart of everything it does. Community pharmacy is where that promise can be kept, in every neighbourhood and in every postcode. The nominees and award winners on the night demonstrated the skills and expertise community pharmacies can bring to primary care. The Pharmacy Team of the Year Award went to the Clarepharm Pharmacy team in Honiton, Devon, led by Ronak Maroo. The team describes its work in community pharmacy not as an occupation but as a mission to positively impact its community. Its team culture particularly impressed the judges. Every member is mentored, every opinion valued and every milestone celebrated, with a continuous approach to learning delivering effective results for patient care. The Pharmacy Business Inspiring Woman of the Year Award went to Abiramme Sarangan of Sapphire Pharmacy, Romford, recognising her as a role model for women in pharmacy. Shailesh Solanki AMG Determined to own a community pharmacy, she persevered through setbacks and opened her doors just months after having her first child. Balancing a young family with a new business, she empowers her team to step outside their comfort zones and shows that ambition and family life can coexist. The Independent Prescriber of the Year Award went to Kamal Nathwani of The Wellness Pharmacy, Southwark. Since qualifying as an independent prescriber a qualification he did not undertake until his late 50s he has embedded prescribing within an integrated clinical service. Prescribing has dramatically changed the services offered, attracting a wide range of private patients who cannot access conventional NHS services and offering easily accessible, personalised care. The Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award went to Lorraine Monk of Day Lewis Pharmacy in Wallington. She started as a Saturday girl aged 16 and, four decades on, is still at the heart of her pharmacy. She has helped long-term smokers quit for good, personally delivered medicines to housebound patients and taken blood pressure checks into a local church. The Pharmacy Business Development Award went to Sajeel Abrar of NHL Pharmacy, Preston, for transforming a traditional dispensing pharmacy into an integrated neighbourhood healthcare hub. By integrating pharmacy, eyecare and specialist clinical services under one roof, the team created a model that supports NHS priorities, improves patient outcomes and strengthens the local healthcare system. Gompels Pharmacy, working in collaboration with Royal United Hospitals Bath, took the Enterprise Award. Low retention of pharmacists at the trust was dramatically improved through joint working with Gompels. Trainees are given the opportunity to work in both community pharmacy and secondary care as part of a multisector training scheme. Paul Mayberry of Mayberry Pharmacy in Caerphilly received the Pharmacy Technology Award. He designed his own patient medication record system for the groups pharmacies. With mandatory barcode checks, a robot-driven central hub and intelligent stock ordering, the system has virtually eliminated dispensing errors, significantly reduced stock levels and freed pharmacists to focus on clinical care.
Gujarat to turn ocean into next big industry
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 8: Oriano Clean Energy Private Limited, one of India's leading clean energy companies, announced that it has started construction of 420 MWp DC / 311 MW AC solar EPC project for a global steel conglomerate in Gujarat.
PM Modi thanks world leaders for wishes on completing 25 years as govt head
PM Modi marked the milestone on October 7, 25 years after he first assumed office as Gujarat chief minister in 2001. He has served as prime minister since 2014
Mad Sandhu, a social media influencer and an LGBTQ activist, was shot dead in Punjab's Amritsar last week.
ISI's 2027 assembly election plot: UP terror, Punjab drugs and Manipur unrest
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) launched a multi-state destabilisation plot targeting Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Manipur in the run-up to the 2027 assembly elections, intelligence agencies have warned. Seven key states, namely Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur and Goa, would go to the polls between February and March next year. The intelligence agencies have drawn up a list of states that are vulnerable during the elections or in the run-up to them. The ISI has set its eyes particularly on Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Manipur. An Intelligence Bureau official said that these three states are extremely vulnerable to ISI-driven activities. In Uttar Pradesh, the focus will be on terror attacks and espionage activities. In Punjab, it will be arms and narcotics smuggling, besides random grenade attacks. In Manipur, the attempts will be aimed at creating widespread unrest in the state ahead of the elections, the IB official said. This plan was set in motion almost a year back, when the ISI roped in Shahzad Bhatti to recruit Indian youths. His focus was pan-India, and he managed to recruit youths for a small sum of money. He would instruct these recruits to carry out hit jobs, install CCTV cameras in sensitive and crowded locations, carry out surveillance for terror attacks, indulge in narcotics smuggling and counterfeiting of Indian currency, the official said. The Bhatti network focused heavily on the election-bound states. Recruitment was high in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, investigators say. These recruits were planning strikes in the run-up and also during the elections. In states like UP, the focus was mainly on carrying out big-ticket attacks. While carrying out surveillance on sensitive locations, there was equal emphasis on crowded locations such as railway stations and bus stands too. This makes it amply clear that the Bhatti network was aiming at big attacks in the state. Another official said that it is not just the Bhatti gang that was focusing on the election-bound states; there are multiple players on the payrolls of the ISI who have been on the job. In Punjab, the brief is clear, and that is to ramp up narcotics smuggling and arms trade. The ISI-backed networks have been told to dump as much ammunition and narcotics into the state ahead of the elections, the official said. While the dumping of drugs and arms has been underway, the state of Punjab has also been witnessing stray grenade attacks and vandalism by pro-Khalistan operatives, the official said. There are two objectives behind these stray incidents of violence. This is meant to promote the Khalistan movement, but more importantly, to keep the security agencies busy so that the narcotics and arms trade goes on smoothly without coming under the radar, the official said. While Punjab and Uttar Pradesh remain states of concern, security agencies are particularly worried about Manipur. Multiple players are believed to have an interest in triggering widespread unrest in the state. The ethnic violence that erupted in 2023 has subsided in intensity, but several issues linked to the conflict remain unresolved. Since the violence broke out, the Central government has been exploring various measures to restore lasting peace in Manipur. Compared with the situation in 2023, the nature of the conflict has changed, with the state now facing what security officials describe as a low-intensity crisis. Another official said that the situation does remain tense and these vested interest groups would look to fuel speculation and run fake narratives so that Manipur returns to its 2023 scenario. While it is easiest for these ISI-backed groups to fuel tensions in Manipur at the moment, the larger game is to ensure that violence spreads across the North-eastern region The ISI has been working alongside some of its proxies both in Bangladesh and India to fuel tensions during election year in Manipur, with the hope that it spreads and the entire Northeast burns, an official said.
How Navratri Fuels Gujarat's Seasonal Event Economy
India's graduate labour participation rate fell to a five-year low in September as the educated population grew faster than employment, while fewer graduates actively sought jobs
PM Narendra Modi Marks 25 Years In Government With Prayers At Delhi
Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone on October 7, 2026, completing 25 years at the helm of a government. The journey began in Gujarat in 2001 and later took him to New Delhi, where he has served as Prime Minister since
IIMB study traces what B'luru can learn from Gujarat's water governance reforms - Deccan Herald
Study highlights water governance reforms initiated by PM Modi in Gujarat and national rollout
The News Mill
Gujarat Plastic Industry Hit by Surging Polymer Costs - Urban Acres
Disabled Cricketers in Gujarat Face a Broken Support System - Urban Acres
Gujarat Car Sales Rise as EV and Hybrid Shares Grow - Urban Acres
White House hails PM Modi-Trump relationship, says India is one of US' strongest allies
Digital Desk | Washington, Oct 8 (IANS) The White House has described India as one of America's strongest allies and credited the personal relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi with strengthening bilateral ties, as the Indian leader completed 25 years in public office. India is one of the United States' strongest allies, which has been bolstered by President Trump's good relationship with Prime Minister Modi, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told IANS on Wednesday (local time). The statement came in response to a question from IANS seeking the White House's assessment of PM Modi's 25 years in public life and his relationship with the US President. PM Modi completed the milestone on October 7, marking a quarter-century since he first assumed office as Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001. The White House's response placed particular emphasis on the personal relationship between the two leaders, even as India and the United States continue to navigate differences on trade and other policy issues. The statement did not announce any new bilateral initiative or policy decision. PM Modi served as Gujarat Chief Minister from October 7, 2001, until May 2014, when he became India's Prime Minister following the Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in the general election. India and the United States have developed extensive cooperation in defence, technology, trade and strategic affairs over successive administrations, although the two countries do not have a formal mutual defence treaty. PM Modi's tenure has also been marked by an expanded international profile for India, with the government pursuing greater diplomatic engagement, stronger relations with major powers and a prominent role for India in the Global South. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday marked 25 years in office of continuous service as the head of government, leaders from around the world congratulated him on the milestone and praised his leadership, describing it as a are achievement in any democracy and a powerful testament to the confidence that the people of India have in him. The Prime Minister thanked world leaders for their warm wishes and expressed readiness to continue strengthening cooperation.
