facebook

Gujarat

...

From MSU sanedo to BJPs national youth face

The Times of India 18 Aug 2026 12:04 am

Robber who evaded arrested for 45 years nabbed in UP

The Times of India 18 Aug 2026 12:03 am

Sunlight School Celebrates 80th Independence Day with Student-Led Patriotic Programme

Surat (Gujarat) [India], August 17: Sunlight School celebrated the 80th Independence Day on its campus with a patriotic programme highlighting student participation, leadership and holistic development. The national flag was hoisted by Het Sojitra, a talented student and NCC cadet of the school, who was invited as the chief guest. The schools NCC Naval Cadets []

bhaskarlive 17 Aug 2026 11:33 pm

Gujarat Police seizes Ravi Nair

The Gujarat High Court has refused to quash the FIR against propagandist Ravi Nair over the Adani-LIC story published in the Washington Post.

OpIndia 17 Aug 2026 10:07 pm

Supreme Court orders restoration of AAP Gujarat's Facebook, Instagram accounts

Court allows partys application subject to removal of objectionable posts, if any, and posts main case for hearing after two weeks

The Hindu 17 Aug 2026 10:03 pm

ECMSexpanded with nod for31 projects at 7,877crore outlay

To be spread across 10 States including Goa, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

The Hindu Businessline 17 Aug 2026 9:30 pm

20 Blackbucks Rewilded in Banni Grassland on Independence Day

Gujarat Forest Department and Vantara take forward the restoration of Bannis native herbivore community, strengthening the ecological foundations of a vital grassland landscape

Deccan Chronicle 17 Aug 2026 9:18 pm

Gujarat Police launches 28-day

Gandhinagar Gujarat Police has launched a 28-day statewide Surakshit Shakti drive to strengthen the safety of women and girls, with The post Gujarat Police launches 28-day Surakshit Shakti drive with focus on womens safety, digital threats appeared first on Bilkul Online .

Bilkulonline 17 Aug 2026 8:53 pm

Gujarat releases 20 blackbucks into Kutchs Banni Grassland

The initiative aims to rebuild the grasslands native herbivore community and strengthen ecological processes while supporting long-term biodiversity conservation efforts

The Hindu Businessline 17 Aug 2026 8:06 pm

Gujarat Cotex plans edible oil, real estate ventures

The proposed expansion would give the diversified enterprise new avenues for growth while focusing on phased execution and long-term value creation.

The Hindu Businessline 17 Aug 2026 7:12 pm

NDMAs Sachet App Becomes Lifesaver for Farmers and Fishermen During Disasters

Valsad, August 17: During natural disasters, the governments top priority is to minimize loss of life and property. In this context, the Sachet app and the Sachet National Disaster Alert Portal developed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have proven to be lifesaving tools. In Gujarat, farmers, fishermen, and citizens receive real-time alerts about ... Read more NDMAs Sachet App Becomes Lifesaver for Farmers and Fishermen During Disasters

Morningstar 17 Aug 2026 4:24 pm

Gujarat High Court Recruitment 2026: Applications Invited for Legal Executive Posts

Gujarat High Court Recruitment 2026 is open for 5 Law Officer posts. Check eligibility, age limit, Rs.60,000 fixed salary, application process and last date.

Web Dunia 17 Aug 2026 3:57 pm

This is the time: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Urges Diaspora To Invest In State

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel pitched the states emerging industrial sectors and investment opportunities at a community reception hosted on August 16 by the Consulate General of India in San Francisco at the Fremont Heartfulness Meditation Centre in Fremont, California.

indicanews 17 Aug 2026 3:56 pm

Gujarat Police Launches Digital Initiative for E-FIR Registration in Cyber Fraud Cases

Gandhinagar, August 17: In the digital age, incidents of cyber financial fraud are on the rise. Victims often face challenges in filing complaints due to the elusive nature of fraudsters. The lack of swift action allows criminals to continue their activities unchecked. To address these issues, the Gujarat Polices Cyber Cell, under the guidance of ... Read more Gujarat Police Launches Digital Initiative for E-FIR Registration in Cyber Fraud Cases

