PM Modi, Sam Pitroda exchange Diwali greetings after conciliatory remarks
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) In a rare display of warmth cutting across political lines, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and veteran Congress leader Sam Pitroda exchanged Diwali greetings on Thursday, setting aside, at least momentarily, years of political sparring and ideological disagreements. The unexpected interaction began after Pitroda made a series of conciliatory remarks about Modi during an interview with IANS. Describing the Prime Minister as a Gujarati friend, Pitroda said his disagreements with Modi stem from ideological differences rather than personal animosity. He recalled meeting Modi on multiple occasions with his wife and said the Prime Minister had always been courteous, warm, kind, loving and caring in personal interactions. I respect him as a person... We have no personal issues. I have nothing against Mr Modi as a Gujarati leader, friend or well-wisher, Pitroda said. He added that it is possible to strongly oppose a political leaders worldview while maintaining cordial personal relations, noting that he respects Modis hard work and communication skills even while disagreeing with several of his political positions. I can disagree with Mr Modi, and I can also have dinner with him and have a laugh, he remarked. Hours later, PM Modi responded on social media with a festive message, addressing the Congress leader as Sam Bhai. The Prime Minister wished Pitroda and his wife, Anjana Ben, a happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh (Gujarati New Year), praying for their good health and happiness in the coming year, and concluded with Jai Jagannath! Pitroda responded in a similarly cordial tone, thanking Narendra Bhai for the wishes and extending festive greetings in return. He also wished the Prime Minister good health and a long life. The Congress veteran stressed that political debates should be separated from personal relationships. While maintaining his criticism of the Prime Ministers ideology and governance approach, he emphasised that those differences should not prevent civil engagement or mutual respect. The festive exchange has drawn attention because it contrasts sharply with the often acrimonious nature of contemporary political discourse. It highlights that personal civility can endure despite deep political divides, offering a brief moment of goodwill amid the sharp polarisation that usually defines interactions between the ruling party and the opposition.
Prime Minister Modis Visit to Gujarats Ambaji Temple Canceled Amid Final Preparations
Prime Minister Modis planned visit to Ambaji Temple in Gujarat has been canceled, though his Karnataka itinerary remains unchanged. Prime Minister Modis Visit to Gujarats Ambaji Temple Canceled Amid Final Preparations
Gujarat government completes high-level investment mission to Qatar, Oman and UAE
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The Government of Gujarat successfully concluded a high-level investment outreach mission to Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 25th to 31st October, 2026, reinforcing the State's strategic engagement with the Gulf region and advancing preparations for the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) 2027. The mission showcased Gujarat's strengths as a preferred destination for global investment, trade, innovation, manufacturing, and financial services. The delegation was led by Lochan Sehra, Secretary, Labour, Skill Development
Some people carry Constitution in pockets, democracy as 'personal property': PM Modi
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Making a scathing attack on main Opposition Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the previous Congress-led government of selectively invoking the Constitution while claiming ownership over democratic values. Nowadays, some people pull out the Constitution as if it is tucked away in their pockets and democracy is their personal property, PM Modi said, alleging that such leaders remain intoxicated by power. Recalling his tenure as the Gujarat Chief Minister, the Prime Minister claimed that a government-affiliated institution named after a former Prime Minister had once ranked Gujarat as the country's best-performing state. However, he alleged that the then Central government intervened and directed the organisation to seek prior approval before publishing such reports. The government told them, 'This will not do. You must obtain our approval before publishing any such report, PM Modi said. Questioning the Opposition's commitment to democratic principles, the Prime Minister said, These are the very people who now lecture us on democracy. He also criticised what he described as the lingering mindset of some opposition leaders, saying their attachment to power remained evident even after leaving office. Even when they (opposition leaders) are not in power, they behave this way. It is a strange kind of intoxication with power, the Prime Minister said. Shifting focus to agriculture, PM Modi said that reducing the financial burden on farmers continues to be a key priority for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government. He highlighted the Centre's substantial spending on fertiliser subsidies, saying that nearly Rs 16 lakh crore has been allocated to ensure affordable fertilisers for cultivators. He noted that while a bag of urea costs around Rs 3,000 in international markets, it is made available to Indian farmers for less than Rs 300. Highlighting progress in the farm and allied sectors, PM Modi said India has emerged as the world's largest milk producer as a result of the White Revolution. He added that over the past decade, milk production has increased by 70 per cent, egg production by 90 per cent and honey production from around 80,000 tonnes to 1.5 lakh tonnes. The Prime Minister also said that India is now the second-largest producer of wheat, cotton, vegetables and fish globally. These achievements, he added, underscore the contribution, resilience and productivity of Indian farmers. Emphasising the importance of allied agricultural activities, PM Modi said that horticulture production has also registered significant growth, rising from about 280 million tonnes to more than 350 million tonnes, alongside the sharp increase in honey output. He added that these gains reflect the growing strength and diversification of India's agricultural economy. He noted that agricultural scientists are developing equipment that reduces the cost of cultivation and makes tasks such as sowing and harvesting easier. The Union government's larger objective, PM Modi said, is to transform 'annadatas' (food providers) into 'krishi udyamis' (agricultural entrepreneurs). Work is already underway to promote value addition at the source of production so that farmers can earn more from their produce, the Prime Minister added.
Hardik Pandya has been making headlines over the last month as the IPL 2027 retention deadline nears. On Wednesday, Pandya was roped in by Punjab Kings from Mumbai Indians
Odisha woman murder: Caretaker arrested in Gujarat after week-long manhunt
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 12 (IANS) The Commissionerate Police has cracked the sensational murder case of a 76-year-old elderly woman in the Laxmisagar area of the city with the arrest of her caretaker from Gujarat after a week-long, multi-state operation, police commissioner S Dev Datta Singh said on Thursday. The accused was identified as Balabhadra Maharana alias Balia (40), a native of Tangi in Khordha district, who was residing at Titipa under Krushnaprasad police limits in Puri district. He was working as a caretaker at the residence of the deceased, Kunjalata Nanda, in the Laxmisagar area of Bhubaneswar for over five months after the death of her husband. Addressing the media, the Police Commissioner said the accused murdered the elderly woman for financial gain and fled the spot after breaking open an almirah and disconnecting CCTV cameras installed inside the house. Singh also stated that preliminary investigation revealed that accused Maharana first attempted to strangle the septuagenarian and subsequently inflicted fatal injuries on the back of her head when she resisted. The incident came to light on the morning of November 4 when tenants residing in the same building alerted Nandas daughter, Samahita Nanda, after the elderly woman didnt respond to their calls and her room was found locked from the inside. Upon being informed, police officials arrived at the spot, forcibly opened the grill door, and found Nanda in a pool of blood near the dining table with severe assault injuries on her head. She was immediately rushed to Capital Hospital, where the doctors declared her dead. Based on a complaint lodged by her son-in-law, the Laxmisagar police registered a case (777/26) under Section 311 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to the Commissionerate police, Maharana was hired through one of his relatives, Bidyadhara Maharana, who has worked as a domestic help for Nandas elder son, currently residing in the USA. After committing the crime, the accused was deliberately evading arrest and was frequently changing his location and moving from one State to another. The police stated that the accused had visited Kolkata, Raipur, Panipat, Surat and other cities during this period. A special team led by Laxmisagar police station traced him to Ahmedabad and subsequently moved to Surat following intelligence. With the assistance of Gujarat Police, the team intercepted a Delhi-bound bus in Vadodara district and apprehended Maharana. Police have seized Rs 20,600 in cash, a gold locket, a gold finger ring, a pair of earrings, two mobile phones, a SIM card, and a diary from his possession. The police said the accused has been brought to Bhubaneswar on transit remand, and further interrogation is underway to recover the remaining stolen valuables and the deceased's scooty, which he used to flee the house.
'Sam Bhai...Gujarati Friend': PM Modi-Sam Pitroda's X Exchange Goes Viral
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda have drawn attention, particularly given their political differences during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign.Addressing Pitroda as 'Sam Bhai', Modi also shared a video in which the Congress leader described him as a Gujarati friend and spoke about their warm personal relationship. Pitroda said that despite their political differences, they had no personal issues.The exchange comes after Modi had strongly criticised Pitroda over his controversial remarks comparing the physical appearances of Indians from different regions. Meanwhile, Modi also responded to an X user, Mihir Jha, who asked the Prime Minister to extend Diwali wishes to him as well.
Gujarat Cities Honored in National Cleanliness Survey, CM Bhupendra Patel Praises Efforts
Gujarats cities excel in the National Cleanliness Survey 2025-26, with CM Bhupendra Patel highlighting the states commitment to cleanliness. Gujarat Cities Honored in National Cleanliness Survey, CM Bhupendra Patel Praises Efforts
Gujarat: Cybercriminals use PM Modis name in fake Diwali aid scam
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 12 (IANS) The Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has warned citizens against a fake message circulating on social media claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is offering Rs 8,000 in cash assistance for the Diwali festival, saying the fraudulent links are being used to hack WhatsApp and Telegram accounts and steal banking information. According to the Cyber Crime Cell, fraudsters are sending messages claiming that all Indian citizens are eligible for the cash benefit. The messages contain suspicious links which direct users to fake websites and are designed to compromise their social media accounts and mobile phones. The fake website tells users that their mobile number has been selected for an Rs 8,000 reward and asks them to share the message with five WhatsApp groups or 20 friends on WhatsApp or Telegram. This is intended to spread the malicious link to a larger number of people. In the next step, users are asked to enter their mobile number to claim the reward. The website then displays an eight-digit 'Connection Code', which victims are instructed to enter under the 'Linked Devices' option in their WhatsApp settings. Once the code is entered, hackers gain control of the victim's WhatsApp account, the Cyber Crime Branch said. The fraudsters are also attempting to gain access to Telegram accounts using the same method. In another stage of the fraud, victims are persuaded to download and install malicious Android application package (.apk) files on the pretext of receiving the reward through PhonePe or withdrawing the cash benefit. Once installed, these applications can give hackers access to SMS messages, one-time passwords (OTPs), banking applications and other data stored on the mobile phone, potentially allowing them to withdraw money from victims' bank accounts. The Cyber Crime Branch clarified that the government is not offering any Rs 8,000 cash assistance through such links and urged citizens not to forward the messages or click on links received from unknown sources. It also cautioned people against entering any code under WhatsApp's Settings > Linked Devices at the request of an unknown person or website. Those who have unknowingly linked an unauthorised device have been advised to log it out immediately. For Telegram users, the branch recommended enabling Two-Step Verification through Settings > Privacy and Security, checking 'Active Sessions' and removing unfamiliar devices. It also advised users never to share their login codes with anyone. The police further warned against downloading .apk files from websites or links outside the Google Play Store. If a mobile phone displays a 'File might be harmful' warning during a download, users should cancel the process immediately. Citizens who fall victim to such fraud or find their social media accounts hacked have been asked to report the matter immediately by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or filing a complaint on the official website.
Meet 98-Year-Old Prabhavati Nani, Who Turned Homemade Gujarati Recipes Into A Thriving Venture
What began with a single khandvi order at 91 grew into Nanis Nashta, a home-based venture serving more than 200 families.
