Bhupender Yadav stresses scientific, community-led mangrove restoration
Digital Desk | Bhuj, Sep 13 (IANS) Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Sunday stressed restoration, scientific management, community participation and technology-enabled monitoring of mangroves, reminding the importance of these living ecosystems for coastal biodiversity, fisheries and shoreline protection. Addressing a Workshop on Mangrove Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable Management at Gujarats Bhuj, Kachchh, Yadav said that site-specific restoration techniques suited to the conditions of Kachchh have been adopted, alongside measures for biodiversity enhancement, seaweed cultivation and sustainable livelihoods. Reviewing Gujarat's mangrove conservation efforts under the MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes) programme, Yadav noted that the state has made significant progress in mangrove restoration, with 27,652 hectares covered against the 202327 target of 29,250 hectares, including 12,450 hectares in the ecologically challenging Kori Creek region. On the occasion, the Union Minister also released the Coffee Table Book on Kachchh Mangroves and the Mangroves Atlas of Gujarat, and launched the Mangrove GIS (MGIS) Portal, stating that these would strengthen science-based decision-making and monitoring of mangrove habitats across the state. The workshop was also addressed by Arjun Modhwadia, Cabinet Minister for Forest and Environment, Climate Change and Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat, and Trikambhai Chhanga, Minister of State for Higher and Technical Education, Government of Gujarat, who reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to mangrove conservation and coastal ecosystem restoration under MISHTI. Yadav also felicitated the Guneri Inland Mangrove Village Biodiversity Management Committee, commending its sustained community-led conservation of the Guneri inland mangroves a rare ecosystem thriving away from the coast which, he noted, was declared Gujarat's first Biodiversity Heritage Site in January 2025. The workshop was attended by senior officials of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Gujarat Forest Department, along with scientists, conservationists and representatives of local communities engaged in mangrove restoration and coastal livelihood initiatives in Kachchh.
We will introduce UCC by 2029 in all BJP-NDA ruled states: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Centre under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ushered in a new era of politics of performance by moving India away from corruption, casteism and dynastic politics. Addressing a press conference to announce a month-long campaign from September 17 to mark Modi's birthday and 25 years of his rule in Gujarat and at the Centre, Shah said Modi's tenure was studded with rare achievements, transforming India into a global powerhouse of security and economic might. Shah, who had multiple engagements in the city, also asserted that NDA governments in 21 states will introduce Uniform Civil Code before 2029. The campaign, 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' whose slogan is Jan Seva Hi Prabhu Seva, will seek to promote people's participation in the goal of making India a developed country by 2047, he said. Before 2014, Indian politics was suffering from three scourges -- corruption, casteism and dynastic politics. In the political era from 2014 to 2026,
Task force push for stability, security and transparency in Maharashtra competitive exams
Digital Desk | Pune, Sep 13 (IANS) In a major move to make Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) and other state competitive examinations more transparent, secure, stable, and candidate-centric, the high-level recruitment examination taskforce constituted by the state government held extensive consultations with students, teachers, parents, and key stakeholders, officials said on Sunday. The deliberation covered vital issues, including exam timetables, question paper quality, leak prevention, vacancy announcements, answer keys, exam centre logistics, grievance redressal, and candidate 'opting-out' policies. The Task Force operates under the chairmanship of V. Radha, Additional Chief Secretary (Services) of General Administration Department. The high-level committee comprises Director General of Police Sadanand Date; IT and AI Secretary of Electronics Virendra Singh; Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries Secretary N Ramaswami; Nashik Divisional Commissioner Pravin Gedam; Air Marshal Ajit Shankarrao Bhosale (Retired), former member of the UPSC; and Shyamprasad Kargudde from IIT Bombay. The state government formed the Taskforce amid MPSC exam paper leaks and ongoing protests by aspirants demanding the transparency and the resignation of MPSC Chairman Vivek Bhimanwar. MPSC candidates urged the taskforce to publish and strictly adhere to an annual examination calendar, emphasising the need for long-term procedural stability without frequent policy changes. Pre-declaring minimum vacancies for various cadres was also strongly recommended. Task Force Chairperson V. Radha announced that competitive examinations will not be conducted online for the coming year. Instead, they will be held using the Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheet pattern, for which standardised operating guidelines are currently being framed. To achieve a zero-leak environment, the committee plans to leverage advanced technology across question creation, printing, transport, and distribution. The Taskforce is evaluating an encrypted 'e-question bank' system where even the item writers remain unaware of which exam their questions will feature in. Students demanded rigorous quality checks to eliminate errors in question papers and answer keys, alongside standardised evaluation metrics and reviewer audits for answer script verification. Stakeholders called for a unified online portal for candidate queries and objections, as well as a single-window system for one-time registration and fee payment across all state exams. Emphasis was placed on ensuring basic amenities at test centers, including clean restrooms, drinking water, and appropriate seating arrangements. Participants advocated for a clear policy on post-selection candidate 'opting-out' to avoid seat wastage when a candidate qualifies for multiple posts, along with timely verification of disability and sports quota certificates. The Taskforce is studying operational models of public service commissions across the countryspecifically analysing systems in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)to adapt proven best practices for Maharashtra. Highlighting the growing operational load on the MPSC, officials stressed the urgent need to bolster the Commission's administrative workforce, technical capabilities, and organisational structure. Our objective is to build a faster, more transparent, and accountable officer selection process for the state, Director General of Police Sadanand Date said. Divisional Commissioner Sheetal Teli-Ugale, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Additional District Collector Satish Raut, and Resident Deputy Collector Jyoti Kadam were among the senior officials present during the consultation.
HM Shah credits PM Modi's stand for answering terror attack by entering Pak territory
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 13 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking a decisive stand and endorsing Operation Sindoor to answer a terrorist attack by entering Pakistans territory. Speaking at the 52nd India Gems and Jewellery Awards ceremony in Mumbai, HM Shah said, Who could have imagined that a terrorist attack would be answered by entering Pakistans territory, and that the country would have a Prime Minister capable of taking such a decisive stand? He said that whether it was the surgical strike, the air strike or Operation Sindoor, PM Modi has pursued a defence policy that makes the enemy think twice and tremble at the very thought of attacking India. The Home Minister said that whether it is the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the rejuvenation of Kedarnath or Mahakal Lok, India has accomplished what, for decades, people did not even have the courage to speak about. Highlighting the transformational economic changes brought about in the country by PM Modi over the past 12 years, HM Shah said that today India is among the top five economies of the world. The Home Minister said that PM Modi has given 140 crore people of the country the confidence and resolve that by August 15, 2047, India will emerge as the number one nation in the world across every sector. He said the changes brought about by PM Modi in the field of infrastructure have given a major boost to the economy. The Home Minister said that driven by PLI schemes and facilities aimed at promoting exports, Indias exports are continuing to surpass their own records. He said that the GDP figures for the first quarter of the current financial year were released recently, and with a growth rate of 7.8 per cent, India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. He said that this transformation has not been limited to economic activity alone; Prime Minister Modi has worked to bring about change across every sector. Those present on the occasion included Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and several other dignitaries. Addressing the awards ceremony, the Home Minister said that it is a matter of great happiness for him that the Gems and Jewellery Awards, which have continuously contributed to enhancing Indias economy, prosperity and global brilliance, are being conferred on so many distinguished achievers. He said that this initiative of the India Diamond Board is a reflection of Indias confidence, skill, prosperity and global aspirations. India will emerge as the global hub for gems and jewellery in the coming years.
UCC In All 21 NDA-Ruled States By 2029: Amit Shahs BIG Announcement On Uniform Civil Code
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed confidence that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be implemented in all 21 BJP and NDA-led states before 2029. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Shah said several states have already introduced the UCC. Madhya Pradesh recently approved the code in a special cabinet meeting, while Uttarakhand became the first state to pass a UCC law in February 2024. Gujarat and Assam have also passed UCC legislation, though they are awaiting presidential assent and notification. Uttarakhand has been enforcing the code since January 2025. Maharashtra, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh have formed drafting committees. Shah also highlighted the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, saying conviction rates rose in several states. He further claimed the NDA government had ended five decades of Naxalism and signed over 14 peace agreements in the Northeast.
Gujarat Police arrest Assam man in cybercrime, secure remand
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Freed Country From Policy Paralysis: Amit Shah On PM Modi's Leadership
Amit Shah said the last 25 years had witnessed epoch-making changes in Gujarat and the country, including in infrastructure and poverty reduction.
SC stays Gujarat HC proceedings on PIL seeking regulation of deepfakes
The Supreme Court stayed proceedings on a Gujarat HC PIL seeking regulation of AI-generated deepfakes while considering the Centre's plea to transfer the case
How Gujarat's villagers turned mangroves into a natural coastal shield
From Gujarat village to Oscars: How Bhavin Rabari became face of Chhello Show
Bhavin Rabari, a village boy with no formal training, emerged as a star in Pan Nalin's film as Samay. The acclaimed Chhello Show proudly represented India at the Oscars. His performance earned him the prestigious National Film Award for Best Child Artist, showcasing how cinema can illuminate forgotten talents and tell remarkable stories of achievement for young actors.