Morningstar 17 Aug 2026 3:35 pm

Securing the maritime commons: India

Indias maritime tradition is the worlds oldest, with an unparallelled continuity since the Neolithic Age [9th Millenium BCE]. Golbai Sasan, a Neolithic site on the east coast of India in Odisha state, has provided invaluable archaeological evidence of ship-building activities and sea faring forays. During the Sindhu-Saraswati era [3300-1300 BCE], India had developed a mature sea-faring tradition based on maritime trade. The ancient port of Lothal in Gujarat, constructed around 2300 BCE, is an outstanding example of maritime infrastructure. It had docks, tidal locks and jetties for ships. Sophisticated trade networks and infrastructure linked India with contemporary civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt and China. Vedic era, texts and archaeological evidence suggest early boat-building activities for coastal fishing and commerce. The Rig Veda mentions about Sataritara or the galley with hundred oars. This sea-faring tradition helped develop cartography and study of monsoon-based sailing, using stars for navigation. This rich maritime tradition was consolidated during the Mauryan Empire (324187 BCE) which institutionalized maritime administration by setting up a Department of Waterways and Navigation, headed by the Navadhyaksha (Superintendent of Ships) who regulated shipbuilding, sea trade, and port operations. Ancient Indias greatest strategic thinker Kautilya, wrote a whole chapter in the Arthashastra dedicated to maritime affairs, underlining its strategic importance. In the post-Mauryan period, Roman records show extensive trade with new ports in southern India. Around 30 inscriptions in Tamil-Brahmi, Sanskrit and Prakrit have been identified inside the rock-cut tombs in Egypt's Valley of the Kings in Luxor, from the 1st and 3rd centuries CE. Indian merchants left graffiti as evidence. Hoards of Roman gold coins have been discovered in various sites in southern India. Government of India The Delhi Sultanate, established by Muslim invaders, maintained limited naval forces, for riverine warfare and coastal operations rather than large-scale oceanic campaigns. The Mughal rulers also continued to maintain a navy primarily for security and support to the territorial military. The focus was inwards for the empires expansion. During the 13th century CE, Indias maritime power and commerce reached a peak during the Pala Empire in East India and the Cholazh empire in South India. Under the Cholazh dynasty [9th --13th century CE], large fleets sailed to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and parts of Southeast Asia, including ports in the Srivijaya Empire in Indonesia, spreading Indian religion and cultural influence in South-East Asia. The advent of the Europeans led to the marginalization of Indias maritime control and commerce. Despite British colonial rule, India retained its shipbuilding tradition and continued to build ships. By the 19th century CE, the British monopolized sea-borne commerce, controlling key ports like Bombay (Mumbai) and Calcutta (Kolkata). India became a source for manpower and material. The Royal Indian Marine [1892 CE)] and the Royal Indian Navy (1934 CE) developed with Indian sailors manning both Navy and Merchant ships. Upon gaining Independence in 1947, India inherited a meagre 33 ships and 538 naval officers to protect a coastline of 7,517 kms, 1,280 islands, 14,500 kms of potentially navigable waterways. Indias geographical location makes it proximate to major Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs) in the Indian Ocean. With limited maritime capabilities, India avoided entanglement in the bipolar world order and promoted the concept of the India Ocean as a Zone of Peace. After independence, India gave priority to coastal defence and integration of the Princely States. Burdened with land wars in 1948, 1962 and 1965, India was forced to divert resources to the Army and Air Force at the expense of the Navy. India began gradually rebuilding its maritime sector and shipbuilding industry. As Indias economy grew, more resources were provided to the Navy and development of ports, vital for maritime commerce and national security. By the 1990s, the Indian Navy was deployed for UN peace-keeping operations, evacuations of Indian nationals during the war on Iraq and anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. The Navys blue-water capabilities expanded to support maritime security and international sea-borne commerce, aiming to secure the maritime commons. Currently, the maritime arena faces a wide array of challenges - climate change threats, cyclones, sea level rise, human security challenges such as illegal migration, trafficking, piracy, illegal fishing, pollution and sea-bed mining. The strategic overhang of the maritime factor has driven Indias maritime strategy, providing security to around 90% of Indias sea trade. The ongoing war in Iran has highlighted the effort to weaponization of international shipping channels - Hormuz - in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Almost one-third of sailors in the global shipping industry are Indians. Some have lost their lives in the indiscriminate attacks on ships transiting the Hormuz and Bab-al-Mandab. Providing security to international shipping will require diplomacy and dialogue and also a more powerful Navy, to shape a more cooperative geopolitical order. Indias indigenous shipbuilding capabilities have been ramped up. Indias maritime strategy is focussed on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) which is critical for global trade flows - two-thirds of the worlds oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. 40 nations are on its littoral having nearly 40% of the worlds population. Despite the importance of the maritime commons, there are limited security structures that can police this space. Naval ships are bound by restrictions to act against offending or rogue merchant vessels. In 2015, India adopted the SAGAR doctrine [Security And Growth for All in the Region]. This strategy seeks to enhance Indias role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region [IOR] and a first responder in humanitarian and disaster related assistance. India has gone further from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR (Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions), which extends the maritime domain from the regional and security approach into economic diplomacy, technological connectivity and environmental sustainability and maritime domain awareness. MAHASAGAR aims to support technological connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region, relying on joint Naval exercises, sharing data and encouraging peaceful settlement of maritime disputes, Supporting these policy moves is SAGARMALA which supports port-led development initiative to modernize and build ports and manage the shift to more efficient transport coastal and waterway networks to trigger industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable coastal development. International Maritime Bureau To enable international and regional cooperation to secure the maritime commons, India organized the 2016 International Fleet Review (48 navies participated) and biennial MILAN exercises (47 nations participated in 2024) to build cooperation and interoperability. The IOR is monitored by the Information Fusion Centre [IFC] and naval operations across several maritime theatres have helped in combatting piracy, providing safe passage to international cargo ships humanitarian operations. 28 partner nations and international organizations have joined India in tracking maritime traffic, piracy, and illegal activities in the IOR. This strategic shift bolsters maritime security, utilizing the Indian Navys growing blue water deployments. Joint exercises with different navies for maritime security, like the annual Malabar exercises with QUAD partner countries Australia, Japan and USA are conducted periodically. The Indian Navy has spearheaded maritime diplomacy through capacity building, joint exercises, plurilateral conferences, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) activities [Tsunami and Earthquake]. Big power competition is increasing in the IOR, requiring greater vigilance on maritime security. To avoid conflict, India has advocated A free, open, secure and safe Indian Ocean as a shared goal for securing the maritime commons, as envisaged in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea III [UNCLOS]. Currently, Despite military strikes, commercial navigation through Hormuz remains closed. Iran has weaponized its geography to disrupt one of the worlds most important energy chokepoints, keeping global energy markets under constant pressure and prolonging a worldwide economic shock. Post-Iran war, global power equations will shift decisively to the maritime domain an interconnected world depends on maritime routes, energy corridors, digital infrastructure and financial systems. Nations would now also attempt to control digital nodes, cable landing stations, undersea cable runs, data centres and satellite networks. Amb Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty Eastern Eye Indias comprehensive plan to strengthen its maritime sector was long overdue. India's vast coastline and strategic location in the IOR creates vulnerabilities and exposes it to maritime security threats. Indias maritime reforms and modernization drive mark a pivotal step toward achieving Maritime India Vision 2030 and aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Sustainable Development Goals 14 India has tasked its Navy through Operation Sankalp, to provide escorts for merchant vessels, conduct maritime surveillance across the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, and protect sea lines of communication [SLOC] vital to Indias economy and energy security. India will have to undertake autonomous actions and where ever possible and synchronize actions to secure SLOC. Operation Sankalp is focussed on protecting Indian shipping, preserving freedom of navigation for Indias supply lines and avoiding any regional involvement. Indias policy of strategic autonomy precludes joining any formal coalitions, keeping diplomatic channels active with individual countries in the conflict region. To upgrade its capacity to secure the maritime commons, India is addressing infrastructure gaps, sustainability challenges, workforce inequities and building a truly blue water Navy, with nuclear deterrence capabilities. India aims to become a global maritime hub and a leading maritime power in the next 2-3 decades, to enable it to play a significant player in ensuring the security of the maritime commons. **** [The author, a retired diplomat, served as secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Earlier, he served as Indias High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Ambassador to Thailand.]