Gujarats tribal districts to get 'Johar Cafes'; over 18,000 to receive land rights
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 12 (IANS) More than 18,000 tribal beneficiaries in Gujarat will receive land ownership documents carrying 7/12 land records this year, while the state government will launch 14 Johar Cafes to promote local tribal cuisine and products as part of week-long celebrations marking the 151st birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The celebrations, to be held from November 12 to 18 as part of 'National Tribal Pride Day', will also see the setting up of Shabari Booths at weekly markets in the state's 14 tribal districts. The booths will provide information about government schemes and facilitate the sale of natural farming products and food items. Announcing the programmes at a press conference in Gandhinagar on Thursday, Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel said: The distribution of land ownership documents is aimed at fulfilling a demand of the tribal community. The state will also inaugurate or lay foundation stones for development projects worth more than Rs 2,300 crore on November 15, in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and other ministers. The 14 Johar Cafes will be established to promote local food and products in tribal districts, while the Shabari Booths will serve as information points for government welfare schemes and platforms for marketing natural farming produce. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had accorded historical recognition to the contribution of tribal revolutionaries by declaring November 15 as Tribal Pride Day, he said. He referred to Birsa Munda's struggle against British rule for the protection of water, forests and land, which he led at the age of 25. The state government will also install statues of Birsa Munda in the 14 tribal districts and municipal areas where no such statues currently exist. Major roads connecting taluka and district headquarters, traffic circles and hostels for tribal students will also be named after him. Highlighting the government's tribal development initiatives, Patel said: The budget of the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, launched in 2007 with an allocation of Rs 15,000 crore, had increased to Rs two lakh crore. Tribal students are now pursuing higher education in medical and engineering institutions and IITs. Ganpat Vasava, state president of the BJP's Tribal Morcha, said the celebrations were being organised under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the state party organisation to take Birsa Munda's message of Our Land, Our Rule to people across Gujarat. The week-long programme will cover 55 Assembly constituencies in 14 tribal districts, all 34 districts and 17 municipal corporations. The programme began on November 12 with press conferences at the state, district and municipal corporation levels. On November 13, youth meetings will be held in 55 Assembly constituencies in tribal areas, with around 500 participants expected at each meeting. The gatherings will focus on Birsa Munda's life and contribution. On November 14, cleanliness drives will be organised from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Birsa Munda's statues and surrounding areas. Local saints, religious leaders and heads of religious institutions will subsequently be felicitated between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. At 6 p.m., his history will be read out in more than 4,500 tribal gram panchayats, followed by special aartis prepared in 12 to 13 tribal languages and the lighting of lamps in households. Public meetings will be held on November 15 in 14 tribal districts, 20 non-tribal districts and 17 municipal corporations in the presence of the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and Cabinet members. The programme on November 16 will include a conference of retired officials, doctors, engineers, lawyers and prominent members of the tribal community. Traditional sports competitions will be organised across 55 Assembly constituencies on November 17, followed by women's meetings on November 18, with around 500 tribal women expected to participate in each constituency.
Jal Shakti Ministry to accept citizen feedback on Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 2.0
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) The Jal Shakti Ministry has extended till November 30 the deadline for receiving public feedback on water conservation, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and storage works reported on the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 2.0 Portal, an official said on Thursday. By collecting feedback, the Ministry aims to strengthen community ownership of water conservation structures and further advance the nationwide movement towards sustainable water management and water security, the official said in a statement. The Citizen Feedback Portal has been open to the public since January 26, providing citizens across the country an opportunity to share their feedback on water conservation, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and storage works reported under the JSJB 2.0 initiative. The extension will enable citizens to continue providing feedback on the artificial recharge and storage structures created under the initiative, the statement said. The second phase of JSJB has marked a significant milestone in advancing the nationwide water conservation movement envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 6 September 2024 at Surat, Gujarat, to transform water conservation into a true Jan Andolan through active public participation. As of May 31, 2026, more than 1.5 crore rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, water conservation and storage structures have been reported across the country under the initiative, it said. The Citizen Feedback mechanism on the JSJB 2.0 Portal seeks to further strengthen Jan Bhagidari by enabling citizens to provide feedback on the reported works. Through their valuable inputs, citizens can help identify maintenance requirements, monitor the functionality of structures and contribute to improving their long-term effectiveness, the statement said. Feedback from citizens will also support the verification and assessment of assets reported under the initiative. Since recognition is provided to Districts, States/UTs and other stakeholders based on the number of artificial recharge and storage works completed under the initiative, citizen participation in feedback is particularly significant, the statement said. The mechanism is expected to enhance the quality and credibility of reporting, promote transparency in implementation, and encourage Districts and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to ensure proper maintenance and sustained functionality of the structures created.
Gujarat: Festive rush pushes GSRTC's digital ticket bookings to record 1.46 lakh in a day
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 12 (IANS) The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) has recorded its highest-ever single-day digital ticket bookings on Bhai Beej, with 1,46,875 seats reserved on November 11, generating digital revenue of Rs 3.55 crore. Of the total bookings, 99,402 seats were reserved through the GSRTC mobile application alone, which also generated Rs 2.27 crore in revenue. The corporation's total revenue for the day crossed Rs 13 crore, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.With this achievement, GSRTC retained its position as the country's leading State Transport Undertaking (STU) in digital ticket bookings and revenue for the seventh consecutive year. The record was set during the festive rush on Bhai Beej, when a large number of passengers travelled across Gujarat. The figures reflected the growing use of its digital ticketing services, particularly its mobile application, officials said. GSRTC's digital ticketing figures have increased considerably over the years. In 2019, the corporation recorded 74,368 seat bookings, generating revenue of Rs 1.53 crore. The number rose to 1,14,880 bookings, with revenue of Rs 2.10 crore, in 2022. In 2023, bookings increased to 1,32,177 seats and revenue to Rs 2.97 crore, followed by 1,41,468 seats and Rs 3.15 crore in 2024. In 2025, the corporation recorded 1,33,043 bookings, generating Rs 3.19 crore. The latest figures surpassed all previous single-day records for both digital bookings and revenue. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi congratulated GSRTC employees, including drivers, conductors and mechanics, on the achievement. He also acknowledged the efforts of employees who remained on duty during the festive season, away from their families, to manage passenger movement. Despite being away from their families during the festive season, ST drivers and conductors have worked with dedication to ensure passengers reach their destinations safely and on time, Sanghavi said. The corporation said it would continue to focus on providing passengers with modern, convenient and transparent services, while thanking commuters for their trust in its digital ticketing facilities.
After being called a Gujarati friend, PM Modi extends festival greetings to Sam Pitroda
The Indian Overseas Congress chief said he and his wife met Mr. Modi in the past and the Prime Minister had been very warm towards them.
From press releases to Insta reels: PM Modi says media plays key role in keeping democracy vibrant
The PM recalled a womens brigade of journalists who got a whiff of him becoming the Gujarat CM in 2001
'Gala hi pakad liya': Modi recalls encounter with journos
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a Diwali Milan programme, shared a humorous anecdote from 2001 when a women's brigade of journalists discovered his impending appointment as Gujarat chief minister and demanded sweets. He lauded the media's role in Indian democracy, reflecting on its evolution from press releases to Instagram reels and recalling his early days arranging chairs for media gatherings. Modi also discussed technological shifts in journalism and praised reporters' dedication in covering challenging events.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Congress leader Sam Pitroda, in an unexpected exchange that brought a brief moment of warmth amid their political differences. Happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to you Sam Bhai and to Anjana Ben. Praying for a joyful and healthy year ahead. Jai Jagannath! []
'Gujarati friend': PM Modi extends festive greetings to Sam 'Bhai' Pitroda, wife
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda after the latter referred to him as a Gujarati friend and termed him very kind and hardworking during an interview with IANS. In a post on X, PM Modi said: Happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to you Sam Bhai and to Anjana Ben. Praying for a joyful and healthy year ahead. Jai Jagannath!, he added. Earlier, Pitroda described Prime Minister Modi as a good orator who is very warm, kind, loving and caring, while adding that he has no personal issues with the Prime Minister. Pitroda's surprising remarks came in response to a question about Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi once describing PM Modi as a ig orator. Asked for his opinion of the Prime Minister, Pitroda, in an exclusive interview with IANS, said that he espects him (PM Modi) as a person and thinks that he is hardworking. He (PM Modi) is a Gujarati friend. I respect him as a person. I met him. My wife and I met him. He's been very warm, very kind, very loving, caring at a personal level. Of course, he's a good orator, hardworking, okay. We get along well, Pitroda told IANS. We have no personal issues. I have nothing against Mr Modi as a Gujarati leader, friend, and well-wisher. He's very warm to me. No issues about that. I appreciate that, he further said. The Congress leader said that the issues he has with PM Modi are based on ideologies and not on a personal level. And equally on my side, you know, I've been to his house in Gujarat several times. But I may have issues with his views of the world. I may have issues with his ideology. But that's a separate issue; that's not against the individual. It's against the idea. And these are two separate things. You know, I can disagree with Mr Modi, and I can also have dinner with him and have a laugh. So I have no issues, he added.
'Hardik Made A Mistake By Leaving GT': Mohammed Kaif's Advice To Pandya After MI-PBKS Trade
Hardik led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in their debut season, but his return to Mumbai Indians did not produce the same results.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Diwali Milan programme at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi on Thursday, where he interacted with journalists and spoke about his long association with the media. Recalling his early days in the BJP, Modi shared an incident from the 1990s when a group of journalists unexpectedly entered his room at the party office and told him he was going to become Gujarat Chief Minister.
'Sam Bhai' Pitroda Gets Diwali Wish From His 'Gujarati Friend' PM Modi
PM Modi's surprise wish came after Sam Pitroda called the PM his Gujarati friend and said he had no issues with him at an individual level.
'Hardik made a blunder by leaving GT': Mohammed Kaif after Pandya's MI departure
Mohammed Kaif called Pandya's earlier decision to leave Gujarat Titans a blunder and advised him to focus purely on his all-round form without captaincy
Sam Pitroda praises PM Modi, receives Diwali wishes; X user's cheeky request gets a reply
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Congress leader Sam Pitroda after the latter spoke warmly about their personal equation. The exchange took an amusing turn when an X user asked for festive wishes too, prompting a response from the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings with Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda and his wife, Anjana, after the Congress leader praised the PM for his personal warmth...
Mohammed Kaif Recalls Hardik Pandya's Blunder As He Leaves Mumbai Indians For Punjab Kings
Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif opined that all-rounder Hardik Pandya made a mistake by leaving Gujarat Titans (GT), a franchise where he won his first Indian Premier League (IPL) title as captain
Thiruvananthapuram Corporation looks to Gujarat for urban makeover
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 12 (IANS) In a significant political and developmental move, the BJP-led Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has turned to Ahmedabad in Gujarat to draw up a roadmap for the development of Kerala's state capital, seeking to bring in what it sees as the Gujarat model of urban governance. The proposed partnership between Thiruvananthapuram and Ahmedabad, which will function as twin cities, comes after the BJP ended nearly 45 years of CPI(M)-led LDF rule in the Corporation and took charge for the first time, with V.V. Rajesh becoming Mayor in December last year. The initiative is aimed at drawing on Ahmedabad's experience in urban administration, waste management, infrastructure development and resource mobilisation. The state government has given its approval for the cooperation framework, and the Corporation is seeking the Council's approval for taking the initiative forward. The two civic bodies will cooperate in waste management, road development, technology transfer and raising funds for major infrastructure projects. The proposal to explore municipal bonds to mobilise resources is one of the significant aspects of the initiative. Ahmedabad has used this financing model to fund major urban development projects. The immediate focus will be on cleaning and rejuvenating five major water bodies in the capital Parvathy Puthanar, Karamana River, Amayizhanchan Thodu, Killiyar and Akkulam Lake. The Corporation also plans to draw on Ahmedabad's experience in scientific waste processing, including the setting up of treatment plants and waste-to-energy facilities. Cooperation will also cover traffic management, road infrastructure, e-governance and administrative practices. Officials from both cities are expected to exchange technical expertise and take part in training programmes. The partnership follows Mayor Rajesh's visit to Ahmedabad, where he studied its urban development initiatives, including the Sabarmati riverfront, waste management facilities and infrastructure projects. An eight member delegation led by him also held discussions with Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot and senior officials. A twin-city MoU was also signed. For the BJP, the initiative also offers an opportunity to demonstrate its development model in Kerala's capital, where it has made its first major breakthrough in urban governance. Whether the Ahmedabad experience can be successfully adapted to Thiruvananthapuram will depend on funding, implementation and the cooperation of all stakeholders.
