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PU celebrates its 9th convocation, honours achievements of graduates

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 16: Parul University (PU) bid farewell to the graduating batch of 2025, holding its 9th Convocation, an event that brought together many of the national leaders and celebrated icons along with thousands of hopeful graduates. Distinguished national icons such as Minister of State for Home Affairs and Deputy CM of Gujarat, Harsh Sanghvi, renowned journalist and Chairman & Editor-in-Chief of India TV, Rajat Sharma, Olympic Boxing Legend MC Mary Kom, Entrepreneur & Shark Tank India Judge [] The post PU celebrates its 9th convocation, honours achievements of graduates appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 17 Dec 2025 5:10 am

Nagesh Trophy: UP, Gujarat, Goa, Delhi, And Bengal Win On Third Day

National T20 Cricket Tournament: Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Goa, Delhi, and West Bengal won their matches as the 8th edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025 witnessed an electrifying day of league matches across Vijayawada, Gandhinagar, and New Delhi. The day went well, featuring commanding victories, a nail-biting finish, and standout individual performancesfurther underlining the growing competitiveness of blind cricket in India. At Vijayawada, Uttar Pradesh registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Tamil Nadu. After opting to field, Uttar Pradesh restricted Tamil Nadu to 135/6 in 20 overs, led by disciplined bowling from Gokul Kumar (3 wickets) and Shaukat Ali (2 wickets). The chase was anchored by Ravi Verma, who remained unbeaten on 70 off 44 balls, supported by Vikram Sen (31), as Uttar Pradesh reached 136/3 in 14.1 overs. Ravi Verma was named Player of the Match. In the second match at the venue, Gujarat produced a composed all-round performance to defeat Uttarakhand by six wickets. Gujarat restricted Uttarakhand to 132/9, before chasing down the target comfortably at 133/4 in 14.1 overs. Dinesh Rathva was adjudged Player of the Match for his impactful all-round contribution. At Gandhinagar, fans were treated to a thriller as Jammu & Kashmir edged past Manipur by five runs. Batting first, Jammu & Kashmir posted 173/6, built around Shubams 42 and a fluent unbeaten 33 from Sahil. Manipur mounted a spirited chase, led by Bablu Sankhwar (45), but fell just short at 168/8. Sahil was named Player of the Match for his decisive all-round effort. In another dominant display at the same venue, Goa stormed to a massive 101-run win over Railways. Goa piled on 233/2, powered by a sensational unbeaten 121 off 66 balls by Nilesh, with solid support from Aftab Patel (44). Railways were restricted to 132/8, with Nilesh also contributing with the ball. He was deservedly named Player of the Match. Meanwhile, in New Delhi, West Bengal registered a comprehensive eight-wicket win over Chandigarh. After bowling out Chandigarh for 128 in 18.5 overs, West Bengal chased down the target in just 13 overs, led by contributions from Surajit Ghara and captain Nasiruddin Ahamed, who was named Player of the Match. In another dominant display at the same venue, Goa stormed to a massive 101-run win over Railways. Goa piled on 233/2, powered by a sensational unbeaten 121 off 66 balls by Nilesh, with solid support from Aftab Patel (44). Railways were restricted to 132/8, with Nilesh also contributing with the ball. He was deservedly named Player of the Match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The days results collectively showcased the intensity, skill, resilience, and rising national prominence of blind cricket in India, as the IndusInd Bank Nagesh Trophy 2025 continues to deliver high-quality, competitive cricket across venues. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 17 Dec 2025 12:22 am

IPL 2026 Auction: Never Thought Of Trying To Trade Washington Sundar, Says Parthiv Patel

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Gujarat Titans (GT) assistant coach Parthiv Patel has insisted that off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar was never considered for a trade to another team ahead of IPL 2026. Patel also said Sundars versatility made him integral to the side, noting that he could slot in anywhere in the batting order while offering balance with the ball. Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 retentions, reports came of Sundar being potentially traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from GT, but it never materialised. In our thought process, we never thought of trying to trade Washington Sundar, or even if someone asked us, we didn't even think about it. So that was never a doubt at all. As far as Washington Sundar, how he has played really well for India in the past year, whether it was Test cricket or wherever he has got a chance, he's a versatile player. He can bat well at the top as well as at the bottom. So, depending on the season, we can use Washington Sundar anywhere, Patel told reporters in a virtual press conference after the auction ended in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Sundar was bought by the Gujarat Titans for Rs 3.2 crore last year, and has been given limited opportunities in recent seasons under the Impact Player rule. He featured in only six matches this year, though his knock of 49 against Sunrisers Hyderabad showed his superlative batting skills. With his stocks seeing a surge following strong performances for India in all formats, GT will be banking on Sundars versatility to address their number four slot issue to support a fantastic top three in captain Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, especially after having traded Sherfane Rutherford to the Mumbai Indians. Patel also addressed the flexibility issue in the middle order, noting that team decisions would be guided by conditions to decide between Sundar, Glenn Phillips, and new buy Tom Banton. So basically, when we pick a team, it's in our mind that whichever player comes in, he should fit in our team and be ready to play in the eleven. So obviously, the way the pitch conditions will be, the way we feel on the ground and in the nets, we will make a decision according to that. But whether it's Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, or Tom Banton, who we took in the auction, no player is out of consideration. But we have the luxury that we have such players who can play at any number anywhere, he added. England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith was a surprise unsold player at the auction, and Patel felt Banton, having more experience of playing T20s for England, drew them to acquiring him in the auction. No, it's not that we don't have any interest. Obviously, Tom Banton and Jamie Smith have almost the same kind of skill set. But Tom Banton has more experience. He has played in the IPL before. He is doing well in international cricket. So that's why we had to choose one out of the two. But for that, we were very sure before in the way we were thinking, and that's why we took Tom Banton in the team. He brings a lot of value in terms of experience and batting at any number. Also, he is someone who can bat from the top till wherever we want. So obviously, we look at a batter who is versatile. On top of everything, he has the experience of playing international cricket and IPL cricket. So that's the reason why we thought that he could be a classic fit for our team, he elaborated. On concerns around the form and rhythm of lower-order hitters Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan, Patel expressed confidence in their abilities when IPL 2026 begins. Tewatia has been out of action due to a shoulder injury needing surgery, while Shahrukh was sent back home after having a poor time for Tamil Nadu in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league stage in Ahmedabad, GTs home venue in IPL. So obviously, we look at a batter who is versatile. On top of everything, he has the experience of playing international cricket and IPL cricket. So that's the reason why we thought that he could be a classic fit for our team, he elaborated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Same with Shah Rukh - obviously, the top three batters did play a lot of cricket. They spent a lot of time. Shah Rukh also has that ability. He did not have a good Mushtaq Ali so far, but we truly trust in Shah Rukh Khan's ability. So, we don't have any doubts over those two players, concluded Patel. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 16 Dec 2025 11:54 pm

IPL 2026 Auction: Happy On Getting Uncapped Pacers Ashok And Prithvi, Says Parthiv Patel

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Gujarat Titans (GT) assistant coach Parthiv Patel expressed satisfaction on securing the services of uncapped pacers Ashok Sharma and Prithvi Raj Yarra in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Auction in Abu Dhabi, saying the duo bolsters their fast-bowling resources in unique ways. Sharma is leading the wicket-taking charts of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 22 wickets in ten games for Rajasthan, while Yarra picked 12 wickets in nine matches for Andhra. The duos acquisition by GT at the auction in Abu Dhabi is a smart addition to an already rich arsenal of GTs fast bowlers, featuring the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Ishant Sharma, and Kagiso Rabada. See, basically, for Ashok Sharma, we all thought that the way the Indian uncapped pace bowlers were bowling, they were very impressive in their bowling this time. Because we were watching the matches, we saw that he also took a lot of matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this year, especially with the pace he was bowling, said Parthiv while responding to an IANS query in the post-auction press conference. So it was in our minds that we wanted an uncapped fast bowler to come to the team. Because of that, we are happy that a young fast bowler has come to our team. The same situation was that Prithvi Raj Yarra had also been playing first-class cricket for a long time and had an injury in between. But the way he is bowling this time, especially bringing us a variation of a lefty bowler, and because of this, the way we see domestic players, we thought that these two are very impressive bowlers. We are very happy that we were able to bring them to our team, said Patel. GTs headline purchase at the auction was West Indies fast-bowling all-rounder Jason Holder, who is set to vie with Glenn Phillips for a place in the starting eleven. Seeking to bolster their overseas contingent, GT aggressively pursued Holder and eventually got him for Rs 7 crore after a prolonged tussle with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Patel stated that Holder had always been their first-choice target in auction planning, adding that the teams style of play and overall composition demanded the presence of a seasoned all-rounder, making him a natural fit. See, we've tracked Jason Holder for the last one and a half years. He's been outstanding in T20 cricket. Wherever he has played in all the leagues, he's been brilliant. Also, GT's philosophy is that we always look at the experienced player. We all know how experienced Jason Holder is. He's been around for years, and obviously, an all-rounder is always an asset, and that is the reason why we've gone ahead with Jason Holder, he added. The addition of England pacer Luke Wood for Rs 75 lakh also boosted GTs overseas pace bowling options, after the franchise missed out on buying Australian pacer Ben Dwarshuis. Basically, we needed a left-arm seamer who could swing the ball, and both of them are like that. The other thing is that when you go to the auction, it depends on which player comes first. See, we've tracked Jason Holder for the last one and a half years. He's been outstanding in T20 cricket. Wherever he has played in all the leagues, he's been brilliant. Also, GT's philosophy is that we always look at the experienced player. We all know how experienced Jason Holder is. He's been around for years, and obviously, an all-rounder is always an asset, and that is the reason why we've gone ahead with Jason Holder, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So that's why Rabada was a right-arm seamer, and we had all the other right-arm fast bowlers. So we were going towards that variation and needed a left-arm seamer, and that's why we went to Luke Wood, concluded Patel. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 16 Dec 2025 11:32 pm

JSW Energy to set up wind turbine blade units in Karnataka & Gujarat

These units will be manufacturing wind turbine generators (WTGs) for JSW Energy as well as for its partner China's Sany Renewable Energy. The companies had entered into a technology licensing agreement last March.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 11:31 pm

40-year-old dead grenade dug up in Navapura

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 11:24 pm

Man murders brother who wanted to sell house to buy car

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 11:21 pm

This state bans sale of tobacco rolling papers, cones to curb drug addiction in teenagers, young adults

The Gujarat government has taken a big step to crackdown on consumption of intoxicating substances. It has announced an immediate ban on the storage, sale and distribution of rolling papers as well as pre-rolled cones, popularly used to smoke tobacco, weed and other harmful substances.