Political leaders from across world greet PM Narendra Modi on completing 25 years in public office
Tokyo/Kathmandu, Oct 7: Political leaders from various countries across the world, including Japan, Bhutan and the Philippines, on Wednesday extended greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years in public office. Modi was elected as the chief minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001, and went on to serve three consecutive terms in the state. He was subsequently elected as prime minister of India in 2014. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi extended her best wishes to Modi on the occasion and praised his contribution to Indias development and its standing on the international stage. For years, he has been striving to realise the development of Indian society and the nation, and since 2001, he has been serving in the position of head of government with his outstanding political leadership, she said in a post on X. Along with accelerating Indias development, he has elevated Indias prestige to new heights on the international stage as well. For all these accomplishments, as a fellow politician, I express my sentiments of respect, she said. Referring to her recent visit to India in July, Takaichi said she had a fortunate opportunity to deliberate with Modi on concrete steps to take the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership to the next level. Noting that next year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-India diplomatic relations, she said she wishes to work with PM Modi to realise a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, so that Japan and India, which share a strategic direction, can further advance our partnership. Thanking Takaichi, Modi said her visit to India this July will remain unforgettable for him as well. It has further strengthened the India-Japan partnership... I am confident that our bilateral relations will reach new heights on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, he said in a social media post. In his greetings, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay called Modi an avatar of our times. Recalling his meeting with Modi in New Delhi in 2019, as a private citizen, Tobgay said he told the Indian prime minister he saw him as an elder brother and as an avatar of Vishnu. In our part of the world, I explained, enlightened rulers have long been regarded as such, Tobgay said, adding that Modi awakened in Indians a powerful belief in themselves and in their country. They seemed prouder of India, more ambitious about its possibilities and more confident of its place in the world, he said, adding that these were, to him, the qualities of an enlightened ruler. Thanking Tobgay for his heartfelt message, Modi said India and Bhutan are bound by an enduring partnership rooted in mutual trust and understanding. I look forward to continuing our close cooperation to advance our shared vision of Viksit Bharat and a prosperous Bhutan, he said. On the occasion, Philippines President Bongbong Marcos wished Modi continued success in his service to the people of India. From Gujarat to leading the worlds largest democracy, Prime Minister Modis journey has been marked by a strong emphasis on good governance, innovation, technology, infrastructure and development, contributing to Indias transformation and its growing role on the global stage, he said on X. Marcos said India-Philippines ties continue to grow from strength to strength, adding that he looks forward to welcoming Modi to Manila for the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits in November. Modi in his reply said India deeply values its Strategic Partnership with the Philippines. I look forward to our continued engagement and further deepening of the friendship between our nations, he said. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever congratulated Modi on 25 years of continuous leadership in government, from Gujarat to New Delhi, saying he looked forward to further deepening the strong partnership between the two countries. Thanking Wever, Modi said he look forward to build on the positive momentum in our relations and further strengthen our bilateral partnership. Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah took to X to wish Modi. Warm congratulations & best wishes to Indian Prime Minister @narendramodi on completing 25 Years of dedicated public service. Nepal wishes you and your Government continued success and prosperity in the years ahead, said a post by the handle of the Nepalese prime ministers office. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in a social media post said India is blessed to have Modi. Few people can say they have devoted a quarter of a century to serving their country, first as Chief Minister of Gujarat and then as Prime Minister of India. I know how deeply you care about India and its future, and the world can see how high you have raised India, he said. Thanking Vucic for his warm words and friendship, Modi said he deeply appreciates his personal contribution to strengthening the India-Serbia partnership. Under your leadership, Serbia has undergone an extraordinary transformation. You have served Serbia with determination and dedication. I look forward to taking the India-Serbia partnership to even greater heights, he said. Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wished Modi on the truly historic milestone. A quarter-century of unbroken leadership is a rare achievement in any democracy, he said, adding that Modi has led with vision and an unwavering commitment to development. Nigeria deeply values the strategic partnership between our two great nations, he said. Recalling Modis visit to Abuja in November 2024, he said it gave fresh impetus to bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence and security, health, education, and technology. As fellow democracies and leading voices of the Global South, Nigeria and India share a common commitment to a fairer, more inclusive and more representative international order. I remain confident that, under his continued leadership, the bonds of friendship between our peoples will grow ever stronger, he said. In his reply, Modi said India and Nigeria are close partners and leading voices of the Global South. I look forward to continuing our cooperation to further strengthen our Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for a more inclusive, prosperous and peaceful world, he said. Congratulating his dear friend Modi, Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit expressed his appreciation for the friendship India has extended to Dominica and the generosity shown to its people. I value the bond between our nations and look forward to building on it in the years ahead, he said. Modi thanked Skerrit for his warm wishes and thoughtful words, saying that India deeply values its enduring friendship with Dominica. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and working together for the shared progress and prosperity of the people of our nations, he said. Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko congratulated Modi on completing 25 years at the helm of government. We commend you for your dedication and service to the people of India. We wish you success in the years ahead and look forward to the enduring friendship between our countries, he said. Modi appreciated Bokos warm wishes, saying that India greatly values the friendship with Botswana. I look forward to working together to further strengthen our close ties, he said.
Gujarat to reopen all national parks and sanctuaries to tourists from Oct 9 - The News Mill
Gujarat to reopen all sanctuaries and national parks for tourists from October 9
The News Mill
Authors of study on India's water governance suggest learning - www.indiagazette.com
Gujarat Farmer Transforms Turmeric Cultivation into Profitable Business
A 70-year-old farmer in Gujarat earns 11 lakh annually by processing turmeric into powder and pickles, showcasing innovative farming techniques. Gujarat Farmer Transforms Turmeric Cultivation into Profitable Business
Building J&Ks Place in Indias GCC Future
On 9 and 10 October 2026, something quite interesting is going to happen at IIM Jammu. The J&K GCC Summit 2026, being organised by IIM Jammu in collaboration with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and in knowledge partnership with NASSCOM, will bring together some of the countrys leading Global Capability Centre (GCC) companies, policymakers, academics and industry leaders. But I believe the significance of these two days goes well beyond a summit. For perhaps the first time, some of the senior-most administrative leaders of Jammu and Kashmir will sit across the table with leaders of Indias GCC industry in a series of candid, no-holds-barred conversations about a question that matters deeply to us: What will it take for Jammu and Kashmir to enter Indias growing GCC ecosystem, and to do so as a credible Tier-2 and Tier-3 destination? That may sound like a familiar proposition at a business summit. It is not. Economic growth is ultimately driven by two sets of stakeholdersthe government that creates the enabling environment and the businesses that take the risk of investing in it. Genuine growth begins when these two sides are willing to listen to each other, ask difficult questions and speak honestly about what works and what does not. That is precisely the spirit in which we are approaching the J&K GCC Summit. Let me explain why In June 2025, a train crossed the Chenab on the worlds highest railway arch bridge, connecting the Kashmir Valley to the national rail network. The bridge was decades in the making. Its deeper value, however, can be expressed in one word that matters as much to an investor as it does to a traveller: predictability. A journey that once depended heavily on weather and a single highway can now be planned with greater certainty. That is the journey we want to begin for J&Ks GCC ecosystem. Building a significant GCC destination will not happen overnight. It may take years. Perhaps decades. But the journey can be made predictable if we learn from those who have already travelled it. Be they leading GCC companies or States that have successfully attracted such investments. That is why the Summit is bringing industry leaders together with representatives of States such as Gujarat, Bihar and Tamil Nadu, which have valuable lessons to share. We do not intend to reinvent the wheel. We want to understand what has worked elsewhere, what has not, and what can be adapted to J&Ks own circumstances. The opportunity before us India already hosts more than 2,200 capability centres employing around 1.9 million professionals and generating close to USD 65 billion in annual exports. Importantly, more than 220 of these centres have already chosen Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The next phase of the GCC story is increasingly moving beyond the established metropolitan centres, with locations outside the metros expected to account for a substantial share of the sectors future workforce. This is where J&K must position itself. The question is not whether Jammu and Kashmir can replicate Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai or Pune. We should not try to become another metro. Our opportunity lies in becoming a different kind of GCC destination. Over the last decade, the case for J&K has changed significantly. Rail and road connectivity has been transformed and air connectivity has expanded. The Union Territory today has an institutional ecosystem that includes an IIM, an IIT and an AIIMS, alongside CSIR-IIIM, NIT Srinagar, the Islamic University of Science and Technology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and the prestigious Universities of Jammu /Kashmir, among several other institutions offering new-age and specialised programmes. In addition to that we also have something that every GCC ultimately needshuman resource. Jammu and Kashmir has a young, educated and increasingly aspirational population. Its universities and technical institutions are producing talent across disciplines. Office, talent and utility costs remain competitive compared to established metropolitan locations. And the security environment today provides a foundation for businesses to plan for the long term. Yet a good proposition is not enough. An investor looking at a new location will ask some very practical questions. Who will take my decision? How long will my approvals take? Where will my people sit on the first day? And who will do the work? The answers to these questions can determine where a GCC chooses to locate, often more decisively than the headline value of an incentive. We have to answer each of them The first is facilitation. The hardest part of entering a new region for an established business is often not the