MSU appoints 3 officials to key admin posts ahead of Diwali
Assams 600-year-old mask-making tradition captivates visitors at Bharat Parv
School principal stabbed with scissors inside office
Man found dead on farm in Dahod village
Study finds low awareness of water harvesting among Dumas residents
Minister orders strict action against food adulterators
Man caught with MD on Tapi walkway
Gujarat womans ST quota claim in Rajasthan dismissed by high court
Gujarat deported 2,412 illegal foreign nationals, filed 92 pc chargesheets within 60 days: HM Shah
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 7 (IANS) Gujarat has deported 2,412 illegal foreign nationals and filed charge sheets within 60 days in 92 per cent of cases following the implementation of the new criminal laws, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Saturday. In a post on social media platform X after chairing a high-level review meeting on law and order and internal security in Ahmedabad, Union Minister Shah described the state's performance as excellent. He said that Gujarat had achieved the figures after the implementation of the new criminal laws. After the implementation of the new laws in the state, Gujarat has performed excellently by filing charge sheets within 60 days in 92 per cent of cases and deporting 2,412 illegal foreign nationals, Union Minister Shah added. He also called for Central and state agencies to work together to strengthen coastal surveillance, target drug networks and realise the goal of a drug-free Gujarat. Union Minister Shah chaired the review meeting in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and senior officials. The meeting reviewed the state's law and order situation, internal security, border and coastal security, narcotics control, cybercrime and counter-terrorism measures. The Union Home Minister called for intensified action against narcotics networks, better coordination among enforcement agencies and wider public awareness campaigns against drug abuse. He also directed officials to expand the '1933' control room and step up enforcement drives as part of the broader target of achieving a drug-free India by 2029. The meeting also reviewed the presence of illegal Bangladeshi nationals in Gujarat, enforcement of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and measures to prevent infiltration. Other issues discussed included alleged 'love jihad', economic offences, police modernisation, cyber fraud, counter-terrorism preparedness, prison administration and the functioning of the criminal justice system. Officials also reviewed coastal security arrangements, suspicious activities along the state's borders and the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme. Disaster management, urban flood prevention in Ahmedabad, mangrove conservation and forensic infrastructure were among the other issues on the agenda. Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik briefed Union Minister Shah on border management, the quadrilateral security grid, anti-radicalisation measures, Operation Mule Hunt, the 112 Janrakshak service and Mission Prabodh, which focuses on tackling cyber fraud. Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Das and Chief Minister's Principal Secretary and Home Department Principal Secretary Sanjeev Kumar also presented updates on the implementation of measures discussed during previous meetings with the Union Home Ministry.
Gujarat BJP chief holds SIR outreach in Ahmedabad, meets Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad/Anand, Nov 7 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Gujarat president Jagdish Vishwakarma on Saturday held a series of meetings with prominent citizens and social leaders in Ahmedabad to discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, as part of the party's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' campaign. He also visited the Art of Living Ashram in Vasad of Anand district, where he met its founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and sought his blessings. During his outreach in Ahmedabad, Vishwakarma met intellectuals, prominent personalities and social leaders in the Nikol Assembly constituency and discussed various aspects of the SIR exercise, including the need for clean and transparent electoral rolls and their importance in a democratic system. Later, he held a separate interaction at Chhaganbhai Ni Wadi in Indrapuri Ward, which falls under the Nikol Assembly constituency. The discussion focused on the need for purification of electoral rolls, strengthening democratic institutions and the significance of the SIR process in the national interest, party leaders said. The BJP also raised the issue of what it described as misleading propaganda by the Opposition against the revision exercise. The meetings were organised as part of the party's statewide campaign to engage with influential citizens and explain its position on the electoral roll revision process. Ahmedabad MP Hasmukh Patel was present at both interactions in the Nikol Assembly constituency, along with other BJP leaders and prominent members of the area. Earlier in the day, Vishwakarma visited the Art of Living Ashram at Vasad in Anand district and met Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in what the party described as a cordial meeting. He received blessings from the spiritual leader. The meeting was attended by state minister Kamlesh Patel, district BJP president Sanjay Patel, former Union Minister and MP Devusinh Chauhan, MP Mitesh Patel, besides MLAs and other party leaders. The engagements come amid the BJP's efforts to take its 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' campaign to different sections of society, with particular emphasis on the SIR exercise and the importance of maintaining accurate and transparent electoral rolls.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel to meet citizens in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad on Vikram Samvat New Year
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Nigerian national held in Kerala after Gujarat Police follow WhatsApp trail in drug case
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 7 (IANS) The Ahmedabad City Police have arrested a 36-year-old Nigerian national from Kerala for allegedly arranging a consignment of 1.85 kg of mephedrone seized in Ahmedabad in September, taking the investigation to the suspected main supplier in an interstate drug trafficking network. The accused, identified as Charles alias Frank Ofudile, was arrested from Kottiyam in Kollam district of Kerala following technical analysis and inputs from human intelligence. He is a native of Onitsha in Anambra State of Nigeria, and was reportedly residing near Banaswadi Fire Station in Bengaluru. The case dates back to September 17, when the Naroda police arrested a 24-year-old man, identified as Nikhilesh Krishnappa, near Chamunda Tyre shop close to Nana Chiloda Circle in Ahmedabad. The police recovered 1,850 grams of mephedrone, valued at Rs 55.5 lakh, and a mobile phone worth Rs 5,000 from his possession. The total value of the seized items was Rs 55.55 lakh. During the investigation, the police learnt that the consignment was intended for delivery in Bengaluru. Acting on information received through WhatsApp, a police team was sent to the city, where it kept surveillance on the suspected recipients. On September 19, the team arrested another accused, Vishal, 28, who had allegedly arrived to collect the drug consignment. He is originally from East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya and was residing in Ramamurthy Nagar of Bengaluru. Further investigation revealed that the consignment had been ordered by a Nigerian national named Frank. The police traced his WhatsApp number and identified him as Charles alias Frank Ofudile. Naroda Police Station's surveillance sub-inspector V R Chaudhary examined the case records and conducted technical analysis, with the help of human intelligence, to trace and arrest the accused in Kerala. Police records also show that Ofudile was named in an earlier case registered at Nadakkavu Police Station in Kozhikode City, Kerala, under Sections 8(c), 22(c) and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The Ahmedabad case has been registered at Naroda police station under Sections 8(c), 22(c) and 29 of the NDPS Act.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel to exchange New Year greetings in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad
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Gujarat: Adulterated food products under scanner as govt steps up checks ahead of Diwali
Digital Desk | Surat, Nov 7 (IANS) The Gujarat government will take strict legal action against manufacturers and sellers of adulterated food products, including duplicate ghee and analogue paneer, cheese and butter, Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Saturday, warning that those endangering public health would not be spared. Chairing a high-level virtual review meeting with officials of the Food and Drugs Department and health officials from all districts of the state from Surat, Pansheriya said action had already been initiated against companies and units manufacturing duplicate food products using adulterated ingredients such as palm oil, tomato sauce and mango juice. The meeting was held ahead of the Diwali festivities to review measures aimed at protecting public health and ensuring food safety. The minister said protecting citizens' health is the government's highest priority and that the administration is committed to eliminating food adulteration. He specifically warned against manufacturers selling palm oil-based products in misleading plastic wrappers bearing only the word 'ghee'. Legal cases would be filed against such manufacturers, he said. Pansheriya also directed officials to ensure strict compliance with hygiene standards and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at hotels, restaurants and food streets. Those found transporting goods after breaking seals would face FIRs with the assistance of the police, he said. Expressing confidence that Gujarat would set an example for other states in food quality and hygiene, the minister said the government's enforcement drive would help ensure the availability of pure and wholesome food in the market. During the meeting, officials also reviewed the enforcement and food-sampling activities undertaken by the Food and Drugs Department, along with measures to strengthen healthcare services and ease emergency services across the state. The minister appreciated the department's work over the past year and conveyed his best wishes to its officials and employees. Regional Deputy Directors of Health, Chief District Health Officers and officials of the Food and Drugs Department attended the virtual meeting.