DNA India 16 Dec 2025 11:05 pm

IPL 2026 Auction: From Cameron Green To Prashant Veer - Updated Player List Of All Ten Teams

From Cameron Green: Australia all-rounder Cameron Green made headlines on Tuesday after being roped in by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a record sum of Rs. 25.20 crore, becoming the third most expensive player in the history of the Indian Premier League at the mini auction at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. India's Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma became the highest-priced uncapped players in IPL history as Chennai Super Kings went all out for the young Indian talent, whereas Matheesha Pathirana stole the limelight by fetching Rs. 18 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders and becoming the highest-paid Sri Lankan player in IPL history. Overall, all the 10 teams managed to fill all the 77 vacant slots for which they splurged a combined Rs 215.45 crore. Here is the updated list of players for all 10 teams: Lucknow Super Giants: Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Rishabh Pant (c), Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Arshin Kulkarni, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Manimaran Siddharth, Digvesh Rathi, Prince Yadav, Akash Singh, Mohammed Shami, Arjun Tendulkar, Wanindu Hasaranga, Anrich Nortje, Mukul Choudhary, Naman Tiwari, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis. Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Rovman Powell, Sunil Narine, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy, Cameron Green, Finn Allen, Matheesha Pathirana, Tejasvi Singh, Kartik Tyagi, Prashant Solanki, Rahul Tripathi, Tim Seifert, Mustafizur Rahman, Sarthak Ranjan, Daksh Kamra, Rachin Ravindra, Akash Deep. Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Aniket Verma, R. Smaran, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harsh Dubey, Kamindu Mendis, Harshal Patel, Brydon Carse, Jaydev Unadkat, Eshan Malinga, Zeeshan Ansari, Shivang Kumar, Salil Arora, Sakib Hussain, Onkar Tarmale, Amit Kumar, Praful Hinge, Krains Fuletra, Liam Livingstone, Shivam Mavi, Jack Edwards. Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ryan Rickleton, Robin Minz, Raj Bawa, Raghu Sharma, Mitchell Santner, Corbin Bosch, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Allah Ghafanzar, Ashwani Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Will Jacks, Sherfane Rutherford, Mayank Markande, Shardul Thakur, Quinton de Kock, Danish Malewar, Mohammad Izhar, Atharva Ankolekar, Mayank Rawat. Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyala Avinash, Harnoor Pannu, Suryansh Shedge, Mitchell Owen, Xavier Bartlett, Lockie Ferguson, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Thakur, Vishnu Vinod, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, Vishal Nishad. Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, M.S. Dhoni, Sanju Samson, Dewald Brevis, Urvil Patel, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Shreyas Gopal, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Akeal Hosein, Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Matthew Short, Aman Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Matt Henry, Rahul Chahar, Zak Foulkes. Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, Satvik Deswal, Mangesh Yadav, Jordan Cox, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra, Kanishk Chouhan. Rajasthan Royals: Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Donovan Ferreira, Sandeep Sharma, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Yash Raj Punja, Vignesh Puthur, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao, Brijesh Sharma, Adam Milne, Kuldeep Sen. Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, Satvik Deswal, Mangesh Yadav, Jordan Cox, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra, Kanishk Chouhan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Kumar Kushagra, Anuj Rawat, Jos Buttler, Nishant Sindhu, Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, Arshad Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ishant Sharma, Gurnoor Singh Brar, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Sai Kishore, Jayant Yadav, Ashok Sharma, Jason Holder, Tom Banton, Prithvi Raj Yarra, Luke Wood. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 16 Dec 2025 10:20 pm

'Gogo paper' banned: Gujarat bars sale of rolling papers, pre-rolled cones; cites youth addiction

Gujarat has banned the sale and distribution of rolling papers and pre-rolled cones, commonly known as 'Gogo paper'. The state home department cited health risks and concerns that these products are being used by youth to smoke narcotic substances. The ban, effective immediately, targets harmful substances found in the papers, aiming to curb addiction among young people.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 10:13 pm

IPL Auction 2026: GT snap up West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder for 7 crore

IPL Auction 2026: Gujarat Titans secured West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder for 7 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. Holder, the West Indies' all-time leading T20I wicket-taker, brings significant international experience and lower-order firepower to the Titans' squad for their 2026 campaign.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 7:06 pm

Cumin acreage may decline on weak prices this rabi season

Area down 14% in Gujarat so far; subdued export demand from China, Bangladesh keeps prices under check

The Hindu Businessline 16 Dec 2025 6:58 pm

PM Surya Ghar: Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra have highest consumers with zero monthly bills

19.45 lakh rooftop solar systems as on December 9 were installed across the country

The Hindu Businessline 16 Dec 2025 6:27 pm

IPL Auction: I Would Like To See Him Play As Opener For KKR, Says Anil Kumble On Cameron Green

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India cricketer Anil Kumble wants Cameron Green to play as an opener for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after he emerged as the most expensive overseas buy at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction so far, and the third most expensive purchase in the history of the tournament. Green made his IPL debut in the 2023 season after the Mumbai Indians (MI) bought him for Rs 17.5 crore. Notably, at the time, he became the second-most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history and the most expensive Australian player. Most recently, he played in IPL 2024 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after being traded in from MI. In 12 innings, he made 255 runs at a strike rate of 143.25 and picked up 10 wickets in 13 matches with the ball at an economy of 8.61. I would like to see him play the opening slot for KKR. I think, in terms of a finisher, KKR already have a decent line-up. They have Rinku Singh, for instance. I dont think they utilised their resources well last season. If you compare it to the season when they won the trophy, it was a similar kind of line-up. Yes, of course, Shreyas Iyer, the skipper, was missing, and Mitchell Starc, the key fast bowler, was also missing. However, if you look at the kind of batting depth they had Ramandeep Singh, Rovman Powell, and Rinku Singh; these are all capable and experienced batters who can operate in the No. 5, No. 6, and finisher roles. So I feel, they dont need a Cameron Green to do that job. I would rather see him at the top of the order, either opening or at No. 3, depending on where Ajinkya Rahane wants to bat. Sunil Narine could drop down to No. 6 or No. 7 or even act as a floater, Kumble told JioStar. However, the Australian all-rounder will take home only 18 crore, as per the new maximum fee rule. The maximum fee rule was brought in last year to address the collective concern of franchises that some overseas players were registering exclusively at mini auctions to exploit the supply-demand imbalance. As per the rule, the overseas player cannot be paid more than Rs 18 crore, which was the highest slab for franchises retaining players ahead of the 2025 mega auction. If the bid exceeded the Rs 18-crore mark, the additional money would be utilised by the BCCI for player welfare. However, the Australian all-rounder will take home only 18 crore, as per the new maximum fee rule. The maximum fee rule was brought in last year to address the collective concern of franchises that some overseas players were registering exclusively at mini auctions to exploit the supply-demand imbalance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Experience is something the Delhi Capitals clearly lacked. While the uncapped batters did perform well last season Ashutosh Sharma and Vipraj Nigam, in particular, played the finishers role effectively. Adding someone with David Millers experience and ability is a big plus. Pairing him with Tristan Stubbs, his South African teammate, strengthens the middle order significantly. At that price, its an absolute steal for the Delhi Capitals. I thought Gujarat Titans might look to bring him back, but they seem likely to stick with Washington Sundar for that role. Overall, its a very smart move by Delhi Capitals to add experience something they were missing last season. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 16 Dec 2025 5:54 pm

Gujarat Titans IPL Auction 2026: Ashok Sharma to join retained stars; see full squad, base and final bid details

IPL 2026 Auction: Gujarat Titans have secured uncapped player Ashok Sharma for 90 lakh rupees. This acquisition happened during a competitive auction for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. The franchise aims to strengthen its middle order and death bowling. Gujarat Titans have retained several key players for the new season. Their strategy involves blending match-winners with a strong bowling attack.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 5:52 pm