investment itself, but understanding whom to approach and how to navigate the system. In J&K, an investor should not have to make multiple rounds of enquiries across Departments. The investor should have one phone call or one email to make. We therefore need a named facilitation officer, with the authority to convene Departments, resolve issues and remain accountable as a single point of contact for the prospective investor. If banks can provide relationship managers to their customers, there is no reason why government cannot provide the same degree of institutional ownership to an investor. The second question is time Approvals relating to registration, premises, power, fire safety and labour compliance should carry clear and published timelines. These should be tracked through the single-window system and, importantly, measured against actual performance. An investor can plan around a known timeline. It is uncertainty that stalls a project. Strict adherence to prescribed timelines translates to confidence which is quintessential for attracting investments. The third question is space and infrastructure J&K needs to identify and earmark ready-to-occupy office spaces in both Jammu and Srinagar, with floor plates, tenure and tariffs clearly stated in advance. A GCC that decides to come here should be able to occupy its premises within months, not years. The space has to exist before the decision is made. There is also a unique advantage here that few locations can offer. Jammu and Srinagar are two major cities within one Union Territory, under one administration, one policy framework and one institutional point of contact. They draw upon different talent pools and can potentially serve as primary and continuity locations for the same GCC. A company should be able to scale across both cities without having to navigate two different administrations. The fourth question is people Our commitment has to be simple: skilling must respond to actual employer demand. Here comes the role of Mission YUVA and our technical institutions. Mission YUVA, the Skill Development institutions, our universities and the ITI network being upgraded under PM-SETU must increasingly train people for specific roles, in specific numbers and within specific timelines. The Department of Labour and Employment, which is spearheading the organisation of the Summit, will have an important role in translating industry conversations into an actionable talent strategy. This is also where the GCC opportunity becomes much more than an investment proposition. A GCC does not merely bring an office. It brings new skills, new career paths, new technologies and new aspirations. For a young person in Jammu or Srinagar, the arrival of a global company should mean that a world-class career no longer necessarily requires leaving home for Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai or Delhi. That is the human dividend we must keep at the centre of this conversation. And then comes the most important question of all: Who will be the first? The first GCC centre matters disproportionately. Every subsequent investor will ask: Who else is already here? The answer today has to change from zero. An anchor GCC can do more than create direct employment. A centre employing 500 professionals can support a comparable ecosystem of opportunities in facilities, transport, hospitality, food services, professional services and other allied sectors. Securing that first anchor tenant is therefore not just another investment target. It is the decisive step in establishing confidence. The administration will concentrate its efforts accordingly. This is why the J&K GCC Summit matters. Every panel, every panellist, every question and every answer over these two days will be an opportunity for us to learn and, equally important, to allow industry to tell us what it needs from us. We are not approaching the Summit merely to showcase J&K. We are approaching it to listen. If we want global capability centres to look beyond the metros, then we must demonstrate that a Tier-2 or Tier-3 location can offer something equally compelling: access to talent, competitive costs, quality institutions, reliable infrastructure, responsive governance and, above all, confidence that commitments made today will hold tomorrow. Jammu and Kashmir has many of these ingredients. The task before us is to bring them together into an ecosystem that works. Our entrepreneurial spirit is gathering momentum. Our young people are increasingly looking towards new-age sectors and new forms of enterprise. The GCC ecosystem can benefit from this talent and ambition, even as its presence here can accelerate the development of that very ecosystem. The Path Forward I do not believe J&K needs to become the biggest GCC destination in India. I believe it can become one of the most differentiated. We have learnt something from building the Chenab Rail Bridge. Great journeys begin with an audacious idea, but they are completed through engineering, patience, persistence and thousands of smaller decisions made correctly along the way. The GCC journey will be no different. We have the ambition. We have the foundations. We have a growing pool of talent. What we now need is execution, industry partnership and the patience to build for the long term. The first J&K GCC Summit is therefore not the culmination of a journey. It is the beginning of one. And if we get the beginning right, I believe the destination is within reach. A GCC ecosystem that proves that the next generation of Indias growth need not come only from its largest cities, but can also emerge from its most promising Tier-2 and Tier-3 centres. Jammu and Kashmir is ready to make that journey. The promise is not that it will happen overnight. The promise is that we are ready to make it happen. (The writer is Chief Secretary, Government of Jammu and Kashmir)
Modi turned quake-hit Gujarat into model state, led Indias rise as global power: Yogi
Garba organisers told to submit NOCs for final police clearance
Protesters say monument project dropped, celebrate victory
26.55cr ticketing contract proposed for PM e-Bus service in city
Private schools announce non-cooperation over pending demands
Duo pose as cops, dupe farmer of gold worth 2.5L
Three held for stealing copper wire from bullet train site
Liquor worth 1.20cr seized at Gujarat-MP border
Lender sells pledged car despite getting repaid
Online work an up-hill task, literally
Share trader kidnapped over 15L dues
Assam Paramilitary Force Man Dies Of Dengue In Gujarat
The death - first among visiting security forces - underscores the vector-borne outbreak in the capital city of Gujarat.
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], October 7: The Ahmedabad-based programme combines traditional Jyotish principles with structured prediction methodology, research orientation, practical application and career-focused learning through online and offline education.
'We will do it': Modi's call to Gen Z for Viksit Bharat by 2047
Speaking to a charged crowd in Delhi, the PM underlined that when he began his journey 25 years ago as chief minister of Gujarat, he had never imagined that such a phase would come in his life. He said this was not an occasion for glorification of a person, but for looking at how far the country had come during this period.
CRPF Soldier Dies from Dengue Fever Amid Unity Day Parade Preparations in Gujarat
A CRPF soldier succumbed to dengue in Gujarat as cases rise to 43, highlighting health concerns ahead of Unity Day events. CRPF Soldier Dies from Dengue Fever Amid Unity Day Parade Preparations in Gujarat
Watch: Empty CNG Car Explodes During Refueling at a Gujarat Station, Damaging Two Other Vehicles
Gujarat farmer earns Rs 11 lakh from four acres by turning turmeric into powder, pickle
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 7 (IANS) A 70-year-old farmer in Surendranagar district has turned turmeric cultivation on four acres into an annual income of around Rs 10-11 lakh by processing the crop into powder, pickle and other products instead of selling it as raw produce. Kalubhai Patel of Vadod village in Wadhwan taluka owns 10 acres of land and has been practising natural farming on four acres for the past 13-14 years. He was inspired to take up natural farming after seeing a farmer cultivate turmeric using natural methods at an agricultural fair in Kagvad. Patel initially cultivated turmeric on one acre of fallow land, gradually expanding it to four acres. He later established a home-based processing unit at a cost of around Rs 5 lakh, equipped with a steam boiler, polishing machine and pulveriser. The Horticulture Department provided him with assistance of Rs 2.5 lakh for the unit. Instead of boiling the turmeric in water, Patel steams it, saying this helps retain its beneficial and medicinal properties. The turmeric is then dried for about a month before being cleaned and ground into powder. He also prepares green turmeric pickle and turmeric mouth freshener. With the help of his family, the products are packed at home and sold under the brand name Shakti Organic. While raw turmeric fetches around Rs 150 per kg in the market, Patel sells his turmeric powder at Rs 350 per kg and green turmeric pickle at Rs 440 per kg. His GOPCA-certified organic products are sold largely through word-of-mouth rather than advertising. Through this value addition, Patel earns around Rs 10-11 lakh annually from turmeric grown on four acres. He also follows crop diversification, cultivating short-duration crops such as moong, sesame and pearl millet after the eight-month turmeric crop. On the remaining six acres, he grows cotton with pigeon pea as an intercrop. Pigeon pea helps add nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for urea, while Patel uses a solution prepared from aak leaves as a source of potassium. He said these natural farming practices have helped increase the organic carbon content of his soil to 0.94 per cent. Natural farming is nature; nurturing soil with care is culture, Patel said, while highlighting natural farming, soil conservation and value addition as ways to strengthen farmers incomes. The state government has recognised Patel with Best Farmer Awards at the taluka, district and state levels. He has also received honours from Junagadh Agricultural University and Dantiwada Agricultural University. Recently, in the presence of Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, he received the state-level 'Best ATMA Farmer Award'. Patel has also developed an automatic sowing machine, combining traditional farming practices with innovation and scientific methods. The state government's encouragement, inspiration and support had doubled farmers enthusiasm to work towards sustainable and productive agriculture, officials said.
Bengal CM promises BJP win on all 42 LS seats in 2029
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 7 (IANS) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday, while speaking at Vadnagar in Gujarat, the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, the people of West Bengal would gift PM Modi victories for BJP candidates from all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state. He made the statement while speaking at an event in Vadnagar marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public administrative journey, first as Gujarat Chief Minister and subsequently as Prime Minister. In West Bengal, I am trying to replicate the kind of development work that has been achieved in Gujarat, Adhikari said. He added that PM Modi had taught 1.4 billion people the mantra of Nation above all, and claimed that welfare of the poor and the curbing of terrorism had been achieved under PM Modi's leadership. Speaking on the occasion, Adhikari also launched sharp attacks on both the former Left Front government and the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal. First the Left Front and then the Trinamool Congress were in power in West Bengal, Adhikari said. He alleged that the two political formations together had created a threat to the country's security and claimed that more than three lakh Bangladeshis had been expelled from Gujarat after entering India through the Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. According to Adhikari, during the Trinamool regime in West Bengal, around 600 km of the international border with Bangladesh effectively remained open. He further said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised in an election manifesto that land would be provided to the Border Security Force within 45 days of the BJP coming to power in West Bengal. Adhikari claimed that the commitment had been fulfilled and asserted that PM Modi had guaranteed the development of West Bengal. He also claimed that, after 50 years, a nationalist government had finally been formed in West Bengal.