easterneye 17 Aug 2026 3:13 pm

Yash Soni opens up about his 'disturbing' role in Maaran and National Award win

Yash Soni opened up about playing a challenging character in National Award-winning Gujarati film Maaran. He discussed researching gender-based violence and trafficking, changing his acting process and feeling disturbed by his characters actions. The award came as an unexpected surprise

Mid Day 17 Aug 2026 2:59 pm

Supreme Court grants interim relief to AAP, directs Meta to restore Gujarat unit

The Supreme Court on August 17 granted interim relief to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), directing Meta to restore the Instagram and Facebook pages of its Gujarat unit, subject to the removal of objectionable posts. A Bench comprising Justice P. S. Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe passed the order on an interlocutory application filed by [] The post Supreme Court grants interim relief to AAP, directs Meta to restore Gujarat units social media pages appeared first on India Legal .

indialegallive 17 Aug 2026 2:48 pm

Gujarat Cop Quits Over Jantar Mantar Protest To Support PM Modi For 2029 Polls

Ramgar Mohangar Gosai pledged he would not wear any footwear until PM Narendra Modi returns to power in 2029.

NDTV 17 Aug 2026 1:17 pm

5 Years On The Run, Gujarat BJP Worker Arrested In Liquor Case

Gujarat police arrest Mukesh alias Tina Pargi after 5 years on the run in illegal liquor case

NDTV 17 Aug 2026 1:11 pm

EXCLUSIVE: Ravi Adhikari to REVIVE iconic shows Commander, Yes Boss, Suraag; plans Shrimaan Shrimati reboot using AI featuring late Jatin Kanakia and Reema Lagoo