Paperwork Completed For Hardik-Arshdeep Swap Ahead Of IPL 2027, Formal Nod Awaited
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: The paperwork has been completed for seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya to join Punjab Kings (PBKS) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027. With Pandya going to PBKS in a trade deal, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh will head to five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI). The deal, though, still needs formal approval before it is formally announced. Yes, the initial paperwork for this trade has been completed. Now it has to get formal approval of the BCCI and IPL governing council, and then it can be announced along with the final amount, said an IPL source to IANS on Saturday. IANS previously reported on November 3 that Shreyas Iyer-led PBKS had surged ahead of other teams like Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to acquire Pandyas services ahead of the November 17 retentions deadline. Wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod was initially a part of the exchange, but IANS understands that he has been left out of it. No, he is not a part of this trade deal, added another source. The trade also ends Hardiks second spell at MI, which began when the franchise acquired him from Gujarat Titans (GT) in an all-cash deal ahead of IPL 2024 and handed him the captaincy in place of Rohit Sharma, who had guided the side to five titles. His homecoming was expected to give MI a long-term leader, but things did not go as per the expected plan. Though MI reached the playoffs in IPL 2025, they finished at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2024 and ended at the ninth spot in IPL 2026. In 39 games where Hardik was MIs captain, they won 15 games and lost 24 matches. Meanwhile, Arshdeep has been with PBKS since IPL 2019, and his exploits with them paved his way into the Indian team. As of now, Arshdeep is playing in the ODI series in New Zealand and is also Indias highest wicket-taker in T20Is. Both Pandya and Arshdeep were members of the Mens T20 World Cup-winning Indian team in 2024 and 2026. Pandyas fitness, though, is a big concern. He has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2026 due to a series of injuries, the most recent being a shin problem that kept him out of India As one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry in October. That recovery from the shin injury also ruled out Pandya from being a part of Barodas squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. IANS also understands that PBKS had looked to trade out Australias seam-bowling all-rounder Marcus Stoinis in exchange for Lucknow Super Giants left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan, but theres been a change of heart from the franchise, and if all goes well, he is likely to be retained for the 2027 IPL season. It is also understood that Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are in talks over initiating a major trade involving more than two players. Though the names of the players in question have been doing the rounds, a formal announcement will be made once it gets the IPL governing council's nod. IANS also understands that PBKS had looked to trade out Australias seam-bowling all-rounder Marcus Stoinis in exchange for Lucknow Super Giants left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan, but theres been a change of heart from the franchise, and if all goes well, he is likely to be retained for the 2027 IPL season. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gujarat: RPF apprehends man planning theft at Ahmedabad station
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 7 (IANS) Railway Protection Force (RPF) apprehended a 45-year-old man at Ahmedabad railway station on Saturday after he allegedly admitted to visiting the station with the intention of stealing from passengers amid the Diwali rush. The man, identified as Parshottam, a resident of the Kotarpur area in Ahmedabad, was spotted moving suspiciously on platforms 4 and 5 during surveillance by the RPF's Crime Prevention and Detection Squad (CPDS). According to the RPF, the incident took place on November 7 when a CPDS team was deployed at the station for crime prevention and crowd management duties. The team comprised Assistant Sub-Inspector Raman Kumar, Head Constable Dheeraj Kumar and Constables Sunil Kumar and Mukesh Kumar. During discreet surveillance, the personnel noticed Parshottam moving around suspiciously and apprehended him for questioning. During interrogation, he allegedly admitted that he had come to the station intending to commit theft, taking advantage of the rush of passengers during the Diwali festival. He was caught before he could allegedly carry out any theft, the RPF said. He was also found not to be carrying any valid travel authority. The CPDS team subsequently handed him over to the Government Railway Police (GRP), Ahmedabad, for further legal action. The RPF has stepped up vigilance at railway premises to prevent theft and other offences and ensure passenger safety during the festive rush.
Gujarat puts fire services on 24-hour alert for Diwali, activates emergency helpline 101
Ahmedabad With firecracker-related emergencies a key concern during the Diwali festivities, all 18 fire stations in Ahmedabad have been placed The post Gujarat puts fire services on 24-hour alert for Diwali, activates emergency helpline 101 appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Sarvajanik University Extends Diwali and New Year Greetings
Surat (Gujarat) [India], November 7: On the auspicious occasion of Diwali and the New Year, Shri Ashish Vakil, Honble Chairman, Sarvajanik Education Society and Honble President, Sarvajanik University, extended heartfelt
Gujarat Energy to foray into Compressed Bio-Gas space with 100 crore investment; seeks JV partners
The Gujarat government-owned PSU has issued an expression of interest inviting JV partners to set up and run CBG plants, with an estimated investment of about 100 crore
During Gujarat visit, HM Amit Shah holds meet with MHA divisions on state-related issues
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 7 (IANS) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday chaired a meeting with various divisions of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to discuss matters related to Gujarat, during his four-day visit to the state. Shah, who arrived in the state on Friday evening, held discussions with officials of different MHA divisions on issues concerning the state. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Chief Secretary M K Das and State Police Chief G S Malik are among the senior officials who participated in the meeting. The meeting comes as part of his engagements during the visit, which include a series of administrative review meetings and development-related programmes in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The visit is taking place during the Diwali and Gujarati New Year festivities. Shah is expected to celebrate the festivals with his family in Ahmedabad and attend official and organisational programmes during his stay. During the visit, he is also scheduled to hold high-level discussions with senior state government and police officials on matters concerning the state's internal security and law and order. A separate review meeting involving officials of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) and the state Home Department is also part of his engagements. The discussions are focused on preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, urban development and law and order in Ahmedabad. The review agenda also includes the implementation of the three new criminal laws, measures to curb drug trafficking and cybercrime, and coordination among agencies to address internal security challenges, according to reports. On November 9, Shah is scheduled to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for 30 development projects worth Rs 1,024 crore in the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency. The projects include housing, water infrastructure and other civic facilities. He is also expected to meet BJP office-bearers, party workers and well-wishers at his residence on November 11, coinciding with the Gujarati New Year, before returning to Delhi.
Gujarat Energy LNG: 4m Tonnes, ADNOC - Oil
ADNOC Signs 4 Million-Tonne LNG Deal With India
Office of the Collector and District Magistrate, Tapi District Public Prosecutor Recruitment 2026
Office of the Collector and District Magistrate, District Tapi-Vyara (Gujarat) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of District Public Prosecutor. Offline applications will be accepted till 21 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit tapi.nic.in.
VNSGU Temporary Assistant Professor Recruitment 2026
Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) has invited online applications for 3 Temporary Assistant Professor posts. Applications can be submitted at vnsgu.ac.in till 26 November 2026.
Gujarat Vidyapith Assistant Professor (Commerce) Recruitment 2026
Gujarat Vidyapith has released Notification No. 10/2026-27 for the post of Assistant Professor, to be filled through a Walk-in Interview. The interview will be held on 17 November 2026 at Central Office, Gujarat Vidyapith, Near Income Tax, Ahmedabad. Candidates should report at 10:00 AM. Further details are available at gujaratvidyapith.org.
District Magistrate Office, Narmada Additional Public Prosecutor Recruitment 2026
Office of the District Magistrate, Narmada - Rajpipla has invited offline applications for 4 Additional Public Prosecutor posts. Applications can be submitted till 22 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit narmada.gujarat.gov.in.
If youre fit and performing well, age doesnt matter: Michael Klinger
After spending years waiting for an international call-up, Klinger sparkled in his brief stint with Australia. Now a sought-after coach on the franchise circuit, the 46-year-old reflects on opening with Brendon McCullum in the IPL, coaching Gujarat Giants in the WPL and ageism in cricket.
Rs 8.02 lakh leave encashment tax exemption denied: Retired employee wins case in ITAT Surat
Retiree Mr. Patel from Bharuch, Gujarat, sought a complete tax exemption on Rs 8.02 lakh of leave encashment. Initially, his company certified only Rs 3 lakh as exempt. The Income Tax Department later imposed tax on an additional Rs 5.02 lakh. To challenge this ruling, Patel approached the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in Surat, which sided with him, citing the Department's failure to provide justifiable reasons.
Gujarat: Fire breaks out at wholesale plastic shop in Bilimora
A fire erupted at a wholesale plastic shop in Bilimora, Gujarat, as containment efforts are underway. A sizeable crowd gathered nearby, but astonishingly, no injuries have been reported as of yet. In a related incident, a catastrophic fire at the Leamak Company plant has claimed one life. Firefighting teams arrived from neighboring areas and worked diligently for three hours to gain control of the ferocious flames.
Fire breaks out at wholesale plastic shop in Bilimora, one dead in separate plant blaze in Gujarat
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Digital Desk | Bilimora, Nov 7 (IANS) Panic spread in Bilimora town of Gujarat's Navsari district late Friday night after a massive fire broke out at a plastic wholesale shop, resulting in significant damage to goods. No casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. According to initial information, the fire broke out suddenly at a plastic wholesale shop located opposite the Bilimora ITI. Preliminary reports suggest that firecrackers may have triggered the blaze. The flames reportedly started in materials stored behind the shop and quickly spread, engulfing large quantities of plastic goods kept inside. As thick flames and smoke rose from the premises, local residents and nearby shopkeepers rushed to the spot. Initial attempts were made to control the fire using fire extinguishers and water, but the huge stock of plastic materials made it difficult to contain the blaze. After being alerted, the Bilimora Municipality Fire Brigade arrived with firefighting vehicles and immediately launched an operation to douse the flames. Considering the intensity of the fire, assistance was also sought from the Gandevi Municipality Fire Department. Firefighters from both teams worked together for nearly an hour before bringing the situation under control and preventing the fire from spreading further. The shop owner said that merchandise worth approximately Rs 8 lakh to Rs 10 lakh was destroyed in the fire, although a detailed assessment of the losses is yet to be carried out. While firecrackers are suspected to be the cause, the exact reason behind the incident will be confirmed only after an official investigation. Authorities said an inquiry is underway to determine the cause of the fire. Officials added that the fire brigade responded promptly after receiving information. Earlier on Friday, a massive fire broke out at a mobile accessories shop in Delhi's Gaffar Market, spreading to all floors of a four-storey commercial building, with around 20-25 fire tenders deployed to bring the blaze under control. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far, while property damage has been reported. According to the Delhi Police, a PCR call regarding a fire in a building in Chain Wali Gali was received at 1.28 a.m. at the Karol Bagh Police Station. The night staff of the police station, along with the Station House Officer (SHO), immediately reached the spot and found a fire at Shop No. 13/21, Puri Plaza, Gaffar Market.
