I will serve people till my last breath: PM Modi responds to Kharge's remarks
During a gathering in Banaskantha, Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke passionately about his commitment to serving the public. He took jabs at the Opposition for supposedly finding enjoyment in moments of national distress and causing unrest. Modi assured farmers that the government is ensuring a steady supply of fertilizers at reasonable prices, even amid global price fluctuations due to conflicts in the Gulf, promising ongoing support for their welfare.
Construction of Gujarats First Bullet Train Power Substation Nears Completion
The first traction substation for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project in Bilimora is in its final construction phase. Construction of Gujarats First Bullet Train Power Substation Nears Completion
Indias men enter Commonwealth Kabaddi final after win over Bangladesh; Gujarat Dy CM attends match
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) The Indian men's kabaddi team entered the final of the 'Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026' after defeating Bangladesh 56-27 in the semi-final at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad on Friday. The victory ensured that both the Indian men's and women's teams will compete in the finals of the championship, with the women's team having secured its place earlier in the tournament. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi attended the men's semi-final between India and Bangladesh and encouraged the players during the match. Following the contest, Sanghavi presented medals and a trophy to members of the Bangladesh team and its coaching staff. The team was felicitated after its campaign in the tournament came to an end with the semi-final defeat. The Indian men's team dominated the contest to register a 29-point victory over Bangladesh, booking its place in the title clash of the championship. The semi-final was held at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, which is hosting the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 in Ahmedabad. With the men's team joining the women's side in the final, India will now have representation in both the men's and women's title clashes. The women's team had earlier confirmed its place in the final, completing a double-final qualification for the country. The championship has brought together teams competing in the Commonwealth kabaddi tournament, with Ahmedabad hosting the matches. The Deputy Chief Minister also participated in the post-match felicitation of the visiting team's players and coaching staff. The tournament will conclude with the final matches, in which the Indian men's and women's teams will seek to secure the championship titles.
Prime Minister Modi Celebrates Unity Festival in Gujarat, Launches Key Projects
PM Modi visits Ekta Nagar for the Unity Festival, showcasing Indias cultural heritage and launching major infrastructure projects. Prime Minister Modi Celebrates Unity Festival in Gujarat, Launches Key Projects
Gujarats first bullet train power substation nears completion at Bilimora
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) The first Traction Substation (TSS) for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is nearing completion at Bilimora in Gujarats Navsari district, as work progresses on the 14 substations planned to supply power along the 508-km high-speed rail corridor. The substation, spread across approximately 18,000 square metres, is at an advanced stage of construction, with equipment installation, testing and commissioning activities under way. Installation work in the control panel, changeover switch, transformer and circuit breaker buildings has been completed. Work on all gantry towers and beams has also been finished. A total of 14 traction substations (TSS) are being developed along the corridor to ensure an uninterrupted power supply for the bullet trains. These substations will receive electricity from the grid, transform it to the required voltage levels and feed it into the traction power system that powers the trains. Of the 14 substations, five will be located in Maharashtra at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar and Thane Depot, while the remaining nine will be in Gujarat at Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Mahemdavad, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati Depot. In Gujarat, the traction substations will receive electricity from the Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited's (GETCO) 220 kV Ambetha Grid Substation. The power will subsequently be supplied to the overhead equipment (OHE) installed along the viaduct through the 2 25 kV traction power supply system adopted for the corridor. The system is designed to distribute electricity to the overhead equipment, which transfers power to the trains through their pantographs. The entire traction power supply network will be monitored in real time from a centralised control centre to oversee the electricity supply along the corridor. The 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor is India's first bullet train project, connecting Maharashtra and Gujarat. The 14 traction substations will form a key part of its power infrastructure, supporting the operation of trains along the route.
Bengal: Hawkers assault Rashtriya Ekta Diwas rally participants
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 30 (IANS) People travelling from West Bengal to Vadodara in Gujarat to participate in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations were brutally assaulted by hawkers at the Bhusaval station in Maharashtra on Friday. The railway police at Bhusaval confirmed that a complaint has been lodged and several people have been detained for questioning. Further investigation is underway, an official said. We were in a group of 99 people from the Jhargram district in West Bengal, selected by the district administration to travel by a special train to Vadodara for the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations on October 31. When the train stopped at the Bhusaval station, some of us decided to get out and stretch our legs as it had been a long journey, said Nirmalendu Mahato. He, along with his daughter, purchased some bananas from the platform. While Mahato remained outside, the girl went inside the compartment to keep the bananas near their luggage. Trouble started after she rejoined her father on the platform and Mahato started videographing the surroundings. We had heard a lot about Bhusaval and its bananas, so it was only natural for me to make a video. There were some hawkers around, but it was not my idea to focus on them. Suddenly, an elderly man approached me from behind and asked me harshly to stop making the video. I asked him the reason, when four others approached. Realising that they were out there to create trouble, I turned to send my daughter back into the compartment. This was when they pushed me from behind, Mahato said. His co-passengers noticed the incident and accosted the hawkers, resulting in a minor scuffle. The team from Jhargram, which comprises police and administrative officers from the district, then approached the elderly man who had started the whole thing. When he was asked why he started the whole ruckus, the man left. We believed that was the end of the matter. However, he returned in a few minutes with over 20 men and started assaulting us. At least a dozen members of our group received injuries to their faces, shoulders, backs, and other parts of the body. We somehow managed to get into the train and get in touch with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Mahato said. The injured, including Mahato, received treatment at the next station, where a complaint was also registered by the railway police. After reaching Vadodara, they were taken to a hospital for medical examination. On the evening of October 30, senior police officers from Bhusaval reached Vadodara and spoke to us in detail. A DSP of West Bengal Police, who was part of our group, also provided details. We were told that seven of the miscreants have been identified and detained. More people will be booked as the investigation progresses, we were told, Mahato said. According to a senior police official, it was the handiwork of illegal hawkers against whom Central Railway has been taking steps for the last few months. Several hundred illegal hawkers have been identified and removed from stations in that area. However, they keep on returning to the stations on the sly. It seems that they were scared that their activities would get recorded when the video was being made and attacked the passengers, the official said. Whatever the reason, the incident has left a bad taste in the mouth for Mahato and the others, who had left home so happily, proud to be part of the national event, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
ED Busts International Drug Syndicate, Seizes Assets In Raids
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted extensive search operations across 11 locations in Maharashtra and Gujarat, targeting an international narcotics syndicate involved in money laundering. The raids, stemming from an NCB complaint, led to the seizure of incriminating materials and digital devices, revealing a network dealing in various illicit drugs and using crypto assets to launder proceeds of crime.
Gujarat: Industry body calls on MSMEs to move from AI awareness to adoption
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) Gujarat's micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) need to move beyond awareness and begin implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in their operations to remain competitive and become part of larger domestic and global supply chains, industry leaders said at the third edition of the CII Gujarat MSME Conclave 2026 in Ahmedabad on Friday. Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Gujarat, the conclave was held under the theme 'Future Ready MSMEs: AI, Supply Chains & Business Opportunities'. It brought together government representatives, industry leaders, technology experts and entrepreneurs to discuss AI adoption, digital transformation, quality standards and opportunities for MSMEs to expand their participation in corporate supply chains. Addressing the gathering, Varang Trivedi, Convenor of the CII Gujarat MSME Panel, said the AI revolution marked an important turning point for industry and was no longer limited to large corporations with substantial IT budgets. The CII Gujarat MSME Panel had decided to make the discussion around AI more relevant to smaller enterprises this year. Gujarat, which is among the early adopters of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and computerisation, is well placed to take the lead in adopting AI, he added. Shyam Kadakia, Co-Convenor of the CII Gujarat MSME Panel, said MSMEs were essential to Gujarat's industrial ecosystem and could use AI to evolve from manufacturing units into critical partners in larger value chains. He said large corporate buyers expected suppliers to maintain consistent quality, ensure timely deliveries and meet compliance requirements. The focus must now shift from awareness to adoption and from discussion to implementation, he said. Industrialist Parakramsinh Jadeja urged MSMEs to invest in research and development (R&D) and innovation, suggesting that businesses begin by allocating around 5 per cent of their top line to these areas. Without innovation there is no sustainability, he said. He also advised entrepreneurs not to wait for external support to expand their businesses, adding that MSME status should be viewed as a registration from which an enterprise should graduate rather than as an ultimate destination. Every moment presented both risks and opportunities, and entrepreneurs needed to remain focused on the present while adapting to changing circumstances, he said.
Gujarat Police Uncover Illegal LPG Refilling Racket in Rajkot, Seize 517 Cylinders
Gujarat police dismantled an illegal LPG refilling operation in Rajkot, seizing 517 cylinders and arresting seven suspects. Gujarat Police Uncover Illegal LPG Refilling Racket in Rajkot, Seize 517 Cylinders
Two Arrested for Alerting Illegal Miners in Gujarat
In Gujarat, two individuals were arrested for alerting illegal miners about government officials activities via a WhatsApp group. Two Arrested for Alerting Illegal Miners in Gujarat
Gujarat: Illegal LPG refilling racket busted; 7 held
Digital Desk | Rajkot, Oct 30 (IANS) The Gujarat Polices State Monitoring Cell (SMC) has seized 517 LPG cylinders worth Rs 9.29 lakh and other equipment during raids at eight locations in a residential area of Rajkot district, busting an alleged illegal gas-refilling operation. Seven people have been arrested, while 15 others have been named as wanted accused. The raids were conducted on Friday in the jurisdiction of Bhaktinagar police station, primarily in the Nehrunagar area, where illegal refilling of domestic LPG cylinders was allegedly being carried out inside houses and godowns. The State Monitoring Cell deployed two separate teams for the operation, citing the risk of an accident and loss of life and property as the activities were taking place in a residential locality. The raids were conducted by Police Sub-Inspectors S V Galchar and V N Jadeja following instructions from Director General of Police (DGP) G. S. Malik to take action against illegal activities in the state. The teams raided eight premises, including godowns and houses on Streets 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 of Nehrunagar. These included premises belonging to arrested accused Ramesh Chavda, Meram Chavda, Hardev Chavda, Amit Dangar and Ashish Gogara, as well as godowns linked to wanted accused Praful Dangar, Dhirubhai Dangar and Umesh Boricha. Two godowns belonging to Dhirubhai Dangar were also searched. Apart from the 517 gas cylinders, valued at Rs 9,29,100, the police seized 16 refilling pipes with nozzles, 44 sheets of stickers bearing the words 'Reliance Gas', 48 cylinder caps, five electric motors, 12 electronic weighing scales, two ordinary weighing scales, three vehicles, seven mobile phones, Rs 9,170 in cash and a spanner. The total value of the seized property was estimated at Rs 11,45,946. Two separate FIRs were registered at Bhaktinagar police station on October 30 against the 22 accused. The cases invoke Sections 125, 287 and 54 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Sections 3 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, and Section 9(B)(1)(B) of the Explosives Act, 1884. The seven arrested accused have been identified as Hardev Chavda, Meram Chavda and Ramesh Chavda, all residents of New Gopalvandana, Street No. 5, Rajkot; Rakesh Bishnoi of Chitbera in Jodhpur, Rajasthan; Purannath Kori of Shivshakti Forging on Dhebar Road, Rajkot; Amit Dangar of Nehrunagar, Street No. 8; and Ashish Gogara of Nehrunagar, Street No. 10. The 15 wanted accused include Raju Solanki and Karan Lavadiya, associated with Jaymin Gas Agency; Mangabhai, associated with Madhuram Gas Agency; Arvind Nat, associated with Jai Bhim Gas Agency; Hitesh Chavda, associated with AGS Piyour Gas Agency; and Shailesh Chavda, associated with Madhuram Gas Agency. The remaining wanted accused have been identified as Chandubhai Rathod, Jitendra Jariwala, Dhirubhai Raydhanbhai Dangar, Prafulbhai Naranbhai Dangar, Umeshbhai Prabhatbhai Boricha, Sanjaybhai Chavda, Sanjaybhai Rajput, Raj and Tajuddin. The police also found previous cases of a similar nature against two of the arrested accused. Meram Chavda was previously booked at Bhaktinagar police station in 2015, while Ramesh Gagubhai Chavda had cases registered against him at Aatkot and Dhoraji police stations in Rajkot district in 2021. The State Monitoring Cell said further action is being taken against those named in the cases.