Border security: Anti-drone technology enables heroin smuggling decline in Punjab
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 13 (IANS) The Punjab Police said on Sunday that the multi-layered response to counter drone-based narcotic smuggling across the international border with Pakistan in coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF) has led to a decline in availability of heroin in Punjab. The police are deploying nine anti-drone systems, with three 'Baaj Akh' systems that have been operational in Amritsar, Tarn Taran and Ferozepur since August 2025, providing early detection and jamming of rogue drones. Three units of Drone Sense D200 Pro, a long-endurance mobile drone detection platform, deployed at strategic locations in border districts on September 3 showing results. The system precisely detects and pinpoints drone-related activity and actual dropping locations, enabling timely ground intervention. For immediate ground action, 52 drone response teams (DRT) with 147 police personnel work in close coordination with the BSF responding to drone alerts, reaching suspected drop locations, conduct searches and intercept persons collecting the dropped consignments. This response is supported by 64 second-line defence nakas with 600 police personnel and 2,367 CCTV cameras at 585 locations, a police spokesperson said. The Village Defence Committees (VDCs) in border areas have been integrated with the drone response teams. The VDCs serve as eyes and ears of the police. The Yudh Nashiyan Virudh campaign has resulted in arrest of nearly 80,000 people since March 1, 2025. A total of 486 drones have been recovered. Financial investigation is being used to disrupt the economic base of drug network with freezing of property worth more than Rs 336 crore. The reward policy for anti-drug information provides cash reward of Rs 25,000 for every drone recovery and nearly Rs 2 crore has been disbursed under the reward policy this year. The spokesperson said latest trends indicate that pharmaceutical drugs smuggled from other states have emerged as the most important challenge in drug law enforcement in Punjab. According to data analysed from pharmaceutical seizures in the state, most of the pharmaceutical drugs are not manufactured in Punjab and are manufactured in Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, etc.
Supreme Court Pauses Gujarat Deepfake PIL: Are Your Compliance Duties Still Active?
The Supreme Court has stayed the Gujarat deepfake PIL, but India's IT Rules remain in full effect. Learn what this means for platforms, creators, and AI startups regarding compliance, takedowns, and labelling requirements in 2026.
Daman is stepping into the spotlight as a captivating heritage tourism spot, shedding its previous reputation. Billionaire industrialist Anand Mahindra expressed this remarkable change on his X platform. Visitors can now enjoy beautifully restored forts and pristine beaches, with sites like Moti Daman Fort and Jampore Beach offering rich historical and scenic experiences. Convenient transport options by air, rail, and road enhance Daman's appeal as a travel destination.
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Sep 13 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said on Sunday that the three-day investment outreach in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 11 will prove to be one of the biggest milestones in the state's journey towards achieving the goal of a Samruddha Odisha. Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister was also accorded a grand welcome by party leaders and workers at the Bhubaneswar Airport upon his arrival after concluding his five-day visit to the UAE from September 8 to 12. Briefing the media, CM Majhi said, Our effort is aimed at promoting Odisha's economic growth and, in particular, creating employment on a large scale. We have placed a major focus on how more employment opportunities can be created and how more employment can come to the state. This will certainly prove to be one of the biggest milestones in our efforts to build a prosperous Odisha. He also added that the double-engine government in Odisha have been consistently making the best possible use of the political and administrative capabilities to give priority to industrialisation and create new employment opportunities. The Chief Minister noted that after the 'Utkarsh Odisha Make in Odisha Conclave' in Bhubaneswar in January 2025, the state government has been making continuous efforts to mobilise investment through outreach programmes in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Gujarat to Singapore. During the visit of Chief Minister Majhi, Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, and senior government officials to the UAE from September 8 to 12, extensive discussions and deliberations were held on September 9, 10, and 11 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai regarding investments in Odisha. During the UAE visit, discussions were held with around 400 industrial leaders and representatives through a total of 52 business meetings, six roundtable meetings, and 46 one-to-one meetings. Chief Minister Majhi also said that the delegation also held discussions with the representatives of Oman and Jordan during his investment outreach initiative. During this visit, a total of eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed and 16 Investment Intents were generated, fetching investment proposals worth Rs 2,43,162 crore for the state. CM Majhi said this initiative will create 6,18,725 direct opportunities. Including indirect jobs, around nine lakh total employment opportunities will be generated, he added. The Chief Minister said that along with the previously secured investment proposals worth more than Rs 20 lakh crore, the state's total investment proposals have now reached Rs 22.5 lakh crore. He said the efforts are underway to realise the vision of a prosperous Odisha by 2036 and to transform the state into a 500-billion-dollar economy within the next ten years. CM Majhi noted that following the initial success, the state government's next target is to implement the investment proposals and MoUs quickly and commence production.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Takes E-Bus Ride As 30 PM-eBus Sewa Buses Begin Service In Gandhinagar
Manasi Joshi Roy reminisces about connecting with Lord Ganesha ahead of Ganpati celebrations
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 13 (IANS) Actress Manasi Joshi Roy, who essays the titular role in the television show Lakshmi Niwas, has recollected when she first connected with Lord Ganpati ahead of the Ganpati celebrations in the entertainment capital of the country. The actress reflected on cultural significance of festivities while growing up in a Gujarati Brahmin household in Mumbai. Talking about the same, she told IANS, Growing up in a Gujarati Brahmin household his presence was always there in my life. But the moment we both connected was in 1992. That was the year I met & fell in love with the man who is my husband today. And as we stood together doing Aarti at his aunts house ;Like any young girl newly in love I was praying that all would be well in our relationship & I felt an unknown pull, a connect which seemed to tell me that HE was listening to my prayers. And subsequently every year I would stand in front of HIM & pray for love & happiness. Life still was full of ups & downs but my Faith in HIM & other beliefs helped me to ride every storm. She took a walk down the memory lane, as she spoke about bringing Lord Ganpati home during the 1st year of her marriage to actor Rohit Roy. She further mentioned, One such year as I had stood there doing Aarti I had taken a mannat (vow) that I would bring him home when I got married. And so that one time he came to our house in the 1st year of my marriage in 1999. It felt beautiful & right, holy & spiritual. Many years passed after that & he has retained his special place in my temple & my heart. In 2008, my 6 year old daughter came home the day before Ganesh Chaturthi demanding to know why we weren't getting Ganu home? My brother in law had been bringing him home since many years & she had just come back from their house where all the preparations were in full swing. This had excited her & she wanted all that festivity in her house too. So like any indulgent parents we decided to bring HIM home that year. Off we rushed to choose the Murti , the decorator was called, sweets, flowers & fruits ordered, friends & relatives invited & we were ready to welcome him home. And somewhere in our hearts we were glad that she had insisted we bring him home because we wanted to have his presence in our house too. We loved the festivity & the fervour that went on for these 10 days. And I always felt a deep sense of gratitude when I stood in front of him. During the 1st Aarti I'd inevitably get tears in my eyes, she added. Lakshmi Niwas airs on Zee TV.
3-day World Circular Economy Forum 2026 to begin in Gandhinagar from Sep 15
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 13 (IANS) Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has began discussions on reusing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials at the thee-day World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 which will begin in Gandhinagar on September 15, an official said. India hosting the WCEF 2026 would be a first for South Asia, the official said in a statement on Sunday. The forum, to be organised under the theme 'Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity', would be jointly inaugurated by Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The objective of WCEF 2026 is to showcase India's initiatives for promoting circularity and enhancing international cooperation, the statement said. The event is being jointly organised by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, Finland government, India's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Gujarat, and Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB). The event would witness participation of more than 2,000 cross-sectoral stakeholders from 65-plus countries, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, policymakers, academicians, changemakers and others. The forum will enable global collaboration and greater engagement with the Global South; facilitate mobilising of circular finance and private-sector investment; encourage policy dialogue and cross-sectoral partnerships; while advancing innovation, digitalisation and technology for circularity. Circularity focuses on reusing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products and looping them back into the economy as valuable resources. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is leading a major transformation in environmental governance, moving toward a modern circular economy, the statement added. Other dignitaries who would join the inaugural session would include Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change (Gujarat) Arjunbhai Modhwadia and Ambassador of Finland Mikko Kivikoski, along with senior officials from the Union government and Gujarat government. On September 15 and 16, the forum would feature four plenaries and 16 parallel thematic sessions on application of AI, employment potential, energy production, finance, governance, sustainable products, industrial solutions, start-up ecosystem and youth leadership, the statement added. Further at the event, an expo featuring 125-plus national and international exhibitors would showcase practical circular solutions developed by start-ups and investment-ready innovations. On the sidelines of WCEF, the Board of 10 Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (10 YFP) would hold its in-person meeting, on September 15 at Gandhinagar, the statement said. India has recently assumed the role of Co-Chair of 10 YFP Board, reflecting its long-standing leadership in promoting sustainable consumption and production. On September 17 and 18, global collaborators will independently organise 80 accelerator sessions online/hybrid and in person at Gandhinagar and other locations worldwide, the statement added.