From Vadodara to Palam: The Unforgettable Indian Experiences of Overseas Umpires
Believe it: Australian umpire Ben Treloar recently officiated in two Ranji Trophy matches. His first assignment was the Delhi-Gujarat fixture in Palam, followed by Mumbais match against Haryana. Similarly, Indian umpire Parashar Joshi will officiate in two Sheffield Shield matches and a One Day Cup fixture in Australia. The exchange is part of the 2026 Umpire Exchange Programme between Cricket Australia (CA) and the BCCI. Before Treloar, several foreign umpires had officiated in Indian domestic matches under similar programmes, returning home with vivid memories and interesting stories. Australian umpire Greg Davidsons visit to India in 2020 gave him memories that went well beyond cricket. He officiated in his first Ranji Trophy match in Vadodara, Gujarat, before his next assignment took him to Mumbai. At six feet ten inches, Davidson was hard to miss. People approached him for photographs and selfies, making him feel like a celebrity. The Mumbai airport was very noisy and crowded, like a jam-packed cricket stadium, he recalled. Davidson and his wife, Tracey, also experienced Indian hospitality away from the cricket ground. Tracey, a schoolteacher, was taken to local primary schools in Mumbai by Indian match referee Varsha Nagrey, giving the couple a glimpse of another side of Indian life. Davidson had expected dry, dusty pitches in India. Instead, he found a fair amount of grass and good carry on the surfaces. South African umpire Lubabalo Gcuma discovered that Indian pitches presented a different challenge. In November 2016, he officiated in the Ranji Trophy match between Assam and Maharashtra in Chennai. Officiating here is a different thing altogether, he observed, explaining that the ball could spin sharply or jump off the surface. Standing on a dusty, turning pitch while dealing with loud appeals from several close-in fielders demanded a different level of alertness from what he was used to in South Africa. In November 2016, Australian umpire Sam Nogajski fell ill during a Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh in Mysuru. He suffered stomach pain and loose motions and was admitted to hospital with dehydration. His illness forced him to withdraw, leaving his Indian colleague, Virender Sharma, in an unusual situation. A reserve umpire, Vejith D, was available, but he was not part of the BCCI umpiring panel and could not take over the on-field duties at the bowlers end. He could serve only as the square-leg umpire. As a result, Sharma had to officiate from both ends. Former England player-turned-umpire Martin Saggers also noted the differences in crowd energy and playing conditions during his Ranji Trophy assignments. He praised the hospitality but pointed out that the long Indian domestic season and dry, abrasive outfields demanded different physical preparation from that required for English county cricket. Treloars first assignment in India was an adventure in Palam. One unusual feature was the regular sight and sound of aircraft overhead. Located in an aviation-heavy part of Delhi, the ground had planes flying over it repeatedly during the four-day match. Delhi piled up 648 for six before declaring, while Gujarat replied with 479. Treloar stood through 318.5 overs in the drawn match. It was his first experience of officiating in an innings in which a team scored around 650. He spent almost the entire match at one end, with only four overs at the other. Treloars Indian experience also brought some unexpected interactions. Players from Delhi and Gujarat approached him to ask where he came from and what he was doing there. He was impressed by their passion for the game and the hospitality shown by players, team management, ground staff and catering staff. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Away from cricket, Treloar explored Delhis markets, bought spices and sampled local food, including dal, vegetable curries, garlic-butter naan and vada pav. A keen cook at home, he was already thinking of taking some Indian flavours back to his family in Australia.
SC refuses to lift non-veg food ban near Somnath Temple, asks Gujarat HC to decide within 2 months
New Delhi, Nov 6:The Supreme Court on Friday refused to lift the ban on the preparation, sale and storage of non-vegetarian food in the vicinity of Gujarats Somnath Temple, but asked the Gujarat High Court to decide the matter expeditiously, preferably within two months, reports Bar & Bench. A Bench of Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale declined to interfere with an interim order of the Gujarat High Court restoring the ban. Hearing a plea filed by restaurant owners, the Bench said a balance had to be maintained in the matter. We need to maintain a balance. We dont say anything, the Bench observed, according to Bar & Bench. The restaurant owners argued that the ban would severely affect their businesses and that dietary choices were a matter of personal freedom. In a lighter remark, the Bench said, Celebrate the festival of lights (Diwali) by having sweets. Leave veg or non-veg aside. The case relates to an August 10 notification issued by the District Magistrate prohibiting the preparation, sale and storage of non-vegetarian food at shops, restaurants, hotels and roadside stalls in specified areas, including within 500 metres of Somnath Temple. The Gujarat High Courts single-judge Bench had initially set aside the notification on October 30. However, a Division Bench stayed that order later the same day and restored the restrictions. Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the restaurant owners, argued that the ban was affecting businesses that had been operating in the area for nearly 40 years. He also maintained that food habits were a matter of personal choice. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Gujarat government, opposed the plea and informed the Supreme Court that the High Court would hear the matter on November 25. The Supreme Court disposed of the plea, requesting the High Court to decide the appeal expeditiously within two months.
Maldivian President Pushes for Revival of SAARC
The President of the Maldives, Mohammed Muizzu, made another call for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) during his visit to Pakistan on October 21, 2026. Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has also called for the revival of SAARC. The idea has received support from experts and public intellectuals concerned about the welfare of people living in the region. The Government of India responded to these remarks by stating that Pakistan was stymieing the grouping. The Promotion of BIMSTEC as an alternative to SAARC is an exercise in diplomatic shortsightedness. Equally shortsighted is the idea of reviving SAARC without India. Countries in the region have little to lose but much to gain if the SAARC platform is revived. The 19th SAARC Summit was scheduled to be hosted in Islamabad from November 15 to 19, 2016, but was indefinitely postponed amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. On the positive side, however, relations between India and Pakistan have not completely broken down on all fronts. Indias External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, visited Pakistan on October 1516, 2024, to attend the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government and thanked Pakistan for its hospitality. India also participated in the planning session of the SCO Council of National Coordinators in Islamabad from September 28 to 30, 2026.The two countries completed their 35th consecutive exchange of lists of nuclear installations and facilities on January 1, 2026. The hotlines between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) remain active, and the ceasefire is also holding. Furthermore, the statement made by RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale on improving people-to-people contact between India and Pakistan was a welcome development. Many experts consider the RSS as Indias deeper state, influencing relations with Pakistan. Be that as it may, three immediate factors have a bearing on the revival of SAARC. Weighing Three Factors First, the dominant view in India is that containing terrorism emanating from Pakistan is the magic bullet for rescuing bilateral relations and bringing them back to normalcy. Diplomat Ajay Bisaria argues that Indias instincts were primarily economic, and Indias relationship with its neighbours was focused on providing security for the Indian economy to grow and preserving the economic gains already made. This is quite understandable and reasonable for any major economy but is not exclusive to India. This instinct is now fairly widespread across the countries of the region. There is a growing consensus that terrorism poses a threat to the social and economic stability of countries and that SAARC, as a regional forum, can be employed to combat it. According to the think tank PISCES, Pakistan alone witnessed 225 militant attacks in a single year up to September 2026. Therefore, the way forward lies in greater cooperation among states and a deeper process of introspection within societies. Second, the China factor is also influencing the prospects for the growth and revival of SAARC. China enjoys observer status in SAARC, while India has opposed its full membership of the organisation. Indias unilateral military actions have prompted Pakistan to seek even greater strategic proximity to China, particularly through the acquisition of Chinese military equipment and technology. The clashes between India and Pakistan in May laid bare the consequences of this policy. One consequence of such a scenario is that Indias strategic autonomy in the region is constrained, resulting in the ceding of strategic space to China. There are indications that Pakistan is signalling to both the United States and China that it no longer wishes to be a client state. In 2022, Pakistan released its first-ever National Security Policy, which emphasised that the country should resist joining geopolitical camps. The weakening of the pro-India lobby in Pakistan is also a matter of concern. Third, there are sections of opinion in Pakistan that believe India will always prefer to engage with a weak Pakistan rather than the Pakistan that exists today. Former Pakistan High Commissioner to India Abdul Basit recently claimed at a seminar in Pakistan that the countrys international profile had risen and that India would therefore prefer disengagement. Some India watchers in Pakistan also point to unilateralism in Indias domestic and regional politics, along with its alleged disregard for international norms and agreements, as factors contributing to growing mistrust. In light of the above discussion, it is important to examine the perspectives of the scholarly community on the challenges confronting South Asia. Scholars Speak Friend and colleague, Happymon Jacob, who has considerable expertise in Indian foreign policy, argues in his essay, The End of South Asia: A Region in Name Only, published in Foreign Affairs on July 22, 2024, that the dream of South Asia as a cohesive region is over, with significant implications for subcontinental geopolitics that policymakers and analysts have yet to fully grasp. He writes that the reality of Indias centrality has meant that New Delhi does not always recognise the value of building regional structures, as such structures cannot add much to the predominance India already enjoys in the region. Although several Indian Prime Ministers have recognised the merits of SAARC, the Indian bureaucracy and strategic establishment have never been fully convinced of its value. They have long feared that the creation of regional structures could potentially constrain Indias dominance in its neighbourhood. Nepal-based scholar Kanak Mani Dixit, finds Jacobs thesis problematic for more than one reason. He believes that Jacobs pronouncement on the death of South Asia appears to serve the interests of nation-statism, which cannot adequately manage the vast geography and multiplicity of identities that characterise South Asia. Mr Dixit further argues that Jacobs views will please those who wish to exercise centralised authority, ranging from generals in Islamabad to autocratic politicians in Kabul and Colombo, as well as dominant lobbies in New Delhi. True South Asian regionalism has not evolved to a point where the nation-state can function to the satisfaction of the people living in the region. However, we are yet to find an effective institutional mechanism to address inter-state disputes. It would therefore be incorrect to argue that regionalism in South Asia can begin or end with SAARC. The two need to be differentiated. The late Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singhs longing for a day when he could have breakfast in Amritsar, lunch in Lahore and dinner in Kabul remains a compelling vision and is not beyond achievement. The precondition for realising this vision is that peoples power must be unleashed and mobilised in the service of humane regionalism in South Asia. The corporate sector, too, is not averse to such thinking. At one-point, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee nominated R.K. Mishra, a former journalist and a close associate of Dhirubhai Ambani, who headed the Reliance conglomerate. Reliance had an additional stake in India-Pakistan peace, as it had invested in a refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat, close to the Pakistan border. Against this backdrop, it needs to be emphasised that the absence of a regional platform and the growing hesitation among SAARC countries to engage with one another have created a vacuum. This vacuum is increasingly being filled by religious radicalism and internal insecurity across the region. The road ahead remains uncertain. The Road Ahead First, without mutual accommodation between India and Pakistan, the revival of SAARC is inconceivable. Pakistan cannot be dismissed as a strategic entity. All major powers, including the United States, China, Russia and Turkey, engage with Pakistan, even when India chooses to remain disengaged. Foreign policy expert Kanti Bajpai believes that Pakistan is strategically attractive for three reasons: its location, its power and its capacity to disrupt. With approximately half a million personnel in uniform and roughly 200 nuclear warheads, Pakistan remains Indias strategic competitor. It reportedly possesses more nuclear warheads than India. By 2050, Pakistan is projected to become the worlds third-most populous country, after China and India. There is no way to peace but peace is the way. Second, by keeping SAARC in limbo, India risks pushing even Bangladesh towards a more adversarial regional posture. To borrow the expression of Sajeeb Wazed, son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh risks becoming another Pakistan on Indias eastern front. Indias former Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, recently observed that there could be a convergence of interests among China, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Bangladeshs Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, has called for a Bangladesh First policy to guide his government. He has not visited India despite an invitation from the Indian Prime Minister. Bangladesh is also reportedly reviewing around 101 bilateral agreements with India. Finally, we, the people of Junoobi Asia (South Asia), need to think about the future generations who will inhabit this part of the world. India, as a major regional power, can offer ideas and solutions to the challenges confronting the region. Genuine regional leadership demands the capacity to generate ideas, build consensus and deliver tangible solutions. By adopting such an approach, India can enhance its regional influence and strengthen its position as a responsible regional power. During recent India-Pakistan Track II meetings, the dangers posed by climate change got focussed attention. Climate change can severely degrade critical sectors, including water and electricity, transportation networks and supply chains. South Asia can draw lessons from the legally binding ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response which is founded on cooperation and mutual trust. A similar framework could serve South Asia well, provided that the sovereignty of individual SAARC members is respected. The revival of SAARC is the way forward. The author is a Kashmir-based political scientist.