MGNREGS jobs shrink in Gujarat amid worker deletions, mounting payment delays

AHMEDABAD: At a time when the Centre has pushed through a bill to rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), official data submitted in the Lok Sabha on December 16 points to a steady erosion of the schemes reach in Gujarat rather than a revival. The figures show a clear and sustained decline in employment under MGNREGS in the state, closely linked to large-scale deletions of workers from official rolls and mounting delays in wage payments. Employment in Gujarat stood at over 15.16 lakh workers in 201819. After a dip in 201920, the numbers rose sharply during the pandemic year of 202021 to 19.31 lakh, before entering a prolonged downward phase. By 202324, employment had fallen to 15.11 lakh, declined further to 13.06 lakh in 202425, and dropped sharply to just 9.01 lakh in 202526, as of December 11. This contraction has coincided with significant churn in the MGNREGS database. In 202223, Gujarat deleted 5.59 lakh workers while adding only 3.20 lakh, resulting in a net loss. The following year saw an even sharper purge, with 9.75 lakh workers deleted against just 3.01 lakh additions, a trend that directly mirrored the fall in employment. Although the state added 10.77 lakh workers in 202425, the rebound proved short-lived. In 202526 so far, additions have slowed to 1.74 lakh, deletions have continued, and overall employment levels have remained significantly lower. The data indicates a direct link between shrinking job card rolls and declining access to work, translating into fewer days of guaranteed employment under the scheme. The government has maintained that job card verification is a continuous exercise and that renewal is mandatory every five years under MGNREGS. However, when deletions consistently outpace additions, the process appears less like routine verification and more like a structural narrowing of access to the programme. The situation is further aggravated by pending payments. As of December 5, 2025, Gujarat had Rs 61.43 crore in unpaid wages and Rs 21.54 crore in pending material costs. These delays directly affect workers whose participation in the scheme depends on timely remuneration, weakening confidence and discouraging demand for work, thereby reinforcing the cycle of declining participation. National data underscores the broader stress on the scheme. Across the country, pending dues under MGNREGS total Rs 9,746.39 crore, including Rs 1,340.07 crore in wages, Rs 7,863.37 crore in material payments and Rs 542.95 crore in administrative costs, against a total allocation of Rs 86,000 crore for 202526. While the Centre has stated that fund releases and dues fluctuate daily, the scale of arrears points to systemic pressure rather than temporary delays. Taken together, the figures highlight a growing gap between symbolism and substance. Even as the schemes name is set to change, its footprint in Gujarat is contracting, with fewer workers on the rolls, fewer job cards, reduced employment and crores of rupees locked in pending payments. Without stabilising worker databases and clearing wage backlogs, the data suggests that MGNREGS risks being rebranded at the top while being hollowed out at the ground level.

The New Indian Express 16 Dec 2025 5:16 pm

Gujarati Cinemas biggest leap: Once-niche industry is outperforming regional giants

Gujarati cinema is experiencing a significant transformation, with box office revenues more than doubling in a decade and theatrical footfalls reaching a ten-year high. Driven by thematic diversity, improved production values, and a renewed cultural connection, films like 'Laalo- Krishna Sada Sahaayate' are leading this remarkable growth, surpassing other regional industries.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 4:01 pm

GT likely to go for a finisher in IPL auction: Team owner

Gujarat Titans owner Jinal Mehta backs Ashish Nehra and the coaching staff to sustain the franchises success, crediting their consistency for building a strong team culture. Unfazed by a modest auction purse, Mehta says retaining the core was the priority, with selective additions planned to strengthen the squad sustainably.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 3:48 pm

Fan REQUESTS 'Laalo' actress Reeva post film's success

Gujarati film 'Laalo Shri Krishna Sada Sahaayate' is a box office success, with actress Reeva Rachh drawing attention for a recent Instagram post. While praised for her beauty, her outfit sparked mixed reactions online. The film's impact extends beyond theaters, with a special screening held at Himmatnagar jail, where Rachh and co-star Karan Joshi interacted with inmates.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 3:44 pm

Gujarat Kidney and Super Speciality IPO: Company sets price band at Rs 108 Rs 114 per share. Check GMP, other details

Gujarat Kidney and Super Speciality has set a price band of 108114 for its 251 crore IPO, which will open for subscription from December 22 to 24, 2025. The issue is a fresh offer of up to 2.2 crore shares, with allocations of 75% for QIBs, 15% for NIIs and 10% for retail investors.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 2:56 pm

Gujarat Kidney and Super Speciality IPO to open on December 22, price band set at 108114

The company has fixed the price band at 108 - 114 per equity share, with a face value of 2 each

The Hindu Businessline 16 Dec 2025 2:45 pm

GUJCET 2026 registration begins for engineering, pharmacy at gujcet.gseb.org, apply before December 30

GUJCET 2026 registration: GUJCET 2026 registration has begun at gujcet.gseb.org for candidates seeking admission in engineering and pharmacy courses. The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) will conduct the examination on March 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Candidates must complete the online application and pay the Rs 350 fee via SBlePay or SBI branch payment before December 30, 2025. Detailed instructions, exam guidelines, and a calendar are available on the official portal.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 12:09 pm

'Always with you': Dhruvin Shah stands by Kinjal Dave

Gujarati singer Kinjal Dave broke her silence on engagement rumors, strongly defending her family and father. She spoke out against societal restrictions on women's choices, emphasizing daughters' modern achievements. Dave expressed pride in her values and praised her respectful future in-laws, revealing she ended the relationship to maintain her dignity.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 12:06 pm

Inox Wind secures repeat 100 MW wind order from Jakson Green

Inox Wind has secured a repeat order for 100 MW of 3.3 MW turbines from Jakson Green for projects in Gujarat. This brings Inox Wind's total order inflow for FY26 to 600 MW. The company will also provide EPC and O&M services for the project.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 11:44 am

'Laalo' box office collections day 67: Reeva Rachh starrer crosses Rs 117 crores

Gujarati devotional film 'Laalo' is achieving remarkable box office success, raking in Rs 117.72 crores globally. The film's emotional narrative and strong performances have resonated deeply with audiences, leading to an unexpected surge in popularity after its initial release. Director Ankit Sakhiya describes its journey as a miracle, highlighting its profound impact.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 10:54 am

SIR: Draft rolls of three States, two UTs to be published on Tuesday

The enumeration period for Tamil Nadu and Gujarat has been extended till December 14, where the draft electoral rolls will be published on December 19

The Hindu Businessline 16 Dec 2025 10:29 am

PM degree defamation case: Gujarat court rejects Kejriwal, Sanjay Singhs plea for separate trial

Ahmedabad, Dec 16 (PTI) A sessions court here has rejected pleas of AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh for separation of trial in a criminal defamation case over their remarks on PM Narendra Modis educational degree, noting they appeared to be animated by a common purpose. Additional Sessions Judge M P Purohit on Monday dismissed the revision applications filed by former Delhi chief minister Kejriwal and Rajya Sabha member Singh, who challenged the trial courts order that had rejected their request for separate trials, and requested to quash the orders. Gujarat University had filed the defamation case over what

The Sen Times 16 Dec 2025 9:34 am

Ahmedabad Diary: CMs jibe on corruption steals spotlight

CMs jibe on corruption steals spotlight While inaugurating and laying foundation stones for development projects worth over Rs 600 crore in Surat recently, CM Bhupendra Patel used the public platform to send a pointed message on corruption. Addressing an event organised by the Surat Municipal Corporation and SUDA at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Patel, in his trademark soft but firm tone, congratulated the civic body and said Congratulations to the corporation for taking only the amount of tax that belongs to the corporation, he said, pausing before adding with a smile, We will not get anything else except tax! an indirect but sharp jibe at corrupt practices. Major revamp on cards in state BJP leadership Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, his deputy Harsh Sanghvi and BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma arrived in Delhi on Saturday, triggering speculation about an impending reshuffle in the party. The buzz gained traction after a closed-door meeting chaired by PM Modi. Sources said the meeting first focused on restructuring BJPs state organisation and later reviewed the performance of the Gujarat government. The new organisational framework will be aligned with upcoming local body polls and the 2027 Assembly elections, with greater representation for Saurashtra leaders. The revamp is expected to include multiple leaders. Gujarat ready for bureaucratic reshuffle The state is preparing a limited bureaucratic reshuffle to accommodate three IAS officers who have returned from central deputation, with transfers likely by last week of December. Ajay Kumar has returned from the Ministry of Defence, while Lochan Sehra and Sandhya Bullar have come back from the Department of Space and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. Sources in the Secretariat said postings are being worked out, with GST, Finance and Revenue among departments under consideration. The reshuffle could involve transfers of 10 to 12 IAS officers to ensure permanent appointments in key departments. Dilip Singh Kshatriya Our correspondent in Gujarat dilipsingh@newindianexpress.com

The New Indian Express 16 Dec 2025 7:46 am

Weaving a millennium-old journey

Express News Service Some histories survive not in stone inscriptions or textbooks, but in language spoken at home, recipes passed down from kitchens, and clothes woven over generations. For a community that migrated over a thousand years without losing its name, language or craft, documentation becomes an act of preservation. The book From Homeland to Heartland: The Story of the Sourashtras , unveiled on Sunday at THE Park is both record and remembrance of the past. Authored by Anitha Rajarajan and Biswajit Balasubramanian, the coffee-table book brings together migration, textiles, faith, food, and lived memory into a single, accessible narrative. The launch was conceived as a multisensory experience, extending the books themes beyond the page. Guests were welcomed with a thoughtfully curated Saurashtrian menu that traced the communitys long journey across regions. From Debili of Gujarat and Kothi Vadi from Maharashtra to Punugulu recalling the Vijayanagar era, the culinary trail culminated in Tamil Nadu with idli and Saurashtra amti, before closing with bun halwa, a sweet symbol of memory and identity. The launch happened in the presence of scholars, writers, cultural practitioners and members of the Sourashtra community, with Nirmala Lakshman, as chief guest, Preetha Reddy, vice-chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Group, as guest of honour, and author and historian Sriram V as special guest. Opening the event, Biswajit Balasubramanian spoke about how a single question what their ancestors names might have been a thousand years ago sparked years of research and travel. He noted that much of the communitys recorded history existed only in Tamil. We needed a book in English, not a heavy research document, but something engaging, visual and easy to read, something a young Saurashtrian in Chennai or Singapore or Berlin could pick up, he said. He concluded by saying, Our migration has three striking pillars: our language, our mastery of textiles, and royal patronage.This is not the final word on Sourashtras. It is the beginning of a larger conversation. Anitha Rajarajan traced the communitys deep-rooted presence in Madurai, describing the city as the cultural headquarters of the Sourashtras. The Sourashtras have always lived with a quiet sense of purpose never loud, never demanding, yet deeply woven into the citys progress, she said. From pioneering education initiatives and early noon-meal schemes to contributions in textiles, music, cinema, and philanthropy, she outlined how the community became quietly woven into Madurais civic and cultural life, emphasising the need to document lived histories. Commending the authors, Sriram spoke about the importance of communities recording their own narratives, because, when history is written only through an external lens, it becomes authoritative and everything else is considered inferior. While Preetha reflected on food, fabric, and ritual as living archives of civilisation, Nirmala described the book as a meticulous and much-needed documentation. She shared, Saurashtrans came not just as settlers, but engaged deeply with local society and contributed to Tamil civilisational life. She added that the book reminds how migrant communities have shaped Tamil Nadu, while retaining their own distinct identity. Designed with photographs, illustrations, maps, QR codes, and oral histories, From Homeland to Heartland stands as both a cultural archive and an invitation for future generations to read, remember, and continue.