Gujarat deputy chief minister inaugurates new healthcare facilities at Surat Civil Hospital
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Supply of 40 Airbus aircraft to Defence Ministry taxable; AAR says Gujarat GST registration required
Ruling comes as Tata Advanced Systems assembles 40 aircraft in Vadodara under Airbus 21,935-crore contract with the Ministry of Defence.
Tejashwi Yadav accuses Centre of 'stepmotherly' treatment in Bihar flood relief
Tejashwi Yadav criticises the Centre's alleged stepmotherly treatment of Bihar regarding flood relief. He stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi provides quick assurances for Gujarat's flood situations. Yadav mentioned writing to the Prime Minister demanding national disaster status and financial aid. He questioned the Bihar Chief Minister's ability to secure central assistance for the state. The opposition leader claimed his letters to the Prime Minister received no response.
India to host World Circular Economy Forum 2026 in Gandhinagar from Sep 15
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) India will host the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 15 to 18, marking the first time the global forum will be held in South Asia, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said on Sunday. The forum will be organised under the theme Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity and will be jointly inaugurated on September 15 by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel. The inaugural session will also be attended by Gujarat Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia, Ambassador of Finland to India Mikko Kivikoski and Marieke Spijkerboer from the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, along with senior officials from the Centre and Gujarat government. The ministry said circularity focuses on reusing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products and returning them to the economy as valuable resources. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, India is undertaking a major transformation in environmental governance with a focus on advancing a modern circular economy. WCEF 2026 is being jointly organised by the Central Pollution Control Board, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, Government of Finland, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Gujarat and Gujarat Pollution Control Board. The forum is expected to bring together more than 2,000 stakeholders from over 65 countries, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, researchers, policymakers, academicians and other changemakers. It will showcase Indias initiatives on circularity and provide a platform for strengthening international cooperation, particularly with the Global South. The event will also focus on mobilising circular finance and private-sector investment, promoting policy dialogue and cross-sector partnerships, and advancing innovation, digitalisation and technology for circularity. On September 15 and 16, the forum will feature four plenary sessions and 16 parallel thematic sessions covering areas including artificial intelligence, employment potential, energy production, finance, governance, sustainable products, industrial solutions, start-up ecosystems and youth leadership. An exhibition featuring more than 125 national and international exhibitors will showcase practical circular solutions developed by start-ups as well as investment-ready innovations. On the sidelines of the forum, the Board of the 10 Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (10 YFP) will hold an in-person meeting in Gandhinagar on September 15.
Elephant Madhuri Returns Home After Yearlong Treatment
After more than a year of treatment and rehabilitation at Vantara in Gujarat, Madhuri has returned to Nandani in Kolhapur. Thousands of villagers and devotees gathered to welcome her home, with rangolis, flowers and fresh fruits arranged for her arrival.
From four Gujarat shrines, BJP bike yatras set out for Vadnagar ahead of Varanasi journey
From four Gujarat shrines, BJP bike yatras set out for Vadnagar ahead of Varanasi journey Ahmedabad: Four bike yatras carrying holy water from four prominent religious places in Gujarat began on Sunday as part of the BJPs Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, with around 500 party workers travelling on 250 motorcycles towards Vadnagar, the birthplace of Prime [] The post From four Gujarat shrines, BJP bike yatras set out for Vadnagar ahead of Varanasi journey appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Subhash Ghai praises PM Modi over BRICS summit, says only he can do it
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 13 (IANS) Filmmaker Subhash Ghai praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his global stature and congratulated him on the occasion of BRICS 2026, saying that world leaders respect him. Taking to Instagram, Ghai shared a message highlighting the importance of positivity, love and unity, while expressing pride in the Prime Minister. Sharing pictures of the Prime Minister, he wrote, Only he can do it Love begets love. Smiles create positive energies N our history has proved that only positivity can terminate negativity n grow humanity in this world. Why we shud not be proud of our Prime minister sh Modi where every president n premiers respect him we love him Congratulations Brics 2026. The pictures show Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting and interacting with delegates at the summit. Sharing the photographs, Ghai wrote, Only he can do it. Love begets love. Smiles create positive energies... The pictures show Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting and interacting with delegates at the summit. Last month, Subhash Ghai recalled the encouraging words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 17 years ago, when he had approached him with the idea of setting up Whistling Woods International. The Taal director said that he had initially expected to encounter bureaucratic hurdles but was surprised by the enthusiasm with which Modi, who was then the Chief Minister of Gujarat, welcomed the idea and helped ensure its fast execution. The Twitter handle Modi Story had recently uploaded a video of Ghai in which he recalled his 2009 visit to Gujarat, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of the state. The then Chief Minister had invited the filmmaker for breakfast at his residence. During the meeting, as Ghai presented his vision to Modi, he told him that education without an artistic perspective could not lead to holistic human development, and that cinema could play an important role in achieving it. Modi had appreciated the idea and asked Ghai, What do you need? The director had requested some land to set up an institute. I asked for land to which teachers are also able to commute easily, recalled Ghai.
Indian Railways freight loading rises 5.4 pc in August, passenger traffic also sees strong growth
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Indian Railways recorded a 5.4 per cent year-on-year increase in freight loading in August 2026, while passenger traffic also grew during the month, reflecting sustained demand for rail-based transportation across the country, according to the Ministry of Railways on Sunday. The national transporter loaded 137.9 million tonnes of freight in August 2026, compared with 130.9 million tonnes in the same month last year. Freight revenue also increased by 6.27 per cent year-on-year during the month. The growth in freight movement was supported by higher loading of several key commodities. Iron ore loading rose 12.1 per cent, followed by clinker at 10.4 per cent, domestic containers at 9.2 per cent and coal at 6 per cent. Finished steel loading increased 4.9 per cent, while mineral oil and fertilizers recorded growth of 3.1 per cent and 1.6 per cent, respectively. Loading of other goods increased 8.2 per cent. The increase in freight movement is expected to strengthen rail-based supply chains for industries and improve the movement of essential commodities, raw materials and finished goods across regions. The railway network also expanded its freight-handling infrastructure during the month with the commissioning of five new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs). The new terminals are located at Shivlakha in Gujarat, Nalli in Tamil Nadu, Shaktinagar in Uttar Pradesh, Deoragram in Madhya Pradesh and Brajrajnagar in Odisha. With these additions, the cumulative number of commissioned Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals reached 149 as of August 31, 2026. The terminals are aimed at bringing freight-handling facilities closer to production and consumption centres and improving the efficiency of cargo movement. On the passenger side, Indian Railways carried 67.27 crore passengers in August 2026, compared with 64.43 crore in August 2025. Suburban passenger traffic registered particularly strong growth of 9.02 per cent, rising to 38.01 crore passengers from 34.89 crore a year earlier. Indian Railways also expanded regular passenger connectivity during August by regularising 14 Amrit Bharat services, taking the total number of Amrit Bharat services to 86. The regularised services include routes such as Subedarganj-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Gorakhpur-Bandra Terminus, Gorakhpur-Delhi Jn, Ahmedabad-Bhagalpur, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus-Prayagraj Jn, Prayagraj Jn-Udhna Jn and Dhanbad-Coimbatore.
5 Years of Governance: Gujarat Steps Up Digital Infrastructure Push Under Bhupendra Patel
Gujarat is stepping up efforts to emerge as a major data centre hub under CM Bhupendra Patel, with focus on digital infrastructure, investment and jobs.
India weather today: The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall across several regions. Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is expected over the Gujarat region and Madhya Maharashtra. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds are predicted for many states. Heavy rainfall advisories have been issued for states including Rajasthan and Telangana. Other regions like Arunachal Pradesh and Assam also anticipate significant rainfall.
PM Modis birthday to be celebrated with month long campaign: Ex DyCM
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch its month-long Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan on September 17, marking the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and commemorating his 25 years of dedicated public service, with 8.5 lakh diyas to be illuminated across J&K and blood donation camps organized across the Union Territory as the opening initiatives. The campaign, continuing till October 17, will take a series of service-oriented programmes to every section of society, with special emphasis on youth participation and grassroots outreach. Former Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh, accompanied by BJP J&K general secretary Baldev Singh Billawaria, BJP J&K general secretary and Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan Incharge Gopal Mahajan and media incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, stated this during a press conference at BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, and outlined the extensive programme. Dr Nirmal Singh said that the Abhiyan reflected the spirit of 25 years of Narendra Modis public life, marked by uninterrupted dedication to the nation, first as Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequently as Prime Minister of India. He said that under Modis leadership, India moved with confidence towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, adding that the objective of the campaign was not merely to commemorate a birthday but to connect people with the larger national development journey. He said that the ambitious programme would be taken from the national level right down to every booth, involving common citizens and particularly the youth. He highlighted that Aashirwad Ka Diya would reach households across J&K, with a target of 100 diyas at every booth, symbolising peoples participation in the journey of a developed India. Blood donation camps would simultaneously be organised by BJYM on September 17, while blood testing facilities would also be arranged for those who were unable to donate on the day. Giving an overview, Gopal Mahajan said that the BJP observed service programmes every year around the Prime Ministers birthday, but this year the party expanded the initiative into a month-long Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan from September 17 to October 17, with the purpose of making service a mass movement. He said the campaign would include Aashirwad Ka Diya, Seva ChitraSapno Ka Bharat, Namo SevaUnkahi Kahaniyan, Aangan Milan Sewa, Sewa Ke RangRashtra Ke Sang, Sewa Jyoti Yatra, Sewa Mera Yogdan, Sewa Setu Abhiyan and Jan Sewak Mahakumbh, among other programmes. Explaining the programmes, Dr Nirmal Singh said Sewa ChitraSapno Ka Bharat would engage the younger generation through drawing and speech competitions, taking the message of Indias history, present achievements and the vision of Viksit Bharat to students. Through Namo SevaUnkahi Kahaniyan, nukkad nataks would narrate stories of development and positive transformation taking place on the ground. Aangan Milan Sewa would highlight the contribution of Anganwadi centres and those working at the grassroots, while Sewa Ke RangRashtra Ke Sang will use traditional rangoli activities with organic materials to spread the message of national service.