In the Indian entertainment and television space, Sri Adhikari Brothers (SAB) Television Network Ltd holds a prominent place. Several of its shows made history and are still fondly remembered today. Commander, for instance, was the first serial to be aired on Zee TV, the countrys first private satellite channel. All The Best was the first music-based countdown programme, while Suraag, which aired on DD1, was among the early thriller shows on Indian television. The family comic caper Shrimaan Shrimati, meanwhile, went on to achieve cult status and continues to enjoy a huge fan following even today. Sri Adhikari Brothers Television Network Ltd also became the first media company to be listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange. At the same time, the late media pioneer Gautam Adhikari (director and co-founder of the Sri Adhikari Brothers Group), found a place in the Limca Book of Records. The company is now about to write a new chapter. Gautam Adhikaris son, Ravi Adhikari, chairman of SAB Television Network Ltd, is all set to reboot several of these iconic shows for a new generation. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Ravi opened up about these ambitious revival plans, the use of Artificial Intelligence to bring back beloved characters, the future of AI in entertainment and a lot more. Ravi Adhikari revealed, We have a vast library and we own the IP of most of the shows. Many of them were path-breaking and continue to have strong recall value even today. We are rebooting Suraag and Yes Boss. We are also in talks for Commander. It was the first show to be telecast on a satellite channel. We are also trying to revive Say Na Something To Anupam Uncle. He added, On YouTube, several of our older shows continue to get good viewership, with Suraag and Shrimaan Shrimati among the top performers. This also gave me an insight into what people are watching when it comes to our older shows. The reboot of Suraag is already ready. Ravi Adhikari said, Its called Suraag 2.0. It stars Sudesh Berry and Sai Ketan Rao. AI gives old IPs new life For the reboot of Shrimaan Shrimati, Ravi Adhikari has decided to turn to AI. He stated, Two of the actors from Shrimaan Shrimati, Jatin Kanakia and Reema Lagoo, are no longer with us. We are trying to create fresh episodes featuring them using AI. Hence, we are using AI in cases where it would otherwise be impossible to recreate our IPs. We have also made mythological and fantasy shows like Brahma Vishnu Mahesh and Alif Laila. We can recreate such episodes with AI as well. We already have the audio from the original episodes; now, we want to create fresh visuals around it. Thats how we can refurbish and revive some of our older IPs. Ravi Adhikari made it clear that the necessary permissions would be taken from the families of Jatin Kanakia and Reema Lagoo before proceeding. Explaining why familiar IPs continue to resonate with audiences, he said, Songs are also being remixed because of their recall value. When you go to a party where there are 100 people and you know only five of them, youll naturally greet those five first. Youll spend time with them and, through them, meet other people. The same thing happens with content. Theres so much content available today, but you naturally tend to get attracted to familiar titles first. He added, Id also like to clarify that nothing can be made completely by AI. You still need a human brain behind it. AI apne aap toh kuch kar nahin sakta. People say things have become easier with AI. Yes, it does help save time and money, but in some ways, it has also made things more challenging for the maker because you have to be extremely clear and precise about what you want. Ravi elaborated, When you communicate with a human being, he or she can understand what you are trying to say even if your instruction isnt completely clear. For example, I can tell someone, Yeh cheez ko utha ke udhar rakh do, and theyll understand. But I cant give the same instruction to a machine. Ill have to say, Heres a bottle lying on the table. Take it and place it on the other table where the book is kept. Hence, when working with AI, you need to be very precise with your prompts. Ravi Adhikari also revealed, We are associated with the Stage app, a huge platform for Haryanvi, Bhojpuri, Rajasthani, Gujarati, Marathi and Bengali stories. Neeraj Chopra is one of its investors. They plan to go fully into AI, and we have a deal with them to create AI content. Predicting how AI will shape the entertainment industry, he said, Its the way forward. For ad films, you will not need actors to be physically present. As for films, the process will slowly become hybrid. AI will not take over; itll become a part of the process. Even when CGI came in, many people said films would eventually be made entirely using CGI. That didnt happen. Instead, CGI became a part of the filmmaking process. AI will evolve similarly. And what about fears that AI could lead to job losses? Ravi answered, When computers came in, they did replace a lot of jobs. Those who didnt evolve suffered. The same thing will happen with AI. At the same time, if AI takes away certain jobs, it will also create new employment opportunities.

Bollywood Hungama 17 Aug 2026 11:41 am

Fire breaks out at chemical company in Gujarat

Bharuch, Aug 17 (IANS) A fire broke out at a companys premises in the Dahej GIDC industrial area of Bharuch district on Monday, prompting the deployment of more than five firefighting teams. The blaze started in the companys warehouse, where drums containing solvent were stored, officials said. The incident occurred in the early hours of []

bhaskarlive 17 Aug 2026 11:32 am

Nag Panchami 2026: Bhog, mantra, timings and all you need to know about puja, rituals, significance, mythology and regional celebrations

On August 17, 2026, devotees across India will celebrate Nag Panchami, a day dedicated to worshiping Nag Devta to invoke blessings for their families. This significant event occurs during the Panchami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Shravana month. Rituals include prayer, fasting, and traditional offerings to serpent deities. Notably, Gujarat will celebrate it a bit later, on September 1, 2026.