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Gujarat: 1.7 lakh tonnes of foodgrains reach ration shops before Diwali
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 6 (IANS) Gujarat has delivered a total of 1.7 lakh metric tonnes of foodgrains and other essential commodities to Fair Price Shops (FPS) ahead of schedule for November, ensuring that ration beneficiaries receive their monthly entitlement before Diwali. The state Food and Civil Supplies Department began advance distribution arrangements in October to ensure that eligible beneficiaries did not face delays in receiving their allotted ration during the festive period. The initiative was undertaken under the supervision of Food and Civil Supplies Minister Raman Solanki, with the department implementing a special doorstep delivery arrangement to transport foodgrains directly to ration shops. According to the Gujarat State Civil Supplies Corporation, the entire allocation for November this year has been delivered to Fair Price Shops across the state in advance. The shops have also started distributing the commodities to beneficiaries ahead of the scheduled period. Against a total allocation of 68,600 metric tonnes of wheat, 68,503 metric tonnes, or 99.91 per cent, has been delivered to FPS. Similarly, of the 86,252 metric tonnes of rice allocated, 86,170 metric tonnes, accounting for 99.90 per cent, has reached the shops. The delivery of other essential commodities has been completed in full. This includes 5,885 metric tonnes of gram, 5,978 metric tonnes of tur dal and 4,194 metric tonnes of sugar, with 100 per cent of the allocated quantities delivered to Fair Price Shops. To complete the exercise ahead of the festival, operations at the corporation's warehouses continued from early morning until late at night, including on public holidays. The doorstep delivery system was put into operation from October to ensure that the November stock reached ration shops without delay. The department said it is continuing to monitor the distribution process to ensure that no eligible beneficiary in the state is deprived of their entitled foodgrains and essential commodities during Diwali.
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From emergency rooms to US Congress, Amish Shah wins Arizona seat
Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 6 (IANS) Before Amish Shah and Jay Feely faced each other in an Arizona congressional election, they worked on the same football field. Shah was a physician on the New York Jets sidelines. Feely was the teams kicker. Their political contest ended on Thursday with Shah winning a seat in the US House, completing a comeback from his 2024 defeat. The Indian-American emergency physician defeated the Trump-backed Republican in Arizonas 1st Congressional District, a Scottsdale-area seat President Donald Trump carried by about 3 percentage points in 2024. Republican Rep. David Schweikert left the seat to run for governor. I pledge to work in a bipartisan way in Congress, just like I did in the State House, Shah said in his victory statement. Indian American Impact, an advocacy organisation that supported him, said he would become the first South Asian American to represent Arizona in Congress. Shah campaigned as a physician concerned with household costs and access to care. His record includes support for expanded government health coverage. The roots of that political identity stretch from Chicago to Gujarat, through New York hospitals and the Arizona Legislature. Shah was born and raised in Chicago, the son of engineering students who immigrated from India. His father is Jain, and his mother is Hindu. He attended Catholic school from kindergarten through high school. His parents arrived in the United States in 1969 and took him to India regularly to maintain the familys connections with Gujarat. He described his Jain upbringing as an influence on his politics, emphasising nonviolence, nonmaterialism and openness to different perspectives. I feel that the philosophy which I have been taught early at Jain temples and conferences is something that I have been able to bring to my politics too, he told an Indian publication in 2023. A visit to Mahatma Gandhis Sabarmati Ashram helped shape his interest in public service. Gandhijis message had a big impact on me before I first ran for office, he said. Medicine came first. Shah earned economics and medical degrees at Northwestern University, worked in management consulting and completed a masters degree in public health at the University of California, Berkeley. He trained in emergency medicine at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx and later worked at Mount Sinai in Manhattan and Elmhurst Hospital in Queens. At Mount Sinai, his responsibilities included leading the Jets airway management team and conducting research on emergency care in professional football. He subsequently completed a sports medicine fellowship at the University of Arizona. Away from medicine, his official legislative biography describes a Gujarati speaker who also knows conversational Spanish, flies small aeroplanes, and founded the Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival. It also lists three adopted cats a personal interest reflected in his later animal-welfare proposals. Shah won election to the Arizona House in 2018 and was reelected in 2020 and 2022. As a Democrat in the minority, he sought Republican partners to move legislation. His record includes measures that passed and others that stalled. A 2022 proposal to ban cat declawing did not become law. He co-sponsored an overnight fireworks restriction introduced by Republican Sen. J.D. Mesnard and an animal microchip-scanning measure introduced by Republican Rep. John Kavanagh. Both became law. Those distinctions matter in assessing his legislative record: Shah helped advance the measures, but was not their principal author. Public safety also became part of his appeal beyond Democratic voters. During the congressional campaign, the Maricopa County deputies association endorsed him over Feely, citing his support for officers resources. Axios reported that Shah had crossed party lines on law enforcement legislation, including a fentanyl measure. The endorsement complicated Republican efforts to portray him as hostile to police, although Axios also reported that he offered limited detail when asked about two police accountability issues. Health care exposed a different tension in his political positioning. Phoenix New Times reported that Shah backed universal, single-payer Medicare for All at a 2019 event associated with Bernie Sanders presidential campaign. More recently, he has advocated a Medicare buy-in, allowing people to purchase coverage through the federal programme. He told The Copper Courier that such an option would cause some downward price pressure in the market. Feely used Shahs past associations to portray him as a socialist. Phoenixs Democratic Socialists of America chapter rejected that characterisation. Amish Shah is not a member of the DSA, has never been a member of the DSA, chapter co-chair Emily Kirkland told Phoenix New Times. Hes a moderate. Shah resigned from the Arizona House in early 2024 to run for Congress, then narrowly lost to Schweikert that November. His second attempt required another fight within his own party. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee endorsed former television journalist Marlene Galan-Woods in the primary. Shah defeated her, and the committee subsequently backed him in the general election. I wasnt exactly my partys pick, Shah told supporters on primary night. And I was willing to stand up to that establishment. And thats what the voters of this district want. The campaign against Feely drew more than $25 million in outside spending after the primary. About $16 million supported Feely, much of it through advertisements attacking Shah, compared with roughly $9 million supporting Shah, KTAR reported. Shah focused on affordability while attacking Feelys alignment with Trump. In a September interview with The Copper Courier, he advocated reversing Trumps tariffs, arguing that unpredictable trade policy made it harder for businesses to invest. He also called for ending the Iran war, saying it was pushing gasoline prices higher. His Indian heritage informed his interest in immigration. He has supported bringing skilled Indian workers to the United States and expressed interest in comprehensive immigration reform. After the election, Shah returned to the concerns that had anchored his campaign: living costs, health coverage, water and economic growth. He promised to represent constituents whether or not they had supported him. I will try my best to keep that trust sacred, he told KTAR on Thursday. The new Congress convenes on January 3. Shah will arrive having defeated both his party leaderships preferred candidate and a Republican backed by the President. His next challenge will be to turn the independence he emphasised on the campaign trail into legislation that serves a politically divided district.
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Gujarat govt to clear Rs 7.14 crore sugarcane dues of 850 farmers
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 6 (IANS) More than 850 sugarcane farmers associated with Vyara Sugar in Gujarats tribal belt will receive Rs 7.14 crore in pending payments before Diwali, the state government announced on Friday. Spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani said the government had decided to release the amount to address the financial difficulties faced by farmers supplying sugarcane to Shri Ukai Pradesh Sugar Industry Cooperative Society Limited, popularly known as Vyara Sugar. The money will be transferred directly to the farmers bank accounts before the festival. Farmers had been facing difficulties as the cooperative sugar mill was unable to clear payments for their sugarcane produce on time. Taking note of the issue, the state government decided to intervene under the supervision of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. The state government has made the necessary arrangements to directly pay around Rs 7.14 crore towards outstanding sugarcane dues to more than 850 farmers. The amount will be credited to their bank accounts before Diwali, Vaghani said. He said the decision followed efforts by Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel, Minister of State, Jayram Gamit, and former minister Ganpat Vasava, along with other tribal leaders, to resolve the issue affecting farmers in the region. Vaghani said the release of the pending payments would help farming families meet their financial needs during the festive season and celebrate Diwali without the burden of unpaid dues. He added that he government remained committed to supporting farmers and ensuring that they received due payment for their produce. The announcement comes as a relief to sugarcane growers in the tribal region, who had been awaiting payment from the cooperative mill.