The New Indian Express 16 Dec 2025 6:00 am

RIL's new AI arm, Reliance Intelligence, begins operations

Incorporated in September 2025, Reliance Intelligence is a wholly owned unit of RIL housing its AI partnerships with global technology firms such as Google and Meta, besides executing its data centre plans. The group is building a gigawatt-scale AI-ready data centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

The Economic Times 16 Dec 2025 12:47 am

IPL 2026 Auction: How Gujarat Titans can outsmart rivals and plug every gap with smart buys

Gujarat Titans enter the 2026 IPL season with a strong core, aiming for targeted upgrades at the mini-auction. After a playoff finish in 2025, the franchise prioritizes continuity, retaining key players like Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan. With a limited purse and five slots to fill, GT will focus on acquiring specialists to enhance their title-contending unit.

The Economic Times 15 Dec 2025 11:29 pm

16k graduate from Parul University

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 11:15 pm

Two killed as unidentified vehicle hits motorcycle on NH-48

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 11:14 pm

Sambar back in Ratanmahal forests after 150 years

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 11:13 pm

Amul Dairy chairman, vice-chairman elected uncontested

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 11:12 pm

Nagesh Trophy National T20: Uttarakhand Stun Holders Andhra; Gujarat, Goa Win On Day 1

Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju MSK Prasad: Uttarakhand outplayed defending champions Andhra Pradesh by 47 runs, while Gujarat and Goa won in the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025 (8th Edition Phase II), currently being held in different venues across the country. Besides, Cricket Association of Blind (CAB) Delhi, Jharkhand, Goa, and CAB Vidarbha also registered wins on the opening day of matches held in three venues -- Vijayawada, New Delhi, and Gandhinagar. The next phase of the Nagesh Trophy was inaugurated on Monday at the Dr. Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju MSK Prasad Cricket Ground in the presence of dignitaries, including Supreme and High Court judges and key officials. In a landmark announcement, the Blind Premier League was declared to be hosted in 2026, with Andhra Pradesh proposing to take up the hosting rights. In a bold step to strengthen grassroots development, 26 blind cricket teams will be immediately established across all 26 districts of Andhra Pradesh. CABI Chairman, Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, also pledged that Andhra Pradesh will host one international bilateral tournament per year. Adding to the celebrations, World Cup champions captain Deepika and 16-year-old Andhra Pradesh prodigy Karuna were felicitated with cash awards of 1 lakh each by Shri Sarat Babu Chenna, practising advocate, recognising their outstanding contributions to blind cricket, including their triumph in the SBI Womens T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind. Andhra Pradesh Sports Authority Chairman, Ravi Naidu, highlighted various schemes and policies being introduced for blind and differently-abled players. He emphasised that Andhra Pradesh will lead in job opportunities, cash awards, and sports initiatives for these athletes and reiterated the states willingness to host the Blind Premier League in 2026. The excitement continued on the field as CAB Uttarakhand pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the defending champions CAB Andhra Pradesh by 47 runsa result reminiscent of Indias historic 1983 World Cup victory over the West Indies, a classic underdog triumph. Uttarakhand start with an upset Batting first, CAB Uttarakhand posted a formidable 146/4 in 16 overs, anchored by skipper Deepak Singh Rawats commanding 82 off 58 balls. CAB Andhra Pradesh were restricted to 99/6 in 16 overs in reply. Rawats all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award, as Uttarakhand strengthened their position in the league stage. Gujarat cruise to victory In the second match of the day at the Dr. Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju Cricket Ground, CAB Gujarat delivered a commanding performance to register a 10-wicket victory over CAB Tamil Nadu. Batting first, CAB Tamil Nadu were restricted to 83/8 in 16 overs, as Dinesh Rathva (B3) wreaked havoc with the ball, returning impressive figures of 3 wickets for 10 runs. In reply, CAB Gujarat made light work of the modest target, storming to 84 without loss in just 5.4 overs, powered by Rathvas blistering 52 off 23 balls, alongside Kalpesh Nimbadkars unbeaten 24. For his decisive all-round performance, Dinesh Rathva (B3) was rightly named Player of the Match, as CAB Gujarat stamped their authority in the league stage. CAB Delhi, Jharkhand win in Delhi In the Phase II matches played in the men's section, CAB Delhi delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat CAB West Bengal by 9 wickets at the Talkatora Cricket Ground in New Delhi. After opting to bat, CAB West Bengal were bowled out for 107 in 17 overs, with Rambir Singh leading a clinical bowling effort (4 wickets). In reply, CAB Delhi chased down the target in just 10.1 overs, powered by a fluent, unbeaten 58 off 37 balls by Rambir Singh, who was named Player of the Match. The emphatic win underlined CAB Delhis strong intent as the league phase gathered momentum. In the second match of the day at the Talkatora Cricket Ground, CAB Jharkhand produced a clinical run chase to register a commanding 9-wicket victory over CAB Telangana. Batting first, CAB Telangana posted 147/6 in 20 overs, led by skipper Ghazanfarullah Khan (42). CAB Jharkhand responded with authority, cruising to 149/1 in just 15.2 overs, powered by an unbeaten 67 off 48 balls by Rohit Oraon and a fluent 53 off 49 balls by Sanjeev Kerketta. Rohit Oraon was named Player of the Match. The emphatic win further strengthened CAB Jharkhands momentum as the league stage intensified. CAB Goa beat Manipur CAB Goa produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat CAB Manipur by 58 runs in the IndusInd Bank Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025 (8th Edition League Matches) at Kameshwar International School, Gandhinagar. Opting to bat first, CAB Goa posted a competitive 169/5 in 16 overs, led by a fluent 55 off 40 balls from Nilesh and an aggressive 50 off 34 balls from Jignesh Panjya (B3). Goa maintained a strong scoring rate throughout the innings, aided by valuable extras, to put Manipur under early pressure. In reply, CAB Manipur were bowled out for 111 in 12.2 overs, despite a spirited 76 off 45 balls from Pradeep Singh (B2). CAB Goas disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured regular breakthroughs, preventing any sustained partnership. For his impactful contribution with both bat and ball, Nilesh (CAB Goa) was deservedly named Player of the Match, as CAB Goa registered a convincing victory in the league stage. CAB Vidarbha crush Railways In Match 2 at Gandhinagar, CAB Vidarbha delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat CAB Railways by 77 runs. Batting first, Vidarbha posted a formidable 156/3 in 16 overs, anchored by Gaurav Zades brilliant 52 off 52 balls, with vital contributions from Akshay Chaudhary (21) and Nitesh Bhojne (10). Extras added a significant 74 runs through wides and byes, bolstering the total. In Match 2 at Gandhinagar, CAB Vidarbha delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat CAB Railways by 77 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gaurav Zade was named Player of the Match for his match-winning batting effort, as CAB Vidarbha strengthened their position in the league stage. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 15 Dec 2025 10:14 pm

cough-syrup-trafficking-racket-in-up-had-700-fake-firms-generating-billions-of-rupees-ed-says

The Enforcement Directorate raided more than 25 locations in UP, Gujarat, and Jharkhand over 40 hours, over a large illicit money laundering cough syrup racket. Officials found that over 700 fake firms were set up in the name of 220 operators. The firms were found to be generating billions of rupees. In the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), 67 people were named as accused in the case. It was found to be the states largest codeine-based cough syrup diversion and trafficking racket. Factories, warehouses, and residences linked to the accused were raided. The firms existed only on paper, and many of their authorised individuals were also only found on documents. ED sources said that more of the key links in the firms were being exposed, which will lead to more evidence. The body is also moving to seize assets from the masterminds behind the racket, Subham Jaiswal, Alok singh, another man who is a close associate of a former MP, and Amit Tata managed to get away last year eve after the STF conducted an investigation. ED sources said that large cash transactions were found in the bank accounts of Subham Jaiswal and the other two names. Subhams father, Bhola Prasad Jaiswal, is also a person of interest in the case. Some of the firms involved in the transactions were in Ranchi and Ahmedabad. In Uttar Pradesh, locations in Lucknow, Saharanpur, Varanasi, and Ghaziabad. The EDs ECIR enables the agency to summon suspects, freeze bank accounts, seize evidence, and attack properties acquired through illicit proceeds. The report was based on 24 FIRs registered over the past year by UP police, STF and FSDA across districts. Subham Jaiswal, who is the alleged mastermind behind the racket, was issued a notice to appear before the ED on December 8. More summons are expected as the financial probe expands.