The Economic Times 17 Aug 2026 7:35 am

Formal child adoption remains low in J&K; CARA records 42 cases in 2025-26

Jammu and Kashmir recorded 42 children adopted through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) during 2025-26, a figure substantially lower than adoption numbers reported by several major States, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development in the Rajya Sabha. The State/UT-wise data, furnished in response to a parliamentary question answered on August 12, shows that Maharashtra recorded the highest number of CARA-facilitated adoptions during the financial year, with 792 cases. Gujarat followed with 547, while Tamil Nadu recorded 501 adoptions. Karnataka accounted for 377 cases, followed by Odisha with 308 and Telangana with 307. Jammu and Kashmirs 42 adoptions were also lower than the figures reported by several northern and neighbouring States. Rajasthan recorded 172 adoptions, while Punjab reported 49, only seven more than J&K. Uttar Pradesh registered 231 cases, Haryana 68, Uttarakhand 30, Himachal Pradesh 14 and Delhi 109. Among other States, Assam recorded 186 adoptions, Kerala 170, Andhra Pradesh 140, Bihar 125 and Chhattisgarh 114. West Bengal reported 237 cases, Madhya Pradesh 221 and Jharkhand 60. The data also showed considerable variation among the northeastern States. Meghalaya and Nagaland reported 13 adoptions each, Mizoram 78, Tripura seven, Arunachal Pradesh five and Manipur four. Sikkim recorded 28 cases. Smaller Union Territories and States also reported relatively modest numbers. Goa recorded 25 adoptions, Chandigarh 18, Puducherry 15 and Andaman and Nicobar Islands 11. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu reported five cases. No adoption through CARA was recorded in Ladakh or Lakshadweep during 2025-26. Across the 36 States and Union Territories listed in the annexure, the reported number of CARA-facilitated adoptions stood at 5,022 during the financial year. J&Ks 42 cases therefore accounted for less than one per cent of the reported national total. The Ministry, however, has clarified that adoption figures should be viewed in the context of the availability of children who have been declared legally free for adoption. The waiting period for prospective adoptive parents depends not only on the number of applicants but also on the availability of legally free children and the age group preferred by prospective parents. The government is seeking to strengthen the adoption infrastructure through Mission Vatsalya. States and UTs have been advised to establish at least one Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) in every district under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Adoption Regulations, 2022. As of July 29, 2026, 795 SAAs had been approved across the country under Mission Vatsalya. These agencies support the formal adoption process and provide residential care to adoptable children below six years of age. The adoption system has also been substantially digitised. All SAAs are required to operate through the integrated CARINGS-Mission Vatsalya platform, which facilitates digital processing of cases from referral and matching to documentation. The system also allows authorities to monitor compliance through real-time dashboards at the Central and State levels. The Ministry said District Magistrates have been empowered to issue adoption orders under the Juvenile Justice Act and Adoption Regulations. Prescribed timelines have been laid down for different stakeholders, while CARA undertakes regular monitoring and follow-up with States and UT administrations to reduce delays. The Centre is also using Mission Vatsalya for awareness campaigns promoting legal adoption and foster care. Nationwide and local outreach programmes, workshops, seminars and orientation sessions are being conducted, while CARA uses print, electronic and social media platforms to spread information on legal adoption procedures.

Greater Kashmir 17 Aug 2026 6:51 am

16 held, 35 wanted after Gujarat Police raid

Mehsana, Aug 17 (IANS) The State Monitoring Cell (SMC) of Gujarat Police raided an alleged gambling den being operated in an open field at Jilani Farm on the outskirts of Poida village in Mehsana district, arresting 16 people and seizing cash, vehicles and mobile phones worth Rs 39 lakh. Police said on Sunday that 35 []

bhaskarlive 17 Aug 2026 5:32 am

Why India should favour a community-trusteeship economic model

As an upcoming solar plant imperils the ecologically sensitive Banni grasslands in Gujarat, the merits of top-down development models come into question yet again

The Hindu Businessline 17 Aug 2026 4:12 am

Experience The New Gujarati Music Video 'Tu Na Pive To Mari Bhabhi Na Hum' by Jignesh Barot

Get ready to be swept away by the latest gujarati track 'Tu Na Pive To Mari Bhabhi Na Hum' beautifully sung by Jignesh Barot. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Ravi Nagar & Rahul Nadia and beautiful lyrics are penned by Naresh Thakor Vayad. Don't miss the chance to witness Jignesh Barot's performance in the captivating gujarati video track 'Tu Na Pive To Mari Bhabhi Na Hum'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more gujarati tracks in the music videos section of gujarati ETimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Jignesh Barot. Indulge in the latest gujarati video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Ravi Nagar & Rahul Nadia, immerse in the gujarati music video tracks.

The Times of India 17 Aug 2026 12:25 am

Cops raid liquor party at farmhouse, 21 booked

The Times of India 17 Aug 2026 12:24 am

Two siblings die of electrocution

The Times of India 17 Aug 2026 12:17 am

2 brothers drown in resort pool

The Times of India 17 Aug 2026 12:14 am

Man kills son, stabs wife after family dispute in Gujarat's Navsari

Man kills son stabs wife after family dispute in Gujarats Navsari

India Today 16 Aug 2026 10:47 pm

Four drown in Gujarat's Rajkot while trying to rescue 7-year-old boy

Four drown in Gujarats Rajkot while trying to rescue yearold boy

India Today 16 Aug 2026 8:06 pm

India Posts pilot in Gujarat helps 5 FPOs overcome logistic challenges, business doubles

ONDC is already working to onboard more FPOs and once the word spreads about growing orders, there will be many of them on MyStore App

The Hindu Businessline 16 Aug 2026 3:32 pm

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel visits US and Canada to boost investment

The News Mill

The News Mill 16 Aug 2026 3:17 pm

20 blackbucks rewilded in Gujarat's Banni grasslands on 80th Independence Day

As India celebrated its 80th Independence Day, the Gujarat Forest Department, with support of the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) - Vantara, successfully released 20 blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra) into the Banni grasslands of Kutch in Gujarat. The development marks an important milestone in the restoration of native wildlife and the ecological character of this unique grassland landscape.