Zee Studios new leadership to expand its movie content slate across languages
Zee Studios will expand its slate across languages including Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], November 12: Rajesh Power Services Limited (RAJESH) BSE: 544291, ISIN: INE0VN801010, one of the leading specialized EPC Contractors in Power Transmission & Distribution, has announced its Unaudited
Swachh Survekshan 2025-26: Vadodara Becomes Gujarat's Cleanest City, Surat Shines Nationally
Vadodara has been named Gujarat's cleanest city in Swachh Survekshan 2025-26. Surat secured second place nationally, while Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar and Rajkot also earned recognition.
'Mithai khilao': PM Modi recalls how journalists told him he was Gujarat CM
Odisha AM/NS India Gymnasts Shine at CBSE National Championship 2026
Four gold, five silver and two bronze medals won across categories Surat (Gujarat) [India], November 12: Athletes from the Odisha AM/NS India Gymnastics High Performance Centre (Odisha AM/NS India GHPC),
Mohammed Kaif says Hardik Pandya erred by leaving Gujarat Titans ahead of trade to Punjab Kings
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Tata Power seeks cost-linked Mundra tariff pacts with 4 more states
The company is seeking to finalize supplementary power-purchase contracts with Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Punjab and Haryana after it finalized a deal with Gujarat to sell power at prices
PM Modi very kind, warm, hardworking: Sam Pitroda (IANS Exclusive)
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Indian Overseas Congress Chief Sam Pitroda has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a good orator who is very warm, kind, loving and caring, while adding that he has no personal issues with the Prime Minister. Pitroda's surprising remarks came in response to a question about Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi once describing PM Modi as a ig orator. When asked for his opinion of the Prime Minister, Pitroda, in an exclusive interview with IANS, said that he espects him (PM Modi) as a person and thinks that he is hardworking. He (PM Modi) is a Gujarati friend. I respect him as a person. I met him. My wife and I met him. He's been very warm, very kind, very loving, caring at a personal level. Of course, he's a good orator, hardworking, okay. We get along well, Pitroda told IANS. We have no personal issues. I have nothing against Mr Modi as a Gujarati leader, friend, and well-wisher. He's very warm to me. No issues about that. I appreciate that, he further said. The Congress leader said that the issues he has with PM Modi are based on ideologies and not on a personal level. And equally on my side, you know, I've been to his house in Gujarat several times. But I may have issues with his views of the world. I may have issues with his ideology. But that's a separate issue; that's not against the individual. It's against the idea. And these are two separate things. You know, I can disagree with Mr Modi, and I can also have dinner with him and have a laugh. So I have no issues, he added. In 2018, Sonia Gandhi had said that she agreed that PM Modi is a ig orator. Modi takes pride in his ability to deliver good speeches. I completely agree that he is a good orator and speaks like an actor... But the country is surprised that wherever he goes, he speaks wrong, she had reportedly said.
Amish Shah, Pia Dandiya join centrist New Democratic Coalition
Amish Shah and Pia Dandiya have recently joined the New Democrat Coalition, increasing its membership to 142. The New Democrat Coalition, which is the largest ideological group in the Democratic Party, welcomed 40 new members this week. Shah is a physician with roots in Gujarat, while Dandiya has a background in education and policy leadership.
Amul, Mother Dairy milk prices to go up by Rs 2-4 per litre from today
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Consumers will have to pay more for milk from Thursday as leading dairy brands Amul and Mother Dairy announced a price increase of Rs 2-4 per litre across their liquid milk variants, citing a rise in input and operational costs. Both companies attributed the revision to increasing expenses related to fodder, cattle feed, packaging and transportation, which have added to the overall cost of milk production and distribution. In a statement, the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the Amul brand, announced a 4-5 per cent increase in the prices of fresh pouch milk across major variants and pack sizes nationwide. According to the co-operative, the price of its largest-selling Amul Taaza toned milk has been increased by Rs 2 per litre, while Amul Gold milk will now cost Rs 4 more per litre. This marks the second revision in Amul's milk prices this year, following the previous hike announced in May. Explaining the latest increase, GCMMF said, The price of our largest-selling Amul Taaza toned milk with 3 per cent milk fat has been increased by only Rs 2 per litre (3.3 per cent increase) and Amul Gold Milk with 6 per cent milk fat by Rs 4 per litre (5.5 per cent rise). Separately, Mother Dairy announced a similar increase of Rs 2-4 per litre across its liquid milk variants from Thursday. The company said uneven monsoon conditions in many regions have pushed green and dry fodder prices up by as much as 20 per cent, while cattle feed costs have risen around 10 per cent over the last year, increasing production costs for dairy farmers. Mother Dairy is revising the consumer prices of its liquid milk variants in the range of Rs. 2 - 4 per litre, effective November 12, 2026, the company stated. A spokesperson for Mother Dairy said persistent inflationary pressures have also driven packaging, transportation and other operational costs higher by up to 25 per cent. Uneven monsoon conditions in several parts of the country have impacted fodder availability green and dry fodder prices have increased by up to 20 per cent, while cattle feed prices have risen by around 10 per cent over the past year adding to the cost of milk production for dairy farmers, it added. Additionally, persistent inflationary pressures have driven up packaging, transportation and other operational costs by up to 25 per cent. This sustained increase in input and operational costs has necessitated the present revision in consumer milk prices, Mother Dairy spokesperson added.
Amul raises milk prices by Rs 2-4 per litre effective today
New Delhi, Nov 11:Dairy major GCMMF, which sells products under the Amul brand, has raised milk prices by Rs 2-4 per litre effective Thursday, citing a sharp increase in input costs. In a statement on Wednesday, Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) said it has increased prices of fresh pouch milk by 4-5 per cent in major milk variants/packs across India effective November 12, 2026. The price of our largest-selling Amul Taaza toned milk with 3 per cent milk fat has been increased by only Rs 2 per litre (3.3 per cent increase) and Amul Gold Milk with 6 per cent milk fat by Rs 4 per litre (5.5 per cent rise), GCMMF said. It had last raised rates in May this year. The price is being hiked due to a steep rise in input costs of milk production and processing, it said. GCMMF pointed out that there has been a significant increase in the cost of green and dry fodder, cattle feed ingredients like oil cake, maize and molasses, milk packaging film and fuel during the year. In the current challenging environmental circumstances due to low and uneven rainfall in Gujarat, as well as many parts of India, we are constrained to increase the consumer price of milk to pay better prices to our producers and support them in these difficult times, the co-operative said. GCMMF said its member unions have increased farmers procurement price by 4-5 per cent in the last one year, and a similar revision will further support our farmers. It highlighted that 80 per cent of the revenue collected from consumers through the Amul co-operative structure is returned to 36 lakh milk producers. A major portion of the increase in milk retail prices will go back to milk producers, and they will continue to be encouraged to increase milk production, GCMMF said.
November 14, 2026: Gujarat vs Odisha Prediction Market - Robinhood
Tata Electronics in talks to raise $2 bn
Mumbai: Tata Group's semiconductor business is in initial discussions with domestic and international banks to raise up to $2 billion through multiple loan tranches to fund its expansion plans, according to people familiar with the discussions.The first tranche is likely to be up to $800 million, with initial pricing discussions around SOFR plus 180 basis points. The talks are at an early stage, with the final size, pricing and lender participation yet to be firmed up. The loan could be priced at around 6%, assuming SOFR remains at around 3.9%.Also Read: Life insurers post 26 pc growth in new business premiums to Rs 42,914 crore in OctoberA Tata spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.135747359Tata Electronics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, has signed a definitive agreement with Taiwan-based Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) for its proposed semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat. The agreement will enable Tata Electronics to bring semiconductor manufacturing technology and expertise to India and cater to global customers, the company said.Also Read: When every bank has an app, what actually makes digital banking different?The plant is being developed with a planned capacity of 50,000 wafer starts per month, with PSMC serving as its technology partner, India Ratings said in a report.The project, estimated to cost 91,000 crore, will manufacture 12-inch wafers using technology nodes ranging from 28 nm to 110 nm for applications such as power management chips and microcontrollers. It will be funded through equity, long-term debt and capital subsidies from the central and Gujarat governments under their respective semiconductor incentive schemes, the rating agency said.Tata Electronics' liquidity is supported by unencumbered cash balances of 2,845 crore at the end of FY25, up from 1,485 crore a year earlier, timely equity infusions and its ability to raise working capital limits and long-term debt. The company had debt repayment obligations of 1,297 crore in FY27 towards term loans and external commercial borrowings as of September 30, 2025, the rating agency said.
Sonia Gandhi 'can't go a day without dal chawal'
Sonia Gandhi recently shared a video discussing her deep connection to food, revealing that 'dal chawal' is her comfort food and how a search for a good meal led her to meet Rajiv Gandhi. She also spoke about her love for various Indian cuisines, including Gujarati and Bengali food, and her initial struggles with Indian spices. The video was released shortly after her book, Belonging: A Journey of Love, was launched.
Caretaker held in Gujarat for 76-year-olds murder
Babri, Godhra, 1984 Riots: 5 Biggest Flashpoints In Sonia Gandhi's Memoir
Sonia Gandhi's autobiography, Belonging: A Journey of Love, has triggered a fresh political confrontation between the BJP and the Congress. The book revisits several contentious chapters of India's political history, including the 1984 anti-Sikh violence, the Babri Masjid demolition, the 1975 Emergency and the 2002 Gujarat riots. It also makes striking revelations about former Prime Minister Pranab Mukherjee's reported ambitions to become Prime Minister and raises questions about the Bofors controversy. While the BJP has accused Sonia Gandhi of selectively presenting history and shielding the Gandhi family's political legacy, the Congress has defended the memoir as her personal account. From historical controversies to unanswered political questions, we examine the five major flashpoints that have turned Sonia Gandhi's autobiography into a political battleground.
Amit Shah was meeting visitors and exchanging greetings when his grandson came up and began tugging at his hand. Smiling at the little one's insistence, Shah held his hand and walked with him from the stage towards the staircase before returning to greet people.