The Week 15 Dec 2025 6:55 pm

Gujarat ACB nabs CID Inspector, Constable in Rs 30 lakh bribe trap

AHMEADBAD: The Gujarat Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has caught two serving CID Crime officers red-handed for demanding and accepting a Rs 30 lakh bribe to derail a sensitive investigation linked to a call centre case, raising serious questions about the misuse of authority within the States crime investigation machinery. According to officials, the ACB arrested CID Crime Police Inspector P.K. Patel of the Gandhinagar Zone and Armed Police Constable Vipul Desai after laying a trap following a complaint that the officers were seeking money in exchange for shielding the complainant and an associate from legal action. What began as a routine probe into a call centrelinked case turned into an extortion attempt, with the accused officers approaching the complainant while the investigation was underway. Investigators said the pressure escalated gradually, with repeated demands and implicit threats. The alleged message was clear, pay Rs 30 lakh or face legal consequences. Instead of complying, the complainant approached the ACB and lodged a formal complaint. The bureau then carried out verification and surveillance before planning a trap operation. The operation culminated on a public road near an under-construction site in Sargasan, in Gandhinagar district. Officials said the location was deliberately chosen to catch the alleged offence in progress. Armed Constable Vipul Desai met the complainant at the spot and accepted the Rs 30 lakh bribe, while Inspector P.K. Patel had consented to and orchestrated the transaction from behind the scenes. ACB teams moved in immediately after the alleged exchange, recovered the cash and took both officers into custody. This is a clear case of criminal conspiracy and misuse of official power, an ACB official said. The accused officers implicitly threatened the complainant, demanded an exorbitant bribe during an active investigation, and attempted to sabotage due legal process. Such acts strike at the very credibility of the police force and severely damage public trust, said G.V. Padheriya, Assistant Director, ACB, Ahmedabad. Officials maintained that the case against the accused is strong. The demand, acceptance, and recovery of the Rs 30 lakh have all been documented during the trap operation. The joint involvement of both accused has been established beyond doubt, the official added. Both Patel and Desai have been booked under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The ACB has also widened the investigation to examine past cases handled by the duo to ascertain whether the alleged incident was an isolated one or part of a recurring pattern of extortion. As the probe continues, officials said the arrests serve as a reminder that those entrusted with enforcing the law are also accountable under it.

The New Indian Express 15 Dec 2025 6:48 pm

GUJCET 2026 registration begins tomorrow: Check list of documents required to apply online

Registration for GUJCET 2026 opens tomorrow. This exam is for engineering and pharmacy admissions in Gujarat. Class 12 science students can apply online. The exam is scheduled for March 29, 2026. Candidates must have Physics and Chemistry with Maths or Biology. Admissions are through ACPC counselling based on GUJCET scores and Class 12 marks.

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 6:46 pm

Five, including 4 Indian expats win Rs 1 crore in Big Ticket draw

In the latest Big Ticket weekly e-draw on Sunday, December 14, five people, including four Indian expats, won Rs 1,23,48,360. Each winner took Rs 24,69,672 home. The five participants are Ali Alkaabi from Abu Dhabi, Ritesh Dhanak from Gujarat, Ajay Kumar and Sreejith Sreedharan from Kerala, Shakil Ahmad Nazrul Haque from Bihar. In an interview Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 15 Dec 2025 6:17 pm

Gujarat public holidays 2026: Full list of Gujarat state government public and optional holidays in new year

The Gujarat government has announced its public and optional holiday list for 2026, impacting state government offices, undertakings, and corporations. The list includes a variety of religious and national observances, with provisions for Muslim employees to adjust holidays based on actual observation. Employees can avail up to two optional holidays.

The Economic Times 15 Dec 2025 5:50 pm

Wildlife Photography in the Age of AI: Prakash Desai's Journey of Patience, Purity and Passion

As artificial intelligence and advanced editing tools rapidly redefine modern photography, wildlife photography continues to stand apart as a discipline rooted in patience, presence and respect for nature. Capturing wildlife in its raw form demands long hours, physical endurance and an unfiltered connection with the natural world. At a time when digitally altered images flood social media, authentic wildlife photography serves as a powerful reminder that the most compelling visuals are still born in silence, waiting and trust.   Prakash Desai Among the photographers who embody this philosophy is Prakash Desai, an Indian-origin wildlife photographer based in the United States, whose work reflects decades of dedication to documenting nature as it truly exists. Desai firmly believes that wildlife photography cannot be rushed or recreated through software, and that real images are the result of observation, discipline and time spent in the wilderness. Over the last several decades, Desai has travelled extensively across forests, deserts, coastal regions and national parks in the United States, Canada, New Zealand and India to capture wildlife and natural landscapes. His commitment to the craft is evident in his journeys of over 5,000 kilometres one way, undertaken five times from the U.S. to Canada, along with deep expeditions into remote habitats. In August 2015, he also undertook a dedicated photography expedition to New Zealand, further expanding his global body of work. Photography teaches you humility. Nature works on its own terms, and the photographer must learn to wait, observe and respect the moment. The most powerful images are the ones that remain untouched and truthful .” Born in Santrampur, Panchmahal, and originally from Bhadeli, Bulsar in Gujarat, Desai completed his schooling in Bilimora before pursuing science at Bombay University. He moved to the United States in 1966 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from Texas in 1970, followed by graduate studies in Business Administration from the University of Chicago. In 1980, he married Dr. Geeta Desai (Ph.D.), and the couple began working in the Texas oil industry in 1981. Today, he manages his oil-field service business under the name Ohm Tech Inc. Despite a successful professional career in engineering and business, Desai’s passion for photography continued to grow. What began as a hobby gradually transformed into a lifelong pursuit, with wildlife photography becoming his primary focus. During repeated visits to Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, he spent 18 years patiently returning to the forest before capturing a rare photograph of a tigress, a moment that remains one of the most meaningful milestones of his journey. Desai has participated in workshops and seminars conducted by internationally acclaimed photographers such as Galen Rowell, John Shaw, Willard Clay and George Lepp. His photographs have earned him multiple awards and have been showcased in exhibitions,including a recent major exhibition in India, with another exhibition scheduled to open soon in Vadodara. Every year, Desai spends nearly six months in Vadodara, travelling across regions such as Leh-Ladakh, Sikkim, Nainital-Kausani, Kerala, the Northeast, Himachal Pradesh, Sasan Gir, Velavadar and the Rann of Kutch. Often accompanied by his wife Geeta, he continues to explore India’s diverse ecosystems, living within national parks from dawn to dusk to document wildlife in its most natural state. Now 80 years old, Prakash Desai continues to reject image-editing software, relying insteadon evolving camera technology, refined skill and unwavering patience. His journey reflectsthe enduring spirit of wildlife photography, proving that authenticity, dedication and respect for nature remain timeless, regardless of age or profession. #prakashdesai

News Voir 15 Dec 2025 5:27 pm

Siddharth's NEW LOOK in Jai Kanhaiyalall Ki excites fans

Director Dharmesh S. Mehta is set to release 'Jai Kanhaiyalall Ki,' starring Gujarati icon Siddharth Randeria. The film, described as a heartwarming family drama reflecting middle-class values, promises humor and relatable emotions. The recently unveiled poster hints at a lighthearted narrative, with Randeria portraying a common man's unwavering belief. The ensemble cast also includes Hitu Kanodia and Vaishalee Thakkar.

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 5:27 pm

Clip of NCC Director General Saying Pak Drones Reached Delhi, Gujarat Is Altered

The video has been altered to make the false claim about Lt Vats saying that Pakistani drones had reached India.

The Quint 15 Dec 2025 3:30 pm

Ankit Sakhiya says 'YES' to the 'Laalo' sequel

The Gujarati film 'Laalo Krishna Sada Sahaayate', made on a limited budget, achieved unexpected box office success, touching millions of hearts. Director Ankit Sakhiya attributes this to the film's relatable portrayal of Krishna as an inner voice and its powerful dialogues. The overwhelming audience response has sparked discussions about a potential sequel.

The Times of India 15 Dec 2025 2:05 pm

EMPLOYMENT (15-12-2025)

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Daily Excelsior 15 Dec 2025 10:59 am

Gujarat to develop software to streamline organ transplant registrations - Social News XYZ

Gujarat to develop software to streamline organ transplant registrations Social News XYZ

Google News 15 Dec 2025 9:22 am

Sabarmati Riverfront flower park Closed! Preparations begin for Flower Show 2026 - Ahmedabad Mirror

Sabarmati Riverfront flower park Closed! Preparations begin for Flower Show 2026 Ahmedabad Mirror

Google News 15 Dec 2025 8:23 am

IPL 2026 auction: Bangar predicts former Gujarat Titans player to be among three most expensive buys - Crictoday

IPL 2026 auction: Bangar predicts former Gujarat Titans player to be among three most expensive buys Crictoday

Google News 15 Dec 2025 6:33 am

Crossing a river into cyber slavery

Promises of data-entry jobs draw young men from Gujarat across the Moei river into Myanmars alleged cyber-fraud compounds.Abhinay Deshpandereports on their passage, from aspiration to captivity, and their eventual return to India

The Hindu 15 Dec 2025 12:30 am

Minimum temperature again soars to 14.9C - The Times of India

Minimum temperature again soars to 14.9C The Times of India

Google News 14 Dec 2025 11:57 pm

Threads Of Heritage, Steps Of Strength

The Times of India 14 Dec 2025 11:39 pm

Cheating accused who fled from custody held after 13 years

The Times of India 14 Dec 2025 11:36 pm

IPL 2026 Auction: David Miller likely to be among top picks in upcoming season

David Miller is predicted to be a top expensive player at the IPL 2026 auction. Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders are likely to bid for the finisher. KKR might also consider re-signing Venkatesh Iyer. Iyer is a versatile player who has delivered for KKR in various roles. His medium-pace bowling adds depth to the team.

The Economic Times 14 Dec 2025 5:47 pm

'Several teams need...': Former India coach Sanjay Bangar backs ex-Gujarat Titans star to command huge price at IPL 2026 auction

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has tipped an ex-Gujarat Titans star to emerge as one of the most expensive buys at the IPL 2026 auction. Bangar's prediction has sparked fresh buzz around the player's market value and a potential bidding war among franchises.