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) More than 52 lakh farmer families in Gujarat received over Rs 1,051 crore under the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on Friday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi released over Rs 18,680 crore to more than 9.34 crore farmer families across the country. The instalment was released at a national-level 'PM Kisan Utsav Day' programme held at Bhildi in Banaskantha district, where PM Modi was present. The amount was transferred directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The event was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani, Minister of State for Agriculture, Ramesh Katara and other Cabinet members, MPs, MLAs and senior officials. Parallel programmes were organised at more than 2,100 locations across Gujarat at district, taluka and village levels. Lakhs of farmers watched the live telecast of the main event in the presence of ministers, MPs, MLAs, district panchayat presidents and local representatives. Among the districts, Dahod recorded assistance of Rs 54.84 crore to 2,74,201 farmers, while Anand saw Rs 52.43 crore credited to more than 2.61 lakh beneficiaries. In Mehsana, Rs 50 crore was transferred to 2.49 lakh farmers, while Bhavnagar's 2.10 lakh-plus beneficiaries received Rs 42.08 crore. In Panchmahal, more than 2.02 lakh farmers received Rs 40.61 crore, while 1.95 lakh farmers in Rajkot received Rs 39 crore. In Patan, Rs 37.70 crore was credited to 1,88,524 farmers, and in Bharuch, 1.70 lakh farmers received Rs 34.54 crore. Surendranagar recorded transfers of Rs 32.10 crore to more than 1.60 lakh farmers, while Junagadh saw Rs 30.82 crore credited to 1.53 lakh beneficiaries. In Kutch, 1.19 lakh farmer families received Rs 23.91 crore, and 1.16 lakh farmers in Surat received Rs 23.20 crore. In Jamnagar, Rs 21.57 crore was transferred to 1.07 lakh farmers. Devbhoomi Dwarka recorded assistance of more than Rs 13 crore to over 68,000 farmer families, while Botad's 66,063 beneficiaries received Rs 13.21 crore. In Sabarkantha, 2.23 lakh farmers benefited from the instalment. District-level events were also organised in Morbi, Surendranagar and other districts. In Morbi, around 25 minority citizens who had migrated from Pakistan were also presented with Indian citizenship certificates at the programme held at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Gor Khijadiya. The district-level events included felicitations for progressive farmers and those practising natural farming. Approval letters for assistance under agricultural schemes and farm equipment were also distributed. Exhibition stalls were set up, while experts provided guidance on natural farming, modern agricultural technology, drip irrigation, farm mechanisation and government schemes. In Surat, the district-level programme was held at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Panaas in the presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil, with events organised at 72 locations across the district. In Kutch, the main event was held at Kotda Ugamna in the presence of Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Kanti Amrutiya, and MP Vinod Chavda, alongside programmes at 75 other locations. Other district-level events were held at Khambhalia APMC in Devbhoomi Dwarka, Motibaug Open Air Theatre in Bhavnagar, Botad APMC yard, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Town Hall in Surendranagar, the Police Parade Ground in Mehsana, Bilkha in Junagadh, Godhra in Panchmahal, Bedi APMC in Rajkot, the Vegetable Market Yard in Patan and Jambusar in Bharuch. Speaking at the events, ministers and other representatives said: DBT mechanism had eliminated the role of middlemen in the transfer of assistance under the PM-KISAN scheme. They added that the money is reaching beneficiaries' bank accounts directly and that the financial support helped farmers meet seasonal expenses and requirements during the sowing period.
Gujarat doctor duped of Rs 1.50 crore over 8 years; retired professor among three held from UP
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 30 (IANS) Three persons, including a 64-year-old retired professor, have been arrested for allegedly cheating a senior citizen doctor of around Rs 1.50 crore over eight years by promising refunds on insurance policies, with the police tracing the accused to Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh using a single mobile number that had since been switched off. The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell said on Friday that the accused had posed as representatives of the Insurance Ombudsman and persuaded the complainant to purchase around 15 insurance policies in 2018. After gaining his trust, they allegedly contacted him over the last two to three years, claiming that the money invested in his policies could be refunded if he paid various charges. The complainant was allegedly made to transfer money in small instalments of Rs 10,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 25,000 and other amounts. Over the period from 2018 to 2026, he lost approximately Rs 1,50,33,004 (Rs 1.50 crore), police said. The complainant approached the cybercrime police around two to three months ago. Investigators examined the mobile numbers from which he had received calls and WhatsApp messages and conducted technical analysis of their call detail records. A team subsequently spent a week in Ghaziabad tracing the accused on the basis of a single calling number, which had become inactive. The arrested accused have been identified as Atulkumar Sharma (64), a retired professor who holds BSc and MBA degrees and had worked at IMT College; Mahesh Sharma (43), who has worked in vehicle loan arrangements, electricity meter reading and as a salesman for an Ayurvedic medicine company; and Sonu Thakur (32), a Class 12 pass-out who had previously worked as a telecaller at a call centre. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Cell) Bishakha Jain, Atulkumar allegedly arranged SIM cards and bank accounts by approaching financially needy people on the pretext of helping them obtain gas connections. He got accounts opened in their names and retained the SIM cards, net banking credentials, passwords and bank kits before passing the SIM cards to Mahesh Sharma, she said. Mahesh allegedly forwarded the SIM cards and bank account details to Sonu Thakur, who used different mobile handsets to contact insurance policyholders and demand money on the pretext of processing refunds. Jain said, Sonu had worked in the call centre operations of insurance companies since 2018 and was familiar with the process of obtaining policyholder data. During searches, police recovered around 70 pages of printed Excel sheets containing insurance policyholders' details. The sheets had markings indicating which people had already been contacted and which were yet to be approached. The accused used these sheets to identify and call different victims. They would tell them that if they wanted their insurance policy money back, they would have to deposit a certain amount towards charges, Jain added. The money deposited by victims was withdrawn through the bank accounts arranged by Atulkumar. He allegedly retained 35 to 50 per cent of the withdrawn amount as commission and passed the rest to Mahesh, who kept another 15 to 20 per cent before transferring the remaining amount to Sonu. Police recovered nine mobile phones, 42 cheque books, 17 passbooks, 90 debit cards, 25 SIM cards of different companies, around 80 empty SIM card trays and Rs 28,740 in cash from Atulkumar. Two mobile phones were seized from Mahesh. From Sonu, police recovered three mobile phones, Rs 1.77 lakh in cash and 70 printouts containing policyholder details. Investigators also identified 47 bank accounts linked to Atulkumar on the basis of the cheque books and passbooks recovered from his residence. A check of these accounts on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP) revealed 73 complaints registered across 15 states, involving alleged online fraud of approximately Rs 33.10 lakh. Telangana accounted for the highest number of complaints at 15, followed by Tamil Nadu with 14, Maharashtra with seven, Karnataka and Goa with six each, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan with five each, and Bihar with four. Gujarat accounted for three complaints, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh two each, while Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Tripura had one complaint each. The complaints could involve other cyber fraud groups as well, as such gangs were suspected of sharing policyholder data, DCP Bishakha Jain said. She said insurance policy frauds of this nature were frequently reported from Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad, where different groups allegedly exchanged data to target policyholders. The case has been registered under Sections 319(2), 318(4), 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act, 2008. The police have advised insurance policyholders not to respond to unsolicited calls promising bonuses or refunds on policies and to verify such claims directly with the insurance company.
Gujarat: PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Parv 2026, attends Ekta Prakash Parv in Ekta Nagar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated Bharat Parv 2026 and attended the Ekta Prakash Parv at Ekta Nagar in Narmada district in Gujarat. The events will be followed by the Narmada Aarti at around 8:15 pm. As per the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office, PM Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stones for various development projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore to the nation from Banaskantha district. On the occasion of the national-level celebration of PM Kisan Utsav Diwas, he also released the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), transferring financial assistance directly to farmers' bank accounts across the country. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC), the new potato expansion facility and the UHT-ASRS facility of Banas Dairy through virtual means. He also performed the ground-breaking ceremony for two new compressed biogas plants of Banas Dairy at Tharad and Radhanpur. Besides dedicating tw...
Gujarat HC strikes down non-veg food ban near Somnath site
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court has lifted the state governments ban on non-vegetarian food near the Somnath Temple in Prabhas Patan, Veraval. Refusing the states request for an immediate stay on the decision, the court paved the way for vendors and eateries to resume selling non-vegetarian food once the official order is released. The ruling 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 .
Glenn Phillips credits IPL stint with Gujarat Titans for success vs India in T20Is
Glenn Phillips credits IPL stint with Gujarat Titans for success vs India in T20Is
Farmers across Meghalaya join live telecast of PM-KISAN instalment release
Shillong, Oct 30: Over 350 farmers across Meghalaya joined live programmes for the release of the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Banaskantha, Gujarat, on Friday. The PM released over Rs 18,690 crore to 9.34 crore farmers nationwide. Under the scheme, eligible families receive Rs 6,000 annually in three instalments of [] The post Farmers across Meghalaya join live telecast of PM-KISAN instalment release first appeared on Highland Post .
Banks in Ahmedabad will remain closed on October 31 for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patels birth anniversary, though banks elsewhere in India will remain open. Details here.
GNLU Deputy Registrar Recruitment 2026
Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) has released Notification No. GNLU-S/RP-01/2026 for the post of Deputy Registrar. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications from 30 October 2026 to 30 November 2026. Further details are available at gnlus.ac.in.
For ex-SC judge Desai, roster remains full after retirement
Former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai has been appointed by the apex court as the sole mediator in the high-stakes Krishna-Godavari basin gas migration dispute involving Reliance Industries. This appointment comes as Justice Desai has also been a prominent figure in leading committees for drafting Uniform Civil Code (UCC) legislation across several Indian states, including Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
Income Tax Department Gujarat Recruitment 2026
Office of the Pr. Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Gujarat (Income Tax Department Gujarat) has invited offline applications for Senior Standing Counsel and Junior Standing Counsel posts. Applications can be submitted till 30 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit incometaxgujarat.gov.in.
Gujarat: Two men kept watch on officials movements, sent audio alerts to illegal miners; held
Digital Desk | Bhavnagar, Oct 30 (IANS) Two men were arrested in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district for running a WhatsApp group through which they shared information about the movements of government officials with people involved in illegal mining, helping them to evade checks by authorities, officials said on Friday. The Bhavnagar Local Crime Branch (LCB) arrested the accused on October 29 after the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Bhavnagar Rural suspected that they were keeping watch on the movements of government officials from near the old Collector's office. According to the police, the two men were allegedly operating a WhatsApp group named 'Jai Ramadhani', to which they had added people involved in illegal mineral excavation and transportation. They monitored the movement of vehicles used by the SDM and other government officials and relayed information through audio messages in the group. The accused allegedly charged each member Rs 1,000 a month for sharing information about the officials' movements, the police said. The SDM alerted the police after suspecting that the two men, who were sitting near the entrance of the old Collector's office, were keeping watch on his movements and those of other officials to help people involved in illegal mining evade enforcement action. An LCB team reached the spot and detained the two men. During questioning, they allegedly admitted to running the WhatsApp group and sharing information about the movement of government officials with its members. The SDM, M D Parmar, subsequently lodged a complaint at Nilambaug police station, following which an offence was registered. The accused were handed over to the police station for further investigation. The arrested men have been identified as Bhagirathsinh Vala, a resident of Shramjivi Society near Shivaji Circle in Bhavnagar, and Rohit Rathod, a resident of Ruva village on Airport Road. The police seized a motorcycle and a mobile phone from them. The operation was carried out by the LCB under Inspector H B Chauhan, with Sub-Inspectors R A Vadher, V C Jadeja, P D Zala and V B Chaudhary, along with other personnel, officials said. The operation followed instructions from senior officials to identify those involved in illegal mining and those allegedly helping operators evade government officials.