Gujarat: Ahmedabad-Sanand win top spot in Swachh Survekshans Clean City Pair category
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 11 (IANS) Ahmedabad and Sanand have secured the first position nationally in the Clean City Pair category of the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2025-26, with Ahmedabad recognised as the mentor city and Sanand as the mentee city for their joint efforts to improve urban cleanliness. Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot received the award from the President Droupadi Murmu at a national award ceremony held in New Delhi on Wednesday. State Ministers Kanu Desai and Urban Development Minister Darshana Vaghela were also present. The Mentor-Mentee City category was introduced this year under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban to encourage better-performing urban local bodies to share technical expertise and operational practices with other cities. Under the initiative, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) provided technical knowledge, guidance and support to Sanand Municipality to strengthen its cleanliness-related operations. As a mentor city, Ahmedabad also extended guidance to other urban local bodies in Gujarat, including Ranavav, Wankaner, Salaya and Mundra-Baroi, besides Sanand. The assistance covered waste segregation, wastewater management, solid waste management and the welfare of sanitation workers. The national ranking was based on the performance of Ahmedabad and Sanand against the prescribed parameters of the Swachh Survekshan. Their joint efforts and initiatives in the cleanliness sector earned them the top position in the Clean City Pair category. The award ceremony was attended by Ahmedabad Deputy Mayor Anju Shah, Standing Committee Chairman Kamlesh Patel, ruling party leader Jashu Thakor, whip Atul Mishra, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of the Solid Waste Management Department, Amritesh Aurangabadkar, department director Dr Vijay Mistry and committee chairman Deepak Panchal, among other elected representatives and officials. The recognition adds to Ahmedabad's record in national cleanliness assessments and acknowledges its role in sharing expertise with smaller urban local bodies. The AMC said the achievement was the result of the collective efforts of its elected representatives, officials, sanitation workers and citizens.
Caretaker Arrested In Odisha Murder-Robbery
Gujarat Police have arrested Balbhadra Ramcharan Maharana, a 40-year-old man, in Surat for the murder of 76-year-old Kunjalata Nanda during a robbery at her Bhubaneswar residence. Maharana, who was Nanda's caretaker, had been absconding since the November 3 incident and was planning to flee to Delhi when apprehended.
Book Reveals Sonias Love for Gujarati Food, Dal-Chawal
In her new memoir, she recalls how Indian cuisine became an integral part of her life.
Amul hikes milk prices across India: Check new rates for Taaza and Gold variants
Consumers buying Amul milk across India will have to pay more from November 12, 2026, as the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) has announced a hike in the prices of its fresh packaged milk variants. The increase will range from around 3.3% to 5.5%, depending on the type of milk.
Amul to hike fresh milk pouch prices by up to 5% across India from tomorrow
New Delhi [India], November 11 : The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), the apex dairy body that markets milk and milk products under the brand name Amul, is set to increase the retail prices of fresh pouch milk by approximately 4 to 5 per cent across major variants in India, with the revision coming into effect from November 12. According to Amul, the price revision impacts its largest selling variants across operational markets. Under the revised structure, the price of Amul Taaza toned milk, containing 3 per cent milk fat, rises by Rs 2 per litre, (3.3% increase). Meanwhile, the price of Amul Gold milk, containing 6 per cent milk fat, sees an increase of Rs 4 per litre, (5.5% hike). The company noted that the decision stems from escalating overheads across both dairy farming operations and commercial processing facilities. This price hike is being done due to the steep increase in input cost of milk production as well as processing, the dairy federation stated. The federation highlighted that agricultural pressures and rising commodity rates directly impact livestock management and daily operational expenditure. There is a significant increase in cost of green and dry fodder, cattle feed ingredients like oil cake, maize and molasses, milk packaging film and fuel during the year, the statement added. Climatic conditions and erratic precipitation patterns across agrarian belts also play a central role in driving the price revision, according to the federation. In the current challenging environmental circumstances due to low and uneven rainfall in Gujarat as well as many parts of India, we are constrained to increase the consumer price of milk to pay better prices to our producers and support them in these difficult times, Amul said. The federation explained that member unions have already increased farmer procurement rates by 4 to 5 per cent over the past year. It maintained that the latest consumer price revision aims to sustain these disbursements to rural producers. It is important to note that 80% of the revenue collected from consumers through the Amul co-operative structure is returned to our 36 lakh milk producers, the company said. It emphasised that this cooperative revenue distribution mechanism directly benefits its vast network of dairy farmers. A major portion of the increase in the selling price of milk will go back to the milk producers and they will continue to be encouraged to increase milk production, the federation stated. (ANI)
Sonia Gandhi Loves Gujarati, Bengali Food, Can't Go A Day Without This Dish
Sonia Gandhi shared her fondness for food a day after her memoir 'Belonging: A Journey Of Love' came out, which also makes several references to how food always played an important role in her life.
| Can Haryana challenge Gujarat's textile manufacturing dominance? - Fibre2Fashion
Man opens fire on father, brother over property dispute in Maha's Thane, injures both seriously
Digital Desk | Thane, Nov 11 (IANS) A man allegedly opened fire on his father and brother following a property dispute in Gurvali village of Kalyan taluka in Maharashtra's Thane district, seriously injuring both, police said. The accused, identified as Kalpesh Shelar, allegedly fired at his father, Balaram Shelar, and brother, Bharat Shelar. According to reports, Balaram sustained a gunshot injury to his stomach, while Bharat was shot in the shoulder. Both were rushed to a private hospital for immediate medical attention and are currently undergoing treatment. Their condition is stated to be serious. Following information about the incident, police took prompt action and arrested Kalpesh Shelar. The Titwala police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the firing. The incident has caused a stir in Gurvali village and adjoining areas, with the alleged involvement of a son in an attack on his own father and brother over a property dispute triggering shock among local residents. In a similar incident reported earlier, on October 19, a 25-year-old man was arrested from Gujarat's Bharuch for allegedly murdering his 59-year-old father following a dispute over money to purchase a car in Maharashtra's Palghar district. The accused, identified as Mukesh Parmar, allegedly slit his father Mohanlal Parmar's throat with a grinder during an argument over money. The father and son were living together, while Mohanlal's wife was away at their native village. After committing the murder, Mukesh fled the scene. When relatives failed to contact Mohanlal over the phone, they sent an acquaintance to check on him. The person discovered his body and alerted the Palghar police. Earlier in June, another shocking incident was reported from Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, where a man allegedly stabbed his 82-year-old father to death after losing a property dispute case against him in court. The victim, Jafar Qamaruddin Sayyed Patel, had fought a two-year legal battle to evict his son, Abdul Rehman Abdul Jafar, from his house over alleged abusive behaviour. Jafar Patel, a retired Water Resources Department employee, had reportedly faced repeated quarrels and alleged assaults by his son, who works as a medical representative.
ADNOC widens its Asian footprint with decade-long LNG offtake deal - Offshore Energy
From his debut IPL deal of Rs 10 lakh in 2015 to becoming a Rs 18 crore player, Pandya's salary journey reflects his rise as a key all-rounder and successful captain. He has represented Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans, winning IPL titles with both franchises.
Hindutva worker targets mosque with firecrackers in Gujarat
Gujarat: A staunch Hindutva supporter in Gujarat was seen targeting a mosque during Diwali by bursting firecrackers aimed at the minarets. A video of the incident in Gujarats Navsari city surfaced on social media on Wednesday, November 11. The video featuring the Hindutva worker, identified as Nilesh Kundal, was shared with provocative background music with 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 Energy Signs LNG Supply Agreement with ADNOC for Up to 4 Million Tonnes - Machine Maker
Gujarat Central University Makes History, Appoints First Woman Vice-Chancellor in 17 Years
Professor Vijita Singh Agrawal has taken charge as Gujarat Central University's first woman Vice-Chancellor in its 17-year history after nearly a year of waiting.
Ashoka Buildcon zooms on bagging LoA from NHAI for project in Gujarat
Mumbai, November 11 (Udaipur Kiran): Ashoka Buildcon is currently trading at Rs. 116.69, up by 13.69 points or 13.29% from its previous closing of Rs. 103.00 on the Ashoka Buildcon zooms on bagging LoA from NHAI for project in Gujarat
Hardik's Arrival An 'important Step' Towards IPL Title: PBKS CEO Menon
PBKS CEO Menon: Punjab Kings (PBKS) CEO Satish Menon on Wednesday described the signing of premier seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya as an important step in the franchises bid to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. On Wednesday, the BCCI formally announced that Pandya joined the franchise from Mumbai Indians (MI) in a trade deal that sent left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh to the five-time champions ahead of the 2027 IPL season. The trade had been in the making for nearly a week. PBKS is yet to win an IPL title with their best-ever result being securing a runners-up finish in 2014 and 2025 seasons. We are delighted to welcome Hardik to the Punjab Kings family. He is a proven match-winner who brings tremendous experience, confidence and a winning mentality. His ability to change the course of a game with both bat and ball makes him a valuable addition to our squad. As we enter the 20th season of the IPL, our focus remains on building a team capable of competing at the highest level and bringing the trophy home to Punjab. Hardiks arrival is an important step in that direction, Menon said in a statement on Wednesday. The numbers support the faith of PBKS in him. Since making his IPL debut in 2015, Pandya has played 162 matches, scoring 2,955 runs and picked up 82 wickets. Pandya first arrived at MI as a raw youngster in 2015 and developed into one of the leading all-rounders in the cricketing world in the shortest format. Pandya played a major role in four of MIs title-winning campaigns in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, before leaving for Gujarat Titans (GT), whom he led to IPL 2022 win. In 2024, Pandya moved back to MI from GT via a trade deal and took over as their captain, which didnt give the desired results in terms of winning championships. Pandyas move to PBKS comes with a pay rise, as his fee goes up to INR 18 crore from the INR 16.35 crore he earned at MI. Arshdeep moves across on his current fee of INR 18 crore. Bringing in Hardik came at a price, though, as PBKS had to give up on Arshdeep, who made his IPL debut for the franchise in 2019. Since then, he claimed 111 wickets in 96 matches for the franchise. In that time he became one of the teams main weapons with the ball and is now the leading wicket-taker for India in mens T20Is. Arshdeep has been an integral part of Punjab Kings for many years, and this is also an emotional moment for us. We have seen him grow into one of the finest fast bowlers in the country, and we are incredibly proud of his journey. Since then, he claimed 111 wickets in 96 matches for the franchise. In that time he became one of the teams main weapons with the ball and is now the leading wicket-taker for India in mens T20Is. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
BHEL shares up 3.5% on Power Grid order for Gujarat synchronous condensers
BHEL has received a Notification of Award from Power Grid Corporation of India, for setting up two synchronous condensers of +300/-200 MVAR capacity at Kalyanpur in Gujarat
MI To Take considered Approach On Captaincy After Trading Hardik For Arshdeep
Indian Premier League: Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) said they will take their time to pick a new captain for the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season after trading their last two seasons' captain, Hardik Pandya, to Punjab Kings on Wednesday and bringing in left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh in return. The swap leaves the five-time champions without a leader for the first time since Hardik took charge in 2024. Though the chatter in cricketing circles has been about Rohit Sharma possibly returning to the leadership role, with Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah as other contenders, MI have made it clear that they will not rush into a decision. As Mumbai Indians look ahead to the upcoming season, the franchise will take a considered approach to evaluating its captaincy options. An announcement regarding the teams captaincy will be made at the appropriate time, said the side in its statement. That wording puts the leadership question at the centre of MIs plans for the upcoming retention deadline on November 17 and subsequent auction planning ahead of the mini-auction happening in Goa on December 16. The MI dressing room is set to look quite different from the one Hardik led. Hardiks exit marks the end of a long and eventful association with MI. He first arrived at MI as a raw youngster in 2015 and developed into one of the leading all-rounders in the cricketing world in the shortest format. He played a major role in four of MIs title-winning campaigns before leaving, and returned from Gujarat Titans (GT), whom he led to the IPL 2022 win, in 2024 to take over as captain. MI owner Akash Ambani paid tribute to a departing Pandya. Hardik has shared some very special moments with Mumbai Indians. We have seen him grow as a cricketer, make his mark on the world stage and then return to lead the team. His contribution, his energy and the competitive spirit he brings to the field have been valuable to Mumbai Indians. I have great respect for him, both as a cricketer and as a person, and wish him nothing but the very best for everything that lies ahead, he said. Pandyas move to PBKS comes with a pay rise, as his fee goes up to INR 18 crore from the INR 16.35 crore he earned at MI. Arshdeep moves across on his current fee of INR 18 crore. In 162 IPL matches, Pandya has amassed 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 and picked up 82 wickets. For Arshdeep, the switch ends his eight-season stint at PBKS, the franchise where he made his IPL debut in 2019. The left-arm pacer leaves as their highest wicket-taker of all time with 111 scalps in 96 games. He claimed 21 wickets in the 2025 edition and added 14 more in 2026. Arshdeep also holds the record for the most wickets by an Indian bowler in mens T20Is. Arshdeeps arrival gives MI one of Indias leading fast bowlers in T20Is, who can pair up well with ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to share the new ball. Arshdeep is also a reliable death-overs bowler and is expected to make the MI fast-bowling attack sharper and more versatile. For Arshdeep, the switch ends his eight-season stint at PBKS, the franchise where he made his IPL debut in 2019. The left-arm pacer leaves as their highest wicket-taker of all time with 111 scalps in 96 games. He claimed 21 wickets in the 2025 edition and added 14 more in 2026. Arshdeep also holds the record for the most wickets by an Indian bowler in mens T20Is. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
atQor Named Finalist for the 2026 Microsoft Partner of the Year Award for - Agents
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], November 11: atQor today announced it has been named a finalist for the Business Transformation - Agents 2026 Microsoft Partner of the Year Award. The company was honored among a global field of top Microsoft partners for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.