India TV 16 Aug 2026 2:33 pm

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Embarks on US and Canada Tour for Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit

Ahmedabad, August 16: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has commenced his tour to the United States and Canada in preparation for the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027. During this trip, he will meet with investors and industry bodies to enhance foreign investment in Gujarat. Accompanying the Chief Minister are key officials including Chief Secretary M.K. Das, ... Read more Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Embarks on US and Canada Tour for Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 12:09 pm

CM Patel leaves for US, Canada to attract investment ahead of Vibrant Gujarat 2027

Ahmedabad, Aug 16 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel departed from Ahmedabad in the early hours of Sunday for a visit to the United States and Canada aimed at attracting global investment and inviting investors and industry leaders to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027. CM Patel is leading a high-level state delegation that will []

bhaskarlive 16 Aug 2026 11:32 am

CM Bhupendra Patel Begins US-Canada Tour Ahead of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2027

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel has embarked on a US-Canada tour to promote Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027 and attract foreign investment to the state.

Web Dunia 16 Aug 2026 11:32 am

Ghee, Oils Worth Rs 35 Lakh Seized After Food Authority Raids In Gujarat

Gujarat's Food and Drug Control Administration seizes Rs 35 lakh adulterated ghee and oils during raids in Surat and Deesa.

NDTV 16 Aug 2026 8:49 am

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Highlights State

Google News 16 Aug 2026 7:51 am

Rumblings in poll-bound UP

It is a clash of titans which is unfolding before the all-important 2027 assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls. It is an unusual clash unfolding in the annals of BJP- unheard of during the last decade of Narendra Modi-Amit Shah supremacy, as the enthusiastic Opposition watches with glee from sidelines. It is so because they, Opposition, are for the time being, out of this clash which is between the two power centres of the saffron party, Modi-Shahs centralised oversight leaving hardly any margin for fellow compatriots, and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Aditynanaths independent style of governance, loath to any interference from top bosses in New Delhi. Many manifestations of this clash of titans have come to the fore in the recent past. From BJPs internal battle of supremacy to control the organisational mechanism in Uttar Pradesh, to reports of the Centres desperate but failed attempts, up till now, to reign in Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath like the other BJP-ruled states headed by lightweights and political novices. And the huge controversy surrounding the alleged theft of donations in Ayodhyas Ram Temple assuming a state versus Centre dimension. In all these manifestations the battle-lines seem getting drawn more clearly. To cap it all, Governor Mrs Anandiben Patel choosing Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths home turf Gorakhpur, his political as well as spiritual karambhoomi, to impliedly target him on the pretext of poor facilities in local educational institutions for the students and other like issues, has generated curiosity both within the BJP-leaving them guessing as to what is transpiring ahead of the assembly elections- and the Opposition camp led by Samajwadi Party-Congress combine. As it is, the path to the coming assembly elections is strewn with serious hurdles for the BJP in view of rumblings in the partys traditional vote-base. The recent set of developments with the Governor pitching in, taking upon herself the role of opposition rather than remaining within the confines of her Constitutional limits, has led to tongues wagging whether the Yogi will be projected as the CM face for his possible third consecutive term or not. Or is he destined to go the way senior BJP leaders such as Mrs Vasundhara Raje and Mr Shivraj Singh Chouhan- both shown the door despite being powerful chief ministers in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. A common thread connecting the three senior leaders of politically important states is that many consider them as possible Prime Ministerial hopefuls. And that has proved to be undoing of Mrs Raje and Mr Chouhan and the phenomena seems to be catching up with Yogi Adityanath. The significance of Governor Anandibens diatribe lies in the selection of Gorakhpur which is strongly connected with the chief minister. She seized upon the opportunity to pull up the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, in her capacity as its Chancellor, and local administration over hostel infrastructure and student amenities. Ostensibly, her message was designed to be sent where it was meant to target. Apart from Gorakhpur being Yogi Adityanaths seat of power, selecting it to indirectly target him has many dimensions attached to it. After all he was MP from Gorakhpur for five consecutive terms before taking over as the chief ministers. And more importantly, it is home to the Gorakhnath Math of which the Yogi is the powerful head. Could Mrs Anandiben have done this on her own will or she was ordained to do so by the party high command? It is to remember that she was a veteran politician from Gujarat and a senior minister before becoming Governor of one of the most politically significant state Uttar Pradesh which is central to BJPs national politics and ambitions. Well, the Gorakhpur episode was not an isolated outburst by her but it has become significant being the home-turf of the Yogi who is in the eye of storm having managed to pursue a line independent of New Delhi. Credit goes to him for steadfastly standing his ground but that has also, of late, become a reason for him to court problems. Will he be able to offset the effect of these developments focused on him in the run up to, not only the assembly election but the subsequent Lok Sabha polls as well? Ordinarily Modi-Shah duo will never like to off-set the political equilibrium to BJPs disadvantage as the road to victory in 2029 general elections passes through Uttar Pradesh. As it is, the central dispensation is facing plethora of problems including the serious challenge posed by the Gen Z protests propelled by an unknown Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and the resultant strong police action against the protestors at New Delhis Jantar Mantar which has led to the washing out of the monsoon Session of Parliament on the issue. Mrs Patel has repeatedly used public platforms to question the functioning of institutions under the state government during past few weeks. At the Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur on July 10, she raised fingers on the way the agricultural system was responding to farmers. She referred to farmers being given targets for seed production and then being forced to purchase seeds from large companies after meeting those targets. Likewise, in Lucknow University, she has questioned hostel Wi-Fi, drinking water, food quality and maintenance. She has also expressed displeasure over sanitation around academic departments and the Tagore Library. At King Georges Medical University, she questioned the use of expired spice powder in a mess and raised concerns over food and cleanliness. Her intervention prompted the university administration to constitute a special task force for monitoring such facilities. And at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith in Varanasi, her attention again turned to hostels, messes, food, Wi-Fi and sanitation. On the face of it there is nothing wrong in the Governor intervening in the functioning of such institutions as she is entitled to discharge her responsibilities as Chancellor of state universities and other such institutions. But place, timing and possible motive in the face of approaching assembly elections, certainly raise doubts. However, what makes it more intriguing is the fact that her criticism of the state set-up has moved beyond the confines of universities. During her recent visit to Ayodhya, she did not hesitate to take a swipe at the bureaucratic functioning. Her statement that devotees could get darshan at the Ram Temple more easily than a government file could get cleared, took everyone by surprise. The obvious hint was to the bureaucratic Red-tape prevalent in the state. Under this garb the obvious target seemed to be the political leadership of the ruling party in UP.