West Bengal may get 1 lakh crore investments in a few months: Suvendu Adhikari
Suvendu Adhikari said the BJP-led government would offer incentives starting May 9, but would be unable to clear the industrial incentives backlog of nearly Rs 50,000 crore owing to the state's debt burden of Rs 8 lakh crore. He promised to clear the backlog once West Bengal becomes a financially stronger state like Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu in the next two years.
Elephant calf Maya flown to Guj for specialised treatment
An 18-month-old elephant calf named Maya, suffering from a genetic bone disorder (osteopenia) and previously recommended for euthanasia, has been airlifted from Kochi, Keralam, to Vantara in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Vantara, an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre supported by the Ambani family, has offered to provide specialised medical evaluation and treatment, including hormonal and hydrotherapy, bearing all associated costs. This move offers Maya a chance for recovery, with a Keralam team accompanying her for monitoring.
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 6 (IANS) The Western Railway's Ahmedabad Division has awarded a 35-year contract to a private logistics company to develop a cargo terminal at Khakharechi on 80,413 square metres of railway land, with the project expected to generate additional revenue and expand freight handling capacity in the region. The contract has been awarded to Emirates Logistics India Private Limited under the Railway Board's Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal (GCT) Policy 2026. It is the first cargo terminal in the Ahmedabad Division to be developed under Schedule-II of the policy. The terminal will be developed through private investment and will have modern facilities for loading and unloading goods. Indian Railways will receive annual land licence fees of more than Rs 15 lakh from the project, apart from additional earnings through revenue sharing. The development comes as the division's existing eight operational Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals handled more than 23 lakh tonnes of freight between April and October this year, generating revenue of more than Rs 330 crore. During the seven-month period, more than 1,700 rakes, comprising more than 65,000 wagons, were loaded at these terminals. Commodities transported included containers, salt, bentonite, cement, fertilisers, sugar and pulses. Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash said the new terminal would expand freight transportation facilities in the region and provide industries and commercial establishments with better options for moving goods. Modern cargo handling facilities would make loading and unloading operations easier and encourage greater use of rail-based freight transportation, he added. Under the agreement, the private operator will develop the facilities on the railway land without requiring capital investment from the Railways. The project is also expected to generate regular income through land licence fees and revenue sharing. The initiative is part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to improve transport connectivity, develop infrastructure and create an integrated logistics network. Greater use of rail for freight movement is also expected to reduce dependence on road transport and promote a more environment-friendly mode of transportation.
Jemimah Hits 47-ball Ton As Mumbai Top Group D, Advance In Senior Womens T20 Super League
Gujarat College Cricket Ground: Jemimah Rodrigues smashed a 47-ball 107 as Mumbai thrashed Pondicherry by 83 runs to take the top spot in Group D of the Senior Womens T20 Trophy on net run rate and book their place in the Super League. Mumbai and Delhi both finished the league stage with 20 points, but Mumbais superior net run rate put them on top. Delhi, who beat Jharkhand by six wickets, have also made it to the next round. Jemimah was at her attacking best against Pondicherry. She hit 16 fours and two sixes in her knock, which powered Mumbai to 213/2 after they batted first. Humairaa Kaazi gave her solid support with 82 off 57 balls, including hitting 13 fours. Pondicherry were never in the hunt and finished 83 runs short. The margin of victory proved important, as the group was decided on net run rate. The eight teams in the Super League have been split into two groups. Karnataka, Baroda, Vidarbha and Delhi make up Group A, while defending champions Maharashtra, Andhra, Railways and Mumbai are in Group B. All the Super League matches will be played in Ahmedabad -- at the Gujarat College Cricket Ground A and Ground B of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, from November 14 to 18. The matches in Ahmedabad will start at 9 am, 11 am, 1.30 pm and 4.30 pm across the two venues. The two group winners will meet in the final at Ground B of the Narendra Modi Stadium on November 20. Each team will play three Super League matches. Mumbai will begin their Super League campaign against Railways on November 14, before taking on Andhra on November 16 and Maharashtra on November 18. Delhi will face Vidarbha in their opening game on November 14, followed by taking on Baroda and Karnataka on November 16 and 18, respectively. Teams in the Super League will be ranked on points. The two group winners will meet in the final at Ground B of the Narendra Modi Stadium on November 20. Each team will play three Super League matches. Mumbai will begin their Super League campaign against Railways on November 14, before taking on Andhra on November 16 and Maharashtra on November 18. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Integrity of Election Commission is Critical to Save the Constitution and Democracy in India
THE FRAMERS OF THE constitution recognised the paramount significance of free and fair elections for sustaining democracy and seeking mandate of people for governance of India. Now wonder that much later the conduct of free and fair elections was recognised as the basic structure of the Constitution. The members of the Constituent Assembly were acutely conscious of the possibility that the government of the day might influence the electoral process to secure its own political and partisan interests. Consequently, the Constituent Assembly sought to separate the functions of political governance and electoral administration. This marked a departure from the framework under the Government of India Act, 1935, which did not envisage an independent, all-India constitutional body to supervise elections. ECI and Legislative Intent of Constituent Assembly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, during the debate on Article 289 of the draft Constitution (now Article 324) on 15 June 1949, observed: In the interests of purity and freedom of elections to the legislative bodies, it was of the utmost importance that they should be freed from any kind of interference from the executive of the day. Although the Assembly eventually decided not to place the provision concerning elections in the Fundamental Rights Chapter, there was little disagreement about the underlying and paramount principle: the conduct of elections had to be insulated from executive interference. The Assembly aspired to establish an impartial institution that would inspire confidence across political parties and communities. However, these aspirations were accompanied by apprehensions about how such independence could be secured in practice. Article 289 contemplated that the President would appoint the Chief Election Commissioner and such other Election Commissioners as might be considered necessary. Members, however, questioned whether presidential appointment would genuinely guarantee independence because the President as per constitutional mandate would act on the advice of the Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister. Prof. Shibban Lal Saxena, seeking to address this concern, suggested that appointments of the Election Commissioners be approved by a two-thirds majority in a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. Such a requirement, he argued, would foster cross-party consensus and prevent a single ruling party from imposing its preferred candidate. He also raised a second concern: since Article 289 did not prescribe qualifications for appointment as Chief Election Commissioner or Election Commissioner, there was no constitutional assurance that the appointee would possess the necessary competence, independence or integrity. Ambedkar himself cautioned: There is no use making the tenure of the Election Commissioner a fixed and secure tenure if there is no provision in the Constitution to prevent either a fool or a knave or a person who is likely to be under the thumb of the Executive. Pandit Hriday Nath Kunzru echoed these concerns and proposed that Parliament regulate appointments through legislation. Ultimately, on 16 June 1949, the Assembly adopted Article 289 with amendments. It became Article 324 of the Constitution, vesting the superintendence, direction and control of elections in the Election Commission. The debates reveal that the framers were concerned not merely with the existence of an Election Commission, but with the conditions necessary to make it genuinely independent. Golden Jubilee of ECI Celebrated its High Credibility The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on 25 January 1950, a day before the Constitution came into force. Over the decades, it acquired a reputation as an institution capable of conducting elections on an extraordinary scale and, for much of its history, commanding public confidence. At the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the ECI on January 17, 2001 , former President K.R. Narayanan ( http://www.krnarayanan.in/html/speeches/others/jan17_01.htm ) acknowledged the institutions phenomenal contributions to Indian democracy. He commended the fact that both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition were present to pay tribute to the Commission, observing that their presence itself demonstrated the honoured position it occupied in Indias political structure. For that moment, they were in spite of being political adversaries had a shared vision of ECI as an independent institution meant to serve democracy on a bipartisan basis. SIR and Questions raised on Integrity of ECI Twenty-five years later, the picture is considerably different. ECI, once an institution that commanded respect and integrity, which had been the product of the careful craft and dogged determination of the Constituent Assembly, faces questions about its impartiality. Streets across India have witnessed protests by opposition groups, student organisations and civil society members against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the conduct of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. A central concern surrounding the SIR exercise has been the possibility that genuine voters could be removed from electoral rolls, resulting in mass disenfranchisement. Critics have particularly raised concerns about the alleged misuse of Form 7 to object to existing voter registrations, with women and minority communities among those said to be disproportionately affected. A report published by The Indian Express on 23 September 2026 (https://indianexpress.com/article/express-exclusive/election-commission-sir-14-objections-gyanesh-kumar-sukhbir-singh-sandhu-vivek-joshi-10889737/ )brought these concerns into sharper focus by documenting objections reportedly raised by the other two Election Commissioners to the manner in which CEC Kumar had handled aspects of the SIR process. These included unauthorized changes to Form 6, the centralisation of access to the voter database and the exclusion of other Commissioners from important decisions. The report has raised questions not only about the conduct of the revision exercise, but also about transparency and decision-making within the Commission itself. Tracing Erosion of ECIs Credibility The erosion of public trust in the ECI, however, has been gradual; it has not emerged out of the blue. It can be traced, at least in part, to a series of controversies that have accumulated over the years. In 2017, the Commission came under scrutiny for announcing the Assembly election schedule for Himachal Pradesh without simultaneously announcing the dates for Gujarat, departing from the convention of announcing elections in the two states together. Critics questioned whether the delay could benefit the ruling party in Gujarat. In 2018, the ECI's recommendation to disqualify twenty Aam Aadmi Party MLAs for allegedly holding offices of profit was set aside by the Delhi High Court, which held that the process had violated the principles of natural justice because the MLAs had not been given an adequate opportunity of hearing. Thereafter, in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, opposition parties raised allegations of EVM manipulation, while civil society groups expressed concern that the ECI was not adequately responding to public queries and suggestions. The Commission was also accused of selectively addressing violations of the Model Code of Conduct, particularly after it gave clean chits to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah despite the dissenting opinions of Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, which were not reflected in the final orders. Concerns over transparency