India weighs replacing old wind turbines to boost capacity by 50% without acquiring land
India is exploring a plan to replace ageing, smaller wind turbines with larger, more efficient machines to increase generation at existing sites without acquiring additional land. The Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association estimates that 5-8 GW of old wind capacity could be repowered immediately, potentially raising capacity at these sites by nearly 50%. The initiative is being discussed with states including Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka as India seeks to accelerate wind power deployment and meet its clean energy targets.
MI And PBKS Complete Marquee Trade Deal Of Hardik And Arshdeep
Indian Premier League: In a major player trade ahead of the Indian Premier League 2027, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have completed the swap of Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh. MI captain Hardik Pandya will move to PBKS, while Indias leading wicket-taker in T20I Arshdeep will join the five-time champions. Pandya will join PBKS at a fee of Rs 18 crore, up from his existing fee of Rs 16.35 crore, while Arshdeep will join MI at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore. Besdies PBKS, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have also been in the running to acquire the premier seam-bowling all-rounder. IANS had reported that PBKS had edged ahead of others in the race to secure the services of Hardik with MI ahead of the November 17 retention deadline as the paperwork was completed for the trade deal last week. Pandyas trade brought the curtain down on his second stint with MI, a franchise with which he won four IPL titles. Having first joined MI in 2015, Pandya developed into one of the leagues most impactful all-rounders, contributing with both bat and ball during the teams title-winning campaigns in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. After seven seasons with MI, Pandya moved to Gujarat Titans (GT) ahead of IPL 2022 and made an immediate impact as captain, leading the franchise to the title in its debut season. GT also reached the final in 2023 before Pandya returned to MI in 2024 and took over the captaincy. Across 162 IPL matches, he has scored 2,955 runs at a strike rate of 146.28 and claimed 82 wickets, underlining his value as a proven match-winner. Arshdeep, meanwhile, moves to MI after eight seasons with PBKS, the franchise where he made his IPL debut in 2019 and established himself as one of the competitions leading left-arm fast bowlers. With 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, he is PBKS all-time leading wicket-taker. Arshdeeps ability to make early breakthroughs with the new ball and deliver under pressure in the death overs has made him a key component of Punjabs bowling attack. Arshdeep, meanwhile, moves to MI after eight seasons with PBKS, the franchise where he made his IPL debut in 2019 and established himself as one of the competitions leading left-arm fast bowlers. With 111 wickets in 96 IPL matches, he is PBKS all-time leading wicket-taker. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Tempo Traveller skids near Gund, Ganderbal, tourists injured
Ganderbal, Nov 10: Several tourists sustained injuries after a Tempo Traveller bearing registration number DL1VC 5231, carrying a group of visitors, skidded off the Srinagar-Sonamarg national highway near the Sumbal area of Gund in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening. According to officials, the vehicle was en route to Srinagar from the popular tourist destination of Sonamarg when the driver lost control near a sharp bend near Gund. The vehicle veered off the road and came to a halt along the adjacent embankment. Upon receiving news of the mishap, local residents, police and ambulances immediately rushed to the scene to assist in the initial rescue efforts. Teams from the local police station and emergency medical services arrived shortly after to extract the passengers from the vehicle. All injured individuals were evacuated to the nearby PHC Gund, from where the seriously injured were referred to Srinagar hospitals for further emergency medical attention. List of Injured Persons: Sharda Bi, W/o Ramesh Bhai, Age: 58 years, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat-Head Trauma. Contact: 992526799 Ramesh Bhai, S/o Bovin Bi, Age: 59 years, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat-Head Trauma. Daysha, S/o Subash Chandra, Age: 42 years, R/o Surat, Gujarat-Head Trauma. Shobha, W/o Rajesh Kumar, Age: 50 years, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat-Head Trauma. Rajesh Kumar, S/o DerubiPatil, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat -Head Trauma. Swarnadyyti Ghosh, W/o Surat Ghosh, Age: 24 years, Female, R/o West Bengal-Trauma to Hip. Mala Ghosh, W/o Surjeet Ghosh, Age: 48 years, Female, R/o Murshidabad, West Bengal. Surjeet Ghosh, S/o Late Krishna Dulal Ghosh, Age: 61 years, R/o West Bengal-Trauma to Left Side of Chest. Contact: 9474925815 Mukesh Bhai, S/o Lakshman Bhai, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Kala Ben, W/o Mukesh Bhai, R/o Gujarat. Jagdesh, S/o Amreet Singh, R/o Gurdaspur, Punjab-Driver. Rohan Bhai, S/o Mukesh Bhai, R/o Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
SMVD Katra-Sabarmati Express temporarily augmented with extra coaches
Jammu, Nov 10:Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway, in view of the increasing rush of passengers and long waiting list during the festival season, has decided to temporarily augment the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Sabarmati Express, from today, November 10, 2026. Under this augmentation plan, additional coaches of third AC and sleeper class have been temporarily attached to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra - Sabarmati Express (train number 19224) from November 10 to 14, 2026. This will provide better facilities to passengers travelling to Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat, said Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector (PRI), Jammu Railway Division. He said that with the augmentation through these additional coaches, more berths and seats would be available to passengers, making their journey more convenient and comfortable. Passengers have been asked to use Railway Reservation Centres, the official website of IRCTC or the mobile app for ticket booking in these additional coaches.
Twelve Injured, Questions Unanswered
The crash near Sumbal Bala is more than a frightening interruption to a tourist journey. A Tempo Traveller skidded off the road on Tuesday evening, injuring at least 12 people from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab. The injured were first taken to PHC Gund; several were later referred to SKIMS Soura for specialised care. Their safe recovery is the immediate concern. The wider concern is why a road used by residents and visitors continues to expose passengers to such risk. The available details do not establish what caused the vehicle to skid. That is precisely why the police investigation must be more than a formal entry in a case register. It should establish the circumstances of the crash and examine the relevant factorsroad condition, visibility, vehicle fitness, speed and driver conductwithout presuming blame before evidence is gathered. Cognisance is only a beginning. The public deserves to know what the inquiry finds and what action follows. The incident also tests the emergency response system. PHC Gund provided initial treatment, and some injured passengers were referred to Srinagar. That pathway may have been necessary, but it raises a practical question: can local facilities consistently stabilise multiple casualties while arranging prompt onward transport? Authorities should review the response, identify any delay or resource gap, and make improvements where evidence points to them. In an accident involving a dozen people, readiness is not an abstract administrative issue; it can shape the first critical hours of care. Tourism is often discussed through arrivals, bookings and revenue. Yet visitors encounter Kashmir through its roads as much as its landscapes. When a vehicle carrying families from several states leaves the road, confidence depends not on reassurance but on visible safeguards: road maintenance, clear warnings at hazardous stretches, responsible driving and timely medical care. Residents deserve those protections every day; visitors should not have to rely on luck. No single crash, on the facts currently available, proves a systemic failure. But it does demand scrutiny, especially on routes carrying tourist traffic through difficult terrain. Authorities should inspect the stretch near Sumbal Bala, publish the findings of the investigation and act on any identified defect or lapse. Transport operators, too, must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and drivers fit for the journey. Twelve people were injured; the consequences could have been worse. Treating the incident as routine would be the greater failure. A road becomes safer not through condolences or promises, but through transparent investigation and corrective action before another vehicle skids off it.