DNA India 14 Dec 2025 3:51 pm

Shilpa Shetty just revived the glory of 700-year-old Patan Patola sarees

Shilpa Shetty recently turned heads in a Patan Patola saree, and honestly, she made it look so easy. We mean, this isnt just any saree, its got over 700 years of history and comes straight from Patan, Gujarat, crafted by the incredibly skilled Salvi community.

The Times of India 14 Dec 2025 3:36 pm

Gujarati Family Held Hostage in Libya; Authorities Work to Secure Release

Ahmedabad, December 14: A family from Gujarat, including a married couple and their three-year-old daughter, The post Gujarati Family Held Hostage in Libya; Authorities Work to Secure Release appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Voice Of Sikkim 14 Dec 2025 2:22 pm

IPL 2026: Miller Will Likely Be Among The Three Most Expensive Players, Opines Bangar

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has identified several marquee players who are expected to attract intense bidding from franchises looking to address key gaps in their squads, as the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction gathers pace. Among them, South African veteran David Miller has emerged as one of the most sought-after names, with Bangar predicting a fierce contest between franchises. Millers reputation as a proven finisher continues to make him a valuable asset in the shortest format, particularly for teams struggling to close out innings in the death overs. Highlighting the growing demand for experience in high-pressure situations, Bangar believes the left-hander could be among the costliest buys at the auction. Speaking on JioHotstar, Bangar said, David Miller will likely be among the top three most expensive players in this auction. Several teams need a player with his finishing ability Gujarat Titans, for instance, would benefit from his experience, while Kolkata Knight Riders could target him too, especially with Andre Russells retirement and a healthy purse at their disposal. Millers reputation as a proven finisher continues to make him a valuable asset in the shortest format, particularly for teams struggling to close out innings in the death overs. Highlighting the growing demand for experience in high-pressure situations, Bangar believes the left-hander could be among the costliest buys at the auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jonny Bairstow offers dual value as a wicketkeeper and a top-order batter. He has a proven pedigree and, since hes currently focused solely on T20 cricket, his full availability makes him an even stronger prospect. Teams like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders could be in the mix Delhi need a top-order option after releasing Jake Fraser-McGurk, while KKR might also look at him given their limited choices beyond Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. he added. Article Source: IANS

CNMSports 14 Dec 2025 1:08 pm

Rural women better employed than urban: Study

BENGALURU: Karnatakas rural women are better employed in comparison to those in urban areas and men in both areas proportionately, said a report from the Reserve Bank of India. The report, Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2024-25, released on Friday, said the unemployment rate of women in rural areas was nine per 1,000 in 202324 and 13 in 202223. The unemployment ratio of men in the same periods were 25 and 17, respectively. The overall unemployment rate in Karnatakas rural area was recorded as 19 during 202324, and 15 during 202223. This is lower than the national average of 25 and 24, respectively. In the case of urban areas, the unemployment rate of women during 202324 was 44 and during 202223, it was 51. The RBI report also noted that the urban male unemployment rate in 202324 fiscal was 41 and in 202223, it was 38. The overall unemployment rate in urban areas in 202324 and in 202223 it was 42. The all India unemployment rate in 202324 was 51 and in 202223, it was 54. A finance expert in the state government said, There is unemployment in Karnataka. But compared to other states and India, it is less. The rise in rural womens employment rate is a positive indication, but worrisome when the urban statistics are noted. The overall rural unemployment rates in Goa, Madhya Pradesh and even Jharkhand are even lower. Karnataka also ranked fourth in the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) size. The report said Karnatakas GSDP (at current prices) for the year 202425 was Rs 28,83,903.23 crore. In 202324, it was Rs 25,57,241.35 crore. The state ranks second in the overall GSDP growth with 12.8% for the fiscal 202425, after Tamil Nadu (16%). Uttar Pradesh is slightly behind Karnataka with 12.7%, and Maharashtra trails with 11.7%. The GSDP growth rate of Gujarat is recorded as 10.2%. An official in the finance department, seeking anonymity, said, while other states fared better under the overall urban employment category, Karnatakas population should also be accounted for. The reason for the drop in male employment in rural areas also needs to be studied, the official said. FKCCI chairperson Uma Reddy said womens employment in rural areas increased because of the agricultural sector and self employment. The rural entrepreneurship training programmes also appear to be beneficial. In the case of urban areas, a larger push for the women workforce is needed to control the attrition rate. Reddy said the overall unemployment rate of the state is worrying. The report is only till 202324. But an analysis of 202425 and 202526 is needed for a clearer picture. The reasons cannot be fully ascertained yet, but some indicators include technological interventions, drop in investments and the tariff issue, she said.

The New Indian Express 14 Dec 2025 9:08 am

Supreme Court seeks Centre, state governments response on petition to address farm distress

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court recently directed the Additional Solicitor General (ASG) to file within four weeks a comprehensive report with regard to the steps taken by the Union, State governments and other stakeholders to effectively address the multiple factors that contribute to the persistent distress including farmers suicide faced by farmers across the country. We need to have a response from the Centre and states on the issue and after receiving the reply, we will hear the case later, said a two-judge bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya. The SC sought the replies from the respective respondents, after hearing a writ petition filed in 2014 by an NGO named Citizens Resource and Action and Initiative (CRANTI), raising the issue related to farmers suicides. Though the petition was filed seeking relief for the families of farmers who died by suicide in Gujarat, in 2017, the Supreme Court had expanded the scope of the matter, and sought for a national action plan, and impleaded all the State Governments as respondents in the petition filed by CRANTI. On Friday, CJI Surya Kant asked ASG Aishwarya Bhati to submit the details of the initiatives taken for the welfare of farmers.

The New Indian Express 14 Dec 2025 7:21 am

Bowlers emulate batters brilliance as J&K hands Meghalaya crushing innings defeat

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 13: Emulating their batters, the bowling duo of Jammu and Kashmir led by Rajveer Singh and Sanil Singh plotted collapse of Meghalaya and handed them a crushing innings defeat in their Vijay Merchant Trophy encounter at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, Surat, Gujarat today. After declaring their innings overnight at a commanding 585/7, J&Ks bowlers unleashed utter devastation, dismantling Meghalaya for a paltry 75 in their first innings and a modest 126 in the second. Meghalayas batters [] The post Bowlers emulate batters brilliance as J&K hands Meghalaya crushing innings defeat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 14 Dec 2025 5:00 am

Vadodara Central Jail now a bag manufacturing hub

The Times of India 14 Dec 2025 12:07 am

Foresters investigate tiger sighting, find hyena pugmarks

The Times of India 14 Dec 2025 12:06 am

In a first in the country, Rajasthan HC to hear cases on two Saturdays a month to cut backlog

JAIPUR: In a major step to tackle the mounting backlog of cases, the Rajasthan High Court will now hold proceedings on two Saturdays every month, making it the first high court in the country to officially increase its number of working days to expedite the disposal of pending cases. The decision follows an initiative by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant, who recently wrote to all high courts urging them to consider increasing working days to reduce case backlogs. Sources said the decision was taken during a full court meeting of the Rajasthan High Court, where all judges agreed to amend the court calendar for the coming year. As a result, the number of working days will rise from 210 to over 230 annually. Welcoming the move, former Rajasthan High Court judge Justice Panachand Jain told The New Indian Express that the decision aligns with the principle of natural justice, which calls for justice to be simple, quick and expeditious. Working on two Saturdays is absolutely justified. Justice delayed is justice denied as the old saying goes. So when the court holds more hearings, the number of pending cases is bound to decrease, he said. On the likely impact, the former judge added that even if a small percentage of cases are disposed of faster, it would still be a significant achievement. Even expediting two percent of cases is meaningful. This should be seen as a beginning, and more such steps are needed, he said. Along with extending working days, the High Court has also decided to launch a pilot project to further ease judicial workload. Under this initiative, one evening court each will be set up at the magistrate level in Jaipur and Jodhpur. A committee comprising Acting Chief Justice Sharma and Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati will be formed to take further decisions related to this project. The decision coincides with a two-day West Zone Regional Conference currently underway in Jaisalmer under the chairmanship of CJI Justice Surya Kant. The conference, themed Advancing the rule of law through technology challenges and opportunities, is focusing on digital court infrastructure, the use of technology and artificial intelligence in judicial processes, and the modernisation of court functioning. Nearly 20 judges of the Supreme Court are participating in the conference, along with judges of the Rajasthan High Court and over 100 district and sessions judges from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

The New Indian Express 13 Dec 2025 9:55 pm

3.9 magnitude tremor hits Kutch district of Gujarat, no damage reported

This is the fifth tremor of magnitude above 3 recorded in Kutch this month; epicentre near Gadhshisha village

The Hindu 13 Dec 2025 8:55 pm

Gujarat couple, three-year-old child, trying to immigrate to Portugal kidnapped in Libya: Officials

MEHSANA: A couple from Gujarat's Mehsana district and their three-year-old daughter were allegedly taken hostage in Libya for a ransom of Rs 2 crore while trying to immigrate to Portugal, officials said on Saturday. Kismatsinh Chavda, his wife Heenaben and daughter Devanshi were kidnapped in the North African nation, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, en route to Portugal, where the man's brother is settled, Mehsana Superintendent of Police Himanshu Solanki said. He said that the family from Badalpura village in the district was travelling with the help of a Portugal-based agent with the plan to settle in the European country. The official said Mehsana Collector SK Prajapati has been informed about the incident. The family took a flight to Dubai from Ahmedabad on November 29. From there, they were taken to Benghazi City in Libya, where they were kidnapped, Solanki said. Chavda's brother is settled in Portugal, and he was travelling with the help of an agent based in Portugal. The family was travelling with the intention to settle there, and the agents involved in the case are not Indians, Solanki said. The official said that the kidnappers have contacted the relatives of the family in Mehsana, demanding Rs 2 crore as ransom. Collector Prajapati said that Chavda's kin approached him on Friday, and that he has informed the state government and the Ministry of External Affairs about their case.