Gujarat: Mumbai businessman held in Surat cyber fraud case
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 7 (IANS) The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell has arrested a 46-year-old Mumbai-based businessman for allegedly providing his firm's bank account to an absconding accused for use in a cyber fraud case in which a complainant was allegedly cheated of more than Rs 5 lakh after being promised attractive returns from an e-commerce business. According to the Cyber Crime Branch, the accused had contacted the complainant through a dating app and sent a link to a fake website. The complainant was allegedly asked to create an ID on the website and was told that conducting e-commerce transactions through it would yield substantial returns. The complainant subsequently transferred a total of Rs 5,88,909 into different bank accounts as part of the purported e-commerce business. However, the money was not returned, following which a complaint was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station under Sections 318(4), 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66D of the Information Technology Amendment Act, 2008. Police identified the arrested accused as Imran Khilchi, a businessman residing in the Grant Road area of Mumbai. The Cyber Crime Cell said Imran had allegedly provided the current account of his firm with a bank to an absconding accused residing in Dubai for use in cyber fraud. He allegedly received Rs 12,000 as commission for providing the account. Police said their investigation showed that a total of Rs 1,36,05,550 was transacted through the firm's current account between April 9, 2021, and September 24, 2026. The arrest followed a technical investigation conducted by a team led by Police Inspector A.M. Mori, based on directions from senior officials. The police also appealed to people not to provide their bank accounts to others in return for commissions or other inducements, warning that such accounts can be used for cyber fraud and that account holders can face legal action over transactions carried out through them.
Gujarat Board launches PARAKH Cell, DigiLocker facility for Class 10, 12 mark sheets
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 7 (IANS) The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board on Wednesday launched a state-level 'PARAKH Cell' to shift school assessments towards competency-based learning and introduced a facility to make Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets available directly through DigiLocker after the declaration of examination results. Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja inaugurated the PARAKH Cell at the Gujarat Board headquarters in Gandhinagar and launched the digital mark-sheet service as part of the state's implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Vaja said the National Education Policy was bringing changes to the country's education system and that Gujarat was committed to providing quality education along with a transparent assessment system. With the launch of the PARAKH Cell, students will be freed from rote learning and move towards competency-based education, Vaja said. Under the new DigiLocker facility, digital mark sheets for students appearing for Class 10 and Class 12 examinations will be made available after the results are declared. The state has already uploaded the mark sheets of around one crore students who appeared for examinations between 2021 and 2026 on DigiLocker. Students will be able to download their digital mark sheets through the DigiLocker app. The facility is also expected to simplify and speed up verification of educational documents for higher education and employment opportunities in India and abroad. Vaja said the integration of technology with education would further strengthen the state's education system. He also congratulated the Education Department and the Gujarat Board team for completing the process through coordinated efforts. The PARAKH Cell will function at the state level under the framework of PARAKH Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development established by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) as the National Assessment Centre. Under its guidance, the state-level cell will prepare competency-based question banks and assessment tools. It will also facilitate implementation of the Holistic Progress Card (HPC), adapted to Gujarat's language and curriculum requirements. The cell will provide training and guidance to teachers and question paper setters on modern assessment methods. The assessment process will also be strengthened through the use of technology, including PARAKH ITMS, aimed at making assessments more transparent and robust. Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board Chairman M.A. Pandya, Gujarat State Board of School Textbooks Chairman Manubhai Pavra and GSEB Secretary R.R. Vyas were among those present at the launch, along with board officials and employees.
Veteran Congress Leader Virji Thummar Passes Away at 67, Tributes Pour In
Veteran Congress leader Virji Thummar dies at 67 after battling cancer, leaving a significant legacy in Gujarat politics. Veteran Congress Leader Virji Thummar Passes Away at 67, Tributes Pour In
We will do it: CM Patel urges Gujarat youth to carry forward PM Modis development vision
Digital Desk | Vadnagar, Oct 7 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Wednesday called upon the youth to take forward Prime Minister Narendra Modis message of We will do it and contribute to the goal of a developed India by 2047, as a Varanasi to Vadnagar Seva Yatra marking PM Modis 25 years in public service concluded in Vadnagar. Patel was addressing the concluding ceremony of the yatra, organised under the nationwide Seva Sankalp Abhiyan. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and state BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma were among those present. Welcoming bikers and Seva Yatris who had travelled from different parts of the country, Patel said PM Modi began his public service journey as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001, and had completed 25 years of public service and good governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always viewed power as a means to serve the people, rather than as a position, Patel said. He said PM Modis approach had focused on the welfare of the poor, middle class, farmers, women and youth while encouraging citizens to participate in the countrys development. Referring to Gujarats development trajectory, Patel said: Challenges, including the earthquake, had been converted into opportunities, while initiatives such as the Vibrant Gujarat Summit had helped position the state as a 'Global Gateway to the Future'. He cited the Statue of Unity, Bullet Train, GIFT City and the semiconductor hub as examples of projects reflecting PM Modis vision for Gujarat. Patel also referred to claims that 25 crore people had come out of poverty and that India had emerged among the worlds top-five economies. India has demonstrated its capabilities globally through vaccine assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, meeting COP-21 green-energy targets, the abrogation of Article 370 and efforts towards self-reliance in space and defence, he added. The Chief Minister congratulated PM Modi on completing 25 years in public service and said youth had a role in taking the development agenda forward. Gujarats youth power will lead the way with the resolute commitment of We Will Do It to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047, Patel said. The yatra saw 500 bikers and other young participants travel through hundreds of villages and cities across 10 states, undertaking activities including cleanliness drives, tree plantation, de-addiction campaigns and public interactions.
Gujarat: Veteran Congress leader Virji Thummar dies at 67; leaders pay tribute
Digital Desk | Amreli, Oct 7 (IANS) Veteran Congress leader and former Amreli MP Virji Thummar, who began his public life as a farmer leader and went on to represent Amreli in Parliament and Lathi in the Gujarat Assembly, died at his residence here on Wednesday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 67. Thummar died around 12:15 p.m. after battling cancer for the past four years, Amreli district Congress president Pratap Dudhat said. Thummar, born on May 31, 1959, was a commerce graduate and entered public life through farmers issues. He became a member of the Amreli district panchayat at a young age before moving into electoral politics. He represented the Babra Assembly constituency in 1990, 1995, and 1998 and later entered Parliament, winning the Amreli Lok Sabha seat in 2004. He represented the constituency from 2004 to 2009. Thummar subsequently returned to state politics and was elected as the Congress MLA from Lathi in 2017, serving until 2022. He contested the Lathi seat again in the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections but lost to the BJP candidate. Within the Congress organisation, Thummar served as a general secretary and vice-president and also headed the state unit of the Kisan Congress. He was also associated with the cooperative sector in Amreli. Congress national general secretary and Gujarat in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala described Thummar as an important pillar of the state party unit and said his death had left the party deeply saddened. With his demise, a banyan tree of the Congress family has departed from among us, Surjewala said, recalling Thummars simplicity, affection for people, sense of duty and close association with farming and farmers. He expressed condolences to Thummars family, friends and supporters, and particularly to his daughter and party leader Jenny Thummar. Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Chavda and Leader of the Congress Legislature Party Dr Tushar Chaudhary said the party had lost a senior leader who had provided effective leadership both in the cooperative sector and within the party. Thummar had spent his long public life raising issues concerning farmers, the cooperative sector and ordinary people. His death had left a major gap in the Congress and the state's public life, they added. Leaders from both the Congress and the ruling BJP paid tributes to Thummar following his death. His daughter Jenny Thummar is also active in politics and contested the Amreli Lok Sabha seat for the Congress in the 2024 general election.
HM Amit Shah hails PM Modis 25 years of public service
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday extended his heartfelt greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years of public service. He described his journey as one marked by dedication, decisive leadership and a commitment to putting the nation first. In a statement, HM Shah recalled that Narendra Modi took the oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001, beginning a political journey that later saw him become Prime Minister of India. He said that over the past 25 years, Narendra Modis tenure as Chief Minister and Prime Minister has become synonymous with the welfare of the poor, empowerment of women, opportunities for youth and the prosperity of all sections of society. HM Shah said PM Modi had transformed the definition of governance through welfare-oriented policies, effective implementation, transparency, firm decision-making and a focus on tangible results. According to him, the Prime Minister established the benchmark of the politics of performance in the country. Highlighting PM Modis tenure in Gujarat, HM Shah said he rebuilt Kutch following the devastating earthquake, expanded electricity access through the Jyotigram Yojana, promoted investment and industry through initiatives such as Vibrant Gujarat and solar energy, and helped Gujarat achieve an agricultural growth rate of more than 8 per cent. As Prime Minister, Modi expanded this governance model nationally, the Home Minister said, pointing to initiatives that have contributed to poverty reduction and improved access to housing, healthcare, cooking gas and tap water. He said 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, while crores of families benefited from permanent housing and health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh. HM Amit Shah also highlighted Indias progress under PM Modis leadership in manufacturing, digital payments, startups, semiconductors, defence production and renewable energy. He said India had emerged as an important global voice for peace and harmony amid wars and instability. HM Shah said PM Modi had instilled confidence among millions of Indians through the vision of Viksit Bharat, inspiring the country to aspire to leadership across sectors by 2047.