Greater Kashmir 16 Aug 2026 6:21 am

Gujarat Welcomes PM Modis Announcements on Womens Reservation and Free Coaching

Vadodara, August 16: Residents of Vadodara, Gujarat, expressed their support for Prime Minister Narendra Modis announcements made from the Red Fort on Saturday. His call for political parties to unite for implementing 33% reservation for women and providing free online coaching for competitive exams was particularly well-received. During his address on the 80th Independence Day, ... Read more Gujarat Welcomes PM Modis Announcements on Womens Reservation and Free Coaching

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 2:35 am

Over Rs 35 lakh worth of suspected adulterated ghee, oils seized in Gujarat

Surat, Aug 15 (IANS) Gujarats Food and Drug Control Administration has seized more than Rs 35 lakh worth of suspected adulterated ghee and oils during raids in Surat and Deesa, following directions from Health Minister Praful Pansheriya to take strict action against food adulteration, officials said on Saturday. In Surat, officials raided a factory operated []

bhaskarlive 16 Aug 2026 2:33 am

Gujarat market expert backs PM Modi

Surat, Aug 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modis seven-point development framework announced from the Red Fort on Saturday has drawn support from market expert and RupNex co-founder Avnish Tiwari, who said Indias focus on manufacturing, technology, agriculture and other strategic sectors could strengthen its position in the global economy. Addressing the nation on the 80th []

bhaskarlive 16 Aug 2026 2:32 am

Gujarat Police Seizes 7,164 Bottles of Illegal Liquor Worth

Ahmedabad, August 16: The Bagodara police in Ahmedabad rural district confiscated 7,164 bottles of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) valued at 26.81 lakhs during a vehicle check at the Bagodara toll plaza on Saturday. The total estimated value of the seized liquor, the truck, and other items amounts to 41.94 lakhs. This operation aims to ... Read more Gujarat Police Seizes 7,164 Bottles of Illegal Liquor Worth 26.81 Lakhs

Morningstar 16 Aug 2026 1:25 am

Gujarat BJP President Emphasizes Responsibilities of Freedom on Independence Day

Gandhinagar, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Jagdish Vishwakarma, the President of the Gujarat Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stated that freedom should not merely be viewed as the enjoyment of rights. Instead, it should be understood as the responsible exercise of those rights and the disciplined fulfillment of duties towards the ... Read more Gujarat BJP President Emphasizes Responsibilities of Freedom on Independence Day

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 9:29 pm

I-Day celebrations highlight civic responsibility across Gujarat cities

Ahmedabad Gujarats three major municipal corporations marked the 80th Independence Day on Saturday with flag-hoisting ceremonies in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad and The post I-Day celebrations highlight civic responsibility across Gujarat cities appeared first on Bilkul Online .

Bilkulonline 15 Aug 2026 9:14 pm

Karnataka and Bihar Shine in Junior Womens Hockey National Championship

Pune, August 15: The 16th Hockey India Junior Womens National Championship 2026 showcased thrilling matches on Saturday in Pune, featuring teams from Karnataka, Bihar, Mizoram, Assam, Gujarat, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. In Pool B, Hockey Karnataka achieved the days biggest victory, defeating Hockey Uttarakhand 6-1. Meanwhile, Hockey Bihar delivered a ... Read more Karnataka and Bihar Shine in Junior Womens Hockey National Championship

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 8:55 pm

Karnataka, Bihar, Mizoram Shine in Jr Women's Hockey

On the fourth day of the 16th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2026, Karnataka, Bihar, and Mizoram secured significant victories. Karnataka defeated Uttarakhand 6-1, Bihar beat Goa 6-0, and Mizoram overcame Kerala 2-0. Other matches saw Assam, Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu also win, with Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir receiving forfeit victories.