The New Indian Express 13 Dec 2025 7:49 pm

Gujarat CM lays foundation stones for development works worth over Rs 600 crore in Surat

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday laid foundation stones for development works worth over Rs 600 crore at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, where he launched multiple projects of the Surat Municipal Corporation and Surat Urban Development Authority. Patel took an indirect swipe at corruption and said, Congratulations to the corporation for taking only the amount of tax that belongs to the corporation. We will not get anything else except tax!, he added. Looking out at the crowd, he asked sharply, Why has everyone become quiet? Now people think this is a small village? Has Rs 600 crore become small now? Rewinding time, the Chief Minister reminded citizens how far governance has travelled. There was a time when even taking up a work worth one lakh required deep thought, he said, before drawing a direct line to the present. Today, development has reached a level where a common person, through his society, can approach a corporator and get a work worth one crore done. Patel urged the people of Surat to accept this grandeur of development, framing growth not as excess, but as the new normal. The visit also marked the inauguration of Gujarats first state-of-the-art elevated market at Surat APMC, one of the largest such projects in Asia. The project features a 100-foot-wide ramp, allowing trucks to directly access the first floor, dramatically cutting loading time and speeding up the movement of goods for farmers and traders alike. Addressing farmers at the APMC, Patel recalled that the market yard, which began in 1951 with an income of just Rs 15,000, has today risen to rank first in the state. More than 15,000 people move here daily, he said, adding that farmers are now paid online through RTGS, reinforcing transparency and efficiency. The Chief Minister reminded the audience of Prime Minister Narendra Modis 28 agricultural campaigns, stressing efforts to double farmers income through value addition and natural farming. He also pointed to the states response mechanism, noting that the government has announced a Rs 10,000 crore package to compensate losses, assuring farmers that the state would always stand by them. Patel later addressed the All India Mayors Council, where he described Surat as a mini India, highlighting its diversity and civic capacity. He underlined that public participation remains central to sustainable urban development placing citizens, not just institutions, at the core of the growth story.

The New Indian Express 13 Dec 2025 7:01 pm

Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat and University of Ladakh Establish a Strategic Alliance

Leh, December 13: A momentous development in the academic and security education landscape of Ladakh took place at Lok Niwas, Leh, where Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) Gujarat and the University of Ladakh (UOL) formally executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the august presence of Shri Kavinder Gupta, Honble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh on Friday. [] The post Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat and University of Ladakh Establish a Strategic Alliance appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Kashmir Media Watch 13 Dec 2025 6:31 pm

Gujarat BJP internal rift: MP Vasava alleges corruption, MLA Deshmukh threatens defamation

AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat BJP has once again come under the spotlight as a verbal duel has erupted between two of its members, Rajpipla MLA Dr Darshana Deshmukh and Bharuch MP Mansukh Vasava. On December 7, BJP MP Mansukh Vasava, during a press conference, alleged large-scale corruption in the political leadership and administrative system of Narmada district. While the charge was sweeping, Vasava did not name any individual. Dr Darshana Deshmukh, while addressing the media on Friday, accused the MP of indirectly linking her to Aam Aadmi Partys Dediapada MLA Chaitar Vasava, an insinuation she said had defamed her. He alleged corruption but did not name anyone, Deshmukh said. Instead, he hinted at a nexus between me and Chaitar Vasava. Because of this, my image has been damaged. If there is corruption, he should prove it. Otherwise, I will file a defamation case. If I have to go to court, I will definitely go. Pushing back harder, Deshmukh turned the allegation around. The MP says I have a nexus with Chaitar Vasava, but it is Mansukh Vasava who has a domestic relationship with him, she claimed, while firmly denying any link. The MLA also revealed that she had initially planned a dharna against the MP, a move that would have escalated the crisis further, but said the protest was called off after instructions from the state BJP, hinting at damage control efforts by the partys top brass. Yet, the political resentment ran deeper. He does not even accept me as an MLA, Deshmukh alleged. Ever since I became an MLA, he has been accusing me. Asserting her party lineage, she added, I am also the daughter of the BJP. As a senior MP, he should not talk about me like this. Drawing a contrast, she said anonymous letters are routinely ignored. We throw them in the dustbin; we dont comment on them. I have made a presentation at the state level. Now I will not remain silent. If Mansukh Vasava says anything, I will answer. The counterattack came swiftly. After Deshmukhs press conference, MP Mansukh Vasava addressed reporters at the Circuit House in Bharuch On Saturday, directly hitting back at both Dr Darshana Deshmukh and Chaitar Vasava. Recounting events during the Ekta Parade at Kevadiya Colony, held in connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit, the MP alleged political pressure at the highest level. During a meeting on the Prime Ministers programme, AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava pressured officials regarding expenses, Mansukh Vasava claimed. At that time, Dr Darshana Deshmukh remained completely silent. Escalating the charge, the MP alleged that an AAP leader demanded Rs 75 lakh from an official and spoke of suppressing the matter, a claim that prompted him, he said, to go public through his December 7 press conference in Narmada district. Turning his fire squarely on the BJP MLA, Vasava accused Deshmukh of self-inflicted political damage. By making allegations, she has shot herself in the foot, he said. Asserting his own clout, the MP added pointedly, I made him an MLA. If she had any grievance, she should have told me directly or raised it on the party forum, Vasava argued. Instead, she chose to make allegations in public. He went further, suggesting motive. Both of them are feeling some kind of fear. That is why allegations are being made against me. While names were omitted, his indirect reference to doctors linked to Chaitar Vasava was widely read as a jab at Dr Darshana Deshmukh setting off the chain reaction now engulfing the BJPs district unit. Adding fuel to the fire, AAPs Dediapada MLA Chaitar Vasava openly backed the BJP MLA, turning an internal BJP feud into a cross-party spectacle. Praising Deshmukh, he said, Darshana Ben, who was suppressed for three years, has shown the courage to wake up late and speak in front of the MP. That is commendable. His final remark cut sharply at the MPs authority: Mansukh Vasava dominates everyone. We have been tolerating him for years. With defamation threats looming, corruption allegations flying, and party discipline visibly strained, the Bharuch Narmada episode has become more than a personal clash it is now a test of how the BJP contains its internal wars before they spiral further into the public domain.

The New Indian Express 13 Dec 2025 5:20 pm

Americas Kashmiri Milk Scientist

From a Kashmiri village, Dr Shakeel-ur-Rehman travelled to Gujarat, Ireland and then to a leading American university. When Texas cattle farmers sought his help to modernise their dairy sector, he offered them patented technologies and helped build a company now nearing a turnover of US$5 billion. Today, the Kashmiri scientist is the Chief Scientist of []

KashmirLife 13 Dec 2025 2:56 pm

Dont judge after 2 matches: Nehra backs under-fire Shubman Gill

Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra has backed captain Shubman Gill amidst a lean patch in T20Is, urging against judging him by recent statistics. Nehra also defended all-rounder Washington Sundar, highlighting his valuable all-round skills and potential for improvement despite recent struggles. Both players are crucial to the franchise's plans.

The Times of India 13 Dec 2025 8:42 am

Speeding car kills 56-year-old in Maneja

The Times of India 12 Dec 2025 11:51 pm

Woman got lover to kill her sister for 40L insurance payout

The Times of India 12 Dec 2025 10:54 pm

Vadodara mans bank accounts used for Rs 16crore transactions

The Times of India 12 Dec 2025 10:09 pm

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal presents two-year report of his govt, Congress calls claims misleading

JAIPUR: As the Bhajanlal Sharma government approaches its two-year mark on December 15, the Chief Minister on Thursday released a performance report, claiming that 70 per cent of poll promises have been fulfilled and Rajasthan now ranks first in 11 national projects. Citing government data, Sharma said that out of 392 resolutions, 274 have either been completed or are currently underway, and that 73 per cent of the announcements made over the last two years have been implemented. With what he described as sincere intent and transparent governance, he said placing Rajasthan among the countrys leading states is no longer a distant dream. Emphasising transparency and efficiency, Sharma asserted that Rajasthan has moved into the category of best-performing states, listing first-place rankings in 11 national projects, second place in five, and third in nine. He said several projects that remained stuck in files earlier had been directly implemented under his government, accelerating public benefit. Accusing the previous Congress administration of delaying major initiatives such as the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), he reiterated his governments anti-corruption stance, saying they had caught crocodiles and sent them to jail and were ready to face consequences. Sharma said implementing the ERCP was a top priority from day one, claiming that work orders worth Rs 26,000 crore had been issued and the project would benefit 3 crore people in eastern Rajasthan. He noted that an MoU with Haryana was signed in February 2024 to supply water to the Shekhawati region, with the DPR now being prepared. The CM added that securing the future of the youth remained central to his administrations agenda, criticising the previous government for leaving young people frustrated and disappointed. After the BJP came to power, he said, an SIT was formed to take strict action in the paper leak case, and a comprehensive youth policy would be introduced soon. We want the youth of Rajasthan to become job creators, not job seekers, he said. Sharma also stated that the government had implemented over 28 policies in two years to ensure sustainable and transparent development. The Congress dismissed the CMs claims, with Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully calling the statements misleading. He said Sharmas only achievement was keeping his chair despite internal conflicts within the BJP, accusing the government of abandoning promises such as wheat procurement at Rs 2,700, purchasing millet at MSP, and reducing petrol-diesel VAT to match Gujarat and Haryana. The youth are asking where the calendar for 2.5 lakh jobs is. Democracy has turned into bureaucracy, and the public is crying out for help, Jully said. Amid the political sparring, former Chief Minister Vasundhara Rajes meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi triggered speculation in Jaipurs political circles. It was her first meeting with the PM in the capital after the November 11 Anta by-election, in which the BJP lost a seat considered part of her Hadoti stronghold. The defeat has raised concerns within the party, with observers calling the bypoll a litmus test for the Bhajanlal government.