Geothermal Energy: A New Chapter in Indias Clean Energy Journey
Puga valley, a place located at 14,000 feet above sea level in southeastern Ladakhs Chanthang is known for its hot springs and underground heat reserves. This place is completely redefining the geothermal story of the country. In July 2026, the ONGC Energy Centre commissioned the country's first two geothermal wells in the Puga valley. For a nation of 1.4 billion people that has long looked to the sun and wind for its renewable ambitions, the heat of the Earth itself is now entering daily conversations. The two wells, each 1,000 metres deep, will support reservoir evaluation. They also pave the way for India's first one-megawatt demonstration geothermal power project, marking the country's entry into geothermal power generation. Though the scale is modest, what it implies is more important. The concept of Geothermal Energy India is moving from resource assessment to field demonstration, and Puga valley is where that shift becomes visible. Geothermal energy is steady, low-carbon and not affected by weather. Unlike solar and wind, it is available throughout the year. This matters for a large, densely populated country that wants to add reliable, home-grown sources to its renewable energy mix. That is why regions like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh become important. Science states why the Earth's interior is hot because it is driven by the radioactive decay of elements like uranium, thorium and potassium, along with residual heat from the planet's formation. In geologically active regions, faults and fractures let hot material travel closer to the surface, creating reservoirs of hot water and steam trapped within permeable rock. Deep wells bring these resources up. The steam drives a turbine connected to a generator, a process resembling conventional thermal power, except that naturally occurring underground heat replaces fuel combustion. The used water is condensed and reinjected into the reservoir, supporting replenishment and continued production. Importance of Puga What makes Ladakh's milestone critical is the policy framework behind it. In September 2025, the government notified the National Policy on Geothermal Energy. The policy aims to establish geothermal energy as a major renewable pillar enabling systematic exploration and deployment of the country's resources. While prioritising research, drilling, reservoir management and direct-use applications, and supports Ground Source Heat Pumps for heating and cooling. A clear regulatory framework encourages both public and private sector participation. It facilitates repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells, builds toward a national geothermal data repository, and supports pilot projects and Centres of Excellence. Alongside this, MNRE is implementing the Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development Programme through research institutions and industry partners, aiming at indigenous, cost-effective technologies. Internationally, geothermal energy has been identified as a key area of cooperation with Australia and Iceland, and as a focus area in an MoU with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Future The Geological Survey of India has mapped 381 hot springs and identified 10 geothermal provinces, from the Himalayan province to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the West Coast and the South Indian Cratonic regions. India's theoretical geothermal prospect stands at nearly 10.6 GW, and 42 sites have been recognised as promising for power generation and direct heat use. Technology could widen this further. Enhanced Geothermal Systems and Advanced Geothermal Systems will expand exploration opportunities, so suitable projects can arise anywhere geothermal resources exist. Inactive oil and gas wells could be repurposed, subject to technical and operational feasibility, building on existing drilling expertise, well data and infrastructure. Beyond electricity, geothermal heat supports district heating, agriculture, aquaculture, and space heating and cooling. Possibilities include geo-tourism too. For a high-altitude region like Ladakh, such direct uses are worth watching closely. Other projects are already adding experience. Gujarats Gandhinagar has demonstrated electricity generation of 50 to 90 kilowatts from fluid at 70 to 80C. Ankleshwar in Gujarat is evaluating retrofitted oil and gas wells, Tawang in Anuranchal Pradesh is studying five geothermal sites, Hyderabad is developing a geothermal cooling system, and a pilot study is modelling shallow systems with Borehole Heat Exchangers. An honest account must note that commercial-scale power generation is yet to be established. What exists today is a foundation: expanding well fields, demonstration activities and research initiatives strengthening the ecosystem. The world offers proof of concept, with global installed capacity reaching 15.67 GW by the end of 2025, led by Indonesia, the US, the Philippines, Trkiye and New Zealand, together holding around 67%. India, by comparison, is only at the starting line. The government's larger purpose is clear. India is driving towards Net Zero by 2070, and the policy seeks to make geothermal energy a key part of the nation's renewable energy story. The aim is energy security and sustainable growth, through a steady, indigenous pillar of the energy transition. From the cold, thin air of Puga Valley, that aim feels both distant and tangible. The wells are only 1,000 metres deep, and the demonstration plant is only one megawatt. But every large energy system begins with a first well. If policy, research, partnerships and patient field work continue to align, the heat beneath Ladakh may help power the journey to 2070. (COURTESY - PIB SRINAGAR)
LG Sinha directs SKIMS to ensure best treatment for injured tourists
Srinagar, November 10, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spoke to the senior officials and inquired about the health and well-being of the tourists who were injured in an unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, in Ganderbal. He has directed the officials and Director, SKIMS to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said: I spoke with senior officials, Director, SKIMS, and the Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal regarding the unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, Ganderbal. 8 injured tourists from Gujarat and West Bengal have been referred to SKIMS. I have directed the officials and the Director, SKIMS to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. Praying for their speedy recovery.
Srinagar, Nov 10: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said he spoke with senior officials, Director SKIMS and Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal regarding the unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, Ganderbal. In a post on X, LG Manoj Sinha said: I spoke with senior officials, Director, SKIMS, and the Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal regarding the unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, Ganderbal. 8 injured tourists from Gujarat and West Bengal have been referred to SKIMS. I have directed the officials and the Director, SKIMS to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. Praying for their speedy recovery. Meanwhile, Health Minister Sakina Itoo expressed deep concern over the unfortunate road accident in Ganderbal. I have spoken to the Director, SKIMS, and directed that the injured, particularly those referred to SKIMS Soura, receive the best possible medical care and attention. Their well-being is our priority. Praying for their speedy recovery. May Allah(SWT ) grant them Shifa, Health Minister Sakina Itoo said on X. Pertinently, 18 were injured and 8 critical were shifted to SKIMS Soura after Tempo Traveller met with an accident at Sumbal Bala Gund Ganderbal on Tuesday evening.
18 tourists injured in road accident in J&K's Ganderbal, 6 reportedly in critical condition
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Nov 10 (IANS) Eighteen tourists were injured on Tuesday when a vehicle carrying them from Kashmir's Sonamarg tourist resort to Srinagar skidded off the road and plunged into a 60-feet deep gorge near Gund in Ganderbal district. Local residents and police personnel rushed to the spot to evacuate the injured. Emergency arrangements were mobilised from different parts of the area as all the occupants required medical attention. Ambulances were called from several health facilities, including Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Sonamarg, Gund and Ganiwan. The injured were initially shifted to PHC Gund, where they received first aid and preliminary medical treatment. The injured were later shifted to Srinagar city for treatment. Reports said that six of the injured tourists had been admitted to hospital in Srinagar in a critical condition. Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Kangan Rajesh Raina confirmed the accident, saying that 18 people, including the driver, had sustained injuries. A list of injured persons identified 12 occupants, including the driver. The list included tourists from Ahmedabad and Surat in Gujarat, Murshidabad and other parts of West Bengal, and Gurdaspur in Punjab. Among those named were Sharda Bi, 58, and Ramesh Bhai, 59, from Ahmedabad; Daysha, 42, from Surat; Shobha, 50, and Rajesh Kumar from Ahmedabad; and Swarnadyyti Ghosh, 24, Mala Ghosh, 48, and Surjeet Ghosh, 61, from West Bengal. Mukesh Bhai, Kala Ben and Rohan Bhai, all from Gujarat, were also included in the list. Jagdesh, a resident of Gurdaspur in Punjab, was identified as the driver of the Tempo Traveller. The injury details available in the list mention head trauma suffered by Sharda Bi, Ramesh Bhai, Daysha, Shobha and Rajesh Kumar. Swarnadyyti Ghosh sustained trauma to the hip, while Surjeet Ghosh suffered an injury to the left side of his chest. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on social media platform X on Tuesday evening said, I spoke with senior officials, SKIMS Director, and the Ganderbal Deputy Commissioner regarding the unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala in Ganderbal. Eight injured tourists from Gujarat and West Bengal have been referred to SKIMS. I have directed the officials and the SKIMS Director to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. Praying for their speedy recovery. Despite biting cold especially in mornings and evenings, scores of tourists especially from West Bengal and Gujarat are these days visiting the Valley. Although winter tourism is yet to start, the autumn fag end tourism is going on in the Valley these days with tour and travel operators, hoteliers, taxi operators and others connected directly or indirectly with tourism doing some business during the otherwise lean tourist season in the Valley.
12 Injured as Tempo Traveller Skids Off Road in Ganderbal
Ganderbal, Nov 10 : At least 12 persons, including tourists from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab, were injured after a Tempo Traveller skidded off the road near Gund area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the vehicle skidded off the road near Sumbal Bala on the SSG Road, resulting in injuries to at least 12 occupants. He said the injured were shifted to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Gund, where they were provided emergency medical treatment before several of them were referred to SKIMS Soura, Srinagar, for specialised treatment. The injured were identified as Sharda Bi, wife of Ramesh Bhai, and Ramesh Bhai, son of Bovin Bi, both residents of Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Daysha, son of Subash Chandra, a resident of Surat, Gujarat; Shobha, wife of Rajesh Kumar, and Rajesh Kumar, son of Derubi Patil, both residents of Ahmedabad. Others include Swarnadyyti Ghosh, wife of Surjeet Ghosh, a resident of West Bengal; Mala Ghosh, wife of Surjeet Ghosh, a resident of Murshidabad, West Bengal; Surjeet Ghosh, son of Late Krishna Dulal Ghosh, also from West Bengal; Mukesh Bhai, his wife Kala Ben, and their son Rohan Bhai, all residents of Gujarat; and Jagdesh, son of Amreet Singh, a resident of Gurdaspur, Punjab. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated further investigation.(KNO)
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) Congress veteran Sonia Gandhi's much-awaited memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love, which hit bookstores on Tuesday, has attracted attention for its personal revelations about the Nehru-Gandhi family and her political journey. However, the book has also come under scrutiny after readers spotted at least three apparent factual inaccuracies relating to important political and historical events. Discrepancies in different chapters have raised questions about the accuracy of some historical references. The first apparent error concerns the anti-corruption movement led by social activist Anna Hazare, which posed a major challenge to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. In Chapter 33, page 461, Sonia places the emergence of Hazare and the India Against Corruption movement in 2012. In 2012 a well-known activist from Maharashtra, Baburao 'Anna' (Marathi for 'father' or 'elder brother') Hazare, emerged as the figurehead of a movement that titled itself 'India Against Corruption', the memoir states. However, the movement gained national prominence in 2011, particularly after Hazare began an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on April 5 that year, demanding a stronger anti-corruption law through the Jan Lokpal Bill. The campaign also brought together prominent figures, including Arvind Kejriwal, Kiran Bedi and Baba Ramdev, although their positions and demands differed. Another discrepancy appears in Chapter 24, page 338, concerning the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The RSS, founded in 1921, dreamed of a 'Hindu nation' that would replace constitutional ideals of equality, pluralism, and secularism with second-class citizenship for Muslims, Christians, and other religious minorities in India, Sonia writes. The organisation was actually founded on September 27, 1925, in Nagpur by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, a doctor by profession. It subsequently grew into one of India's most influential ideological and organisational movements. The third error concerns veteran Congress leader Ahmed Patel, Sonia's political secretary and one of her closest political confidants. In Chapter 29, page 401, she writes: He came to wield considerable influence across the political spectrum but could be unforgiving towards those who crossed him. He remained my political secretary till, sadly, he fell victim to the Covid epidemic in 2022, leaving a vacuum in the party and an absence I felt personally. Patel died on November 25, 2020, not 2022, following multiple organ failure after Covid-19 complications. He was treated at Medanta Hospital, where his condition deteriorated, and he was admitted to the intensive care unit. His body was later taken to his ancestral village in Gujarat for burial. These three apparent errors have added an unexpected factual controversy to the release of Sonia Gandhi's memoir.
Gujarat Welcomes Vikram Samvat 2083 with Festive Spirit and Devotion
Gujarats temples overflowed with devotees as the state celebrated Vikram Samvat 2083 with traditional rituals and vibrant festivities. Gujarat Welcomes Vikram Samvat 2083 with Festive Spirit and Devotion
'Congress anxious due to shrinking vote bank': NDA hits out at Ashok Gehlot's 2029 LS polls remark
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Tuesday lashed out at senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over his remarks that if the NDA comes to power at the Centre in 2029, democratic elections may never take place again in India, saying that the grand old party is anxious due to its shrinking vote bank. Gehlot made the remarks on Monday, adding that the proposed delimitation exercise is a greater concern than the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Speaking to IANS, BJP National Spokesperson Prem Shukla cited late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's election being declared null and void by the Allahabad High Court in 1975, which was followed by the imposition of the Emergency. Mr Gehlot, Indira Gandhi, under whose shadow you entered politics, imposed the Emergency to remain in power after the Allahabad High Court ruled that she had won the election through unfair means. If any party in this country has committed the crime of cancelling elections, it is your Congress party. The BJP is a party that strengthens constitutional democracy, he said. Moreover, he asked the Congress leader not to spread umours. BJP MLA Ram Kadam said: We are repeatedly stating that the Congress party cannot compete against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2029. Even if they contest, they cannot sustain or win. It is precisely this fear and dread within their leaders that is driving them to try and spread misconceptions. Now, this very statement of ours has been validated by former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot ji himself, he remarked. Giving examples of BJP-led governments in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, Shiv Sena spokesperson Anand Dubey said: Elections are still taking place, right? He claimed that the Congress leader is facing anxiety because the party's vote bank is gradually shrinking further and further. You are unable to win elections; your leader Rahul (Gandhi) ji has lost more than 100 elections. While people set records for winning, records are being set for losing here. Don't panic over thisdrink some water, take a deep breath, and practise yoga. Gehlot Sahab, you are a very senior leader, and you have also been a magician. Show some magic!, Dubey said, taking a jibe at the former CM. Adding to the criticism, BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal said that the generation of Congress leaders represented by Ashok Gehlot has witnessed the erosion of democracy within the Congress and seen how democracy was suppressed in the country. They have also seen how the Congress government introduced laws according to its own wishes, he told IANS.