24th instalment of PM-KISAN scheme leaves farmers excited, express gratitude
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on Friday, transferring more than Rs 18,680 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 9.34 crore farmer families across the country from Bhildi in Gujarat's Banaskantha district. More than 9 crore farmers became the direct beneficiaries of the scheme, receiving monetary support of Rs 2,000 into their accounts, out of which 52.33 lakh farmer families received assistance exceeding Rs 1,051 crore in Gujarat alone. Gujarat Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani announced these figures while briefing the media, adding that the first 23 instalments of the scheme had resulted in the disbursement of more than Rs 4.47 lakh crore to over 11 crore farmer families across the country. After receiving the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN in their accounts, farmers expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and stated that this will strengthen their means of livelihood, besides enhancing their ability to experiment with advanced farming practices. Farmers in Ranchi, Jamnagar, Motihari, Jalna, Bhubaneswar, and Patna received the financial aid under the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme. The farming community, which benefited from the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme, thanked the government. In Bihars Motihari and East Champaran district, the farmers said that the 2,000 assistance would enable them to purchase seeds for both Rabi and Kharif crops. Another farmer remarked that this would be beneficial for their agricultural activities. Notably, East Champaran became one of the leading districts, where farmers received about 86 crore in financial aid, a sum larger than that received by any other single district. A farmer said that the PM-KISAN assistance provides substantial support to farmers during both the Rabi and Kharif cropping seasons. Patna farmers echoed similar sentiments, stating that the money received under the scheme remains extremely useful in purchasing fertilisers and seeds. A beneficiary thanked the government for removing the middlemen and directly transferring the benefits into their accounts. There is absolutely no role of intermediaries; all farmers get the requisite help for fertilisers and seeds directly from the government. The scheme, in operation since 2019, has proven highly beneficial to the farming community, said another farmer. Ramnath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, joining the event virtually from Ranchi (Jharkhand), said that the funds provide essential support for farmers, helping them tide over crises. A similar event was organised at the Patel Samaj Bhavan in Jamnagar, Gujarat, with a large number of farmers in attendance. Heaping praise on the scheme, they counted the benefits of the scheme and explained how this reduced their dependence on others to procure fertilisers and seeds. One farmer, practising natural farming for the past 15 years, noted that he also got several benefits from his organic farming and was now encouraging others to adopt it. In Bhubaneswar, Odisha, farmers said that this helped them in times of exigency, helping them mitigate financial crunch during sowing of seeds and tilling of land. In Maharashtras Jalna, farmers said that this was proving to be of great help to them as they often use this money to buy seeds and fertilisers.
Farmers welcome 24th PM-KISAN instalment, say assistance will help buy seeds, reduce debt
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS) Farmers across the country welcomed the release of the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on Friday, saying the financial assistance would help them purchase seeds and fertilisers, support agricultural activities and reduce their dependence on loans. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released more than Rs 18,680 crore to over 9.34 crore farmer families across the country from Bhildi in Gujarat's Banaskantha district. The instalment was released as part of the national-level PM Kisan Utsav Diwas, organised under the Prime Minister's leadership. Farmers said the direct financial assistance was particularly useful during the sowing season, when agricultural households need funds to purchase essential inputs and manage other expenses. A farmer who has been practising natural farming for 15 years said the scheme's assistance helped him purchase seeds, while government support had also encouraged him to continue with sustainable agricultural practices. The financial assistance being distributed under this scheme today also helps us with purchasing seeds for sowing. Natural farming has also brought us many benefits through government support, he said. The farmer added that he had been growing vegetables for the past eight years and was receiving good prices for his produce, with local consumers increasingly supporting his efforts. Another farmer, speaking to reporters at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Kharpudi, said he had watched the programme live at the centre and received a message confirming the transfer of Rs 2,000 shortly after it concluded. He said the assistance was particularly significant given the drought conditions facing Maharashtra, where farmers often have to contend with uncertainty over agricultural output and income. Speaking to IANS, farmer Shashi Bhushan Pathak said the assistance would provide farmers with some financial security and ease the pressure of meeting household expenses. Farmers will be able to work without pressure now. Earlier, we had to take debt to be able to feed ourselves. Now we are secure, he said. Pathak said the scheme was beneficial for those receiving the money, as the funds could help ease their financial burden and reduce outstanding debt. He also thanked the Prime Minister for the initiative, while noting that some farmers continued to face difficulties in receiving their dues. In Jharkhand, farmer Shyam Kumar said the financial assistance could be used for several agricultural requirements, including purchasing seeds for growing foodgrains and buying fertilisers. We have immense benefits from the PM's scheme. The money we will get now can be used for multiple aspects, including buying seeds for the production of grains and fertilisers. This is a big financial help from the PM, he said. Kumar also welcomed the reported extension of the scheme until 2031 and urged the government to introduce more initiatives that could provide long-term benefits to farmers. Another farmer from Jharkhand, Baidyanath, expressed satisfaction with the continuation of the scheme, saying that sustained financial assistance would help farmers maintain agricultural activities, including seed production. The latest instalment adds to the cumulative assistance provided under PM-KISAN since its launch. According to figures cited by Gujarat Minister Jitu Vaghani, the first 23 instalments had resulted in the disbursement of more than Rs 4.47 lakh crore to over 11 crore farmer families across the country. The scheme provides eligible farming families with direct financial assistance, intended to help meet agricultural and household expenses. Farmers' responses highlighted its role in providing immediate liquidity, particularly for those who struggle to access formal credit or manage rising cultivation costs.
Gujarat: At Ekta Nagar, PM Modi opens 'Bharat Parv' ahead of Statue of Unity celebrations
Digital Desk | Ekta Nagar (Gujarat), Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated 'Bharat Parv 2026' at Ekta Nagar in Gujarats Narmada district, kicking off a cultural festival showcasing the countrys traditions, folk performances, regional cuisines, handicrafts and tourist attractions. The festival, being held as part of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations, will continue until November 15. Conceived around the theme of national unity and the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat', Bharat Parv provides a platform for states and Union Territories to present their cultural identities and tourism offerings. The event is also expected to promote tourism in Ekta Nagar and surrounding areas. Later on, PM Modi is scheduled to witness the Ekta Prakash Parv, an illumination festival celebrating India's unity, diversity, cultural heritage and progress. Its attractions include a 530-metre illuminated stretch along Valley of Flowers Road, themed From Ancient India to Modern India, and a 180-metre Glow Tunnel showcasing the cultures, architecture, folk dances, handicrafts and lifestyles of the country's four regions. More than 1.5 crore LED lights have been used for the displays, with artworks created by artists from across the country. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to attend the Narmada Aarti at around 8:15 p.m. at the upgraded Shoolpaneshwar Narmada Ghat. The ghat has been developed by the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority at a cost of Rs 15.10 crore. Its visitor capacity has been increased from 4,000 to 6,000, with seating arrangements for around 2,000 people. The work includes an expanded stepped ghat, a 190-metre all-weather approach road, an amphitheatre-style seating area, red sandstone cladding, murals and sculptures, besides riverbank protection structures. On Saturday, October 31, marking the 151st birth anniversary of the first Deputy PM and Home Minister of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, PM Modi will pay floral tributes at the Statue of Unity before inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for 31 tourism and infrastructure projects with a combined outlay of Rs 426.71 crore. Of these, 23 projects worth Rs 307.83 crore are to be inaugurated, while the foundation stones of eight projects worth Rs 118.88 crore will be laid. The new attractions include an IRCTC hotel built at a cost of Rs 50 crore, an Ekta Cruise costing Rs 16 crore, a Rain Forest project worth Rs 14.30 crore and an Eco Trail costing Rs 3.67 crore. The infrastructure works to be inaugurated include a sewage treatment plant, a water treatment plant, travelators, a parade track, staff quarters and improvements to roads and visitor facilities. The package also includes the Narmada Ghat upgrade, facade lighting at the Statue of Unity campus, development of Ekta Prakash Parv and the upgradation of Unity Glow Garden. The projects for which foundation stones will be laid include the Gora-Bhanadra Road, a smart zero-waste integrated solid waste management project, the development of Khalwani Eco-Tourism and an integrated Cactus and Butterfly Garden. A disaster control room for the Sardar Sarovar Dam and road improvements are also part of the proposed works. During the visit, PM Modi will also tour the Rain Forest and Vaman Vriksha Vatika before participating in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at around 5:30 p.m. The celebrations will include the Ekta Parade featuring Central Armed Police Forces, state police forces and central police organisations, with a focus on the security forces' efforts against Left-Wing Extremism. A theatrical presentation on Naxal Mukt Bharat by the National School of Drama will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 districts that have been affected by Left-Wing Extremism. The tableaux and cultural performances will be based on the theme Vande Mataram, while a larger cultural presentation will bring together around 5,000 artists from across the country.
Car Alarm Irritation Sparks Arson In Morbi
A man in Morbi, Gujarat, was arrested for allegedly setting his neighbour's car on fire. The accused, Sikhar Gohel, reportedly committed the act on Wednesday evening due to irritation caused by the car's sensor alarm. The incident was captured on CCTV and the police have registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
PM Modi Outlines Projects Worth Rs 14,000 Crore In Gujarat
PM Modi also highlighted Banaskantha's progress in agriculture, dairy production, infrastructure and connectivity. He said the region was witnessing new development opportunities and pointed to initiatives aimed at increasing farmers' income and strengthening rural economies.