India clinches consensus on UN reform
New Delhi, Sep 12:Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a major diplomatic triumph on Saturday as leaders of the expanded BRICS bloc unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration, enshrining support for Indias bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, pushing back against Western trade barriers, and initiating concrete moves toward financial clearing mechanisms that bypass the US dollar. The 140-point joint declaration, agreed on the opening day of the two-day summit at the Bharat Mandapam convention centre, marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of the grouping. The document capped months of extensive negotiations led by New Delhi across more than 400 meetings in 30 Indian cities, framing India as the central bridge between an increasingly polarized West and a demanding Global South. Convening under the Indian presidencys theme Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability, the heads of state of the newly expanded bloc issued their most forceful challenge yet to the post-World War II global order. The communiqu declared that current multilateral architectures are fundamentally misaligned with contemporary multipolar realities and called for structural decentralisation across international politics and finance. In a direct endorsement of Indias core strategic goal, permanent Security Council members China and Russia explicitly reiterated their backing for the aspirations of India and Brazil to play a greater role in the United Nations, including permanent membership on the Security Council. The declaration similarly endorsed the legitimate aspirations of African states under the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, demanding that council reform amplify developing voices. The summit took aim at executive appointments across international bodies, highlighting that in the ongoing selection of the next UN Secretary-General, no woman has ever been elected, while only two nationals from Asia, two from Africa, and one from Latin America have ever held the role. Invoking Article 101 of the UN Charter, leaders demanded an end to national monopolies over senior executive posts and deplored efforts by certain states to undermine multilateral bodies by deliberately withholding assessed budgetary dues. Addressing historical injustices, the summit welcomed UN General Assembly Resolution 80/250 declaring the trafficking and racialised chattel enslavement of Africans as humanity's gravest crime, urged the complete eradication of colonialism under Resolution 79/115, and backed a proposal by South Africa and Brazil to establish an international panel on inequality under Sustainable Development Goal 10. New Delhi also steered an aggressive critique of international financial architecture. Reaffirming the BRICS Rio de Janeiro Vision and the Diriyah Guiding Principles, the leaders demanded the immediate implementation of the IMFs 16th General Review of Quotas and swift realignment under the 17th review. The declaration insisted that emerging market quota increases must match their true economic weight, without coming at the expense of poorer nations, and warned that voluntary financial contributions must never dictate quota allocation or governance representation. It also called for open, merit-based leadership selection at the IMF and World Bank to dismantle historical Western appointments. On trade, the leaders hit out at unilateral protectionism and unilateral carbon border adjustment measures (CBAM), characterizing them as discriminatory distortions violating World Trade Organisation principles. The bloc demanded the immediate restoration of the WTOs paralysed dispute-settlement Appellate Body, welcomed the accession procedures of Iran and Ethiopia, and commended Chinas zero-tariff programme for 53 African nations. Extraterritorial sanctions and secondary coercive economic measures drew unanimous condemnation, with leaders warning that such restrictions violate international law, sever critical supply chains, and infringe on fundamental human rights to development. To shield member states from unilateral financial sanctions, India helped steer tangible economic deliverables aimed at reducing reliance on Western financial plumbing. The BRICS Payment Task Force was mandated to broaden local currency settlements and test technical interoperability between member states domestic interbank messaging networks and central bank payment rails. Progress was registered on creating a BRICS Insurance Resilience Centre, alongside a review of an Indian proposal to locate an open-access BRICS Risk Lab inside the GIFT City International Financial Services Centre in Gujarat. Members also advanced structural revisions to strengthen liquidity responsiveness under the Contingent Reserve Arrangement Treaty ahead of its ninth operational test run, expanded pilot operations under the BRICS Multilateral Guarantees facility, and drafted steps for a member-driven New Investment Platform. Catering to Indias substantial small-business sector, the leaders agreed to examine an Indian-championed cross-border Invoice Discounting Mechanism under the Jaipur Consensus to provide liquidity for micro, small, and medium-sized exporters. The summit endorsed operationalising the BRICS Grain Exchange to protect against global food and fertiliser price shocks, and advanced feasibility work on an autonomous, high-speed submarine telecommunications cable network linking members directly. The New Development Bank, marking its 10th year of operations, was directed to expand local-currency loan disbursements. On foreign policy and international security, the summit expressed profound alarm over military escalation across the Middle East. The declaration condemned attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, and IAEA-inspected nuclear installations, while demanding immediate compliance with UNSC Resolution 2803 following violations of the October 2025 Gaza ceasefire agreement. The leaders rejected any demographic alterations or forced displacement of Palestinians, insisted on full humanitarian access via UNRWA, and called for the admission of the State of Palestine as a full U.N. member based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. The communiqu also condemned breaches of Lebanese sovereignty under UNSC Resolution 1701, demanding complete Israeli military withdrawal, and strongly condemned strikes against the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) that resulted in the deaths of four Indonesian peacekeepers. BRICS called for the total withdrawal of unauthorised foreign forces occupying Syrian territory under UNSC Resolution 2254, urged an immediate, permanent ceasefire in Sudan under the principle of African solutions to African problems, and called for the prompt termination of unilateral economic embargoes against Cuba. On security, Indian negotiators secured unified language unequivocally condemning terrorism in all forms, specifically citing the April 2025 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The declaration demanded zero tolerance, rejected double standards, urged coordinated crackdowns on UN-designated terrorist outfits, and pressed for the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. The summit also pledged intelligence-sharing between financial intelligence units to combat cyber scam syndicates, illicit virtual asset exploitation, and international arms trafficking. The document codified wide-ranging operational initiatives across technical sectors, approving an Integrated Early Warning System for Mass Infectious Diseases, pharmaceutical regulatory integration under the BRICS GXP White Paper, and a mental health network anchored by India's National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). Marking the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarins space flight, the bloc amended its Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation framework to integrate new member space agencies, drafted Terms of Reference for a BRICS Space Council, and reiterated calls for a binding treaty prohibiting outer-space weapons. Leaders approved a joint declaration on the global governance of artificial intelligence, created the BRICS Incubator Network, and began reviews for a shared startup innovation fund. The declaration codified the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2030, establishing unified norms for green hydrogen certification, smart grids, and gig-worker social protections through the newly established BRICS CONNECT initiative. Following the conclusion of the New Delhi summit, India will formally hand over the rotating BRICS chairship to China, which will host the 19th summit in 2027.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V and Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel discuss collaboration on sustainable development initiatives in Gandhinagar. Prince Rahim Aga Khan V Meets Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel to Discuss Ground-Level Development Cooperation
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Textile workers press for 8-hour workday, weekly off
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 12 (IANS) Gujarat BJP in-charge Tarun Chugh concluded a five-day organisational tour of six districts in the state on Saturday, with a visit to Vadodara district where he held meetings with party office-bearers, elected representatives and cooperative leaders to review organisational work and discuss coordination in public service. Chugh, along with state BJP Organisation General Secretary Ratnakar, visited Gandhinagar, Kheda, Panchmahal, Dahod, Chhota Udepur and Vadodara between September 8 and 12. During the tour, meetings were held with party functionaries and other stakeholders to review the organisation's functioning and discuss measures to make it more active and stronger. During the Vadodara visit, Chugh and Ratnakar held separate meetings with organisational office-bearers, elected public representatives, cooperative leaders and the district coordination committee at the district BJP office. The meetings covered organisational planning, ongoing activities and programmes under the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. Discussions also focused on strengthening coordination between the party organisation and public service activities. At the meeting with elected representatives and cooperative leaders, the BJP leaders called for continuous public contact at the local level and efforts to ensure the quick resolution of people's problems through public service activities. They also stressed the need to ensure that various government schemes reach every eligible beneficiary through saturation coverage. The meeting with the district coordination committee focused on improving coordination between organisational activities and public welfare work, as well as ensuring their effective implementation. The visit was attended by state BJP General Secretary Hitendrasinh Chauhan, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha national president and MP Hemang Joshi, state vice-president Rasik Prajapati, Vadodara district BJP president B.J. Brahmbhatt, district in-charge Dr Ritvij Patel, MLAs, party office-bearers, cooperative leaders, senior members and other party workers. The organisational tour was aimed at reviewing the party's functioning across the six districts and metropolitan areas and providing guidance on strengthening its organisational activities and coordination with public service initiatives, party sources said.