Over a Dozen Injured in Road Accident on SSG Road
SRINAGAR: At least a dozen tourists from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab were injured after a Tempo Traveller skidded off the road near Sumbal Bala on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road in Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening. According to sources, the vehicle was travelling from Sonamarg towards Srinagar when the accident occurred near Gund. The injured []
PM Modi likely to attend IAFs multinational disaster relief exercise in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Jamnagar, Nov 10 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to witness a multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Jamnagar Air Force Station in Gujarat from November 17 to 19, IAF said in a statement issued on Tuesday. The exercise, titled Sahayata Setu, will be conducted under the guidance of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) and Headquarters South Western Air Command (HQ SWAC), in coordination with participating national agencies and Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). The Indian Air Force will lead the exercise under the aegis of HQ IDS as part of an integrated framework, following directions from the Central government. Union Ministers, officials from Gujarat, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), chiefs of the three services and other guests are also expected to attend the exercise. The three-day exercise aims to strengthen collective preparedness, improve interoperability among participating countries and agencies, and promote a coordinated approach to disaster response through technological innovation. The exercise comes against the backdrop of the need for countries to work together during natural disasters and other emergencies, which often transcend geographical boundaries. Timely assistance, effective coordination and seamless cooperation between nations and agencies are considered critical to ensuring an effective response and saving lives. The Indian Air Force is expected to play a central role in the exercise, drawing on its strategic airlift capabilities, rapid response capacity and experience in disaster relief operations. The force has played an important role in supporting civil authorities and providing humanitarian assistance during emergencies, particularly through the rapid transportation of relief materials, personnel and essential supplies. The exercise will also provide an integrated platform for participating countries and national agencies to strengthen coordination and improve their ability to respond collectively to disaster situations. The involvement of Friendly Foreign Countries is intended to facilitate cooperation and enhance interoperability in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. Apart from its operational objectives, Sahayata Setu is intended to promote international friendship, solidarity and a shared sense of responsibility among participating nations. It will also reinforce cooperation in disaster preparedness and humanitarian response, with an emphasis on operational readiness and timely action during emergencies. The exercise is being organised as part of India's broader commitment to international cooperation in disaster management and collective resilience. By bringing together defence forces, government agencies and international partners, it aims to strengthen the mechanisms required for a coordinated response when disasters strike. The presence of the Prime Minister and senior national and state-level officials is expected to underline the significance attached to the exercise and India's focus on strengthening partnerships in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
'Absence I felt personally': Sonia Gandhi on ex-secretary Ahmed Patel's death
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, in her memoir 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', remembered her closest political advisers, late Ahmed Patel, saying that his death left a vacuum in the party and an absence that she personally felt. However, Sonia Gandhi got Patel's death year wrong in her book, released on Tuesday, mentioning it as 2022, instead of 2020, when he died due to Covid-related complications. He (Ahmed Patel) remained my political secretary till sadly he fell victim to the Covid epidemic in 2022, leaving a vacuum in the party and an absence I felt personally, she wrote about Patel. Ahmed Patel, also the Congress' former Treasurer, had tested positive for the Covid-19 on October 1, 2020 and had been admitted to the ICU of Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon on November 15. He died 10 days later, on November 25. However, the book wrongly mentions Ahmed Patel's death year as 2022. Ahmed Patel, AP as he was called in the party, was believed to be part of every key decision made by Sonia Gandhi. He was the Rajya Sabha member from Gujarat and had also advised former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi. As a Youth Congress leader, Patel was chosen at 28 by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to contest the Lok Sabha elections in 1977 from Bharuch in Gujarat. Patel reportedly refused to join the government and preferred to remain behind the scenes, advising Sonia Gandhi on alliances, political strategy and party crises. A loyal party colleague, approachable day and night, he (Ahmed Patel) came to play an important role as a troubleshooter, ready to listen patiently to disgruntled colleagues. Deeply religious but secular to the core in his politics, he kept a low profile while functioning as a coordinator between our party and our allies, the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson said in her memoir. While mourning Patel's death in 2020, Sonia Gandhi wrote she lost an irreplaceable comrade, faithful colleague and friend. Meanwhile, Congress leaders, on Tuesday, welcomed the veteran leader's memoir, describing it as an important literary work and saying that it offers insights into her personal and political journey.
Gujarat: Temple crowds, Gheraiya dances mark beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 10 (IANS) Long queues of devotees, traditional tribal dances and elaborate food offerings at temples marked the beginning of 'Vikram Samvat 2083' across Gujarat on Tuesday, as people welcomed the Gujarati New Year with religious fervour and celebrations rooted in local customs. From the Somnath and Ambaji temples to shrines in Ahmedabad, Unjha, Patan and Jamnagar, large numbers of devotees gathered from early morning to offer prayers and seek blessings on Bestu Varas, the first day of the Gujarati calendar. In Ahmedabad, the Bhadrakali Temple witnessed a heavy rush of devotees, with queues stretching up to 1.5 km as people waited for darshan. The temple was among the prominent religious sites in the city to see large gatherings on the occasion. At the Somnath Temple in Gir Somnath district, devotees from across India and abroad attended the first morning aarti of Somnath Mahadev, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple premises echoed with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Jai Somnath' as devotees prayed for the well-being and prosperity of their families, world peace and the welfare of all. The New Year sunrise and the special adornment of the deity added to the celebrations at the pilgrimage site. At Ambaji Temple in Banaskantha district, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, the shrine was decorated with colourful flowers and lights for Bestu Varas. During the Mangala Aarti, devotees performed garba at Chachar Chowk to the chants of 'Bol Mari Ambe, Jai Jai Ambe'. Special aartis were also held at the Ambikeshwar Mahadev and Siddhivinayak temples, while an Annakut offering was scheduled for the afternoon. In Unjha, the Shri Umiya Mataji Temple, regarded as the clan deity of the Kadva Patidar community, witnessed long queues of devotees. Pilgrims, including groups who had travelled on foot, arrived to offer prayers amid chants of 'Jai Maa Umiya'. The Umiya Mataji Sansthan made arrangements for accommodation, food and darshan, with facilities at Mansarovar Vishranti Griha, Uma Bhavan and Pathikashram. Parking and security arrangements were also made with the assistance of the local administration and volunteers. In Patan, the Kalika Mataji Temple, the presiding deity's shrine in the historic town, was decorated with a special Aagi adornment. A traditional fair also began on the occasion, with celebrations scheduled to continue from Kartak Sud Ekam to Poonam. An Annakut offering was organised at Ramji Temple in the town. In Jamnagar, devotees began arriving early at the Bala Hanuman Temple to seek blessings and witness the special adornment of Lord Ram and Hanumanji. The temple is known for its uninterrupted Ramdhun, which has continued since 1964 and earned it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. At the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Atladara, Vadodara, an elaborate Annakut Mahotsav was organised to mark the beginning of the New Year. Following the annual tradition, the celebrations began with an offering of food to the deities after Govardhan Puja. More than 1,200 varieties of dishes were arranged before the idols as part of the Annakut. In Valsad district, the New Year celebrations offered a glimpse of the traditional culture of tribal communities in Dharampur and Kaprada talukas. Instead of modern festivities, residents welcomed the occasion through age-old customs, traditional attire and Gheraiya dances. The beats of drums and folk performances brought the two tribal talukas alive with celebrations. In Mahisagar district, devotees visited temples across Lunawada from early morning to offer prayers and seek blessings. People also exchanged New Year greetings, marking the occasion with religious observances and community celebrations. The celebrations also saw political and administrative leaders extending greetings across the state. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel began the day by offering prayers at Panchdev Temple in Gandhinagar and later visited Trimandir in Adalaj and Maa Bhadrakali Temple in Ahmedabad. He prayed for the happiness, peace and prosperity of citizens and the continued development of Gujarat. Patel also called on Governor Acharya Devvrat at Lok Bhavan in Gandhinagar to extend New Year greetings. In Ahmedabad, he met prominent citizens, public representatives and residents at the Annexe Circuit House in Shahibaug before visiting the Police Officers' Mess at Dafnala to exchange greetings with senior police officers and their families. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, State Police Chief G.S. Malik, senior police officers and their family members were present at the Police Officers' Mess. The Chief Minister also exchanged greetings with citizens, serving and retired senior bureaucrats, MLAs and other representatives at the Ministers' Residential Complex in Gandhinagar. In his New Year message, Patel urged people to work collectively towards building a developed and drug-free Gujarat, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed and drug-free India. He also called for promoting social harmony, supporting local artisans and small industries, and strengthening the 'Vocal for Local' initiative. Across Gujarat, the beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083 was thus marked by a combination of religious observances, community gatherings and traditional cultural celebrations, with temples and pilgrimage centres witnessing large numbers of visitors throughout the day.
'Haunted by misery on meeting victims': Sonia Gandhi recounts horrors of 2002 Gujarat riots
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has revisited the horrors of the 2002 Gujarat riots, recalling that she was haunted by misery upon meeting the victims and blamed the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi-led state administration for failing to respond. In her memoir Belonging: A Journey of Love, released on Tuesday, the then-Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha described travelling to Ahmedabad as part of an all-party parliamentary delegation, visiting relief camps housing survivors, and witnessing the physical and emotional devastation inflicted on families caught in the violence. When I was leader of the opposition in Parliament, I met the victims of many tragedies, and each time I was haunted by the misery I had witnessed. In 2002 the state of Gujarat was ravaged by communal riots; much of the carnage was televised live with the advent of cable TV and shook the country with its fearsome images. The riots were triggered when four coaches of the Sabarmati Express were set on fire and fifty-nine pilgrims died. The train was returning to the state capital Ahmedabad from Ayodhya carrying Hindu kar sevaks-volunteers for the Ram temple, she wrote in her book. Gandhi also recalled watching television reports of the violence with disbelief and horror, while attempting to reach Congress colleagues in Gujarat who were calling for assistance. The cause of the fire remains disputed, but the turmoil that followed spread to many parts of the state, and the victims were overwhelmingly Muslims. We watched the live reports in horror, and tried to get help to our colleagues in Gujarat who were calling us in desperation, but the administration failed to respond, she added. The riots were said to have been fuelled by a fanatical fringe of the BJP and RSS, the Bajrang Dal. The chief minister of the state at the time was Narendra Modi, Gandhi wrote in her memoir. She further recounted her experience of meeting the survivors of the massacre at relief camps in Gujarat. After the meeting, we were herded into a bus 'for security reasons', then taken to some of the relief camps housing the survivors of the massacre. It was in one of the camps crowded by traumatised men, women, and children squatting in a makeshift hall that the most wrenching moment came for me, she said. The Congress leader recalled that inside that camp, a child appeared physically weakened, with a gaunt face and a dazed expression. The father held her up before the visiting politicians and pleaded with them to look at what had happened to his daughter. Here, this is my child-take a look at her, take a good look. The rakshasas (demons) raped her again and again, he told the delegation, as per Gandhi's account. The man then broke down, asking the visitors what he could possibly do to help his daughter and pleading for someone to intervene. According to Gandhi's memoir, the man then said: Main kya karun, kya karun? Kuch karo, kuch karo. We were shattered. I stood in a state of stupor, gripped by horror and unable to speak or react beyond a few mumbled words of sympathy, she expressed. The Congress leader said that then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was widely expected to dismiss Chief Minister Modi, but it's said that pressure from within his party compelled him to desist. There was an international outcry, and the governments of the US, UK, and some European countries declared in 2005 that they would not grant the Gujarat chief minister a visa. Twelve years later, they would all felicitate him when he became prime minister of India, Gandhi wrote.