PM Modi Releases Rs 19,000 Crore PM-KISAN Instalment, Launches Rs 14,400 Crore Projects In Gujarat
Gujarat, Oct 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated to the nation development projects worth over 14,000 crore today in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Speaking on the sacred soil of Mother Amba shortly after Navratri, he unveiled multiple initiatives for women, children, farmers, and cattle rearers, while also disbursing a fresh installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi to tens of millions of small farmers nationwide. Describing farmers and annadatas as among the strongest pillars of a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister stated that the government has consistently prioritized their welfare and empowerment, increasing the national agricultural budget more than fivefold compared to 2013-14. Noting that the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi has become an integral part of small farmers' lives, he highlighted that over 1,000 crore rupees have been deposited into the accounts of more than 50 lakh farmers in Gujarat, including nearly 50 crore rupees for lakhs of farming families in Banaskantha. Today, an amount of more than 18 thousand crore rupees has been sent into the accounts of about 10 crore farmers, noted PM Modi. Highlighting that government policies over recent years have delivered or saved more than 50 lakh crore rupees for farmers, the Prime Minister cited the first of five key examples by pointing out that nearly 4.5 lakh crore rupees have been transferred directly into the bank accounts of small farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. He observed that small farmers constitute over 85 percent of the farming community and our government cared for such small farmers and provided them help through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, asserted PM Modi. Pointing to the sharp surge in global fertilizer prices amid international uncertainty over the past few years, the Prime Minister emphasized that his farmer-centric government shielded cultivators from the price hike. The government spent about 16 lakh crore rupees on this, noted PM Modi. The Prime Minister underscored that the government fulfilled its MSP commitment. In the past 12 years, wheat and paddy farmers have received more than 24 lakh crore rupees as MSP, observed PM Modi. Spotlighting the strong security shield provided to cultivators through the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, the Prime Minister stated that farmers have received over 2 lakh crore rupees in crop insurance compensation over the last 10 to 12 years, alongside continuous efforts to reduce irrigation costs through the expanding role of the PM-KUSUM scheme. He explained that the distribution of nearly 12 lakh solar pumps under the scheme has generated additional electricity and saved lakhs of farmers the expense of purchasing over 80 crore liters of diesel, bringing the total financial benefit or savings from just these five major schemes and decisions to 50 lakh crore rupees. These 50 lakh crore rupees have increased the income of the country's farmers and enhanced the capability of agriculture in India, asserted PM Modi. Emphasizing that agriculture is both a tradition and a vital part of Indian culture, the Prime Minister stated that the government has extensively integrated science and technology into farming and animal husbandry over the past 12 years. He cited the Soil Health Card as a prime example that resolved farmers' earlier difficulties in determining the exact type and quantity of fertilizer required for their fields, modernizing agricultural practices across the country. Today more than 26 crore Soil Health Cards are with the country's farmers, noted PM Modi. Acknowledging that changing weather patterns pose a major challenge to cultivators, the Prime Minister stated that the government is continuously striving to provide farmers with new climate-resilient seed varieties. In recent years, about three thousand new varieties of seeds have been made available to farmers, observed PM Modi. Highlighting animal husbandry as a vital component of the rural economy with massive participation from rural women, the Prime Minister emphasized the integration of science and technology into the dairy and livestock sector over the past decade. He explained that superior animal breeds boost milk yields while timely vaccination and medical treatment curb losses from disease. Meaning, if the animal is healthy, the earnings of my livestock-rearing brothers and sisters will also increase, affirmed PM Modi. Spotlighting the Rashtriya Gokul Mission's role in promoting the conservation and scientific breeding of indigenous livestock, the Prime Minister noted that the newly built research center in Banaskantha will strengthen this mission by conserving and improving the quality of indigenous cow breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Kankrej, as well as buffalo breeds like Mehsana, Murrah, and Jaffarabadi, serving as the country's first such facility for the Kankrej breed. He explained that when a farmer wishes to pass down the traits of a high-yielding, low-maintenance, healthy cow to future generations, modern technologies like IVF increase the probability of transferring those superior qualities. The livestock farmer will get its direct benefit, noted PM Modi. Stating that protecting livestock from ailments like foot-and-mouth disease is a key priority because such illnesses impact both animal health and milk yields, the Prime Minister highlighted the launch of a nationwide free vaccination drive. He pointed out that about 150 crore vaccine doses have been administered so far, providing free vaccination to the livestock of over 8 crore farmers. This has also reduced the financial burden on livestock farmers, observed PM Modi. Pointing to the visible impact of these interventions on dairy output, the Prime Minister noted that average daily milk yield per cow or buffalo has risen from under 5 liters in 2013-14 to nearly 8 liters today, giving India the fastest milk productivity growth rate in the world and benefiting rural farming families. India is number one in the world in milk production, remarked PM Modi. Expressing the government's resolve to help livestock rearers earn from cow dung as well as milk, the Prime Minister stated that infrastructure is being built with the vital support of institutions like Banas Dairy to produce biogas, bio-CNG, and organic fertilizer from dung and farm residue, marked by the foundation stone laying of two bio-CNG plants today. He underscored the clear objective of keeping livestock healthy, increasing milk yields, and ensuring the complete utilization of dung. We are making animal husbandry not just a tradition, but a powerful instrument for increasing farmers' income and enriching villages, asserted PM Modi. Explaining that the government has worked with a holistic approach over recent years to ensure rural prosperity, the Prime Minister pointed to the vast expansion of the fisheries sector and the promotion of cooperatives within it. You will be glad to hear that India's seafood exports have more than doubled, noted PM Modi. Highlighting beekeeping as another major avenue of supplementary income for farmers, the Prime Minister noted that honey production has doubled over the past 12 years and lauded the growing contribution of women's Self-Help Groups in driving this Madhu Kranti. You will be proud to know that our country has become the second-largest exporter of natural honey, observed PM Modi. Recalling that on October 7 he completed 25 years of service as the head of a government after first taking oath on October 7, 2001, the Prime Minister reflected on the immense love and guidance he received from every Gujarati at a time when he knew nothing of government offices or official files. He expressed gratitude to the people for entrusting a person from a poor family, whose ancestors never even dreamed of becoming a village sarpanch, with the responsibility of serving first Gujarat and then the nation. And even more than love, every single Gujarati has taught me and led me on the right path, remarked PM Modi. Stating that he only knew the two guiding principles of serving the nation through public service and developing the country through Gujarat's development while learning everything else from the people, the Prime Minister credited citizens for whatever he has achieved for the nation. For this, I will remain indebted to you for life, and until the last moment of life, I will remain engaged in your service, affirmed PM Modi. Reminding older citizens of the acute water and electricity shortages that plagued the region 25 years ago, the Prime Minister recalled how the people heeded his appeal to conserve both resources and transformed their circumstances so thoroughly that those old hardships now remain only in memories. I will say the same thing to you again today, that we have to save water, save electricity, urged PM Modi. Highlighting how Narmada waters and modern technologies like drip irrigation have transformed Banaskantha and made its potatoes world-famous alongside Banas Dairy's expansion of the cooperative movement to Kashi and beyond, the Prime Minister pointed out that the capacity of the potato plant that makes French fries has also been increased to enable greater procurement of potatoes. This is a very big facility for potato farmers, noted PM Modi. Detailing the ongoing cluster development program for fruit and vegetable cultivators under which 12 clusters were approved today for tomato, potato, chili, grapes, banana, onion, orange, pomegranate, and cocoa, the Prime Minister stated that farmers are receiving subsidies to plant new orchards and rejuvenate old ones. The two clusters received in North Gujarat will greatly benefit the potato farmers of Banaskantha and Sabarkantha, observed PM Modi. Listing several major infrastructure projects inaugurated or initiated for Gujarat's development today, the Prime Minister highlighted the flagging off of two new rail services, the Ahmedabad-Varanasi Sabarmati Express and the Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU train, alongside the expansion of the Ahmedabad Metro with foundation stones laid for metro projects connecting GIFT City and the airport. The Ahmedabad-Mehsana highway is now going to become eight-lane from four-lane, noted PM Modi. Spotlighting new social welfare infrastructure launched for the children of the state today, the Prime Minister noted that over 4,000 modern Anganwadis have been inaugurated across Gujarat. This will benefit about 4 lakh children and pregnant mothers, observed PM Modi. Stating that every such developmental effort is aimed at building a developed India as every farmer, youth, sister, and daughter marches forward with the resolve of a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister remarked that unfortunately some elements dislike this progress and wish to see the nation in difficulty. When crises befall the country, they feel happy, remarked PM Modi. Citing the ongoing war around Iran and the Gulf countries as a recent example where India stood united to face the situation while certain elements spread rumors to scare farmers about fertilizer shortages and women about gas supplies, the Prime Minister stated that their plan was to trigger chaos in the country to defame him. When India was engaged in facing this unitedly, then these people kept spreading rumors, remarked PM Modi. Reminding the farming community of his solemn assurance to stand firmly beside them, the Prime Minister pointed out that the government prevented any scarcity of agricultural inputs despite the ongoing conflict. Noting that the war caused global prices of fertilizers and raw chemicals to skyrocket, the Prime Minister highlighted that the government shielded Indian cultivators from the burden, providing a bag of urea that costs 3,000 rupees globally for under 300 rupees in India, and supplying a bag of DAP that exceeds 5,000 rupees internationally for just 1,350 rupees. The country is providing this help so that our farmer is empowered, and the farmer's life becomes better, affirmed PM Modi. Emphasizing that India's rapid development offers new hope to an uncertain world and requires marching continuously on the path of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, the Prime Minister noted that October 31 marks National Unity Day when the entire nation runs with the inspiration of unity amid grand preparations for the Run for Unity. I would urge all countrymen, especially my young companions, to participate enthusiastically in the Run for Unity tomorrow morning, exhorted PM Modi. Pointing out a schedule change for the annual Unity Festival at Ekta Nagar on October 31, the Prime Minister announced that this year's celebrations will take place grandly at 5:30 PM tomorrow evening featuring police and security force parades and tableaus, and urged citizens from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kutch to Kamakhya to join the event and bow to Sardar Patel while reiterating the resolve of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. With this request, once again best wishes to all of you for the development works, concluded PM Modi.
PM Modi launches projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore in Gujarat, flags off two new trains
The projects include the Rs 328.77-crore Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre, two compressed biogas plants, Ahmedabad Metro extensions, a Rs 2,600-crore road expansion project, 4,030 new Anganwadi centres and 521 agricultural infrastructure projects.
'Modi kahin nahi jaayega': Gujarat turns Kharge remark into a show of support for PM Modi
Digital Desk | Bhildi, Oct 30 (IANS) Days after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's controversial remark about alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late father triggered a political row, the slogan Modi kahin nahi jaayega (PM Modi will not go anywhere) echoed across Banaskantha during the Prime Minister's visit to the district on Friday, with Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi leading a public show of support for PM Modi. The slogan was raised by students as PM Modi arrived to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for development projects. Addressing the gathering at Bhildi, Sanghavi referred to the slogan being heard in villages across Banaskantha during public programmes and cleanliness drives organised ahead of the Prime Minister's visit. He then asked the audience to repeat it, linking PM Modi's continued leadership to a series of national development goals. Until India becomes one of the world's leading economies, Modi kahin nahi jaayega. Until India becomes self-reliant and a manufacturing hub for the world, Modi kahin nahi jaayega, Sanghavi said, urging the crowd to raise the slogan together. He also linked it to the government's goals of providing permanent houses to every poor family, eliminating poverty, creating more Lakhpati Didis, taking development to remote areas and ending dynastic and appeasement politics. Until India becomes a developed nation, Modi kahin nahi jaayega, he said. The slogan was a direct political counter to the controversy that erupted after Kharge's remarks at an event in Patna on October 25. While speaking about alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, Kharge was interrupted by a man in the audience who shouted that PM Modi would not go anywhere. Kharge responded, Modi ka baap bhi jayega (Even Modi's father will have to go). The comment drew criticism from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, who accused him of making an objectionable remark about the Prime Minister's late father. At Bhildi, Sanghavi, who described his remarks as those of a young citizen rather than merely a Deputy Chief Minister, accused the Congress and its leaders of repeatedly using abusive language against PM Modi. He alleged that the Prime Minister's late parents had also been dragged into political attacks and said the response from people across the country had demonstrated their support for him. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from villages to city streets, the same slogan is being heard Modi kahin nahi jaayega, he added. Assembly Speaker and Banas Dairy Chairman Shankar Chaudhary also praised PM Modi's contribution to the transformation of Banaskantha. Recalling the region's earlier shortages of water and electricity, he said: The introduction of round-the-clock power, the Sujalam Sufalam canal network and other initiatives had changed the lives of farmers and livestock owners. Chaudhary said the Govardhan scheme had helped turn cattle dung into an economic resource rather than waste. He claimed that arrangements had allowed livestock owners to earn more than Rs 100 crore annually from cattle dung. Referring to the newly inaugurated Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre, he said: Its objective is to improve milk productivity, with one cow eventually producing as much milk as four cows under existing conditions. Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi also recalled his family's migration from Banaskantha to Surat around 50 years ago because of water and electricity shortages. The arrival of Narmada water, the Sujalam Sufalam scheme and drip irrigation had changed the district, which had since emerged as a major dairy centre, he added. Citing figures, he said the annual profit reaching Banaskantha's livestock owners through Banas Dairy had increased from around Rs 30 crore in 2003 to Rs 1,400 crore. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, in his address, highlighted the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN, the bovine breeding centre, Banas Dairy projects, improved rail and road connectivity and the inauguration and foundation stone laying of Anganwadi-related works. The Prime Minister's visit marked 25 years since he first took oath as Gujarat Chief Minister on October 7, 2001. The programme in Bhildi included the release of the PM-KISAN instalment and the inauguration and launch of projects in the agriculture, dairy and infrastructure sectors.
Minor Girl Conversion: Three Arrested In Gujarat
Police in Gujarat have arrested three individuals for allegedly luring a minor girl into converting to Islam. The girl was reportedly taken to a dargah in Unava village, where she was persuaded to change her religion and given a new name. The incident came to light after her mother filed a missing person complaint. Authorities have invoked multiple laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, POCSO Act, and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Fraudsters in Gujarat tricked a 76-year-old man into transferring 19.6 lakh by posing as spiritual gurus promising divine blessings. Elderly Man Defrauded of 19.6 Lakh by Fraudsters Posing as Spiritual Gurus in Gujarat
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], October 30, 2026: Kheria Autocomp Ltd (NSE SME: KHERIAAUTO), a manufacturer of plastic injection-moulded automotive components and sub-assemblies catering to passenger vehicles across ICE and EV platforms, has announced its unaudited financial results for the half year ended September 30, 2026 (H1 FY27).