Surjewala seeks welfare board for Surat diamond workers, says exports fell to USD 12 bn
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 12 (IANS) Newly appointed Gujarat Congress in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Singh Surjewala on Saturday demanded the creation of a welfare board for diamond workers in Surat, claiming an economic crisis in the industry and a fall in diamond exports from USD 24 billion to USD 12 billion. Surjewala, who arrived in Ahmedabad on Saturday, said 12-14 lakh diamond workers in Surat are facing economic difficulties amid an international slowdown and policy-related challenges. He demanded a Diamond Workers' Welfare Board to provide salary security for up to 24 months, meet medical expenses and provide financial assistance to workers' families during periods of unemployment. He also sought relief for Surat's textile industry, including the removal of the five per cent GST on fabric and relief on job work, saying this is necessary to revive textile centres such as Surat, Tiruppur and Ludhiana. Surjewala made the remarks while addressing a press conference at Rajiv Gandhi Bhavan following his first extended meeting with senior leaders and office-bearers of the Gujarat Congress after taking charge as the party's state in-charge. He said the Congress would begin a fresh campaign for a ew, strong, progressive and employment-oriented Gujarat based on what he described as Mahatma Gandhi's four fundamental principles of ruth, courage, organisation and movement. On education, Surjewala said around 20 incidents of paper leaks and irregularities, including the BAMS surgery examination, are a serious concern. The Congress would raise the issue and challenge the government over the impact on the future of young people, he said. He said state leaders, MLAs and office-bearers would submit issues and suggestions from their respective areas, which would be compiled into a New Agenda for New Gujarat. The party would then formulate a movement-oriented programme focused on people's issues. State party president Amit Chavda said farmers, youth and other sections are facing various difficulties, including economic distress, unemployment, inflation and rising costs of education and healthcare. The Congress would work as a united team to fight for the rights and issues of people across the state, he asserted.
Gujarats Jal Jeevan Mission data had discrepancies, reporting flaws: CAG
The implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Gujarat was marked by discrepancies in data and reporting, with the CAG finding a mismatch between state-level claims and district records. While the e-Jalshakti portal and state plan showed 100% tap coverage by October 2022, district plans showed 1.48 million households pending coverage in April 2024.
Gujarat Deputy CM Praises Bhupendra Patels Anti-Corruption Efforts
Gujarats Deputy CM highlights Chief Minister Bhupendra Patels effective anti-corruption measures during a major development project launch. Gujarat Deputy CM Praises Bhupendra Patels Anti-Corruption Efforts
Gujarat Chief Minister Highlights Urgent Need for Coastal Environmental Protection
CM Bhupendra Patel emphasizes climate change and coastal erosion at a national conference, advocating for sustainable development in Gujarat. Gujarat Chief Minister Highlights Urgent Need for Coastal Environmental Protection
National conference on coastal ecology concludes at Gujarat University with CM Bhupendra Patel
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Gujarat CM flags coastal erosion, marine pollution as key challenges
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 12 (IANS) Climate change, rising sea levels, coastal erosion, marine pollution and plastic waste have emerged as major global concerns, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said on Saturday, stressing that economic development along the coastline must go hand in hand with environmental protection and conservation of marine biodiversity. Patel was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the national conference on 'Coastal Ecology, Security and Sustainability' held at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. He said that development should ensure that progress goes hand in hand with conservation of nature, industry with environmental protection and employment with the protection of marine biodiversity. Gujarat's coastline is not just a geographical boundary; it is a pathway to development, a gateway to maritime trade, a symbol of cultural heritage, and a source of livelihood for lakhs of people, Patel added. He said that Gujarat had a long maritime tradition, noting that traders from the state had connected with the wider world through the ancient port of Lothal thousands of years ago. Today, ports such as Mundra and Kandla have placed Gujarat on the global trade map, he added. Patel said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recognised the potential of the coastline and envisioned it as a gateway for the development of ports, trade, industry, energy, fisheries, tourism and the environment. He added that the approach was reflected in the country's Blue Economy policy and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Saptadhara'. The Chief Minister highlighted the ecological role of mangroves, saying they act as natural protective barriers for coastal villages, support fishermen's livelihoods and provide habitats for several aquatic species. During cyclones and storms, mangroves serve as a natural shield for coastal areas, he said. While stressing the importance of government efforts for mangrove conservation and plantation, Patel said protecting nature could not be the responsibility of the government alone and that conservation of coastal ecology was a shared responsibility of the government and society. He also described traditional marine fishing communities, or Sagar Khedus, as guardians of the sea and said their livelihoods and safety were being strengthened through the 'Sagarkhedu Sarvangi Vikas Yojana', modern boats, diesel subsidies, safety equipment and satellite-based navigation facilities. Technology could play an increasingly important role in maritime security, with satellite monitoring, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, drones and smart boats helping to monitor and secure the sea, he said. He added that Gujarat's coordination of technology, administration and human sensitivity had helped achieve zero casualties during cyclones, showcasing that while disasters could not be prevented, loss of life could be minimised through preparedness. He said that Gujarat could develop a new model of growth through green ports, sustainable shipping, coastal connectivity, sustainable fisheries and responsible coastal tourism. The economy and environment are not in conflict but can grow together, he added. Patel said the ideas emerging from the conference should provide new direction to government policies rather than remaining limited to discussions and paper presentations. During the programme, Chief Minister Patel launched a digital platform for Gujarat University alumni and inaugurated the university's historical digital repository.
CM Patel made corrupt officials drink Gangajal in Gujarat: Deputy CM
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 12 (IANS) Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Saturday praised Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's approach to combating corruption, saying Patel's actions against corrupt officials had been more significant than his public statements. Speaking at a programme where development works worth Rs 1,848 crore were inaugurated and launched in Gandhinagar, Sanghavi said: Bhupendra Patel is not in the habit of speaking much; he is in the habit of working directly. Our Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has made the highest number of corrupt officials in the entire country drink Gangajal. Sanghavi said the state government under Patel had consistently taken decisions keeping citizens' interests at the centre and without political vendetta. The Chief Minister continued to announce development works one after another, he said. Turning to Gandhinagar's transformation, Sanghavi said the city was once identified primarily with the Secretariat but had now become an active urban centre with modern facilities, education, industry, trade and cultural activities. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, important facilities and projects had been developed in Gandhinagar and surrounding areas, he asserted. He cited universities, the Helipad Exhibition Ground, GIFT City and Mahatma Mandir among the projects that had become part of Gandhinagar's identity. He said the city had also undergone a visible change in its evening and night-time activity. Earlier, the streets of Gandhinagar would become deserted after evening. Today, the situation has changed. Gandhinagar has become a city that remains vibrant until late at night, and the streets that remained deserted years ago can now be seen bustling with activity, he said. Sanghavi also highlighted the government's support for Navratri, saying the festival is an important part of Gujarat's cultural identity. Citizens had been given the opportunity to play garba and worship Maa Amba until late at night, while efforts had been made to create an environment in which small traders could also receive business comparable to that during Diwali, he said. He said the government's working style under Patel had been based on taking direct and quick decisions and delivering development works to citizens one after another. The Deputy CM also appealed to citizens to share responsibility for cleanliness and support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cleanliness campaign. Sanghvi said even educated and degree-holding people were sometimes seen throwing water bottles, wafer packets and other waste in public places. Such behaviour increased the workload of sanitation workers, he said. He urged citizens to collectively resolve not to litter and to fulfil their responsibility towards keeping public spaces clean. The Deputy CM also congratulated residents on the Rs 1,848 crore development package and called for continued public participation in the city's development journey. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Sanghavi jointly flagged off around 30 new e-buses and travelled in one of them as ordinary passengers from the venue to the Ministers' Residential Complex.