DC Edit | Modis Jubilee in Power a Feat
From Gujarat CM to three-term PM, Modis long political journey reaches a milestone
Gujarati Daily Gets 3 Months To Rebrand
The Supreme Court allowed a Gujarati newspaper three months to change its Saurashtra Aaj Tak title after a trademark dispute with Aaj Tak.
Digital Desk | Rishikesh, Oct 7 (IANS) Swami Chidanand Saraswati on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25-year journey in public life, saying his biggest strength was his ability to regard the entire nation as his family and that his tenure had given fresh impetus to the ideals of service, good governance and nation-building. Welcoming the Seva Jyoti Yatra, Swami Saraswati said the Prime Minister's 25-year public journey would find a place in history, adding that while many leaders are mentioned in history books, some etch their own history, with PM Modi being one such leader. He added that PM Modi's public life began in Gujarat with the objective of building a developed India, but that his vision had since expanded to include global peace and the welfare of humanity. According to Swami Saraswati, PM Modi's decisions, goals and achievements had been driven by what he described as the national interest and the welfare of the country. He said the Prime Minister had combined intelligence with patience while motivating Indians to believe that they could achieve ambitious goals and that India could lead the world. The world today observes India through India's perspective, he said, highlighting what he described as major milestones of the past 25 years -- from development and heritage to chips and ships, Surya Namaskar and Chandrayaan, science and spirituality, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and Kashi Vishwanath, and the Kedarnath Corridor and Mahakal Corridor. Swami Saraswati also cited several decisions and initiatives during PM Modi's tenure, including Demonetisation, surgical strikes, the Balakot air strikes, abrogation of Article 370, the law against triple talaq, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, Digital India, UPI, the G20 presidency, efforts to strengthen the Global South, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Atmanirbhar Bharat. He said that PM Modi had faced criticism and negative narratives during his political journey but had nevertheless influenced India's direction and destiny. Swami Saraswati said the Prime Minister had encouraged Indians to believe that the country could not only determine its own path but also contribute to shaping the path of the wider world. He also praised PM Modi for respecting political figures across ideological divides, citing the Bharat Ratna conferred upon former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao as an example of his understanding and depth.
'80 pc to NDA, 20 pc to PDA': CM Yogi Adityanath's swipe at SP ahead of 2027 UP polls
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 7 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday took a jibe at the Samajwadi Party (SP), saying that the Rajya Sabha polls in the state have depicted that the results of the upcoming Assembly elections will come down to 80 per cent for the NDA and 20 per cent for the PDA. This comes a day after the Samajwadi Party chose to field two candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls, paving the way for its two candidates and the BJP's eight candidates to win unopposed. Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, CM Adityanath said: The Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh have depicted what the results of the Assembly polls are going to be. The fight has again come to 80-20. 80 per cent (of seats) to the NDA and 20 per cent to PDA, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister remarked. You are about to witness what is going to be the condition of the PDA, he said, while taking a jibe at the Samajwadi Party's acronym PDA. SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav had coined the term 'PDA', which, according to the party, stands for 'Pichhda' (Backward classes), 'Dalit', and 'Alpsankhyak' (Minorities). On Tuesday, Akhilesh Yadav, in a post on social media platform X, said: Now our eyes are not on three, but on 403. His remark is being viewed in reference to the SP choosing not to field a third candidate for elections to the Upper House of the Parliament, despite intending to do so earlier. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made the remarks while addressing the 'Seva Jyoti Yatra - Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' at Patel Park in Lucknow's Hazratganj. Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Minister hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years of public service, describing it as a historic journey from a small village in Gujarat to the global stage, saying the milestone was a matter of pride for every Indian. Today is a day of pride for every Indian, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is completing 25 years of dedicated public service. On this occasion, on behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and greetings to the Prime Minister. I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the people of the state and every party (BJP) worker on this momentous occasion, CM Adityanath said. He mentioned that Prime Minister Modi had completed 25 years of continuous service, first as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequently as the Prime Minister of India.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS) The Seva Sankalp Yatra, from Vadnagar to Varanasi and Varanasi to Vadnagar, which began on September 17 to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday and also the completion of his 25 years as head of government, culminated on Wednesday, with grand closing ceremonies held at both places - Varanasi and Vadnagar. The culmination ceremony in Varanasi was addressed by BJP National President Nitin Nabin, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and BJYM national president Hemang Joshi. The Seva Yatris who travelled from Vadnagar to Varanasi, carrying sacred water from the rivers of Gujarat, offered Jalabhishek at the Kashi Vishwanath Dham and sought blessings of Lord Vishwanath. The 21-day Yatra, organised with the spirit of Seva, traversed 20 routes across the country, carrying the message of service, social responsibility and nation-building. On October 7, all 20 Yatra routes successfully reached their respective destinations, marking the completion of the nationwide campaign. The closing ceremony at Vadnagar, PM Modis birthplace, was attended and addressed by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi and BJP National office-bearer V.D. Sharma. The Seva Yatris, who embarked on a journey from Varanasi to Vadnagar, carrying sacred water from the rivers of Uttar Pradesh, offered it at Hatkeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Vadnagar, completing the spiritual connection between the two sacred destinations. BJYM national president Hemang Joshi said, The Seva Sankalp Yatra has given powerful expression to the spirit of Seva that Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated throughout his 25 years of public life. For every BJYM Karyakarta, Seva must remain the core sentiment of life, serving society, respecting our cultural heritage and contributing to the building of a Viksit Bharat. During the month-long programme, the yatris also participated in extensive social service activities including tree plantation, cleanliness drives, water conservation, Gau Seva, service at old-age homes, beneficiary interactions and organ donation pledges. These initiatives ensured that the Yatra was not merely a journey across geographical distances, but a movement that touched communities and translated the spirit of Seva into meaningful action. The Seva Sankalp Yatra concluded with a message that continues beyond the Yatra itself: Seva is not a one-time campaign, but a lifelong commitment.