Jharkhand HC pulls up govt over missing girl case, questions clean chit to former SPs
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Oct 30 (IANS) The Jharkhand High Court on Friday expressed strong displeasure over the failure of the police force to trace a girl who has been missing from the Gumla district since 2018. The court chided the manner in which the police and the state government handled the case. The Bench of Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad questioned on what basis former Superintendents of Police and investigating officers posted in Gumla between 2018 and 2022 were given a clean chit despite apparent lapses on their part in the probe. The court noted that periodic investigation reports, which were required to be submitted within a stipulated timeframe to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), were not sent on time. It has directed the Home Department to file a fresh affidavit in the matter. During the hearing, the state government admitted in its affidavit that the periodic report relating to the missing child case was submitted to the Gumla DLSA only on October 23 this year. The government acknowledged the considerable delay. The government also tendered an unconditional apology to the court for the lapse. Counsel appearing for the petitioner alleged that the government was attempting to shield former officials and had failed to place the correct facts before the court. The court also took note of the investigation against the main accused, Bhukhli Lakra, who was arrested on June 6, 2026. A Suspect Detection Test conducted in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, indicated suspicious findings against her. However, the Bench questioned why police sought custody several days after the arrest and expressed concern over delays in the investigation process. The High Court has sought an explanation from the current Superintendent of Police of Gumla regarding the delay and alleged negligence in the investigation, and has asked what action has been taken against officials responsible for the lapses. The case is based on a habeas corpus petition filed by Chandramuni Uraon, whose six-year-old daughter went missing from Gumla in 2018. The court had earlier voiced dissatisfaction with the police investigation and had warned that the probe could be handed over to the CBI if the child remained untraced.
PM Modi launches various projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched various development projects worth over 14,000 crore rupees in Banaskantha, including Ahmedabad Metro Phase-2A (Airport Extension) and Phase-2B (GIFT City Extension). Mr Modi also released the 24th instalment under PM-KISAN, amounting to 19 thousand crore rupees. The Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Gujarat, starting today. He []
PMi releases 3,000 cr PM-KISAN instalment to over 3.54 mn Odisha farmers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday released the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme, transferring over Rs 18,690 crore to the bank accounts of more than 9.34 crore farmers across the country, including 35.38 lakh in Odisha. The beneficiaries in Odisha received Rs 3,000 crore as part of the instalment released by the prime minister from Banaskantha in Gujarat, officials said. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined the programme virtually from Bhubaneswar and addressed beneficiary farmers at a state-level 'PM-Kisan Utsav'. The welfare and empowerment of farmers is the core commitment of our government. Today, India's esteemed Prime Minister, Shri @narendramodi, launched the release of the 24th instalment of the nationwide 'PM-Kisan' scheme via a virtual event from Banaskantha, Gujarat, Majhi wrote on X. Under the scheme, financial assistance was transferred directly to the bank accounts of over 35.38 lakh farmers in the state through direct benefit transfer (DBT), he ...
PM Modi Stops His Speech To Receive Portrait From Young Fan In The Crowd
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotted a young boy holding up his portrait during a rally in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Concerned that the boy might hurt his hand while holding it up, Modi asked the SPG personnel to collect the portrait. Your hand will start hurting, son, he told the boy. The brief exchange drew attention from the crowd and added a personal moment to the Prime Ministers public address.
PM releases 3,000 crore PM-KISAN instalment to over 35.38 lakh Odisha farmers
The beneficiaries in Odisha received 3,000 crore as part of the instalment released by the prime minister from Banaskantha in Gujarat
'Plan was to create chaos': PM Modi flags rumours over fertiliser, LPG supplies amid Gulf conflict
Digital Desk | Bhildi, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused some people of attempting to create panic in the country by spreading rumours about shortages of fertilisers and cooking gas amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran and countries in the Gulf region, claiming that the government had ensured uninterrupted fertiliser supplies to farmers despite rising international prices. Addressing a gathering in Bhildi in Gujarat's Banaskantha district, PM Modi said India was collectively dealing with the international situation, but alleged that some groups were trying to create confusion and public anxiety. When the country faces a crisis, some people seem to be happy. The latest example is the war involving Iran and the Gulf region. While India is united in dealing with the situation, these people have been spreading rumours, he said. PM Modi alleged that farmers had been made to fear that fertilisers would not be available and that artificial queues had been created. He also accused these groups of spreading fears among women that cooking gas would run out, making it difficult for families to cook food or send their children to school. Their plan was to create chaos in the country so that they could defame Modi, he said. The Prime Minister said he had assured farmers that the government would stand firmly with them and claimed that, despite the conflict continuing, it had not allowed farmers to face a shortage of fertilisers. Explaining the impact of the conflict on international markets, PM Modi said: The prices of fertilisers and the chemicals used in their production had risen sharply. The government had absorbed the additional cost rather than passing it on to farmers. He added, A bag of urea that costs around Rs 3,000 in the international market was being made available to Indian farmers for less than Rs 300. Similarly, while the international price of a bag of diammonium phosphate (DAP) had crossed Rs 5,000, farmers in India were getting it for Rs 1,350. The government is bearing this entire burden so that our farmers remain strong and their lives improve, he said. PM Modi said India's continued development amid global uncertainty was a source of hope for the world and called for national unity as the country pursued its development goals. He also urged people, particularly the youth, to participate in the Run for Unity on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The annual Ekta Parv at Ekta Nagar, which is usually held in the morning, would be organised in the evening this year, with the programme scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m, he noted. The Prime Minister is in Gujarat on a two-day visit during which he launched and dedicated development projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore in Banaskantha.
I will serve the people of India till my last breath: PM Modi
Addressing a gathering in Gujarats Banaskantha district, PM Modi responded to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharges remark and said some people spread rumours after the Iran war
PM Modi revives Rahul Gandhis aloo se sona jibe, says Banaskantha farmers already doing it
Digital Desk | Bhildi, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the farmers in Gujarat's Banaskantha district had transformed the region into a major potato-producing centre, remarking that they no longer needed anyone to promise to turn potatoes into gold because they were already doing so through their work. Referring to the region's agricultural growth, PM Modi said the availability of Narmada water and the adoption of modern irrigation methods such as drip irrigation had changed Banaskantha's agricultural landscape. Banaskantha's potatoes are now famous across the world. Nobody needs to come here and say they will make gold out of potatoes. The people here can say that they are already doing it, he said while addressing a gathering at Bhildi. The controversial potato in, gold out remark was made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a speech in Patan district on November 12, 2017. The Prime Minister also referred to the expansion of the potato-processing plant at Sanadar, which makes French fries. The expansion will increase the plant's capacity and allow it to procure more potatoes from farmers, he said. The facility is expected to provide an additional market for potato growers by linking agricultural production with food processing. The expansion was among the projects inaugurated during PM Modi's visit to Banaskantha. He also highlighted the role of the Banas Dairy cooperative, saying its work was extending beyond Gujarat and contributing to the cooperative movement in other parts of the country, including Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency. The dairy's experience and services had also benefited people in his constituency, he said. The Prime Minister referred to the government's horticulture cluster development programme, under which 12 clusters had been approved for crops including tomatoes, potatoes, chillies, grapes, bananas, onions, oranges, pomegranates and cocoa. The programme is intended to support farmers in establishing new orchards and rejuvenating existing ones, with subsidies being provided for the work. Two of the clusters are in North Gujarat and are expected to benefit potato farmers in Banaskantha and Sabarkantha. The projects are part of a broader effort to expand horticulture and improve the value chain for farmers by connecting cultivation with processing and markets. PM Modi also urged farmers to conserve water and electricity, recalling that he had faced protests during his early years as Gujarat Chief Minister when he asked farmers to use these resources carefully. The availability of Narmada water and micro-irrigation had helped overcome earlier constraints and changed the region's agricultural prospects, he noted. The Prime Minister's visit also included the inauguration of a new automated storage and retrieval system for ultra-high-temperature milk products at Banas Dairy's Palanpur facility and the foundation stone laying for two Bio-CNG plants that will process cattle dung.
PM Modi Unveils Rs 14,000 Crore Projects In Gujarat, Vows To Serve People Till His Last Breath
PM-Kisan 24th Instalment Released: Odisha CM Majhi Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Farmers
The 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was directly transferred to eligible farmers bank accounts today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the national disbursement event virtually from Banaskantha, Gujarat, releasing over 18,690 crore to more than 9.34 crore farmers nationwide. In Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined the state-level [] The post PM-Kisan 24th Instalment Released: Odisha CM Majhi Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Farmers appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
A chartered accountant has warned that biggets threat to middle class in the next few year is not layoffs, market crash or inflation. He has said that excessive lifestyle EMIs could become a major financial threat to India's middle class. From smartphones and holidays to personal loans, rising monthly repayments can leave households vulnerable to layoffs, market crashes and inflation.
PM Narendra Modi releases the 24th PM-KISAN instalment worth Rs 19,000 crore in Banaskantha. He highlights farmers' role, announces Gujarat projects worth Rs 14,000 crore and flags off two new trains.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that serving the people of Gujarat and the country had been the central focus of his journey, crediting citizens for entrusting him with the responsibility of leadership and dedicating his achievements to them. Addressing a public event in Banaskantha, PM Modi said that a person from an ordinary family, whose generations had never imagined holding the position of a village head, was given the opportunity to serve Gujarat and subsequently the entire country. A person from an ordinary family
Over Rs 18,000 Cr Transferred to Nearly 10 Cr Farmers Under PM-KISAN: Modi
Banaskantha, Oct 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the transfer of over Rs 18,000 crore to the bank accounts of nearly 10 crore farmers under the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi scheme, reiterating that farmers remain one of the strongest pillars of the country. Addressing a public gathering in Banaskantha, Gujarat, [] The post Over Rs 18,000 Cr Transferred to Nearly 10 Cr Farmers Under PM-KISAN: Modi appeared first on Northlines .
PM Modi launches development projects worth 14,000 crore in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that he would serve the people of India till his last breath, an assertion coming days after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's remark, Modi ka baap bhi jayega. He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre at Bhildi in Gujarat's Banaskantha district, launching and laying the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 14,000 crore. Jeevan ke antim kshan tak janta ki seva main hi juta rahunga (I will continue to serve the people until my last breath), Modi said. In an apparent jab at the Opposition, he said there are some people who get happiness when the country faces difficulty. They spread rumours after the Iran war that farmers would not get fertilisers, and people would not get LPG, as they wanted to defame Modi, the PM said. Modi said his government has always prioritised the welfare of farmers and empowered them. Amid global uncertainties, fertiliser prices saw
'Modi nahi jayenge' slogan raised at PM's Gujarat event; Congress retorts, 'you wish!'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre in Gujarat on Friday, unveiling development projects totaling over Rs 14,000 crore. He also released the latest PM-KISAN installment, benefiting farmers with Rs 19,000 crore. The trip included plans to enhance Ahmedabad's metro network and state roads, while also announcing new initiatives for the dairy and childcare sectors.
'Modi kahin nahi jayega': PM Modi's rally in Banaskantha sees crowd chant over India's future
The chant of Modi kahin nahi jayega became one of the standout moments at a rally in Gujarat's Banaskantha, as the crowd repeatedly echoed the phrase after a series of statements delivered from the stage. The lines linked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's continued leadership to a list of national goals, including making India a leading economy, achieving self-reliance and turning the country into a global manufacturing hub.
PM Modi's Gujarat Visit: Rs 14,000 Crore Development Push, Metro Expansion And Farmer Benefits
Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off his two day visit to Gujarat with an extensive developmental drive across the state totalling over Rs 14000 crore, covering various key sectors like agriculture, dairy, transport, railway, rural and child welfare along with development
PM Modi inaugurates Rs 325-crore bovine breeding centre in Banaskantha
PALANPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC), aimed at improving indigenous cattle breeds and enhancing milk production, at Bhildi in Gujarats Banaskantha district. The PM, who arrived in the town as part of his two-day visit to the state, took a tour of the centre and []
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused the Opposition of spreading rumours and creating panic in the country amid the ongoing war in Iran. Addressing an event in Banaskantha, Gujarat, he alleged that opposition leaders were using the situation to target his government rather than standing with the country during a difficult time.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release Rs 18,680 crore at an event in Banaskantha, Gujarat, benefitting over 9 crore farmers.
PM Modi releases Rs 19,000 crore under 24th instalment of PM-KISAN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth over Rs 14,400 crore in Gujarat and released around Rs 19,000 crore under the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme. Projects include a bovine breeding centre, two Bio-CNG plants, Ahmedabad Metro expansion, Anganwadi centres and rail services.
PM Modi to launch projects worth Rs 14,000 crore in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Gujarat to launch development projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore, including metro extensions, road upgrades, dairy facilities and Anganwadis. Modi will also release Rs 19,000 crore under PM-KISAN and attend Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at the Statue of Unity.