Gujarat man held for allegedly posing as IAF Squadron Leader, cheating job seeker of Rs 1.95 lakh
Digital Desk | Rajkot, Sep 12 (IANS) The Rajkot city police have arrested a 33-year-old man for allegedly posing as a Squadron Leader of the Indian Air Force (IAF)'s Suryakiran team on Instagram and cheating a complainant of Rs 1.95 lakh on the promise of securing an Air Force job. The accused, identified as Pratik Bhardwaj, was arrested by a team of Gandhigram-2 (University) Police Station following a technical analysis of the online fraud. Police said the accused had created an Instagram page in the name of Pratik Bhardwaj and claimed that he was serving as a Squadron Leader in the Flying Branch of the Suryakiran team, Squadron 52, at Bidar Air Force Station in Karnataka. According to the police, Bhardwaj gained the complainant's confidence through social media and offered to help secure a job in the Air Force. He allegedly induced the complainant to transfer money online in instalments to bank accounts, with the total amount reaching Rs 1.95 lakh. A case was registered at Gandhigram-2 (University) Police Station under Sections 318(4), 319(2) and 204 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act. The investigation was conducted under the supervision of Police Inspector K K Gohil, with Assistant Sub -Inspector (ASI) Sanjaybhai Thakar, Police Head Constable Rahul Thakur, Police Constable Savanbhai Vasoya and Traffic Regulation Brigade personnel Hemangbhai Rajeshbhai involved in the probe, officials said. Police said technical analysis helped establish the identity of the accused, following which he was arrested and legal proceedings were initiated against him. Bhardwaj was residing in a rented house belonging to a person identified as Deepak at D-32, Shantiniketan Park-4 at Nanavati Chowk in Rajkot. Police seized two mobile phones during the operation with a combined value of Rs 16,000. The operation was conducted on the instructions of senior officials, officials added. Further investigation is underway to trace any co-accused, where the money was utilised and people who may have been a victim of such promises.
Gujarat Professor Calls For Ban On All Religious Rituals On University Campus
Citing the landmark 1973 Kesavananda Bharati Supreme Court verdict, which established secularism as part of the basic structure of the Indian Constitution, the senior faculty member that state-funded institutions must remain non-religious.
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], September 11:The House of Makeba, Gujarats growing vegetarian dining brand, has entered the experience-led dining space with the launch ofOVanta by House of Makeba, an immersive dining
Surat (Gujarat) [India], September 12: Sungrace School, Sunlight School, and Sunrise Schoolalong with five teachers from the Leo Groupwere honored by the Divya Bhaskar daily newspaper in the presence of
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel seeks blessings at Devkinandan Derasar, honours forest martyrs
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Gujarat earthquake, Nepal floods & more: What is it about the date 26?
Watch the Official Trailer from Gujarati movie 'Firki' starring Johny Lever, Vatsal Sheth, Vrajesh Hirjee, Esha Kansara. 'Firki' movie is directed by Dharmessh Mehta. To know more about 'Firki' trailer watch the video. Check out the latest Gujarati trailers, new movie trailers, trending Gujarati movie trailers, and more at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V meets Gujarat CM, discusses grassroots development cooperation
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 12 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Aga Khan Development Network Chairman Prince Rahim Aga Khan V discussed expanding cooperation in areas, including water conservation, natural farming, millets, solar energy, cooperatives and women-led enterprises during a meeting in Gandhinagar on Saturday. Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, who is the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), paid a courtesy visit to CM Patel and held discussions on opportunities for grassroots-level collaboration for sustainable, inclusive and people-centric development. Welcoming Prince Rahim to Gujarat, CM Patel said the AKDN's focus on sustainable development, education, skill development, enterprise promotion and empowerment of underprivileged and vulnerable communities was aligned with Gujarat's development approach. Water conservation was among the key areas discussed. Chief Minister Patel highlighted the state's efforts in rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and rejuvenation of water bodies, saying water conservation had become a people's movement across Gujarat. The Chief Minister also outlined the state's initiatives to promote millets and natural farming. Gujarat had undertaken measures to increase millet production, processing and value addition, he noted. He also highlighted the state's 'Millet Development Scheme', aimed at expanding millet cultivation, creating awareness about the health benefits of millets and encouraging farmers to take up processing. Possibilities for cooperation in solar energy and solar pumps were also discussed. According to the state government, Gujarat's installed solar capacity has reached 34,880 MW. Under the 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana', the state has set a target of installing 10 lakh rooftop solar systems, of which more than 8.39 lakh have been installed so far. Chief Minister Patel also spoke about Gujarat's cooperative sector, with more than 87,000 cooperative societies currently functioning in the state. Efforts are underway across the country to further strengthen cooperatives under the 'Sahkar Se Samriddhi' approach, he noted. The discussions included the role of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) in taking the cooperative system to rural communities. Possibilities of further strengthening the rural economy and developing PACS as 'small corporate companies' offering a range of services at the village level were also considered. Women's empowerment and entrepreneurship formed another part of the discussions. Chief Minister Patel highlighted the state's women's self-reliance ecosystem, under which thousands of women receive awareness and enterprise development training to establish micro-enterprises and achieve economic self-reliance. Prince Rahim expressed willingness to further strengthen grassroots-level collaboration with the Gujarat government, particularly in areas of mutual interest including water conservation, natural farming, millet-based food and women's self-help groups. Both sides expressed a positive approach towards deepening cooperation by leveraging their respective strengths for sustainable, holistic and people-centric development. Prince Rahim has contributed to initiatives relating to environmental conservation, climate change mitigation, education, skill development, entrepreneurship and improving the quality of life of underprivileged and vulnerable communities. Additional Chief Secretary (Industries Department) Mamta Verma, and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sanjeev Kumar, were also present at the meeting.
NTPC Green Energy adds 6.3 MW capacity
NTPC Green Energy (NTPCGREEN) announced commercial operation of the second part capacity of 6.3 MW of its Vanki Wind Energy Project in Nakhatrana, Kutch, Gujarat with effect from on 13 September 2026.
No shortage of funds for development works, says Gujarat CM
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 12 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday said that no development project would be allowed to remain stalled for want of funds, as he announced a fresh package of Rs 48.26 crore for traffic, road and urban infrastructure in the state capital. Speaking at a programme where development works worth Rs 1,848 crore were inaugurated or launched, Patel said Gujarat's financial management had ensured that funds were available for development. The government is committed to ensuring that no development work is stalled due to lack of funds, he said. The Chief Minister said the Rs 1,848 crore package comprised Rs 798 crore of works undertaken by the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation and Rs 1,050 crore under the Roads and Buildings Department. He urged citizens to communicate local requirements and pending works to the municipal corporation so that necessary projects could be taken up quickly and conveyed to the government. The Centre and state government had consistently pursued development by keeping the common man and the last-mile citizen at the centre, he said. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Gujarat, he said the state had received development projects worth more than Rs 34,000 crore from Vadodara. The Prime Minister's work mantra was Nagrik Devo Bhava and the trust placed by people in the government over the past 25 years had been repaid through public welfare and development. The government had sought to keep the common citizen, poor and last-mile resident, at the centre of every scheme and project, he noted. Patel stressed that creating welfare schemes is not enough and that their benefits had to reach every eligible beneficiary. Under the saturation approach being pursued under the Prime Minister's guidance, efforts were being made to ensure 100 per cent coverage of eligible beneficiaries, he asserted. He cited Ayushman, housing and Ujjwala schemes and tap water connections among the benefits being delivered to citizens, adding that he government is proactively reaching beneficiaries instead of waiting for them to approach it. He said development processes in Gandhinagar had previously been slow, with even small projects requiring lengthy waits. The situation had changed with development works worth crores now being implemented rapidly in the municipal corporation area, he added. The Chief Minister also referred to GIFT City, saying that while several people had once expressed surprise at the idea, it had now emerged as a global financial hub. Patel said environmental protection had been given importance alongside development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Sustainable development cannot take place at the cost of the environment, he said. He said tree plantation, interlinking of lakes, filling lakes with water and recharge borewells were being undertaken to promote environmental protection and water conservation. Library facilities were also being extended to villages. Wherever there is a library, knowledge grows, and where knowledge grows, the pace of development also increases, he said. The Chief Minister said the new Gandhinagar works would strengthen traffic and urban facilities. He announced Rs 20.76 crore for an underpass at Bhat-Koteshwar Crossing, Rs 12.80 crore for strengthening the Sabarmati bridge from Raksha Shakti Circle towards GIFT City-Shahpur, Rs 7.70 crore for junction and road development from GIFT City towards PDPU and Rs 7 crore for road safety and paver works between Raksha Shakti Circle and GIFT City Circle. He also participated in the flagging off of around 30 new e-buses under the 'PM-eBus Sewa' and travelled in one of them with Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, MLAs, the mayor and municipal office-bearers.
NEET UG 2026 Round 2 Alert: Revised Merit Lists Released
NEET UG 2026 Round 2 rank shift? Multiple states have released revised merit lists. Check the latest updates for Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan, and ensure your preferences are locked before the reporting deadline.
GSSSB Class 3 Exam Date 2026 announced on 11 September 2026. Check Assistant Engineer and Agriculture Overseer exam dates, timing, CBRT mode, and links.