Father Kills Daughter Over Love Affair
A man in Anand, Gujarat, was arrested for allegedly strangling his 21-year-old daughter because he disapproved of her inter-caste relationship. The incident occurred on November 9, and the father initially tried to pass it off as a suicide, but a post-mortem confirmed strangulation.
The demons raped her again and again, Sonia recalls horrors of 2002 Gujarat riots in memoir
In her memoir, Sonia Gandhi wrote about her experience when she visited relief camps in a riot-ravaged Ahmedabad with an all-party delegation
Satellite Images Capture Thick Smog Over Northern India 2 Days After Diwali
The only parts of India which appear to not be enveloped by the grey cover are the western states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat, and the northeastern states.
India's economic transformation is more than a manufacturing story
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) An assessment of Narendra Modi's 25 years in public office, published by The Economist in October, raised a familiar criticism. India has grown rapidly but has failed to achieve the structural transformation necessary to become a major manufacturing economy. The Economists comparison with China's Fujian province, particularly the movement of workers out of agriculture, risks measuring India's economic transformation too narrowly, overlooking changes in productive capabilities, infrastructure, technology and the country's position in a fragmenting global economy. Comparing India, a genuine democracy, to Chinas authoritarianism and state-driven development is both misleading and disingenuous. Admittedly, India's manufacturing share of GDP remains around 16 per cent, and the movement of labour out of agriculture has been slower than in some East Asian economies. But the conclusion that industrial transformation has barely begun is difficult to reconcile with recent production data. The Annual Survey of Industries for 202425 recorded manufacturing gross value-added growth of 9.59 per cent, employment growth of 7.19 per cent and an increase of more than 14 lakh workers in manufacturing. Employment in the sector reached approximately 2.10 crore. For all the talk about Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF), Indias numbers compare favourably with South Korea, Japan, Vietnam and Germany. Indias 10-year GFCF averages about 29 per cent, while South Korea average about 31 per cent, Japan 25 per cent, and Vietnam about 28 per cent. Electronics production increased from Rs 1.9 lakh crore in 201415 to Rs 11.3 lakh crore in 202425, while exports rose from Rs 38,000 crore to Rs 3.27 lakh crore. Mobile manufacturing has expanded considerably. The sector has created an estimated 25 lakh jobs over the decade. The challenge is now to deepen domestic component manufacturing, reduce import dependence and move towards higher-value activities rather than remain concentrated in assembly. These figures do not establish that India has achieved labour-intensive industrialisation, but they indicate an expanding production base. Employment requires a differentiated assessment. The Periodic Labour Force Survey shows that the worker-population ratio for those aged 15 and above increased from 46.8 per cent in 201718 to 58.2 per cent in 202324, while the unemployment rate declined from 6 per cent to 3.2 per cent. Female workforce participation has also increased. These indicators do not obscure the problem of youth unemployment, underemployment or the prevalence of informal and low-productivity work. But they complicate any assessment of India's growth as simply jobless. Infrastructure is another important aspect of the transformation. The expansion of national highways, airports, railway connectivity and digital payment systems has changed the economic geography of the country. UPI is a substantial part of India's digital public infrastructure, reducing transaction costs and widening access to formal financial services. These investments create the foundations for industrial productivity, market integration and private investment. Their economic returns extend beyond the immediate expenditure on construction. Foreign investment must be assessed against global conditions. UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2026 recorded a 6 per cent increase in global FDI to $1.6 trillion in 2025, but the recovery was uneven. Investment into developed economies increased by 11 per cent, compared with just 2 per cent for developing economies. Against this background, India's inflows rose 44 per cent to approximately $39 billion. This is meaningful growth, although India's share of global investment must grow substantially to boost manufacturing. Defence manufacturing adds another dimension. India's defence production reached a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY202526, almost four times its 201314 level. Defence exports rose to Rs 38,424 crore, an increase of 62.66 per cent over the previous year. The private sector accounted for approximately 45 per cent of exports. Missiles, naval systems, ammunition, radar, electronics and aerospace production are contributing to a wider industrial ecosystem. The expansion of domestic production is developing capabilities in precision engineering, materials, electronics and software with applications beyond defence. The growing relationship with Japan is important in this context, moving beyond infrastructure financing and conventional financial investment towards defence technology, economic security and industrial cooperation. Cooperation in semiconductors, rare-earth processing, telecommunications and naval engineering illustrates how economic partnerships are increasingly intertwined with security considerations. This is relevant as both countries seek more resilient supply chains amidst intensifying USChina rivalry. The comparison between Gujarat and Fujian is also misleading. It places an Indian state operating within a federal, democratic economy alongside a Chinese province that benefited from China's authoritarian, state-directed export-industrialisation model. More importantly, comparing per capita incomes expressed in US dollars without establishing a common basis of measurement, purchasingpower adjustments and comparable real growth rates tells us little about the respective development trajectories. RBI data show that Gujarat's real per capita income increased fourfold between 200304 and 202425, at constant prices. The appropriate question is not why Gujarat failed to become Fujian, but what structural constraints distinguish India's development model from China's. None of this means India has comprehensively resolved its structural weaknesses. But India's economic transformation cannot be judged exclusively by whether it has replicated China's manufacturing-led development model. Geopolitical competition, trade weaponisation and supply-chain vulnerabilities are influencing corporate investment decisions globally. India's opportunity lies in becoming vital production and technology partner as companies diversify their manufacturing networks. Its large domestic market, improving infrastructure and expanding trade relationships provide advantages, but regulatory predictability, and supplier ecosystem depth remain essential. The important question is whether India is building the productive, technological and institutional capabilities required to occupy a larger position in the global economy. Its progress in electronics, infrastructure, digital systems, defence manufacturing and strategic industrial partnerships suggests that this transformation is under way. Data suggest a democracy undergoing a more complex transformation than The Economists assessments indicate. India might not have achieved all the industrial depth required of a major manufacturing power, but neither is its economic structure standing still.
Gujarat CM meets Guv Devvrat, interacts with citizens and police officers on New Year (Lead)
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 10 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday visited temples in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar and met citizens, political leaders and senior police officers to exchange Gujarati New Year greetings on the first day of 'Vikram Samvat 2083', reiterating his appeal for a developed and drug-free state. Patel began the day by offering prayers at Panchdev Temple in Gandhinagar, where he prayed for the happiness, prosperity and good health of citizens. He subsequently visited Trimandir in Adalaj and offered prayers to Simandhar Swami and other deities, besides paying his respects to Pujya Niruma and Dada Bhagwan. Then, he met Governor Acharya Devvrat and extended his greetings. In Ahmedabad, the Chief Minister visited Maa Bhadrakali Temple and prayed for the well-being of people and the overall development of Gujarat. He later met prominent personalities, public representatives and citizens at the Annexe Circuit House in Shahibaug, where he exchanged New Year greetings. State BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma, Minister of State for Urban Development, Darshna Vaghela, MPs Dinesh Makwana and Hasmukh Patel, Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot, local MLAs, other political leaders and a large number of citizens were present during the interaction. Patel also visited the Police Officers' Mess at Dafnala in Shahibaug, where he exchanged Diwali and New Year greetings with senior police officers and their family members. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, State Police Chief G.S. Malik, Director General of Prisons K.L.N. Rao, Director General of Police Neerja Gotru and Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlaut were among those present. Earlier, the Chief Minister had also exchanged New Year greetings with citizens, serving and retired senior secretaries, MLAs and office-bearers from Gandhinagar city and district at the Community Hall of the Ministers' Residential Complex in Gandhinagar. Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjeev Kumar, Energy Department Principal Secretary Ashwini Kumar and Roads and Buildings Secretary Patel welcomed him on the occasion. In his New Year message, Patel urged citizens to work collectively towards building a 'Viksit Gujarat' and a 'Drug-Free Gujarat', contributing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed and drug-free India. I extend my heartfelt New Year wishes to everyone on the beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083. I have prayed to God for everyone's good health and for their lives to move forward with happiness, peace and prosperity. With the Prime Minister's vision of a developed India and a drug-free India, I hope we all work together towards a developed Gujarat and a drug-free Gujarat, he said. In a message on social media platform X, Patel also extended greetings to Gujarati families living across India and abroad, expressing hope that the New Year would bring happiness, peace, prosperity, good health and new opportunities. He called for strengthening social harmony, supporting local artisans and small industries, and promoting the 'Vocal for Local' initiative to ensure that prosperity reaches the last person in society. He also urged people to contribute towards the goal of an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. The New Year celebrations come as the state government continues to emphasise development and its campaign against drug abuse, with Patel calling for public participation in both initiatives.
EPFO CBT meeting on Nov 19 may discuss hike in minimum EPS pension to Rs 3,000
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to convene its 240th Central Board of Trustees (CBT) meeting on November 19 in the national capital, with pensioners and salaried employees closely watching developments amid reports that the government may consider raising the minimum monthly pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000. The meeting, which was initially planned to be held in Gir, Gujarat, has been shifted to EPFO's headquarters in the national capital. According to a communication sent to CBT members, the meeting will commence at 10:15 a.m. on November 19. Speculation around a possible pension hike has gained momentum following reports that the Labour Ministry, after consultations with the Finance Ministry, has arrived at a decision to increase the minimum EPS pension to Rs 3,000 per month. However, neither the Ministry of Labour and Employment nor the Finance Ministry has officially confirmed the proposal. As a result, pensioners will have to wait for a formal announcement before any increase can be considered final. The minimum monthly pension under EPS has remained unchanged at Rs 1,000 since September 2014. The revision was approved by the CBT in February 2014, announced in the Union Budget for 2014-15, and formally notified by the government in August that year. Over the years, employee unions and pensioners' organisations have repeatedly sought a substantial increase in the minimum pension amount, arguing that the current payout is inadequate to meet the rising cost of living. Several groups have demanded that the minimum monthly pension be raised to Rs 7,500, citing inflation, healthcare expenses, and the financial needs of retired workers. The Employees' Pension Scheme is a social security programme administered by EPFO for workers in the organised sector. It is financed through a portion of the employer's contribution to the Employees' Provident Fund. Under the existing framework, 8.33 per cent of the employer's contribution is allocated to the pension scheme, subject to applicable wage ceilings. Pension benefits under EPS are determined based on an employee's pensionable salary and length of eligible service. While the scheme prescribes a minimum pension, there is no fixed upper limit on the amount payable, with the final pension varying according to an individual's contribution history and service tenure.
Sonia Gandhi Gets Her Advisor Ahmed Patel's Death Year Wrong In Memoir
Ahmed Patel, AP as he was called in the party, was the Rajya Sabha member from Gujarat and had also advised former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