PM Modi Holds Roadshow In Gujarat During Two-Day State Visit
PM Modi travelled in an open jeep, accompanied by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and held the roadshow from the helipad to the Banas Dairy plant in the village.
PM Modi holds roadshow in Gujarat's Banaskantha, set to launch projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day Gujarat visit on Friday with a roadshow in Banaskantha, where a series of development projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore are scheduled to be launched or taken forward. The announcements span agriculture, transport, rural infrastructure, dairy development and child welfare, with several projects focused on North Gujarat.
Modi Inaugurates Rs 325-Crore Bovine Centre in Gujarat
Spread across 127 acres, the facility aims to produce 25,000 high-quality embryos annually to improve indigenous cattle breeds and boost milk production.
Supriya Pathak Celebrates Karva Chauth with Traditional Gujarati Feast for Family
Actress Supriya Pathak prepared a special Gujarati meal for her family, showcasing her culinary skills on Karva Chauth. Supriya Pathak Celebrates Karva Chauth with Traditional Gujarati Feast for Family
Large crowd greets PM Modi during roadshow in Gujarat's Banaskantha
Digital Desk | Banaskantha, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarats Banaskantha district on Friday morning and held a roadshow, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from people gathered along the route. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi accompanied the Prime Minister during the roadshow. The visit is part of PM Modis two-day Gujarat tour on October 30 and 31, during which he is scheduled to launch and dedicate development projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore in Banaskantha and release the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), amounting to around Rs 19,000 crore. One of the major events of the day is the dedication of the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC) at Bhildi to the nation. Spread over 127 acres, the facility has been established as a Centre of Excellence to strengthen cattle breeding, genetic improvement and advanced reproductive technologies. The centre will be the country's first facility-of-its-kind dedicated to the Kankrej cattle breed. According to the Prime Ministers Office, it is expected to accelerate breed improvement by 10-20 times. Before the inauguration, PM Modi had highlighted the centre's potential in a post on social media platform X, saying it would help increase milk production per animal, improve breed quality and raise farmers' incomes while supporting the conservation of indigenous cattle breeds. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to lay the foundation stones for two Bio-CNG plants of Banas Dairy at Tharad and Radhanpur, with cattle dung processing capacities of 75 metric tonnes and 100 metric tonnes per day, respectively. Other projects on the agenda include the expansion of Ahmedabad Metro towards the airport and GIFT City, the widening of Ahmedabad-Mehsana Road from four to eight lanes at an estimated cost of Rs 2,600 crore, and the development of 4,030 new child-friendly Anganwadi centres. PM Modi will also dedicate 521 completed projects under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, with a combined project cost of around Rs 4,950 crore, and flag off the Ahmedabad (Sabarmati)-Varanasi Express and Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU services. Later in the day, the Prime Minister will travel to Ekta Nagar in Narmada district to inaugurate 'Bharat Parv 2026' and witness 'Ekta Prakash Parv' as part of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the 24th instalment of Rs 2,000 of the PM Kisan samman yojana scheme today in Gujarat. Farmers eagerly awaited this payment, which is crucial for their agricultural needs and expenses. Eligible farmers must complete their eKYC to receive this instalment, which is mandatory according to the PM Kisan portal guidelines.
PM Modi inaugurates Rs 14,000 crore projects in Gujarat
The News Mill
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a roadshow in Gujarat's Banaskantha during his two-day visit to the state, where he is scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of development projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore in the district. During his visit, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to dedicate the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC) at Bhildi in Banaskantha, a state-of-the-art facility spread across 127 acres and established as a Centre of Excellence. The facility is aimed at strengthening bovine breeding, genetic upgradation and advanced reproductive technologies. It will be the country's first facility of its kind dedicated to the Kankrej cattle breed and is expected to accelerate breed improvement by 10
PM Modi to release Rs 19,000 crore under PM-KISAN, inaugurate Bharat Parv in Kevadia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin his two-day visit to Gujarat on Friday, with a series of development initiatives in Banaskantha, followed by key programmes in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, ahead of the National Unity Day celebrations on October 31. The Prime Minister will begin the two-day engagement with his visit to the Embryo Transfer Technology-In Vitro Fertilisation (ET-IVF) Laboratory and the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC) cattle farm in Banaskantha on Friday. Later, he will lay the foundation stone, inaugurate and dedicate to the nation various development projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore in the district. The Prime Minister will also release the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), amounting to Rs 19,000 crore, providing financial assistance to eligible farmer beneficiaries. During his visit to Banaskantha, the Prime Minister will also flag off two train services and address a public gathering. Following the programmes i...
PM Narendra Modi begins a two-day Gujarat visit on October 30. He will launch projects worth Rs 14,000 crore, release Rs 19,000 crore under PM-KISAN and inaugurate Bharat Parv 2026.
Supriya Pathak prepares wholesome Gujarati thali for Mira Rajput on Karwa Chauth
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 30 (IANS) Actress Supriya Pathak turned chef at home as she prepared an elaborate Gujarati thali for her daughters-in-law Mira Rajput and Manukriti on the occasion of Karwa Chauth. Her daughter Sanah Kapur offered a glimpse of the preparations and the special family celebration through a series of stories on her social media account. In one of the videos shared by Sanah, Supriya was seen standing in the kitchen, preparing bhakris on a hot tawa. Sanah playfully called her the original cutie pie and described her as the perfect 2026 saas. The video captured Supriya personally cooking a full fledged elaborate Gujarati meal for her family. In another social media story, Sanah shared a glimpse of the elaborate Gujarati thali, describing it as the otally capture worthy, much talked about thali at your service!! The traditional spread featured an assortment of Gujarati delicacies, including different vegetable preparations, dal, kadhi, rice, rotis and bhakris, along with savoury accompaniments and other dishes served in traditional bowls on a beautifully arranged platter. Sanah also shared an adorable video of Supriya posing with Mira and Manukriti. The veteran actress was seen standing between the two, affectionately embracing them as they smiled for the camera. Calling them The recipient cuties, Sanah revealed the special ladies for whom the elaborate meal had been prepared for. Mira and Supriya have often spoken about their affection for each other. Mira had earlier shared a picture of a Gujarati thali prepared by Supriya and affectionately captioned it, Not-a-Khichdi by Hansa. Saras Gujju Thali Supriya Ben. The reference was towards Supriya's popular character Hansa Parekh from the sitcom Khichdi. Supriya has also spoken fondly about Mira's culinary skills. In an earlier interview, she described Mira as a great cook and praised her appam, stew and Khao Suey. More recently, in March 2026, she said that Mira was their missing child who had found her way home.
Gorakhpur-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express Approved, New Train to Connect Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP and Bihar
Gorakhpur, October 30, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): The Railway Board has approved a direct train service between Bhuj in Gujarat and Bihar via Gorakhpur. It has also issued a Gorakhpur-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express Approved, New Train to Connect Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP and Bihar
PM Modi to begin two-day Gujarat visit on October 30, inaugurate projects worth 14,000 crore
The Prime Minister will also visit Ekta Nagar, where the tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel stands, to inaugurate the cultural and tourism festival Bharat Parv 2026 and participate in Narmada aarti, said officials
PM To Begin Two-Day Gujarat Visit, Inaugurate Rs 14,000 Crore Projects
On Friday morning, Modi will first visit the Embryo Transfer Technology-In Vitro Fertilisation Laboratory and the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre in Banaskantha. He will also address a gathering.
PM Modi to unveil projects worth Rs 14,000 Cr in Gujarat, release Rs 19,000 Cr under PM-KISAN today
New Delhi, Oct 29:Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate, dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of development projects worth over Rs 14,000 crore in Banaskantha during his two-day visit to Gujarat on October 30-31. He will also release the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme, amounting to around Rs 19,000 crore, providing financial assistance to farmers across the country. In Banaskantha on October 30, PM Modi will dedicate the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre at Bhildi, a 127-acre facility aimed at improving bovine breeding, cattle genetics and reproductive technologies. It will be the countrys first facility of its kind dedicated to the Kankrej cattle breed. The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for two Bio-CNG plants at Tharad and Radhanpur, which will process 75 and 100 metric tonnes of cattle dung per day, respectively. Among the major infrastructure projects are the extensions of Ahmedabad Metro Phase-2 to the airport and GIFT City, and the widening of Ahmedabad-Mehsana Road from four lanes to eight lanes at an estimated cost of Rs 2,600 crore. PM Modi will dedicate 521 projects under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, involving a total project cost of around Rs 4,950 crore, and inaugurate the expansion of a potato processing plant at Sanadar. He will also flag off the Ahmedabad (Sabarmati)-Varanasi Express and Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU services. The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for 4,030 child-friendly Anganwadi centres and inaugurate 361 completed centres in Gujarat. The initiative, involving an investment of Rs800 crore, is expected to benefit more than four lakh people. He will mark the commencement of on-ground activities under 12 approved horticulture clusters spread across approximately 1.46 lakh hectares and expected to benefit over 1.3 lakh farmers. Two clusters in North Gujarat will focus on potatoes. Ekta Nagar events Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, on October 30 to inaugurate Bharat Parv 2026, which will showcase Indias cultural heritage, folk performances, regional cuisines, handicrafts and tourist attractions. The festival will continue until November 15. He will also witness Ekta Prakash Parv, featuring illumination displays highlighting Indias cultural diversity, heritage and development. On October 31, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 400 crore in Ekta Nagar. These include water and sewage treatment facilities, the upgradation of Narmada Ghat, an IRCTC hotel and eco-tourism projects. He will subsequently participate in Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations marking the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity. This years celebrations will have Vande Mataram as the overarching theme, with the Ekta Parade placing special emphasis on the achievements of security forces in combating Left-Wing Extremism and the transition of affected areas towards peace and development. A theatrical presentation on Naxal Mukt Bharat, organised by the National School of Drama, will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 districts affected by Left-Wing Extremism. A separate cultural presentation involving approximately 5,000 artists from across the country will showcase Indias classical and folk traditions.
PM Modi to visit Gujarat today, launch projects worth over Rs 14,400 crore
Digital Desk | Banaskantha, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat on Friday to launch and lay the foundation stones for sweeping development projects valued at over Rs 14,400 crore in Banaskantha district and to celebrate the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. PM Modi will also release around Rs 19,000 crore as the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. In Banaskantha, the Prime Minister will dedicate the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre (BBBRC) at Bhildi to the nation. Spread over 127 acres, the facility is designed to strengthen bovine breeding, genetic improvement and advanced reproductive technologies. He will also lay the foundation stones for two Bio-CNG plants of Banas Dairy at Tharad and Radhanpur, with capacities to process 75 metric tonnes and 100 metric tonnes of cattle dung per day, respectively. Among the major infrastructure projects, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the extension of Ahmedabad Metro Phase-2 to the airport and GIFT City. In the social infrastructure sector, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for 4,030 new child-friendly Anganwadi centres and inaugurate 361 completed centres across Gujarat. The initiative involves an investment of Rs 800 crore and is expected to benefit more than four lakh people. PM Modi will dedicate 521 projects completed under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to the nation. The Prime Minister will flag off the Ahmedabad (Sabarmati)-Varanasi Express and the Mehsana-Becharaji-Sabarmati MEMU service to strengthen rail connectivity. He will also mark the start of on-ground activities under 12 approved horticulture clusters covering around 1.46 lakh hectares and expected to benefit more than 1.3 lakh farmers. Two clusters in North Gujarat will focus on potatoes. The release of the 24th PM-KISAN instalment will provide financial assistance to farmers across the country, with the total disbursement amounting to around Rs 19,000 crore. PM Modi will travel to Ekta Nagar, where he will inaugurate 'Bharat Parv 2026'. The Prime Minister will later witness 'Ekta Prakash Parv', a festival of illumination highlighting India's cultural diversity and national unity, followed by the Narmada Aarti. More than 1.5 crore LED lights have been used in the displays, with artworks created by artists from across India. On October 31, PM Modi will offer floral tributes at the Statue of Unity before inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for projects worth more than Rs 400 crore in Ekta Nagar. The works include a sewage and water treatment plant, facade lighting, the upgradation of Narmada Ghat, an IRCTC hotel and the Rainforest, Unity and Eco Trail. He will also lay the foundation stone for projects involving the development of Gora-Bhandra Road, an integrated zero-waste smart solid waste management system, Khalwani eco-tourism and integrated development of the Cactus and Butterfly Garden. The celebrations commemorating Sardar Patel's 151st birth anniversary will feature a parade by the Central Armed Police Forces, state police forces and central police organisations. This year's parade will place particular emphasis on security forces' achievements in combating Left-Wing Extremism and the transformation of previously affected areas towards peace, security and development. A theatrical presentation on 'Naxal Mukt Bharat', organised by the National School of Drama, will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 districts affected by Left-Wing Extremism. The overarching theme of this year's 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' celebrations will be 'Vande Mataram'.