Prashant Kishor mocks JD(U)'s renaming bid, claims party being run by 'appointees of Amit Shah'
Prashant Kishor derided the JD(U) party's potential renaming, calling it irrelevant. He stated Union Home Minister Amit Shah controls the JD(U) to serve the BJP's interests. Kishor also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for its indifference towards Bihar's floods. He alleged Gujarat's interests take precedence over Bihar's development projects. Kishor believes public mood is changing due to Jan Suraaj's focus on education.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan meets Gujarat CM to discuss development
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India Coast Guard rescues 21 after two vessels collide off Gujarat
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'Glimpse of new India': CM Yogi hails PM Modi's years in public service
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 12 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, on Saturday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's years in public service, from Chief Minister of Gujarat to the Head of State, calling it a glimpse of new India. Addressing a press conference, the Chief Minister said the government and the BJP's state unit has prepared a list of programmes that will be undertaken for a month, from PM Modi's birthday on September 17, till marking the completion of his 25 years in public service on October 7, being celebrated as 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'. October 7 is when PM Modi will complete 25 years in governance, including his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and as the Prime Minister of the country. So the party and the govt has prepared a list of programmes to celebrate these glorious years, CM Yogi said. He referred to PM Modi's years in public service as a vision that has led to successful implementation of all schemes across various fields, till the last person is served. Gujarat was like any other state before 2001, which faced drought, connectivity and drinking water issues and other challenges. PM Modi, during his tenure as the Chief Minister, ensured the availability of proper drinking water till the last village in the state. During his 13 years of tenure, he transformed Gujarat into a welfare state, a centre of attraction for the world, which is today considered as a model for infrastructure and technology, he said. CM Yogi termed PM Modi's tenure since 2014, as a glimpse of new India with visions of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Viksit Bharat'. For this, he ensured the construction of world-class infrastructure, welfare schemes, produced a model that established India from 'Fragile Five' to 'Top Five' economies of the world, he stated. The Chief Minister asserted that under PM Modi's leadership, India has established itself as a nation that is capable of providing leadership to the world. More than three dozen countries have conferred their highest honour on PM Modi. Moreover, the G20 leaders have hailed the successful completion of the Summit and its related events in the country, under the Prime Minister's leadership, he said. Further, he lashed out at the then regime for opposing the consecration ceremony of the Somnath Temple, accusing it of insulting India's heritage and seeding the mindset of slavery among people. Only after 2014, India could come out of the mindset of slavery and move towards the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', he said while invoking the construction of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ayodhya's Ram Temple and organisation of the Mahakumbh Mela. He also praised PM Modi's leadership towards advancement of railway infrastructure, including electrification, trains like 'Namo Bharat', 'Amrit Bharat' and construction of new stations. The construction of waterways, ports, airports, highways, and public transport, etc, has become the backbone of India's development, he added. He further said: During the Congress regime only one AIIMS was built, Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji took it to seven, while PM Modi took its number to 23. While the vaccine for encephalitis took around 100 years to reach India, the Covid vaccine was produced here itself within nine months, CM Yogi added. Detailing the list of programmes, the UP Chief Minister said: Apart from distribution of fruits at hospitals on the morning of September 17, blood donation camps will be organised. A 'yatra' is also being organised under which holy water from Vadnagar in Gujarat will be brought to Kashi, while holy water from 10 separate rivers will be taken from Kashi to Vadnagar. It will start from September 17 and reach its destination on October 7. The participants will also interact will the public every day during the course of the 'yatra'. He added that various competitions will also be held among school students, under the campaign, who will be felicitated on October 7. Various other programmes are also being organised by the UP government and the state BJP unit as part of the Seva Sankalp Yatra.
Gujarat Trust hands over 58 exotic animals of 14 species to Nandankanan Zoo
The Nandankanan Zoological Park here on Saturday received 58 exotic animals belonging to 14 species from the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), Gujarat, as a donation.
Cyber fraud case cracked in Delhi, three mule account holders arrested
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) The Delhi Polices East District Cyber Police Station has cracked a cyber fraud case involving the cheating of a Gujarat-based victim on the pretext of supplying washing machine spare parts at a low price, with three alleged mule account holders apprehended during the investigation. The case was registered on the basis of a complaint received through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) from Patan, Gujarat. The victim, Husen Chunawala, had intended to purchase washing machine spare parts and made an online payment of Rs 1.5 lakh. However, the promised spare parts were not supplied and communication with the persons concerned subsequently stopped. During the enquiry, police found that part of the cheated amount had been withdrawn through an ATM in East District. Police traced the bank account into which part of the cheated amount had been transferred and found it to be in the name of Naitik, a resident of Shakarpur. Further investigation allegedly revealed that Naitik had received the amount through Vikas Soni, also from Shakarpur. Both were apprehended. Police subsequently apprehended another accused, Sagar, a resident of Trilokpuri, who allegedly received part of the cheated amount in his bank account, withdrew it through an ATM and handed over the cash to an absconding associate in exchange for a commission. According to police, the three accused allegedly acted as mule account holders and cash handlers on the directions of the absconding associate, who coordinated the receipt, withdrawal and delivery of the cheated funds. A black iPhone 13 was recovered from Vikas Soni. Police said the device contains chats and communications relevant to the transactions and is being examined for further digital evidence. Another NCRP complaint has also been found linked to bank account(s) allegedly used by the accused. Police said the accused allegedly targeted people searching online for washing machine spare parts. In some cases, persons posing as sellers or service providers allegedly contacted customers searching for customer-care or contact numbers of reputed brands through Google and offered spare parts at unusually low prices. Victims were then allegedly induced to make online payments, which were routed through multiple mule accounts. Vikas Soni, 22, is a BA third-year student and allegedly handled cheated funds and provided/used his bank account on the directions of the absconding associate. Naitik, 21, a BA second-year student of the School of Open Learning, allegedly became involved for easy monetary gain. Sagar, 31, a Class 12 pass-out and Rapido rider, allegedly withdrew the funds and handed over the cash to the absconding associate. Police said efforts are underway to trace the absconding associate, identify other members of the network and establish the complete money trail.
Accuracy Shipping receives LoI for proposed Container Freight Station at Kandla, Gujarat
Accuracy Shipping today announced that A.R.S. Terminals (India), a subsidiary in which Accuracy Shipping holds a 99.80% stake, has received a Letter of Intent (LoI) dated 10 September 2026, from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for setting up a Container Freight Station (CFS) at Kandla, Gujarat.
Nandankanan Zoo Receives 14 Exotic Animal Species From Gujarat Trust
Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar has received 58 animals belonging to 14 exotic species as a donation from the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), Gujarat. The animals were received at the zoo on September 12, 2026. The collection includes a diverse range of mammals and birds from different geographical regions. 14 Exotic Species [] The post Nandankanan Zoo Receives 14 Exotic Animal Species From Gujarat Trust appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Gujarat: 195 girls fall sick after eating hostel food, 20 hospitalised
Girls at Ranak Girls Hostel in Vallabh Vidyanagar complained of vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain from early Friday morning following their dinner the previous night, District Epidemic Medical Officer Dr Rakesh Patel said
Weather Today: IMD has forecast rain across several states on September 12, with Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka all seeing varying chances of showers. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is possible in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana during the coming days.
Gujarat, UP, MP, Mizoram achieve 100 pc HPV vaccination coverage
Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have achieved 100-per cent coverage of their respective identified target populations under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign, while Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Assam have crossed 90-per cent coverage, the Union health ministry said on Friday. Karnataka has achieved more than 85-per cent coverage, while Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Kerala, Telangana Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gujarat Assembly Concludes Monsoon Session, Passes Seven Bills in 18 Hours
Gujarat Assemblys monsoon session ends with the passage of seven bills aimed at state development and public welfare. Gujarat Assembly Concludes Monsoon Session, Passes Seven Bills in 18 Hours
ED attaches 17 properties worth 6.52cr of Daman liquor mafia
Arsonist entered market 3 hours before fire
Industry-backed blood donation camp sees strong response
Bite victim brings dead snake to hospital
Insurer told to pay 2.2cr to mother of deceased NRI doctor
Malicious wedding card costs Surat cop 1L
MSU prof seeks policy against rituals on campus
195 girls fall sick after suspected food poisoning at Anand hostel
Bail cancelled for two history-sheeters
Marengo Asia Hospitals raises Rs 400 crore from LeapFrog Investments to double bed capacity
Marengo Asia Hospitals has raised Rs 400 crore from LeapFrog Investments to expand its hospital network, with plans to more than double capacity to over 4,000 beds within two years. Backed by Samara Capital and Godrej and Havells family offices, Marengo operates five hospitals across the NCR, Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Maha lags in HPV vax coverage with just 8.4%, Gujarat & UP cover 100%
Actors support hosting 72nd National Film Awards across India starting in Gujarat
The News Mill
Gujarat Assembly passes Rent Bill, replacing 1947 law; sets three-tier dispute resolution system
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 11 (IANS) The Gujarat Assembly has unanimously passed the Gujarat Rent Bill, 2026, paving the way for a new legal framework governing rental agreements across the state and replacing the decades-old system under the Bombay Rents, Hotel and Lodging House Rates Control Act, 1947. The Bill, introduced by Urban Development Minister Kanu Desai, makes written rent agreements mandatory for both residential and commercial properties and proposes a three-tier mechanism comprising a Rent Authority, Rent Court and Rent Tribunal for time-bound resolution of disputes between landlords and tenants. Desai said the existing law had to be extended from time to time and its limitations had resulted in legal complications for both landlords and tenants. The new legislation has been framed to meet the present-day requirements of Gujarat, he said. Under the new framework, details of every written rental agreement will have to be jointly submitted to the Rent Authority. The authority will also develop a digital platform in Gujarati within three months, with each registered agreement being assigned a unique identification number and uploaded on the website. The ID will serve as an important record for both parties. The Bill also caps the advance security deposit at three months' rent. Once a tenant vacates the property and all accounts are settled, the deposit will have to be returned within one month. The proposed three-tier system is aimed at providing a structured mechanism for dealing with rental disputes. The Bill also prohibits landlords from cutting off essential services such as electricity, water and gas to tenants. In such cases, the Rent Authority will have the power to order immediate restoration of the services. The legislation sets out specific grounds for eviction under Section 21. A landlord can approach the Rent Court for eviction if a tenant continuously fails to pay rent, damages the property or sublets it without permission. The Bill also provides relief to tenants when a property becomes uninhabitable due to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes or cyclones. In such circumstances, tenants can receive exemption from rent or a reasonable opportunity to extend the rental agreement. Section 18 provides legal recognition to property managers appointed by landlords and defines their role and responsibilities within the legal framework. Certain properties and institutions have been exempted under Section 3, including government premises, service quarters provided by companies to employees, properties belonging to religious and charitable institutions, the Waqf Board and public trusts. However, such parties can mutually agree to come under the provisions of the Act. Desai said the legislation was intended to bring greater clarity to landlord-tenant relations and improve transparency in the rental and real estate sector. The Gujarat Rent Act is not merely a legal document, but an important link connecting the economic and social fabric of Gujarat. This law provides the landlord with appropriate justice and the tenant with a roof under which to live with dignity. This Bill will bring transparency to the real estate market, enhance 'Ease of Living' and further strengthen an atmosphere of mutual trust in the state, he said. The Gujarat Rent Bill, 2026, was passed unanimously without opposition in the Assembly on Friday.