The New Indian Express 12 Dec 2025 9:47 pm

IPL 2026 auction: Ashish Nehra discloses Gujarat Titans' roadmap for squad building

Ashish Nehra has outlined Gujarat Titans' strategy for the IPL 2026 auction, offering insights into the franchise's priorities, squad-building plans, and areas of focus. His revelations shed light on how GT aims to strengthen its core and prepare for the next IPL cycle.

DNA India 12 Dec 2025 7:09 pm

FSDA writes to UP district magistrates to invoke Gangster Act in illegal cough syrup case

LUCKNOW: While government agencies are conducting raids and cracking the whip on those allegedly involved in illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup and trafficking of narcotic-category medicines, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has shot of letters to 31 district magistrates (DMs) across Uttar Pradesh to book the alleged syndicate operators under the UP Gangsters Act. The FSDA has told the DMs to initiate action under the laws provisions that include seizure of properties disproportionate to the known source of income. Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids in a palatial bungalow worth crores, owned by dismissed police constable Alok Kumar Singh in Lucknow on Friday. Alok Kumar Singh, who was arrested in connection with the cough syrup scam, is currently languishing in jail. The ED raided 25 locations simultaneously across six cities in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat on Friday morning in connection with a major illegal network dealing in codeine-based cough syrup, officials said. The size of Alok Kumar Singhs bungalow and its overt opulence were there to take everyone in awe. Meanwhile, the development regarding the letters written by FSDA to the DMs has come three days after the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by Inspector General of Police, Law & Order, LR Kumar, to investigate the case. The UP Police and FSDA authorities have carried out raids in 332 firms across 52 districts in UP, during the past two months, lodging FIRs against 133 of them across 31 districts. UP forms SIT to crack Rs 425-crore codeine cough syrup smuggling racket According to FSDA Secretary and Commissioner Roshan Jacob, the department conducted months of intensive investigation spanning Jharkhand, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh and collected evidence, including the business links of Uttar Pradeshs super stockists and wholesalers with those states, before launching the raids two months ago. Jacob has also written to district magistrates to initiate action against the jailed operators under the Gangsters Act. As per the FSDA commissioner, CM Yogi had issued directives for stringent action against the culprits ensuring that no diversion takes place from Uttar Pradesh to any other state or country. He (CM) instructed officials not to trouble small traders during enforcement but ensure firm action against super stockists and wholesalers involved in illicit activities, Jacob said. According to officials, for the first time, cases have been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup. Earlier, such violations were dealt with only through licence cancellations. Informed sources reveal that while probing the records of 332 drug-selling establishments, it was found that many of them did not actually exist and were functioning only as billing points with no purchase or sale records. Many others lacked proper storage arrangements. Out of the 332 firms, 133 were found to be involved in the organised illegal diversion of these medicines for non-medical use. It was discovered that the diverted stock was being routed primarily through state capital Lucknow, Kanpur, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Bahraich to Nepal, and from Varanasi and Ghaziabad to Bangladesh. Cases of trafficking of codeine-based cough syrup for drug abuse have been identified in cities including Varanasi, Jaunpur, Kanpur Nagar, Ghazipur, Lakhimpur Kheri, Lucknow, Bahraich, Bijnor, Prayagraj, Pratapgarh, Sitapur, Sonbhadra, Balrampur, Raebareli, Sant Kabir Nagar, Hardoi, Bhadohi, Amethi, Shravasti, Siddharthnagar, Unnao, Basti, Ambedkarnagar, Azamgarh, Saharanpur, Bareilly, Sultanpur, Chandauli, Mirzapur, Banda, and Kaushambi, officials said.

The New Indian Express 12 Dec 2025 6:15 pm

Gujarat man duped of Rs 2.52 crore in WhatsApp stock investment fraud scam - MSN

Gujarat man duped of Rs 2.52 crore in WhatsApp stock investment fraud scam MSN

Google News 12 Dec 2025 5:52 pm

Rahul Gandhi adamant on proving himself 'jhooth ki dukan': BJP

NEW DELHI: The BJP on Friday called Congress MP Rahul Gandhi jhooth ki dukan and said he along with others in the opposition benches was looking away when the Congress was exposed by the treasury benches under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah during debates on Vande Mataram and election reforms in Parliament. This came after Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, hailed his party members' performance during the debates on the two topics in both Houses of Parliament, and claimed that the government was taken to the cleaners by the opposition. Hitting back, BJP national spokesperson Prem Shukla said, Rahul Gandhi says the opposition ripped the BJP members apart (dhajjiyan uda di). On the contrary, Rahul Gandhi and others in the opposition were looking away when the Congress was exposed with proof by the members of the treasury benches under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah during the debates on Vande Mataram and Election Reforms. The entire country saw it... Rahul Gandhi is adamant on proving himself to be a 'jhooth ki dukan' (shop of lies), he told reporters at the BJP headquarters here. The BJP spokesperson said the country also saw how the entire opposition fled from the Lok Sabha the moment Shah eiterated the Modi government's esolve to drive the 'ghuspaithiyas' (infiltrators) out of the country. The entire country saw how Rahul Gandhi and the members of the other opposition parties were ripped apart on the issue of 'ghuspaithiyas', he added. Shukla said that Shah told Parliament during debates on the two topics with proof as to how Jawaharlal Nehru, the country's first prime minister, compromised on the issue of Vande Mataram's stanzas in the original version of the national song. Intervening in the discussion on Election reforms, the Union home minister also gave a logical and evidence-based rebuttal to the opposition's allegations against the Special Intensive Review (SIR) of the electoral rolls by the Election Commission, the BJP spokesperson said. The Congress is not in a position to counter his (Shah's) response, he added. The BJP spokesperson also slammed the leader of the opposition over his remarks that Shah got scared by the opposition attack, and said, Rahul Gandhi, you feel scared and you have accepted it. When Sonia Gandhi was named the Congress president post, both the son and the daughter were scared of what would happen if she was made president of the party, Shukla claimed in an apparent reference to Gandhi and his sister Priyank Gandhi Vadra, who is now an MP from Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. Amit Shah was not scared even when the erstwhile UPA government remained busy day and night in conspiring to implicate him and Narendra Modi, then chief minister of Gujarat, in false cases, he added. The BJP spokesperson also took a swipe at the Congress over the absence of its MP Shashi Tharoor in Gandhi's meeting with the party's Lok Sabha members in the Parliament House complex on Friday, saying, All Congress leaders are preparing to leave the Congress' sinking ship. Tharoor could not attend the meeting as he was travelling out of the station. The BJP spokesperson alleged, The Congress is a sinking ship with no visible possibility of its survival. All the Congress leaders keep talking about the party's fate, he said. But I don't know how Rahul Gandhi is living with such arrogance. He says, 'paksh ki dhajjiyan uda di (his party members ripped the government apart), he added.

The New Indian Express 12 Dec 2025 5:02 pm

60-Year-Old Gujarat Man Loses Rs 2.52 Crore in YouTube-Linked WhatsApp Stock Trading Scam Trap - The Logical Indian

60-Year-Old Gujarat Man Loses Rs 2.52 Crore in YouTube-Linked WhatsApp Stock Trading Scam Trap The Logical Indian

Google News 12 Dec 2025 4:56 pm

Bamboo scaffold supporting bridge construction collapses in Gujarats Valsad; five workers injured

AHMEDABAD: A bamboo structure supporting the construction of a new bridge on Kailash Road in Gujarat's Valsad collapsed on Friday morning, injuring five workers. The collapse occured around 9 am, between two pillars over the Auranga river, where a work crew was levelling a temporary bund. The fire department was the first to reach after a 9.20 am distress call. Fireman Lalit Parmar, recounting the rapid response, said, We reached immediately and shifted four labourers for treatment. Later, we inspected the site and found no one trapped. Why the accident happened is the subject of investigation. Valsad District Collector Bhavya Verma detailed the ground assessment, stating, The accident took place this morning, and five people have been injured. Four are in good health, while one is critical. The incident occurred due to a jack and load imbalance while the workers were operating at ground level. She also revealed that the bridge, budgeted at Rs 42 crore, was sanctioned for a two-year construction period, with one year remaining. We will form a committee and investigate. Further action will follow based on the findings, she added. Roads and Buildings Department secretary PR Patelia confirmed that senior engineering officials have been sent to the spot. The Superintending Engineer and Executive Engineer of Surat have been assigned to investigate and asked to submit a report in a day or two. He also said, The jack that was to be hoisted slipped due to a mistake in hoisting. The process is currently being done manually. The injured have been shifted to the hospital. None of them are serious, only minor injuries. Valsad District Police Chief Yuvrajsinh Jadeja said, Between 9 and 9.15 am, a bund was being laid for the overbridge on the Auranga river. During the leveling, a part of the structure slipped. Five labourers have been rescued and shifted for treatment, and doctors say they are in good health. Jayesh Patel, who is building the bridge, pointed to a human lapse. It seems to be human error. This is a temporary structure. Five people have been injured. Insurance has been taken for all the people and the bridge. Only five workers were at the site today.

The New Indian Express 12 Dec 2025 4:55 pm

Ravindra Jadeja's Wife's Shock 'Intoxication Claim' Involving India Players

Gujarat Education Minister Rivaba Jadeja praised her husband Ravindra Jadeja's discipline, controversially claiming his teammates indulge in vices.

NDTV 12 Dec 2025 1:34 pm

Raids In UP, Gujarat, Jharkhand Linked To Rs 1,000 Crore Cough Syrup Racket

In a sweeping operation early Thursday or Friday, the Lucknow Zonal office conducted raids at 25 locations connected to a sprawling illegal codeine-based cough syrup network to the tune of Rs 1,000 crore.

NDTV 12 Dec 2025 1:17 pm