PM Modi thanks global leaders for congratulatory wishes on completing 25 years in governance
New Delhi [India], October 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his gratitude to international leaders who extended warm wishes on his completion of 25 years of continuous service in governance, reiterating Indias commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation, Global South initiatives, and strategic partnerships. Responding to the congratulatory messages on X, PM Modi acknowledged the wishes marking a quarter-century of public leadership that began on October 7, 2001, when he first assumed office as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. In his response to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the shared responsibility of both countries as leading voices for developing nations, stating, Thank you, President Tinubu. India and Nigeria are close partners and leading voices of the Global South. I look forward to continuing our cooperation to further strengthen our Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for a more inclusive, prosperous and peaceful world. Conveying his appreciation to Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Modi pointed to the longstanding goodwill between the two countries, writing, Thank you, Prime Minister Skerrit, for your warm wishes and thoughtful words. India deeply values its enduring friendship with Dominica. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and working together for the shared progress and prosperity of the people of our nations. Acknowledging the congratulatory message from Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, PM Modi focused on maintaining the momentum built during recent diplomatic exchanges, noting, Thank you, Prime Minister Bart De Wever, for your wonderful wishes. I look forward to working with you to build on the positive momentum in our relations and further strengthen our bilateral partnership. Responding to Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., PM Modi underscored the importance of Southeast Asian ties, writing, Thank you, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., for your wishes. India deeply values its Strategic Partnership with the Philippines. I look forward to our continued engagement and further deepening of the friendship between our nations. Addressing Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, PM Modi highlighted the special bond between the neighbouring nations. Thank you, Prime Minister Tobgay, for the warm and heartfelt message. India and Bhutan are bound by an enduring partnership rooted in mutual trust and understanding. I look forward to continuing our close cooperation to advance our shared vision of Viksit Bharat and a prosperous Bhutan, he wrote on X. Reciprocating the wishes of Botswana President Duma Boko, Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to African partners, writing, I deeply appreciate your warm wishes, President Duma Boko. India greatly values the friendship with Botswana and I look forward to working together to further strengthen our close ties, he added. The exchanges followed a wave of posts from international heads of state and government praising PM Modis trajectory from state leadership to the global stage. Reflecting on recent bilateral engagements, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever noted the continuity of Modi's tenure, stating, I warmly congratulate Prime Minister @narendramodi on 25 years of continuous leadership in government, from Gujarat to New Delhi. Following my productive visit to India last month, I look forward to further deepening the strong partnership between our two countries. Expressing gratitude for India's support, Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit emphasised the personal and national bonds forged over the years, writing, My dear friend, Prime Minister @narendramodi, I warmly congratulate you on 25 years of continuous service as Head of Government, a journey that began in Gujarat and has continued through your leadership of India. As you mark this milestone, I wish to express my appreciation for the friendship you have extended to Dominica and the generosity shown to our people. I value the bond between our nations and look forward to building on it in the years ahead. On behalf of the Government and people of Dominica, and personally, I wish you good health, strength and continued success in your service to the people of India. In an official statement released by the Nigerian Presidency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked the anniversary as a significant moment in modern political history, writing, On behalf of the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I extend warm and fraternal congratulations to His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, on a truly historic milestone. Today, 7 October 2026, marks 25 years since he first assumed office in 2001 as Head of Government and Chief Minister of Gujarat. Highlighting India's economic and technological transformation, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended Modis focus on development and looked ahead to upcoming diplomatic engagements, stating, Warmest greetings and congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years of continuous public service at the helm of government. From Gujarat to leading the worlds largest democracy, Prime Minister Modis journey has been marked by a strong emphasis on good governance, innovation, technology, infrastructure and development, contributing to Indias transformation and its growing role on the global stage. I wish Prime Minister Modi continued success in his service to the people of India. Marcos Jr. wrote. He added that from their Strategic Partnership established in 2025 to the Philippines joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), bilateral ties continue to strengthen, adding that he looks forward to welcoming PM Modi to Manila for the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits in November. In a personal tribute titled Modi's leadership reflects wisdom, courage, empathy, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay recalled his initial meetings with Modi in July 2019 when Tobgay was a private citizen without parliamentary representation. Praising Modi's governance over 13 years in Gujarat and his subsequent national leadership toward a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, Tobgay emphasised that Indian support during successive Five-Year Plans enabled Bhutan to deliver key development projects. He noted that these deep bilateral ties remain encapsulated in the B4B (Bharat for Bhutan, Bhutan for Bharat) framework, alongside the conferral of the Order of the Druk GyalpoBhutan's highest honourupon the Indian Prime Minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached this monumental milestone on October 7, marking a quarter-century of continuous tenure as head of government, a political trajectory that kicked off with his swearing-in as Gujarat's Chief Minister in 2001. Acknowledging this remarkable feat, the Union Cabinet adopted a formal resolution on Tuesday to felicitate PM Modi on achieving 25 years of uninterrupted executive leadership. Having first taken the oath of office in Gujarat on October 7, 2001, he held the state's top post until May 2014, after which he transitioned to national leadership by assuming office as Prime Minister in May 2014, a position he has held ever since. (ANI)
PM Modi thanks world leaders for warm wishes on completing 25 years as head of government
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked world leaders for their warm wishes as he completed 25 years as the head of the government. PM Modi thanked Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the warm wishes and expressed readiness to continue cooperation to further strengthen the Strategic Partnership and advance a shared vision for a more inclusive, prosperous and peaceful world. Thank you, President Tinubu. India and Nigeria are close partners and leading voices of the Global South. I look forward to continuing our cooperation to further strengthen our Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for a more inclusive, prosperous and peaceful world, PM Modi posted on X. He also thanked his Dominica counterpart Roosevelt Skerrit for the warm wishes and noted that India deeply values its partnership with Dominica and looks forward to strengthening it further. Thank you, Prime Minister Skerrit, for your warm wishes and thoughtful words. India deeply values its enduring friendship with Dominica. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership and working together for the shared progress and prosperity of the people of our nations, Prime Minister Modi wrote on X. PM Modi thanked his Belgian counterpart Bart De Wever for the wishes and expressed readiness to work with him to further strengthen the partnership between India and Belgium. Thank you, Prime Minister Bart De Wever, for your wonderful wishes. I look forward to working with you to build on the positive momentum in our relations and further strengthen our bilateral partnership, he said. Thanking Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., PM Modi said that India values its Strategic Partnership with the Philippines and looks forward to deepening friendship. In response to the Philippines President's wishes on X, PM Modi wrote, Thank you, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., for your wishes. India deeply values its Strategic Partnership with the Philippines. I look forward to our continued engagement and further deepening of the friendship between our nations. PM Modi thanked Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay for the heartfelt message and noted that both nations are bound by an enduring partnership rooted in mutual trust and understanding. Thank you, Prime Minister Tobgay, for the warm and heartfelt message. India and Bhutan are bound by an enduring partnership rooted in mutual trust and understanding. I look forward to continuing our close cooperation to advance our shared vision of Viksit Bharat and a prosperous Bhutan, PM Modi posted on X. PM Modi appreciated Botswana President Dumo Gideon Boko's warm wishes and expressed readiness to work with him to further strengthen close ties. I deeply appreciate your warm wishes, President Duma Boko. India greatly values the friendship with Botswana and I look forward to working together to further strengthen our close ties, PM Modi wrote on X. The congratulatory messages from world leaders came as PM Modi on Wednesday marks 25 years of uninterrupted leadership as head of government. He began his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001, and became Prime Minister of India in 2014. In October 2001, PM Modi was chosen to replace Keshubhai Patel as Gujarat Chief Minister at a difficult time for the state, which was still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating Bhuj earthquake as well as political and administrative challenges. He remained Chief Minister until 2014 before moving to national politics. PM Modi's tenure as India's Prime Minister has been marked by an expanded international profile for the country, with the government pursuing greater diplomatic engagement, stronger relations with major powers and a prominent role for India in the Global South.
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' in New Delhi on Wednesday. In Jaipur, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma participated in the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' and 'Seva Jyoti Yatra' programme held at the Mela Ground on VT Road in Jaipur's Mansarovar. The Chief Minister joined the Prime Minister's programme through video conferencing and listened to his address. During the event, Prime Minister Modi reiterated his resolve to build a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and raised the slogan, We will do it. Chief Minister Sharma also echoed the sentiment. In his address, The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed 25 years of an uninterrupted journey in public service. He described the milestone as historic, glorious and inspiring, saying the nation had come together with renewed energy and resolve through the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' and 'Seva Jyoti Yatra' programmes organised to mark the occasion. The Chief Minister said PM Modi's two-and-a-half-decade public life represents a remarkable commitment -- a tapasya centred on the principle of 'Nation First', hard work and improving the lives of the most marginalised sections of society. According to CM Sharma, PM Modi has redefined politics by transforming it from an instrument of power into a means of public service. He said that for crores of citizens, the Prime Minister's name has become synonymous with fulfilling commitments and ensuring delivery. From the abrogation of Article 370 to the construction of the Ram Mandir, he (PM Modi) has made all these achievements in the national interest possible through his unwavering willpower, CM Sharma said. He added that Rajasthan is rapidly progressing towards new heights of development under PM Modi's guidance, leadership and support. He said the state is receiving several major initiatives whose impact will be felt for generations. The Chief Minister added that the Rajasthan government has taken unprecedented steps to strengthen water security with the Centre's support. The Ram Jal Setu Link Project is being implemented to expand drinking water and irrigation facilities in eastern Rajasthan. According to CM Sharma, the project will provide drinking water to people in 17 districts, water for industrial use and irrigation facilities for more than 4 lakh hectares of land. He also said a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) concerning Yamuna water was signed on June 29 this year. Chief Minister Sharma added that an agreement was signed on September 15 among six states, including Rajasthan, for the Kishau Multipurpose Project, which will help ensure year-round water availability in the Shekhawati region. He also said a historic agreement on Narmada water was reached among Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh under PM Modi's leadership, resolving a decades-old dispute between the states over the river's water. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, more than 52 lakh rural households in Rajasthan have so far received tap-water connections, CM Sharma said. He added that drinking-water infrastructure worth more than Rs 33,305 crore has been developed across the state. The Chief Minister said that Rajasthan's road network is being expanded through major infrastructure projects, including the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and its Delhi-Jaipur section, the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway, and the Jaipur-Kishangarh-Jodhpur-Pachpadra and Bikaner-Kotputli expressways. He added that the Rs 11,764-crore Jaipur Ring Road North project is being completed with support from the Union government to help reduce traffic congestion in Jaipur. Chief Minister Sharma also said the Central government has approved Phase-2 of the Jaipur Metro Rail Project at an estimated cost of Rs 13,000 crore. The project will comprise a 41-kilometre corridor with 36 stations. The Chief Minister said that railway infrastructure in Rajasthan is expanding rapidly through initiatives such as Vande Bharat Express services, the Coach Care Complex and the development of 83 Amrit Bharat railway stations. Air connectivity is also being expanded in Kota, Kishangarh, Barmer and Bikaner, CM Sharma added. According to the Chief Minister, a new terminal building has been constructed at Jodhpur Airport at a cost of Rs 480 crore, increasing the airport's annual passenger-handling capacity from 1.2 to 2 million. Development work is also underway at the terminals in Jaipur and Kota, he said. Chief Minister Sharma added that Rajasthan's energy capacity has witnessed unprecedented growth over the past two years and nine months. He said the state's power infrastructure is being strengthened through battery energy storage projects with a combined capacity of 6,000 MWh. Under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, more than 5 lakh registrations have been recorded in Rajasthan, while over 3.37 lakh rooftop solar power systems have been installed, the Chief Minister added. He said that renewable-energy plants with a combined capacity of more than 5.45 GW have been installed under the PM-KUSUM scheme, making Rajasthan a national leader in renewable and solar-energy infrastructure. To further strengthen the state's energy security, Chief Minister Sharma highlighted the Mahi Banswara Nuclear Power Project. He said that Prime Minister Modi laid its foundation stone on September 25, 2025. The project has an estimated cost of Rs 42,000 crore and a total installed capacity of around 2,800 MW.