Two merchant vessels collide off Gujarat coast; Indian Coast Guard rescues 21 crew members
Two merchant vessels collided off Gujarats Kandla coast, prompting the Indian Coast Guard to launch a rescue operation. The force said 21 of 24 crew members aboard MV KMAX EMPEROR were safely evacuated following the collision with MV TRUE MARINER at the outer anchorage. Further details are awaited.
Gujarat Assembly Monsoon Session ends after 18 hours, seven bills passed
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Sep 11 (IANS) The three-day Monsoon Session of the 15th Gujarat Legislative Assembly concluded after 18 hours and 32 minutes of proceedings, with the House passing seven government Bills aimed at public welfare and the development of the state. Spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani, while giving details of the session after its conclusion, said the proceedings were conducted in a peaceful atmosphere in accordance with democratic traditions. He thanked Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, members of the ruling party and Opposition, and the government machinery for the successful conduct of the session. The Assembly held three sittings during the session, with a total of 18 hours and 32 minutes of proceedings. Vaghani said 52 MLAs participated in various discussions during the three-day session. Seven government Bills were passed within two days, with the measures focused on the development of the state and public welfare. The passage of the Bills reflected the government's commitment to public-interest work, he said. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also made a statement in the House on a matter of public importance under Rule 44. On the final day of the session, a special discussion was held under Rule 102 on the Tribal Welfare Scheme. A minister also made a statement on a matter of public importance under Rule 116. The House paid tribute to five leaders who had died, with obituary references made during the session. During Question Hour, 1,356 starred questions were received for oral answers, of which 29 were taken up for oral discussion in the House. A total of 152 unstarred questions were received, while 88 unstarred questions were laid on the Table under Rule 87(A), he noted. The proceedings also saw the presentation of five reports of various committees. Twenty-three reports relating to government companies, boards and corporations, along with one budget, were laid on the Table. In addition, 69 notifications, two ordinances and one statement of assurances were laid before the House. The Comptroller and Auditor General's audit report on the Jal Jeevan Mission was also tabled, he said. One Bill that had received the President's assent and five Bills that had received the Governor's assent were also laid on the Table during the session. The Assembly also recorded participation from members of the public, with around 5,246 visitors from across Gujarat visiting the legislature to witness its proceedings and observe the functioning of the democratic system.
Mumbai Ganeshotsav 2026: Bandra mandal creates iconic Somnath Temple replica
Ganeshotsav 2026: Bandra West Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal has created a detailed replica of Gujarat's Somnath Temple, showcasing its architecture and heritage. The installation is part of the mandal's tradition of temple-themed festival dcor
Manasi Parekh: We need stories that remind us of simple, beautiful things that still matter
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 11 (IANS) The National Award-winning actress Manasi Parekh, who is awaiting the release of her upcoming Gujarati film Mitrata: Friendship Ni Lovestory, has spoken up on the importance of stories that remind of the simple, beautiful things that still matter. The film also stars Viraj Ghelani, Deep Vaidya and Vishal Parekh. It touches upon the subject of friendship. The trailer of the film was unveiled on Friday, and introduces the life of 3 friends and the dynamics that bind them together. The film explores the many shades of friendship and the bonds that grow stronger through lifes changing phases. Talking about the film, Manasi Parekh and Parthiv Gohil, producers at Soul Sutra, shared, At the heart of Mitrata is a very simple and universal emotion: friendship. In these cynical times, we need stories that remind us of the simple, beautiful things that still matter, and friendship is one of them. We all have people in our lives who have seen different versions of us and stayed through them all. Oneel has brought that emotion into a world that is entertaining, warm and full of emotions. We are excited to finally share the world of Mitrata with audiences. The film marks the actress reunion with him after their Gujarati blockbuster Jhamkudi. Viraj Ghelani said, Friendship is probably one of the few relationships where you can be your most unfiltered self, and that is what makes Mitrata so relatable. The film has the banter and madness you expect from a group of friends, but it also has those quieter moments that remind you why these relationships mean so much. The energy between all of us on set was very natural, and I think that comes through in the trailer. Im really excited for audiences to meet these characters and experience their journey. The film has already begun building anticipation with the Mitrata Anthem, composed by Amit Trivedi, which captures the spirit of friendship at the heart of the story. The hook of the song Tari Mari Dosti has instantly become a rage on social media with audiences recreating the step with their gang. Presented by Soul Sutra, the film is directed by Oneel Karnik, produced by Parthiv Gohil and Manasi Parekh, and is set to release in cinemas on September 25,2026.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar calls for greater voter participation, transparency at ELC Conference
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Sep 11 (IANS) Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar on Friday stressed the need for greater voter participation and transparent electoral processes as he interacted with more than 1,000 Electoral Literacy Club (ELC) members, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), campus ambassadors and other stakeholders at a regional conference on ELC and the ECINET app in Ahmedabad. Held under the Election Commission of Indias (ECI) flagship SVEEP programme, the conference focused on electoral literacy, informed voting and the use of digital technology to improve transparency in the electoral process. Kumar said India, with more than 90 crore voters, is the worlds largest democracy and around 1.8 crore personnel, including staff deputed during Lok Sabha elections, are involved in the electoral exercise. The entire process, from the electoral roll to voting, is as clear, transparent and impartial as sunlight, Kumar said, while explaining the safeguards in place during elections. He said electoral rolls are prepared through the work of more than 11 lakh BLOs and scrutiny by political parties. The presence of polling and counting agents, along with verification through Form 17C, further ensures transparency during voting and counting, he said. Kumar also highlighted Indias current chairmanship of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), an organisation comprising 35 major democracies, saying it reflected international recognition of Indias electoral system. Urging greater participation among young voters, he said every citizen completing 18 years should be enrolled on the electoral roll and exercise their franchise. He called upon ELC members to download the ECINET app and help family members and people around them with voter registration. Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer Sandeep Sagale said the ELC programme, launched under SVEEP in 2018, aims to familiarise young citizens with democratic values and the electoral process. Under ELC 2.0, school and college clubs are being developed as year-round, experiential and digital platforms, he said. The effort is to prepare empowered young voters on the foundations of awareness and trust, Sagale said, adding that more than 40 voter and election-management applications have been brought together on the ECINET platform. Presentations at the conference covered ELC 2.0, voter education, ECINET, trust and transparency in Indian elections, and its functioning and features. A live demonstration of voter registration, voting and counting was also held. Ahmedabad District Election Officer and Collector Bhavya Verma said the presentations and demonstrations would help make voter-awareness activities more effective. Additional Chief Secretary (Higher Education) Mukesh Kumar, Dahod District Development Officer Hiren Barot, Joint Chief Electoral Officers Rinkesh Patel and Devayat Bhamar, among others, attended the conference.
195 girls fall sick due to suspected food poisoning at Gujarat hostel
Silver Touch Technologies secures comprehensive IT services contract from Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam
This engagement covers the computer servers, storage Systems, SAN-Switches, Tape Library and backup architecture with Silver Touch committed to ensuring application uptime services at a 99% SLA that empower GUVNL's e-Urja platform, the ERP backbone connecting the state's electricity generation, transmission and distribution utilities and serving over a crore consumer.