also arose from alleged discrepancies between votes polled and votes counted, with the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Common Cause approaching the Supreme Court in 2019 and ADR raising similar concerns after the 2024 elections. Further, the ECI was accused of favouring BJP-aligned factions in disputes over party names and election symbols, particularly following the splits in the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party, by relying on legislative strength disregarding the extent of support such splits received at wider levels of organisations. Collectively, these controversies have raised questions about the Commissions neutrality, accountability and credibility as an independent constitutional body. The SIR controversy is perhaps the most serious flashpoint in this gradual erosion of trust. There is a peculiar irony in the protests against the SIR of electoral rolls: one of the most visible large-scale mobilisations in independent India explicitly centred on protecting the very right to vote that the Constitution had made a foundational premise of Indian democracy. When the Constituent Assembly adopted universal adult franchise, it made a remarkably ambitious choice: political participation would not be conditional upon property ownership, education, wealth or social standing. Unlike the early United States, where voting qualifications in several states restricted the franchise to men meeting property or tax-paying requirements, India began its constitutional life by recognising the political equality of its adult citizens. The Assemblys confidence in universal suffrage was, in itself, an extraordinary act of faith in ordinary Indians. Agitations Defending Right To Vote Yet, decades later, Rahul Gandhis Voter Adhikar Yatra through Bihar in AugustSeptember 2025, protesting the alleged disenfranchisement of eligible voters through SIR, brought people onto the streets to defend a right that was supposed to be secure for every adult citizen. This irony is also a reminder that the right to vote is the means through which citizens exercise control over the institutions that determine their access to education, healthcare, employment, welfare and justice and not only an isolated political entitlement. When a person loses their political voice, they also risk losing an important means of demanding these other rights. Martin Luther Kings Straggle for Right to Vote Martin Luther King Jr., in his 1957 address Give Us the Ballot , captured this interdependence when he declared: Give us the ballot, and we will no longer have to worry the federal government about our basic rights. The SIR protests, therefore, concern the preservation of political equality and the ability of ordinary citizens to hold the State accountable. There is something deeply unsettling about having to take to the streets to demand the protection of a right that the framers had entrusted to every adult citizen. The Issue of Right to Protest The Central Government and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have accused protesters, primarily those mobilising under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and supported by opposition parties such as the Congress, of engaging in political agitation and violence rather than seeking genuine grievance redressal. However, it is important to recognise that protests demanding an impartial and accountable Election Commission are not necessarily expressions of hostility towards the constitutional establishment. They can, instead, be expressions of faith in the Constitution itself. To question an institution's functioning is not necessarily to reject its legitimacy; it may be to insist that the institution live up to the constitutional purpose for which it was created. The Supreme Court recognised this democratic significance of protest in Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan v. Union of India (2018). While considering restrictions on demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, the Court recognised that peaceful demonstrations through which citizens air their grievances and ensure that these grievances reach the relevant authorities are protected under Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(b) of the Constitution. Importantly, the Court described legitimate dissent as a distinguishing feature of democracy. It also recognised that the right to protest must be balanced against the rights of other citizens and the requirements of public order. There is, therefore, a fundamental difference between challenging the legitimacy of constitutional democracy and demanding that constitutional institutions fulfil their responsibilities. Peaceful protest, when directed towards restoring the integrity of those institutions, can be an exercise in constitutional faith rather than constitutional defiance. Significance of Peoples Struggle for Right to Vote As mentioned earlier President Narayanan while inaugurating the golden jubilee celebrations of the Election Commission of India in 2001 observed that elections had aroused the hopes and aspirations of the unempowered sections of society. He was speaking of the extraordinary promise of universal adult suffrage: the promise that every citizen, irrespective of their social or economic position, would have a voice in the making of the Republic. Perhaps the people taking to the streets today are seeking to preserve and defend precisely that promise. The framers placed their faith in the people by entrusting every adult citizen with the vote; the people, in turn, are asking the institutions created by those framers to remain worthy of that faith. Framers of our Constitution trusted every adult citizen with the power to give shape to our democracy and fashion the destiny of our country. The leaders of the political regime at the centre operating the apparatus of the Indian State must also have the humility to listen when those very citizens take to the streets to defend the ECIs integrity which has been tragically has been eroding.
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Govt launches Semicon 2.0 portal, clears 12 more electronics component projects worth Rs 7,503 crore
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday launched the Semicon 2.0 web application portal under the Semicon India Programme and announced the approval of 12 new applications under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS), marking another push to strengthen India's semiconductor and electronics manufacturing capabilities. The launch follows the Union Cabinet's approval of Semicon 2.0 with a fiscal outlay of Rs 1.27 lakh crore under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The next phase of the programme is focused on six strategic pillars, including chip design, semiconductor equipment and materials, fabrication units, ATMP/OSAT facilities, research and development, and talent development. With the launch of the portal, applications have gone live for Pillars 2, 3 and 4, which focus on machines and materials, new semiconductor fabrication facilities, and further strengthening of the assembly, testing, marking and packaging ecosystem. Highlighting the progress made under the first phase of the programme, the government said 12 semiconductor projects with cumulative investments exceeding Rs 1.64 lakh crore have been approved across six states, with five of them already commencing commercial production as of October 2026. The semiconductor ecosystem has also expanded through startup and academic participation. According to the government, 105 startups have received access to Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, 24 startups have been supported through funding, while 15 startups have secured venture capital investments. In addition, 332 academic institutions have been provided EDA tools under the Chips to Startup (C2S) programme, helping train around 70,000 students. Alongside the Semicon 2.0 launch, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology approved 12 additional projects under ECMS involving projected investments of Rs 7,503 crore. The approved projects are expected to generate production worth Rs 39,045 crore and create 7,127 direct jobs. The latest approvals come after clearance of 106 applications involving investments of Rs 69,548 crore announced earlier under the scheme. The newly approved projects span components, supply chain products and capital goods. They include manufacturing of multilayer printed circuit boards, relays, heat sinks and specialty ceramics, as well as key supply-chain products such as copper foil, anode material, cathode active material, polypropylene film and camera rims. The projects are spread across Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh, expanding the geographical footprint of India's electronics component manufacturing sector. The government said the approvals include first-time support under ECMS for copper foil, cathode active material and specialty ceramics, broadening the range of electronics components and upstream materials being produced domestically. Speaking at the event, Vaishnaw said India's electronics manufacturing industry has moved beyond basic assembly operations and is increasingly building capabilities across modules, components, materials and advanced technologies. He noted that the country is developing strengths in areas such as battery cells, copper foils, copper-clad laminates and advanced printed circuit boards, while government schemes are creating opportunities for MSMEs.
ADNOC inks 10-year LNG supply and purchase agreement with Gujarat Energy
This would be ADNOCs fifth long-term LNG supply agreement with India.
The health of the elephant calf, which is unable to stand or walk due to a genetic bone disorder, had been deteriorating following an injury sustained in a fall in July.
SC refuses to interfere with ban on non-veg food near Somnath temple
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Friday refused to interfere with the Gujarat High Court's interim order keeping alive a ban on the preparation, sale and storage of meat and non-vegetarian food items in areas surrounding the Somnath Temple, while asking the High Court to make an endeavour to decide the pending appeal within two months. A Bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Prasanna B. Varale passed the order while hearing a special leave petition (SLP) filed by six eateries challenging the Gujarat High Court's October 30 interim order. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Gujarat government, defended the restrictions and said that non-vegetarian food could be served outside the prohibited areas. Taking note of the submissions, the Justice Sundresh-led bench declined to interfere with the High Court's interim order and requested it to make an endeavour to dispose of the pending appeal within two months. Before concluding the hearing, the apex court orally said that a balanced approach might be required in the matter. Probably, the authorities need to take a middle path, neither here nor there. We don't want to say anything, the Justice Sundresh-led bench remarked. The matter concerns a notification issued by the Gir Somnath District Magistrate J.N. Vaghela, on August 10, 2026, under Section 33(1)(w) of the Gujarat Police Act, 1951, imposing a ban on the preparation, sale and storage of meat, fish and other non-vegetarian dishes in specified areas around the Somnath Temple. The restrictions cover seven identified stretches, including the area from Balaka Temple to Bhidiya Circle, Bhidiya Circle to Shankh Circle, Shankh Circle to Safari Circle, and Safari Circle to Prajapati Dharamshala, besides all areas within 500 metres of the Somnath Temple. The notification followed a preliminary notification issued on July 10, 2026, inviting objections from the public within 30 days. Aggrieved by the restrictions, six restaurant operators, including Taj Restaurant, J.M. Restaurant, Hotel New Gulbani, Kismat Restaurant, Gulabi Restaurant and Khwaja Hindustani Restaurant, approached the Gujarat High Court. On October 30, a single judge allowed their petition and set aside the notification. However, the state government immediately challenged the decision before a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manash Ranjan Pathak and Justice Nirzar S. Desai. Taking up the Gujarat government's appeal the same day, the division bench stayed the single judge's order and directed that the prohibition would continue until further orders. The state government had said that the restrictions were necessary in view of the large number of devotees expected to visit the Somnath Temple and adjoining religious areas during Diwali and the Gujarati New Year. Advocate General Kamal Trivedi had also submitted that allowing the preparation and sale of non-vegetarian food in the specified areas could hurt the religious sentiments of devotees and cause inconvenience, annoyance and potential risks to public safety. On the other hand, the restaurant owners contended that Section 33(1)(w) of the Gujarat Police Act did not empower the authorities to impose such a prohibition, saying that the provision dealt with the regulation of places of public amusement, entertainment or assembly. The Gujarat High Court has issued notice in the state government's appeal, with the matter scheduled to be heard on November 25 along with another pending petition involving some of the restaurant owners.