A new study launched at IIM Bangalore traces lessons from a 25-year water governance journey that began under the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, in 2001 in a water-scarce state. The study highlights the Narmada-based water grid with institutions such as WASMO, while noting the reflection at a national level. The study titled 'From Gujarat to India: Water Lessons for the World' is authored by Daniel W Smith, Assistant Professor at George Mason University; Nitin Bassi, fellow at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW); and Parameswaran Iyer, former secretary of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India. The study was published by George Mason University and the Gates Foundation. Daniel Smith noted the lessons from Gujarat and their application at a global level. In an interview with ANI, Smith noted that the biggest takeaway from a global perspective is to get the priority towards water. He said while the hydrology and requirements o...
India and the United Kingdom have agreed to explore measures to deepen cross-border investment and strengthen capital market connectivity, including through equity and bond listings via Gujarat International Finance Tec-City International Financial Services Centre (GIFT IFSC), according to a joint statement issued after the fourth India-UK Financial Markets Dialogue. The dialogue, held in London on September 29, brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Finance and HM Treasury, along with financial sector regulators from both countries. Discussions covered capital markets, insurance and pensions, asset management, sustainable finance, fintech and innovation. On capital markets, the two sides discussed opportunities to increase cross-border investment and improve Indian firms' access to international capital. They agreed to identify priority areas for future cooperation ahead of the next Economic and Financial Dialogue. India highlighted reforms undertaken by the Securities...
Jal Jeevan Mission to integrate water data, create digital twin of water supply infrastructure
A case study, From Gujarat to India: Water Lessons for the World, documenting the evolution of water governance in Gujarat and India between 2001 and 2026, was launched at IIM Bangalore.
Prasoon Joshi calls PM Modi, a a Karmayogi as he completes 25 years of public service
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) The National Award-winning lyricist Prasoon Joshi has extended his warm wishes to PM Modi on his 25 years of public service. The senior lyricist called PM Modi, a Karmayogi. Prasoon Joshi, who currently serves as the Prasar Bharati Chairman exclusively spoke with IANS, and said, In my view, he is a Karmayogi and works tirelessly, setting an example before the country that action brings results, and change and transformation come through action. He is a source of inspiration for everyone. He further mentioned, The changes are visible to everyone, but one change that is not visible is the change in the confidence of our country, which you can only see in people's eyes. I am happy and congratulate him on completing 25 years. PM Modi has completed 25 years as the head of a government, beginning with his appointment as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001, before becoming Prime Minister in 2014. His tenure in Gujarat was marked by an emphasis on infrastructure, agriculture, industrial development and governance, while his national leadership has focused on economic reforms, welfare delivery, digital infrastructure, manufacturing, foreign policy and Indias global standing. During his tenure as Prime Minister, major initiatives and decisions have included the implementation of GST, expansion of digital payments and direct-benefit transfers, large-scale infrastructure development, and programmes targeting housing, sanitation, electricity, healthcare and financial inclusion. Earlier this year, Modi became Indias longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister, surpassing Jawaharlal Nehrus previous record. The PM also discussed ideas and strategies with the world leaders at the recently held 18th BRICS Summit 2026 at the Bharat Mandapam.
MP: BJP marks PM Modis 25 years in public service
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Oct 7 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years at the helm of a government, describing the milestone as a matter of good fortune for the people of the state. Yadav participated virtually in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' from Ujjain as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised programmes across Madhya Pradesh to mark his 25 years of public service and highlight his governance and welfare initiatives. Heartiest congratulations to all the people of the state from my side. It is our good fortune that the Prime Minister has completed 25 years of public service, Yadav said in a statement. The programmes were organised under the BJP's 'Seva Jyoti Sankalp' initiative, with party workers and citizens gathering at different locations to listen to PM Modi's address and participate in events marking his long tenure in government. In Indore, thousands of BJP workers and citizens gathered at the IDA Ground in Vijay Nagar for the programme. Workers from different Assembly constituencies reached the venue carrying the Tricolour and were led by their respective MLAs. After PM Modi's address, Madhya Pradesh Minister and senior BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya administered a pledge for a 'Viksit Bharat' to elected representatives and party workers present at the programme. A ceremonial lamp was then lit, following which Vijayvargiya carried a torch to a newly constructed torch monument near the Vijay Nagar police station and lit it. BJP workers raised slogans in support of PM Modi before leaving for their respective Assembly constituencies carrying symbolic torches. The BJP's programmes across the state sought to highlight PM Modi's journey in government, which began with his becoming Gujarat Chief Minister in 2001 and continued with his tenure as Prime Minister from 2014. The celebrations also sought to reinforce the party's emphasis on public service, welfare and its vision of a developed India. The milestone, however, also triggered a political response from the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, with Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar questioning the state government's focus while the BJP was celebrating PM Modi's 25 years in public service. Singhar, referring to the BJP's 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra', said party workers visiting villages should also see the condition of roads, schools and hospitals, unemployment among youth, farmers' difficulties in obtaining fertilisers, and nutritional problems faced by tribal children. He urged Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to address issues affecting people in the state rather than merely seeking praise for the Prime Minister, and said the Chief Minister was accountable to the people of Madhya Pradesh.
Gujarat Police arrest man in Facebook honey-trap extortion case
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 7 (IANS) A 39-year-old man was arrested by the Local Crime Branch (LCB) of Ahmedabad Police after allegedly honey-trapping an older man through Facebook and extorting Rs 24 lakh from him in instalments by threatening to implicate him in false cases, police said on Wednesday. The accused, identified as Alpesh Solanki, a resident of Thikvadi village in Botad district, was arrested with Rs 1 lakh in cash allegedly collected from the complainant during the latest extortion attempt. According to police, the incident came to light on the night of October 5, when Anandnagar Police Station received a control-room message stating that a gang had allegedly blackmailed an older man and his son and taken Rs 1 lakh from them in a black bag. Officials said a man wearing black trousers and a white checked shirt was reported to have fled from Pakwan Char Rasta with the money. Following the information, senior officials directed the concerned officers to take immediate action. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-7) Shivam Verma ordered a special action plan and strict naka-bandi in the area to identify and apprehend those involved. Teams from the LCB Zone-7, led by Police Sub-Inspector H.D. Vaghela, conducted intensive patrolling and vehicle checks along the SG Highway. Based on specific information received, the police located a man matching the description in the control-room message hiding under the Karnavati Bridge with a black bag. He was apprehended along with Rs 1 lakh in cash. Police said questioning of Solanki revealed that he and his associates had allegedly contacted the complainant through Facebook and honey-trapped him. The accused allegedly threatened to register false cases against him and, as part of a planned conspiracy, collected Rs 24 lakh from him in instalments. Police further said the gang had allegedly demanded another Rs 7 lakh from the complainant during the latest episode. Officials said the complainant became suspicious and contacted the police, following which Solanki was arrested with Rs 1 lakh. Two other accused, Kishan alias Kanu Parmar, a resident of Morarinagar-1 on Targhada Road in Botad, and Lalo, a resident of Panadara village in Kadi taluka of Mehsana district, are yet to be arrested. Police said efforts to trace them are underway. The police seized two bundles of Rs 500 notes totalling Rs 1 lakh, a black bag and a mobile phone valued at Rs 5,000. The total value of the seized property was put at Rs 1.05 lakh. Police advised people to exercise caution before accepting friend requests from unknown persons on social media and while communicating with strangers online. The police also appealed to anyone facing blackmail or an extortion demand of this nature to approach the nearest police station.
VNSGU Professor of Practice Recruitment 2026
Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) has released the notification for the post of Professor of Practice. Eligible candidates can apply online at vnsgu.ac.in till 30 October 2026.