Scenario of Livestock and Agriculture in Pre and Post- Independent India: Introspection
Livestock and agriculture production is considered as the backbone of Indias economy and food security. Despite rapid industrialization, over 46% of Indias total workforce is engaged in agriculture and allied sectors, while roughly 60-65% of the population depends on it for their primary livelihood. However, these sectors have undergone an intense transformation since independence of India in 1947. Indian agriculture during pre- independence was characterized by traditional farming practices like using of tillers, sickles and manual labour with little or no mechanization which eventually resulted in low productivity. Livestock has traditionally complemented crop cultivation by providing a source of draught power, manure, milk and hence an additional household income. It also provided financial security to the families during periods of economic distress. Immediately after independence, India faced widespread poverty, low agricultural productivity and an urgent need to strengthen Indias economy. Following independence, agricultural research, irrigation facilities, improved seeds, fertilization and mechanization gradually transformed agricultural and livestock production. Over time, these initiatives contributed to major agricultural transformations commonly described as Green, White, Blue and Golden Revolutions. The history of livestock and agricultural development cannot be understood only through the increase in production. An introspective assessment must also examine who benefited from these developments, what environmental burdens accompanied them and whether leads to lasting prosperity for farmers and other livestock owners. Livestock and Agriculture during the Pre-independence Era Livestock formed an essential component of traditional farming system. Cattle and buffaloes served draught power while manure was used as a fertilizer for soil. Milk and its byproducts served as a household nutrition and also provided income. Indigenous breeds had valuable adaptive characteristics like tolerance to local climatic conditions and ability to survive under low input management systems. But, livestock productivity was restricted by insufficient nutrition, infectious diseases and parasitic infections. Treatment of animals in many rural areas depended on traditional knowledge and locally available traditional remedies and access to veterinary hospitals was limited. Dairy marketing was also unorganized and inadequate milk collection, chilling, processing and transportation facilities limited the commercial potential of livestock production. Limited availability of scientific support and organized infrastructure further restricted their capacity to improve production. During the pre-independence era, Indian agriculture was predominantly dependent on rainfall, local seeds and manual labour. Farming was primarily meeting the household food requirements and there was a limited access to modern agricultural machinery, irrigation and other scientific facilities. Due to inadequate irrigation, limited availability of good quality seeds and insufficient fertilizers, agricultural productivity was also low. Farmers were prone to droughts, floods and other natural calamities. Poor storage and transportation facilities further restricted the movement of agricultural production and increased post-harvest losses. Colonial land revenue system further contributed to unequal relationships between land-owners and cultivators. This practice often limited farmers ability to invest in irrigation, soil improvement and other long-term agricultural assets which ultimately lead to crop failure, disease outbreaks and other economic losses. Before the widespread expansion of monetized rural markets, barter and customary exchange arrangements played important roles in various village economies. Livestock and agricultural produce was exchanged for essential items and household goods. Sometimes, occupational groups used to receive a share of the produce and harvest in return for their services. These arrangements strengthened interdependence within rural communities but it also restricted economic exchange only to local networks and limit farmers bargaining power and accumulate savings. As commercial agriculture expanded, monetary transactions and regulated markets gradually became more important. Farmers gained more opportunities to sell their produce for money and purchase essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, machinery etc. But this transition didnt ensure fair returns to primary producers due to transportation cost, price fluctuation and inadequate storage. The historical transition from barter to organized agricultural marketing indicates an important economic change but it also reflects the need for transparent markets and profitable prices. Post-Independence Transformation: Revolution in Agriculture and Allied Sciences After independence, land reforms became an important element of Indias rural development strategy. The abolition of intermediary landholding systems, tenancy reforms and redistribution of surplus land were intended to minimize exploitation and the condition of cultivators. The principle of land to the tiller represented the idea that those who cultivate the land should enjoy greater security and receive a fairer share of benefits produced by their labour. However, its application varied from state to state. Incomplete land records, resistance from powerful landowners meant that landlessness and unequal access to productive resources persisted. Land fragmentation was the other major challenge. Population growth and subsequent division of agricultural holdings among generations contributed to smaller and more scattered landholdings. These conditions limited the use of machinery, irrigation investments, crop diversification and the economic viability of farming. The Green revolution, which was introduced during the mid-1960s, marked a significant transformation in Indian agriculture. Dr. M. S. Swaminathan played a pivotal role in Indias Green Revolution, while Dr. Norman Borlaug made internationally recognised contributions to the development and dissemination of high-yielding wheat varieties. From severe food deficiency and low crop productivity to self-sufficient agricultural production by adopting high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice alongside irrigation, chemical fertilizers and improved agricultural machinery, agricultural research, improved seeds and extension services further contributed to increase in food-grain production. These developments strengthened national food security and decreased Indias susceptibility to food shortages. However, these gains were geographically uneven with irrigated regions generally benefitting more than rain fed areas. The environmental exploitation also became evident with intensive cultivation and excessive groundwater extraction. The extensive usage of fertilizers and pesticides further contributed to the soil degradation, water pollution and ecological disturbances. The White Revolution transformed Indias dairy sector through organized milk production, institutional cooperation, improved breeding programs, better animal nutrition and veterinary support. An important foundation of this transformation was the establishment of the Kaira District Cooperative Milk Producers Union at Anand, Gujarat, in 1946, which later became closely associated with the Amul brand. The cooperative model enabled milk producers to collectively market their produce and obtain a more organised connection with consumers. Dr. Verghese Kurien, widely recognised as the Father of Indias White Revolution, played a central role in expanding this cooperative model. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), established in 1965, subsequently promoted the Anand Pattern of dairy cooperatives across the country through Operation Flood, launched in 1970. Operation Flood was implemented in phases and helped strengthen Indias dairy infrastructure, organised milk procurement and rural dairy economy. This revolution enhanced the importance of livestock as an economic asset rather than merely a source of draught power. Due to this, cattle and buffaloes became important contributors to household income. The expansion of dairying exposed persistent challenges also. Inadequate green fodder, high feed costs, reproductive disorders, mastitis and heat stress decreased the productivity and hence profitability. Moreover indiscriminate crossbreeding without taking attention to nutrition and healthcare compromised animal welfare. The Blue Revolution focused on development of fisheries and aquaculture to provide nutritional security and improve rural income. Post-independence investments in aquaculture helped in strengthening the fisheries sector and offer important opportunities for rural employment, entrepreneurship and affordable animal protein. However, the expansion of fisheries created environmental concerns like water pollution, eutrophication, habitat destruction, disease outbreaks in intensive aquaculture and salanisation of agricultural land. The Golden revolution between 1991 and 2003 refers to the rapid rise of Indias horticulture sector including fruits, vegetables, flowers and other high value crops. Improved planting material, irrigation, scientific grading and transportation created opportunities for farmers to generate higher returns per unit of land. Horticulture farmers face peculiar economic risks. Perishable produce must be sold within a limited time period, making farmers susceptible when transportation or storage facilities are inadequate. Sudden price drop during peak harvest season eventually reduce farm income. Modernization of livestock and agriculture production Beyond the major agricultural revolutions, the post-independence period witnessed considerable changes in farm inputs, machinery, animal breeding and livestock management. High yielding seeds, chemical fertilizers, tractors, threshers, harvesters and irrigation equipment increased the production and reduced the time required for many farming operations. Rural roads and the expansion of agricultural markets improved connectivity between producers and consumers. At the time of independence in 1947, India did not have dedicated agricultural universities but only 17 agricultural or veterinary colleges affiliated with general universities. Today, India has approximately 74 agricultural and allied universities recognized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).The ICAR Lab-to-Land Programme, launched in 1979, was specifically designed to transfer viable technologies from laboratories to farmers fields. Krishi Vigyan Kendras and other extension initiatives further strengthen the connection between scientific research and practical farming. However, rising input costs, excessive fertiliser use, pesticide residues, machinery related expenses and the exclusion of resource-poor farmers from technology-intensive systems remain important concerns. Industrialisation and urbanisation create additional pressures through pollution, waste generation and the conversion of agricultural land into non-agricultural uses. Road connectivity has also influenced agricultural development. Improved roads facilitate the movement of farm produces, veterinary supplies and other essential services. But farmers in many remote areas experienced high transportation costs, inadequate storage facilities and limited processing opportunities. Better connectivity must therefore be complemented by transparent marketing, reliable procurement, storage facility and opportunities for value addition. Currently, India possesses one of the worlds largest livestock populations and is also the worlds largest milk producer, reflecting the importance of livestock in its agricultural economy. Livestock development benefited from genetic improvement, artificial insemination, improved nutrition, vaccination, disease diagnosis and reproductive management. Crossbreeding of indigenous cattle with exotic dairy breeds contributed to increased milk production in many production systems. Improved management of indigenous breeds and the conservation of locally adapted genetic resources also became increasingly important. Timely diagnosis of diseases, access to qualified veterinary professionals and responsible use of medicines remain essential for sustainable livestock development. In livestock sector also, the benefits didnt reach all livestock owners equally and there was also shortage of veterinary services, inadequate fodder and insufficient infrastructure. Poor manure management can contribute to water contamination and inadequate waste disposal and unsuitable housing can affect animal health. Climate change presents an additional challenge to livestock production by affecting temperature patterns, rainfall distribution, water availability, fodder production and the condition of grazing and pasture lands. Livestock may consequently face changing risks from emerging, re-emerging and endemic infectious diseases. Changes in disease ecology can also complicate surveillance and control, while the evolution and spread of pathogens may increase the challenges faced by veterinary health systems. Future directions for Sustainable Livestock and Agricultural development Indias next phase of agricultural development must focus on farmer prosperity, efficient resource use and resilience rather than production alone. The following priorities deserve attention: Sustainable crop production by promoting soil testing, balanced fertilisation, improved seed quality and climate resilient farming practices. Efficient water management by encouraging rainwater harvesting, groundwater monitoring and cropping patterns compatible with local water availability. Improved market infrastructure by strengthening rural roads, storage and processing facilities and transparent marketing. Affordable veterinary healthcare by expanding veterinary services, timely disease diagnosis and access to qualified veterinary professionals. Integrated livestock management by improving fodder availability, balanced rations, reproductive management, hygienic milk production and prevention of economically important diseases. Responsible breeding programmes by combining improved genes with adaptability, fertility, disease resistance and animal welfare. Environmental protection by reducing pollution, encouraging manure management and efficient and judicious use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides, veterinary drugs and water resources. Conclusion The transition in scenario of livestock and agriculture from pre-independence era to post-independence era of India represents a major transformation in livestock and agricultural production. Traditional farming system based on animal power, local resources and barter system has been supplemented by scientific crop production, mechanisation, organised markets, and improved livestock breeding and modern veterinary healthcare. The Green Revolution strengthened food security, White Revolution transformed dairy sector, Blue Revolution improved fisheries sector and Golden Revolution increased the horticulture production. However, increased production has not eliminated land fragmentation, livestock related financial pressures or environmental degradation. Farmers continue to face challenges with fluctuating prices, natural calamities and limited infrastructure. The future of Indian livestock and agriculture industry depends on balancing productivity with profitability, environmental responsibility, economic security of farmers and long-term resilience of rural communities. ( The Author is HOD Veterinary Medicine, SKUAST Kashmir)
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Gujarat Eases Regulations for CBG Plants, Eliminates Need for Separate NOCs
Gujarats new regulation simplifies processes for CBG and bio-CNG plants, removing the need for separate approvals from the pollution control board. Gujarat Eases Regulations for CBG Plants, Eliminates Need for Separate NOCs
29 unrecognised parties from Gujarat recorded 510 crore income, highest in FY 2024-25: ADR
Despite reporting thousands of crores in income and donations, RUPPs translated little of their financial strength into electoral success.