Vantara steps in to help baby elephant suffering bone disorder
Kochi (Keralam): Maya, an 18-month-old elephant calf suffering from a genetic bone disorder and earlier recommended for euthanasia, was flown to Jamnagar in Gujarat on Friday, November 6, after Vantara offered to take her in for further medical evaluation and specialised treatment, officials said. Named Maya, the calf weighs around 125 to 130 kg. Her Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gujarat Technological University (GTU) has announced 5 vacancies, including Project Research Scientist and Project Technical Support posts. The last date to apply online is 23 November 2026. Candidates can apply through the official website, sast.gtu.ac.in.
Swastika Castal Delivers Robust H1 FY27; Net Profit Surges 30%, Total Income Up 24% YoY
Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], November 6: Swastika Castal Limited (BSE SWASTIKAAL | 544452), an established manufacturer of high-precision aluminium castings with integrated manufacturing capabilities and growing global export presence, has
Bharat SemiTech eyes 1,000 cr semiconductor equipment facility in Gujarat
The eight-day outreach programme, held from October 19-26, was part of the states preparations for the 11th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) 2027,
Gujarat High Court, CM Office Receive Bomb Threats; Security Agencies on High Alert
Gujarat High Court and Chief Minister's Office receive bomb threats via email. Bomb squads, dog squads and security agencies launch extensive searches.
Ringan No Olo: Exploring Gujarat
Indian regional cuisine is filled with dishes that transform simple vegetables into memorable culinary experiences through traditional cooking techniques, carefully balanced spices and locally available ingredients. One such preparation is Ringan No Olo, a traditional Gujarati dish made from roasted aubergine, commonly known as brinjal or eggplant. Recognised for its smoky aroma, soft texture and [] The post Ringan No Olo: Exploring Gujarats Smoky Roasted Aubergine Delicacy appeared first on FoodNosher.Com .
The company has raised its container traffic growth outlook to 8-10% for FY27 following a surge in trans-shipment cargo linked to the conflict in West Asia
KPI Green Energy energises 49.7 MW solar capacity in Gujarat
KPI Green Energy has energised an extra 49.7 MWp of its 250/350 MWp solar project and 121.8 MWp of its 370/677 MWp hybrid project at Bharuch
GPSC Assistant Engineer Recruitment 2026
Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for 4 Assistant Engineer (Electrical), Class-II posts. The online application process will be conducted from 06 November 2026 to 20 November 2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, gpsc.gujarat.gov.in.
ADNOC signs 10-year LNG supply deal with Gujarat Energy
New Delhi: Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (ADNOC) has agreed to supply up to 4 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Gujarat Energy Ltd for over 10 years from 2028, marking the first commercial sale from the international gas portfolio of its investment arm, XRG. The agreement, structured as a long-term sales and 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 .
To preserve wildlife, the Kerala Forest Department has ordered the immediate transfer and airlifting of an ailing 18-month-old female elephant calf, named Maya, from the Abhayaranyam Elephant Rehabilitation Centre in Kaprikkad to Vantara's advanced elephant healthcare and hospital facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Kerala's Chief Wildlife Warden, Dr P Pugazhendi, IFS, issued the official transfer directive afterunanimous recommendations from a specialised medical board.
Gujarat Energy signs 10-yr LNG deal with ADNOC for up to 4 million tonnes
Under the agreement, Gujarat Energy will procure LNG from the international gas portfolio of XRG, ADNOCs international investment company.
ADNOC signs 10-year LNG supply deal worth $3 billion with Gujarat Energy
The agreement strengthens ADNOC's presence in India, following a separate $3 billion LNG supply deal with Hindustan Petroleum in January, taking its contracted supplies to the country to over $20 bn
ADNOC signs 10-year LNG supply agreement with Gujarat Energy
The agreement expands the Abu Dhabi energy giants presence in Indias LNG market, following a $3 billion supply contract with Hindustan Petroleum in January.
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 6 (IANS) Nausheen Ali Sardar and Anuj Saxena, who became one of televisions most loved on-screen couples as Kusum and Abhay in the popular daily soap Kkusum, reunited for a Diwali celebration. Taking fans on a trip down memory lane. Nausheen shared glimpses of the get-together on her social media account, where the former co-stars were seen dancing and enjoying the festivities with other members of the shows cast joining in. In the video, Nausheen, dressed in a blue saree, is seen alongside Anuj, who looks dapper in a black suit paired with a white shirt. The two can be seen smiling, dancing and posing together, instantly bringing back memories of their much-loved on-screen pairing. The actress shared the video with the caption, Abhay Kusum Laughter is Infectious, followed by hashtags including #kkusum, #soulmate, #familia, #nostalgia and #friendsforever. The reunion also featured other familiar faces from the Kkusum family. Actress Rucha Gujarathi, who played Kali, Kusum and Abhays daughter, was among those seen joining the celebrations. The video captured the former co-stars dancing together, with the group eventually grooving to the iconic track Bole Chudiyan from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.... Talking about Nausheen and Anujs characters, Kusum and Abhay Kapoor, they were at the centre of the shows original storyline. The two actors were remembered for their chemistry, and their pairing remained one of the shows biggest attractions. For the uninitiated, Kkusum, produced by Ekta Kapoors Balaji Telefilms, premiered in May 2001 and ran for nearly four years before concluding in November 2005. The show revolved around Kusum Deshmukh, a hardworking middle-class woman whose family depended heavily on her. Her life changes when she marries Abhay Kapoor, a wealthy businessman. The story follows her struggles within her marriage and family while navigating class differences, relationships and betrayal. Nausheen played the titular character Kusum in the initial years, while Anuj Saxena portrayed Abhay Kapoor. Following a generation leap, the narrative shifted towards the next generation, particularly Kusums daughter Kumud, played by Aashka Goradia, and Kali, played by Rucha Gujarathi. The title track of the show, Main Kkusum had a separate fan base altogether. The show underwent many cast changes during its run. Nausheen was eventually replaced by Manasi Joshi Roy, while Shilpa Saklani also played Kusum at a later stage. Other familiar names associated with the show included Manav Gohil, Shweta Kawatra, Sandeep Rajora, Poonam Narula and Chetan Hansraj.
18-Month-Old Elephant Calf to Be Flown From Kerala to Gujarat for Specialised Treatment
A treatment plan involving hormonal therapy and hydrotherapy had been prepared by the specialists at Vantara
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], November 6: FundzBazar, the online investment platform of Prudent Corporate Advisory Services Limited (Prudent) (NSE: PRUDENT; BSE: 543527), a leading financial services group in India, has released a festive film titled SIP Ka Sathi to mark Diwali. The film brings together the spirit of Diwali, the timeless story of Ram Setu and the power of consistent, disciplined investing through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs).
GSSSB MPHW Admit Card 2026 Out - Download Multi Purpose Health Worker Hall Ticket
The Gujarat Subordinate Service Selection Board (GSSSB) has released the GSSSB MPHW Admit Card 2026 for the recruitment of 254 Multi Purpose Health Worker (Male), Class-3 posts under Advertisement No. 404/2025-26. According to the latest recruitment update published on 6 November 2026, candidates can access the GSSSB MPHW examination call letter through the online login facility. The examination will be conducted on 18 and 19 November 2026 in computer-based mode.
ADNOC signs 10-year LNG supply agreement with India's Gujarat Energy - Reuters
Video: Inside A Factory Making Gujarati Patra In Bulk From Arbi Leaves
The viral video takes viewers inside a famous brand's production unit in Bardoli to show the large-scale process of making Gujarati patra.
Gujarat Energy signs LNG pact with ADNOC
18-month-old calf, which is unable to stand or walk, has been shifted from Kodanad elephant centre to a specially arranged animal ambulance with the help of a crane and 10-12 people, before being taken to Kochi airport for a chartered flight to Jamnagar, accompanied by veterinary experts, say officials
Jackie Shroff remembers Sanjeev Kumar on his death anniversary: Always in our hearts
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 6 (IANS) Bollywood star Jackie Shroff remembered late actor Sanjeev Kumar on his death anniversary with a social media tribute. He shared a monochrome picture of the celebrated actor and wrote, Always in our hearts. Jackie also used the soulful track Beeti Na Bitaai Raina from the 1972 film Parichay for the tribute. Sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Bhupinder Singh, the song featured Sanjeev Kumar alongside Jaya Bachchan. Born Harihar Jethalal Jariwala on July 9, 1938, in Surat, Gujarat, he went on to become one of the most versatile actors of Hindi cinema. Sanjeev Kumar, unlike many leading actors of his generation, was comfortable playing romantic leads, comic characters, fathers and older men. His breakthrough came with Khilona, after which he delivered a string of acclaimed performances. He won the National Film Award for Best Actor for Dastak and Koshish, the latter seeing him portray a deaf-mute character. His performance in Koshish remains one of the most brave and exceptional examples of his acting skills. He went on to become part of many landmark films, including Sholay, where he played the iconic Thakur Baldev Singh, Angoor, in which he essayed a memorable double role, Aandhi, Mausam, Trishul, Seeta Aur Geeta, Namkeen, Anamika, Pati Patni Aur Woh and Naya Din Nayi Raat. In Naya Din Nayi Raat, Sanjeev Kumar famously played nine different characters that showcased the remarkable range that became synonymous with his career. Sanjeev Kumars personal life, meanwhile, remained as talked about as his acting career. He never married, despite being romantically linked with many leading actresses. His relationship with Hema Malini is among the best-known chapters of his personal life. Reportedly, Sanjeev Kumar was serious about marrying her. His health was another major concern throughout his later years. Heart disease had a history in his family. His father died of a massive heart attack when Sanjeev was only 11. Sanjeev himself suffered heart attacks and underwent bypass surgery in the United States. Despite undergoing surgery and being advised to take care of his health, Sanjeev Kumar died prematurely on November 6, 1985, at just 47. Many of his films were released after his death, including Love and God, Haathon Ki Lakeeren, Qatl, Baat Ban Jaye, Namumkin and Professor Ki Padosan, with the latter arriving in 1993.