Modis 25-year journey reflects strong democratic mandate, public trust: Jitendra Singh
Jammu, Oct 7: Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modis 25 years in public office is a reflection of the countrys strong democratic tradition. Participating in the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp SabhaSeva Jyoti Yatra' in his home constituency Udhampur, the minister of state in the Prime Minister's Office, said it was rare in a democracy for a leader to repeatedly win elections over such a long period and continue to receive the peoples mandate to govern. Prime Minister Modi has completed 25 years in public office 12.5 years as Chief Minister of Gujarat and another 12.5 years as prime minister, without a break. I believe this is a remarkable record and a matter of pride and happiness for all of us. More importantly, it reflects the strength of our democratic tradition, where a leader has repeatedly won the peoples mandate and been entrusted with the responsibility of governing, Singh told reporters at the event. He said while such continuity may be seen in dominant political systems or monarchies, democracies are generally marked by changes, challenges and electoral ups and downs. When you look at all of this together, it reflects a deep sense of dedication and commitment, he said. The minister said Modi had earned the trust of the people through years of hard work, relentless effort and a spirit of service. Referring to Modis description of himself as the Pradhan Sevak, he said the prime minister had built a relationship of trust with citizens across the country. We may not understand every decision that Modi ji takes today, but I believe that with time, we will certainly understand its significance, Singh said, adding that earning such a level of public trust requires years of dedication and self-discipline. He said Modis commitment to serving the nation was an inspiration for everyone and called upon people to imbibe those values in their own lives and contribute towards the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
I Am Still A Student: PM Modi Marks 25 Years In Governance, Unveils We Will Do It Mantra
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 25 years of continuous service as the head of a government, a journey that began with his appointment as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001. Reflecting on his journey, PM Modi recalled his school days in Vadnagar and said that his eagerness to learn has remained with him. Calling himself still a student, Modi said he tries to learn something new every day. At the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha, Modi also renewed his call for a developed India by 2047 with the slogan We will do it, while highlighting goals including a top-three economy, Atmanirbhar Bharat, becoming a global manufacturing hub, hosting the Olympics and advancing in space.
From India to Global South: Gujarat
New Delhi A new case study, From Gujarat to India: Water Lessons for the World, tracing 25 years of Indias The post From India to Global South: Gujarats water governance model offers lessons for world appeared first on Bilkul Online .
New Delhi, Oct 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday completed 25 years as the head of a government, marking the milestone with the Union Cabinet passing a resolution congratulating him for his long tenure in public office. Modi first became the Chief Minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001, and went on to become [] The post PM Modi completes 25 years as head of govt; Union Cabinet passes resolution to commemorate this achievement appeared first on Northlines .
Samvedna Suwalka played Vijay Salgaonkars (Ajay Devgn) lawyer Gayathri Mohan in Drishyam 2. She had a memorable monologue at the end. But she got a bigger and meatier part in the recently-released third part of the franchise, Drishyam The Conclusion. She stood on her own despite her character being pitted against someone as senior as Prakash Raj. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, Samvedna got candid on life after Drishyam The Conclusion, her memorable process of auditioning for Drishyam 2 and her more than a decade long career. How has life been after the release of Drishyam The Conclusion? I am in a controlled delirium. I started in 2013. My career hasnt been an overnight success. It has been a sustained success. I had Bey Yaar in 2014, which was a huge hit in Gujarat. That gave me a validation that acting choose kiya hai toh kaam milega. It was a temporary stardom with Pratik Gandhi and all. It was very interesting that that happened and I would come to Bombay and still be a struggling actor, stand in lines and give auditions. Over a period of a decade, I have built my career very slowly. Every year, I would think that I have moved one step ahead. Somewhere around lockdown, I started getting work in mainstream Bollywood because I did plays and a lot of independent films, which went to festivals but never saw the light of the day. OTT also gave me a great opportunity. I got a lot of shows where I played primary characters like Jee Karda and Gyarah Gyarah. I did Fighter and Drishyam 2 as well. When Drishyam 2 happened, I thought it has big stars, so my role will come and go. But even for that part I got so much validation from the audience, which was very surprising. I had never been a part of such a big film. I knew Drishyam 3 is going to be big. I knew this time I had a bigger, better and meatier part. Thats why I am using the word controlled because I kind of knew (the response). But even if you know, when you actually experience it, you realize how it is. So, right now I am experiencing success. My Instagram followers are increasing. I am getting calls; my parents are getting calls. It feels like my 10-12 years of hard work is paying off. What was your reaction when you came to know that you have a bigger role the third film? People knew that Drishyam 3 is being made. I was waiting. I also sent a message to the writer Aamil Keeyan Khan asking if the lawyer is coming back (in part 3). He replied with, All in good time. I also messaged someone from the production asking if Drishyam 3 is happening and they were like, Yes, its happening but they didnt say more. I was eager to know if I would be there in the film. I had my fingers crossed and I told God, Bhagwan, Gayathri Mohan ko wapas le aana (laughs). You cant be sure. Maybe, they dont go to the court this time or bring any other lawyer. Then later when I got a call from the casting asking if I have dates, I was like, For what? They said its for Drishyam 3. I was like, Yes, we are in. During the reading, Aamil came in and said that they should do the reading. When I started reading my 2nd or 3rd scene, I was like, Itna kaam hai mera. Main court ke baahar bhi hoon. He looked at me, smiled and said, Take it in, your life is going to change (laughs). I took a long breath and said, This is going to be fantastic. How was your first ever meet with Ajay Devgn? In part 3, I have scenes with Ajay sir and his family and then I got to the court. In part 2, there is a small sequence where Ajay sir and his family are taken to the court. That was the first time I met Ajay sir, Shriya (Saran) maam and their family. It was a very formal Hi hello. I only had to say my lines, so we didnt speak much. Ajay sir gave his shot and walked away. He was very reserved. Shriya maam spoke to me a lot. But my proper meeting with Ajay sir was when I had my courtroom monologue in the climax. That scene happened with Ajay sir standing in the witness box. It was my second meet. He came and said, How are you Samvedna? I was like, Arre he remembers me (laughs). He keeps really quiet. He mostly keeps it to himself. But his intensity and energy is such that everyone is aware that Ajay sir is there. I was like, I have to get this right as I have to perform in front of Ajay sir. I was very prepared. The monologue was okayed by Abhishek in just one take. I asked, You dont want another take? He said, Nahin, mil gaya. By the end of that afternoon by lunch break, Ajay sir was walking away. He came up to me, patted me on my back, smiled and said, Well done and walked away. Just like that. I was like my day and life were made (laughs)! This is my first memory of him and I cherish that. How were you cast in Drishyam 2? Was there an audition? It was as boring as auditions happen. It was literally a generic audition. I will never forget this. In 2021 October, there was no war between Ukraine and Russia. I had gone to Ukraine to shoot an ad. It was an Indian ad but it was being shot in Ukraine for production reasons. When I was about to return in the flight, I got a message from the casting associate saying there is a small role in Drishyam 2 but its an important role. Usually this is what is told to actors the role is small but significant. Thats the way people are convinced to give auditions. I was told it was for three days. I said okay I will do the audition. There was no excitement. Drishyam was big but I thought it would be an insignificant role as it has such a big cast. They were constantly asking me to send the audition soon as they had to lock it soon. Pushkaraj Chirputkar played my husband in the ad. He was helping me with the lines in the flight. I was reciting the monologue to him. He liked what I did and said that I will get that part. But I didnt think so thinking there must be so many people lined up for a big film like this. I came back to India and sent the audition. I didnt think much of it. But after a week or 10 days, I was told that the director liked it and asked me to come for a meeting. Abhishek asked me whether I would like to do the role. I asked what the role is about. I readily agreed. It was just like a generic audition. In the 3rd part, your character is pitted against a veteran actor like Prakash Raj. How was the whole experience of on screen arguments with him? Prakash Raj sir is such a seasoned actor. You grew up watching him. In Hindi films, at least, he usually plays a villain. Even before you meet him, there is this idea of him being a very powerful person and all of that. Even when you meet him, he is tall and towering. I asked the writers how come they continued with me. They said if Gayathri Mohan has won the case for Vijay in part 2, why will he change the lawyer? And he is like a middle-class man from Goa, so he will continue with his people. They said Tabu will bring a very powerful lawyer and they wanted this to look like a very David vs Goliath chemistry on screen. And Ajay sir is playing an underdog. So, if a woman is fighting for him in front of a powerful towering man, it is an extension of that underdog. I was like, Arre baap re Prakash Raj sir ke saamne karna hai. But I was excited also as I have been around and done some work. Once we get into the character, its about what those two characters are doing. Thats the fun part of it; between action and cut, we are what our characters are. We were rivals, we were fighting each other, we were vicious, manipulative, etc. But the moment cut happens, sir will say, Lunch break mein maine khana mangaya hai, khayegi kya? I would say, Of course, sir. I used to eat food with him. And he used to get delicious food. He is fond of cooking. At times, even his wife would bring food and we would eat. But then on the set, we are again fighting each other (laughs). It was a joy to be on this set. Purely from craft and acting perspective, when you work with veterans, it elevates you. They are so good at what they do that they make you better. Where do we see you next after Drishyam The Conclusion? I have shot an independent film called DINK (Double Income No Kids). This was with a Marathi producer but we shot this in English. This is an Indo-British collaboration. I shot it this in London in August. I just completed Ribhu Dasguptas Guru with John Abraham. I was shooting for this in London till last week. These two films will take a little while to come out next year. But my immediate next is a film with Subhash Ghai called Manya. Subhash sir has written and produced it. Its directed by Sameer Joshi. I am one of the main characters. Also Read: Drishyam The Conclusion Worldwide Box Office: Ajay Devgn starrer enters Top 5 highest grossers of 2026, becomes fifth release to cross Rs. 300 cr globally