No recognised medical degree: Nine fake doctors held in Gujarat
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 29 (IANS) As many as nine fake doctors were apprehended during simultaneous raids on clinics in the Dindoli area of Surat on Thursday, with the police and health department seizing medicines, injections, syrups and medical equipment worth around Rs 95,000, officials said on Thursday. The raids were conducted jointly by the Surat City Special Operations Group (SOG) and teams from the District Health Department after dummy patients were sent to the clinics to verify information that individuals without recognised medical qualifications were treating patients. Deputy Commissioner of Police (SOG) Rajdeepsinh Nakum told IANS that the operation had been planned in coordination with the office of the Chief District Health Officer, Dr Anil Patel. Raids were planned from the morning by the SOG and the Chief District Health Officers team. Several locations were raided simultaneously, and nine bogus doctors were apprehended, Nakum said. He said the accused had different educational backgrounds, including schooling up to Classes 10 and 12, a Bachelor of Arts degree and training in electropathy. However, they were allegedly practising as doctors without the required recognised medical qualifications. Some of them were earning Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 a day and were practising as bogus doctors. The SOG and Health Department teams carried out an intensive operation and apprehended all of them, he added. According to the police, the accused were identified as Rohit Patil, Parmanand Patel, Aartidevi Maurya, Mahesh Rajput, Kamalaprasad Gond, Sopan Patil, Manoharlala Kumawat, Dinesh Bharti and Kishor Vishwas. The police said Patil had allegedly been running Mauli Clinic in Navagam of Dindoli for three years and had previously worked as a compounder at a hospital in Sangamner. He was also arrested in Aurangabad of Maharashtra, in 2024 in a case involving the alleged sale of fake pregnancy medicines. Patel had allegedly operated Manisha Clinic for five years, while Maurya, who had studied for a Bachelor of Arts degree, had run Aashi Clinic for one-and-a-half years. She had previously worked as a nurse at Amardeep Hospital in Godadara of Surat for five years, according to the police. Rajput had allegedly run Maya Clinic for eight years, while Gond had operated Krishna Clinic for 10 years. Gond had reportedly worked as a compounder at a hospital in Uttar Pradesh. Sopan Patil had allegedly operated Shree Sai Clinic for seven years and had studied electropathy. Kumawat, who had studied pharmacy, had reportedly run Shree Radhekrishna Clinic for six months. Bharti had allegedly operated Sahgar Clinic for three years, while Vishwas had run Sadguru Sant Kripal Clinic for six years. Both had studied up to Class 12 and had previously worked at other clinics or hospitals. The police said the accused had allegedly earned between Rs 1,000 and Rs 3,500 a day through their practices. The raids followed instructions from Surat Police Commissioner Wabang Jamir to identify clinics being run by people without medical degrees or on the basis of allegedly fabricated qualifications. SOG teams, acting under the supervision of DCP Nakum and the supervision of Police Inspector A.S. Sonara, conducted checks across the city before verifying the information about the Dindoli clinics. The seized material was valued at Rs 95,138. Cases have been registered against the nine accused at Dindoli police station. The District Health Department will initiate separate proceedings under the Clinical Establishments Act, officials said.
Gujarat: Rapid test kits mandatory for food traders ahead of Diwali
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 29 (IANS) Sweet, mawa and farsan traders with an annual turnover exceeding Rs five lakh will be required to keep rapid testing kits to check food adulteration during the Diwali festive season, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) said on Thursday, as it stepped up measures to safeguard public health. The decision was announced by Standing Committee chairman Kamlesh Patel after the civic body's weekly meeting. The AMC's Health Department has been instructed to ensure that the specified traders keep and use the kits, which cost around Rs 3,000 and can help detect the presence of starch in mawa as part of preliminary quality checks. The move follows recent incidents involving the sale of counterfeit and non-edible substances in the name of mawa. According to Patel, around 350 people have so far procured such kits, which can also be used by consumers to conduct preliminary checks for starch in food products. The civic body also decided to intensify inspections to curb water wastage and detect illegal water connections across Ahmedabad. Establishments with high water consumption, including car washing centres, paying guest accommodations and lodging and boarding facilities with a large number of rooms, will be inspected to verify the legality of their connections. The concerned department has been directed to take action in accordance with the rules and disconnect illegal connections found during the inspections. The committee also called for investigations into the roles of officials, alongside contractors, in two accidents reported in Ahmedabad over the past 15 days, including one at a sewage treatment plant (STP). The inquiry should establish whether the required safety equipment was available and safety standards were followed during work, including welding operations, at the STP plant, he said. The investigation will examine possible negligence by both contractors and the officials responsible for overseeing the work, rather than limiting action to penalties against contractors. In another decision, the AMC approved the modernisation and upgradation of existing activities at Kids City at Kankaria Lakefront, along with the introduction of new attractions for children. These will include a chocolate factory, a space exploration centre, a 'Khelo India' sports academy, a renewable energy technology centre, an aerodynamics and flight science laboratory, and a drone laboratory centre. The civic body will also reduce public lighting arrangements during Diwali to conserve electricity. From Dhanteras to Labh Pancham, lighting will be provided at seven locations, including six bridges over the Sabarmati River and the Bhadrakali Mata Temple. In previous years, the arrangements covered additional locations such as traffic circles, underpasses and government buildings. The lighting schedule will be reduced from the usual 7 pm to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. However, the lights will remain on throughout the night on Diwali and Bestu Varas, the Gujarati New Year.
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan approve settlement of pending Sardar Sarovar dues
The News Mill
Gujarats first woman kabaddi player in India squad eyes Commonwealth glory
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 29 (IANS) Sabhai Gadhvi, a kabaddi player from Mota Bhadia village in Kutch district, has become the first woman from Gujarat to earn a place in the Indian womens team, which has reached the semi-finals of the 'Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026' being held in Ahmedabad. Gadhvi, who has also been named Best Defender in one of the matches, is competing in the championship being held from October 23 to 31. Her selection follows years of training and participation in state and national-level competitions. Her journey began at Mota Bhadia Primary School No. 2, where principal Mayur Joshi and teacher Haresh Pandya recognised her talent and prepared her for competitions, including the state governments Khel Mahakumbh. After completing primary education, she joined Navjivan Vidyalaya in Morbi, where she trained under coaches Vijaykumar Chaudhary and Narsinh Rabari. In 2016, Gadhvi participated in the state-level Khel Mahakumbh in Vadodara, where her school team finished fourth. The following year, the team secured second place at the competition held in Bhavnagar. In 2018, she appeared for the District Level Sports School (DLSS) examination conducted by the Sports Authority of Gujarat (SAG) and secured the first rank across the state. She subsequently trained as a physical training (PT) player under the DLSS scheme from 2018 to 2022. Her performances and medal wins at national-level competitions led to her selection under the Centre of Excellence (COE) scheme in 2022. In 2024, she was selected for the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Gandhinagar, where she continues to train. Her achievements include a bronze medal in the Under-14 category and a gold medal in the Under-17 category at the Khel Mahakumbh, as well as a gold medal in the Under-19 category of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). She has also won gold medals in state-level sub-junior and senior competitions. Besides competing in various national tournaments, Gadhvi has participated in the Indian training camp for the 20th Asian Games. Her journey from a village school playground to the international championship highlights the role of grassroots sports development programmes in identifying and nurturing talent. Sabhai Gadhvis journey from the playground of Mota Bhadia to the global stage of Commonwealth kabaddi demonstrates the success of grassroots sports development initiatives such as DLSS. With proper guidance and unwavering hard work, the daughters of Gujarat can also reach for the skies, officials said. The Indian womens team has advanced to the semi-finals of the championship, with its next match awaited.
Gujarat: 320 arrested in 257 narcotics cases in Surat this year; ganja tops list with 178 cases
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 29 (IANS) Surat City Police registered 257 narcotics cases and arrested 320 people in 2026 so far, with cannabis accounting for the largest share of cases, according to data presented at a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (N-Cord) committee on Thursday. The meeting, chaired by the Surat Police Commissioner Wabang Jamir, reviewed action taken against drug-related activities and discussed measures to improve coordination between government agencies to curb drug trafficking and related offences. Of the 257 cases, 178 involved ganja, in which 219 people were arrested. The police reported seizing 414 kg of ganja, valued at Rs 1.92 crore. The remaining cases involved substances including MD drugs, hybrid ganja, brown sugar, heroin, opium, poppy husk, codeine syrup and intoxicating tablets. According to the data, 54 cases involving MD drugs led to the arrest of 70 people, with 2.211 kg of the substance valued at Rs 75.08 lakh. Six cases involving hybrid ganja resulted in the seizure of 778 grams, valued at Rs 27.23 lakh, and the arrest of seven people. The figures also recorded one brown sugar case, involving seven grams valued at Rs 1.40 lakh, and five heroin cases involving 58 grams valued at Rs 11.75 lakh. Five opium cases involved 3.339 kg valued at Rs 16.46 lakh. One case involving poppy husk led to the seizure of 1.767 kg valued at Rs 26,505. Three cases involving codeine syrup and one involving intoxicating tablets were also recorded. The total value of the seized substances was reported at Rs 3.34 crore, with 320 arrests across the 257 cases. The meeting also reviewed the work of the NDPS squads established at all police stations in Surat City on April 22, 2025, on the directions of the Police Commissioner. The police said the squads had helped improve the detection of cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. The N-Cord committee brings together representatives of 25 departments and agencies, including the district administration, Surat Municipal Corporation, Narcotics Control Bureau, Customs, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central GST, Forest Department, education and agriculture departments, the Indian Coast Guard, health authorities, the Prohibition and Excise Department and the Intelligence Bureau. The committee meets every month to review action taken during the preceding month, assess the prevailing drug situation and prepare an action plan for the next period. Its agenda includes monitoring narcotics trafficking, exchanging intelligence and ensuring that departments share information, including small but potentially significant leads, to support coordinated enforcement. The meeting sought to strengthen cooperation among the agencies so that information on narcotics-related activities could be exchanged more effectively and action taken through a coordinated effort.
Gujarat waives separate consent letters for eligible biogas plants to speed up approvals
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 29 (IANS) Eligible compressed biogas (CBG) and Bio-CNG plants in Gujarat will no longer need separate exemption letters or individual consent documents from the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), following a common notification aimed at simplifying regulatory procedures and reducing delays in obtaining government approvals. The GPCB issued the notification on October 28, implementing the revised White Category classification introduced by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Under the revised classification, eligible plants that use specified raw materials and meet prescribed conditions are exempt from obtaining Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) from the state pollution control board. The move is intended to ensure uniform implementation of the exemption across Gujarat and remove the need for individual units to approach the GPCB for separate clarification or exemption letters. The notification follows a GPCB circular dated October 23, which published a revised list of 768 industrial activities and products classified under the White Category in line with the CPCB's updated classification. Eligible CBG plants, subject to specified raw material requirements and other conditions, are listed at serial numbers 763 and 768. The exemption is expected to reduce correspondence and procedural delays, particularly for projects applying for registrations, permissions and financial assistance under government schemes. However, exemption from CTE and CTO does not absolve the plants of their environmental compliance obligations. Under notification G.S.R. 703(E), issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on November 12, 2024, eligible White Category units must notify the state pollution control board in the prescribed manner and submit a self-declaration confirming compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. The GPCB's latest notification also addresses instances in which government departments and other authorities have sought CTE, CTO or a separate no-objection certificate (NOC) from applicants for CBG and Bio-CNG projects during registration on the GOBARDHAN Unified Registration Portal or while processing applications for other permissions, registrations and government financial assistance. Under the clarification, government departments, registration authorities and other agencies do not need to demand separate CTE, CTO or NOC documents from the GPCB for eligible plants covered by the White Category exemption. Subject to applicable legal provisions and prescribed procedures, the authorities can proceed with applications on the basis of the required notification submitted to the GPCB. The revised White Category list and the notification are available on the GPCB's official website.