Builder Association Vice President Claims Gujarat Loses tax Annually Due to Prohibition - Sandesh
From its beginnings in 1980 to its growing presence across India's outdoor advertising landscape in 2026, Bright Outdoor Media Limited has steadily expanded its operations and diversified its business. Headquartered in Andheri, Mumbai, the company has built its position in the Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising sector through an extensive outdoor media network, strategic partnerships and newer advertising formats. Over the years, Bright Outdoor Media has developed a network of more than 1,350 owned hoardings across strategic locations. Its portfolio includes around 58 large-format digital LED billboards. In addition to its owned properties, Bright also trades in hoardings sourced from government, semi-government and private entities, further widening its reach. The company's growth has been supported by strategic associations with leading advertising companies and contracts across major transit locations. It has also explored opportunities beyond conventional outdoor advertising. In a sustainability-focused initiative, Bright, along with a joint venture partner, became the first in the world to install solar panels on hoardings, supplying electricity to Indian Railways. Its real estate operations add another dimension to its business portfolio. Bright Outdoor Media also achieved a significant milestone in March 2023 when it became the first outdoor media company in India to be listed on the stock exchange, making its debut on the BSE SME platform. Having completed three years on the platform, the company is now working towards migrating to the BSE Main Board and securing an NSE listing. Financial performance and H1 FY27 update: The company reported total revenue of Rs. 155.43 crore, EBITDA of Rs. 35.23 crore, net profit of Rs. 24.05 crore and earnings per share (EPS) of Rs. 12.26 in FY26. For the first half of FY27, Bright Outdoor Media recorded total revenue of Rs. 71.85 crore, EBITDA of Rs. 15.96 crore and net profit of Rs. 11.03 crore. An important part of the company's expansion strategy is Bright 360, which brings together services across outdoor and digital outdoor advertising, cinema, events, digital platforms, influencer marketing, public relations and other media formats. This integrated approach allows the company to cater to a wider variety of advertising and communication requirements. Bright is also looking beyond its established Mumbai market. Its direct presence in Delhi, the proposed Ahmedabad office and expansion into South Indian and Gujarati film markets reflect its plans to widen its geographical and business reach. On Bright Outdoor Media being upgraded from a SME to BSE Main Board, Dr. Yogesh Lakhani exclusively said, For me, this is not just an achievement; it is an extremely emotional and proud moment. When I started Bright in 1980, I never imagined that one day the company would reach the National Stock Exchange and graduate from the SME platform to the Main Board. We started with very humble beginnings, with a small office, big dreams and an unwavering belief in our work. Today, seeing Bright Outdoor Media Limited reach this milestone is a moment of immense satisfaction, not just for me, but for every employee, business associate, client, investor and well-wisher who has been part of this journey. He added, I strongly believe that we have not just upgraded our listing; we have upgraded our aspirations, our responsibilities and our ambitions. This milestone reinforces our belief that if you remain committed to your vision, work with integrity and never give up, even the biggest dreams can become reality. I dedicate this achievement to everyone who believed in Bright throughout these 46 years. When asked how this will impact his company, Dr. Lakhani said, The migration to the Main Board is a significant step forward for Bright Outdoor Media Limited. It represents enhanced visibility, credibility and access to a larger investment ecosystem. Being on the Main Board will help us strengthen our corporate presence, attract a wider base of institutional and long-term investors, and create greater opportunities for business expansion and strategic partnerships. Sharing their plans, he added, Our focus will be on three key areas: Expansion: Strengthening our outdoor and digital outdoor media network across India and exploring international opportunities. Technology: Accelerating our investments in Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH), LED infrastructure and innovative advertising formats. Diversification: Building our integrated media ecosystem through Bright 360, offering clients solutions across OOH, DOOH, digital, television, radio, print, events, PR and other platforms. He added, We have always believed that outdoor advertising is not merely about putting up a hoarding; it is about creating visibility, connecting brands with millions of people and delivering measurable value to advertisers. Our ambition is to build Bright into one of India's most trusted and comprehensive outdoor media and integrated advertising companies. The Main Board is not our destination; it is a bigger platform from which we intend to build the next chapter of Bright's growth. Ultimately, our responsibility towards our shareholders becomes even greater, and we are committed to creating sustainable long-term value. Looking back at his journey which started in 1980, Dr. Lakhani said, When I look back at these 46 years, I see a journey of dreams, struggles, sacrifices, opportunities and, above all, perseverance. I started Bright Advertising Agency in 1980 with very limited resources. My journey began with cinema slides and gradually expanded into railway advertising, outdoor media, large-format hoardings, digital LED displays and an integrated media ecosystem. There were no shortcuts. Every opportunity had to be earned, every challenge had to be faced and every milestone came through years of hard work. I have always believed in one philosophy: Never wait for opportunities; create them. From starting with cinema slides to becoming India's first listed outdoor media advertising company on the BSE SME platform, and now moving to the Main Board of the National Stock Exchange, the journey has been extraordinary. He continued, What makes me happiest is that Bright is no longer just a company built around one individual's vision. It is an institution supported by a dedicated team, trusted clients, business partners and thousands of shareholders. I have received several awards and recognitions along the way, but for me, the biggest award is seeing the company grow, create employment, build opportunities and earn the trust of people. If I have to summarise this journey in one thought, I would say: In 1980, I started with a small dream. In 2026, that dream has become a listed institution. But my dreams are still bigger than my achievements. And I genuinely believe that the best chapter of Bright Outdoor Media Limited is yet to come.
Gujarat Man Jailed For Life For Killing Girfriend At Bus Station
On November 5, the court formally pronounced its verdict, directing that Faisal Lakhani remain behind bars for the rest of his natural life.
Subjected To Hate When Shubman Gill Gets 100: RCB Star Shows Ugly Side Of IPL
KKR let Shubman Gill go, with the batter eventually joining Gujarat Titans (GT) for Rs 8 crore as one of the three players drafted by the franchise alongside Hardik Pandya and Rashid Khan.
Gujarati-origin Amish Shah makes US Congress history
Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 6 (IANS) Amish Shah, the Chicago-born son of Gujarati immigrants, has defeated a former American football player in Arizona to become the first Indian-American elected to the US Congress from the state, marking another milestone for the community in American politics. The 48-year-old emergency-room physician defeated Republican Jay Feely, a former National Football League (NFL) kicker backed by US President Donald Trump, in Arizona's First Congressional District. Shah was leading by around 53 per cent to 46 per cent when the race was called by major media outlets. His victory flips a Republican-held seat to the Democrats and takes the number of Indian-Americans in the incoming House of Representatives to six. I'm honoured and humbled that the people of Arizona's First Congressional District have chosen me to represent them in Congress, Shah said in a victory statement. To every voter in this district I pledge to be a Representative for all of you, whether or not you voted for me, he added, promising to work across party lines. Shah's journey to Capitol Hill has an unusual connection to his defeated opponent. Both worked with the New York Jets in 2008, when Feely was a kicker and Shah provided emergency medical care to players on the sidelines. Nearly two decades later, they faced each other in one of America's closely watched Congressional contests. Born and raised in Chicago, Shah is the son of engineering students who migrated from India in 1969. His father is Jain and his mother Hindu. He speaks fluent Gujarati and has maintained close ties with his family's Indian roots. In a 2023 interview, Shah recalled how his parents regularly took him to India. He also traced his inspiration for public service to Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat. Shah studied at Northwestern University, earned his medical degree there and completed a Master's degree in public health at the University of California, Berkeley. Before entering national politics, he served in the Arizona House of Representatives, winning three successive elections in 2018, 2020 and 2022. His first Congressional attempt in 2024 ended in a narrow defeat to Republican David Schweikert. He returned to the electoral battlefield after Schweikert vacated the seat to seek the Governorship. During the campaign, Shah focused on reducing living costs, healthcare reform, protecting Medicare and Medicaid, and opposing Trump's tariffs. His position on skilled immigration could attract particular attention among Indian professionals. Shah's victory also maintains the strength of the informal Samosa Caucus, comprising Indian-American lawmakers in the US Congress. The incoming group includes incumbent Democrats Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal and Suhas Subramanyam, alongside newcomers Shah and Florida's Pia Dandiya. The two newcomers replace Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar, who failed to secure their parties' nominations for the 2026 elections. The new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027, with Democrats taking control of the House of Representatives following the November 3 midterm elections. All 435 voting seats in the US House are contested every two years. Members represent Congressional districts within individual states and serve two-year terms.
Theft derails blind chess stars nationals gold bid
4 die as car carrying two Gujarati families plunges into gorge in Uttarakhand
3 Labourers Killed, 9 Injured As Pick-Up Truck Overturns In Gujarat's Tapi
The driver of the pick-up truck with 11 farm labourers on board reportedly lost control of the steering wheel, causing the vehicle to overturn.
Blast in parked car injures five persons
Daughter disappears with womans gold jewellery worth 1.85L