Rediff 15 Aug 2026 8:24 pm

Karnataka, Bihar, Mizoram register wins in Jr Women''s National Hockey Championship

Karnataka, Bihar, and Mizoram secured victories in their respective matches. Karnataka defeated Uttarakhand by a commanding 6-1 margin in their game. Bihar also achieved a comprehensive 6-0 win against Goa in another contest. Mizoram earned a 2-0 victory over Kerala in their pool encounter. Other teams like Assam and Gujarat also registered wins in their divisions.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 8:07 pm

Gujarat Governor Appeals for National Interest on Independence Day

Gandhinagar, August 15: On the occasion of Indias 80th Independence Day, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat hoisted the national flag at Lok Bhavan. He urged citizens to prioritize national interests and fulfill their social and national responsibilities with integrity, hard work, and a spirit of service. While addressing the public, Devvrat called on people to contribute ... Read more Gujarat Governor Appeals for National Interest on Independence Day

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 7:24 pm

Weather Tomorrow August 16: IMD predicts rain, thunderstorms and heavy showers across several states; check forecast for Delhi, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and more

Weather Tomorrow August 16: India's weather on August 16 will see monsoon influence with cloudy skies and rainfall. Delhi expects light rain and moderate temperatures, while Haryana may have afternoon showers. Rajasthan and Gujarat anticipate partly cloudy conditions and isolated thunderstorms. Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh will experience cloudy weather and light to heavy rain. Jammu and Kashmir is forecast for moderate rain, lightning, and gusty winds.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 7:18 pm

After a decade, zebras will again delight visitors to the Thiruvananthapuram zoo

The zebras, a male and a female aged five and three, are being brought from Vantara at Jamnagar in Gujarat. In exchange, a king cobra and a lion-tailed macaque will be handed over.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 7:02 pm

Worked as maids and then robbed homes: Two Nepali women arrested in Gujarat

Worked as maids and then robbed homes Two Nepali women arrested in Gujarat

India Today 15 Aug 2026 6:43 pm

Only two decades left to achieve 'Viksit Bharat' goal, says Gujarat Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi; calls for planning

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi urged planning for Viksit Bharat by 2047. He noted only two decades remain to achieve this ambitious national goal. The state government is committed to welfare and development for all citizens. New hostels and safety measures are being implemented for vulnerable communities. Gujarat is a role model, providing significant employment opportunities for young people.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 5:15 pm

PM Modis Independence Day turbans: A look at his colourful Red Fort looks from 2014 to 2026

To mark Indias 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Red Fort on Saturday in a striking red tie-and-dye turban with a long trailing end, as he delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the historic ramparts.The turban featured intricate red, green and white patterns inspired by Rajasthani and Gujarati styles. He paired it with a white kurta-pajama and brown jacket, completing the look with three pocket squares in saffron, white and green, mirroring the colours of the national flag.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 3:12 pm

Independence Day and Parsi New Year: Are Schools Open for Flag Hoisting Today?

Are schools open today? Get the latest updates on Independence Day 2026 and Parsi New Year school holiday rules, including mandatory flag hoisting guidelines for students in Maharashtra and Gujarat. Check official notices now.

CareerIndia 15 Aug 2026 3:03 pm

No Body, No DNA Match: How Melted Gold Ornaments Helped Convict Gujarat Cop In Live-In Partner's Murder

Desai and Patel, who were both already married to other people, had entered a relationship that his family knew nothing about.

NDTV 15 Aug 2026 2:30 pm

EXCLUSIVE: Yash Soni ADMITS his Diwali release Chaniya Toli was AFFECTED by Laalo - Krishna Sada Sahaayate at the box office: It was a downer, but it also made me happy...a matter of PRIDE for Gujarati cinema

Last month, the results of the 72nd National Film Awards were announced, with Maaran winning the award for Best Gujarati Feature Film. The thriller drama is headlined by Yash Soni, a popular name in Gujarati cinema. While the actor has largely been known for playing sweet and lovable characters, Maaran sees him undergo a transformation unlike anything he has attempted before. Last year, he played a quirky character in the heist Gujarati film Chaniya Toli. It released on Diwali 2025 and thus clashed with Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat and gave a tough fight to these Hindi films. Until the second weekend, it had managed to hit Rs. 15 crore mark and was having a dream run. It seemed like the film would cross the Rs. 25 crore mark and may even have a shot at having a lifetime of Rs. 30 crores. However, a small Gujarati film, Laalo - Krishna Sada Sahaayate, suddenly stole the thunder from Chaniya Toli. It had released two weeks before the Yash Soni-starrer and had done negligible business in 15 days. But miraculously, it picked up in the third week and then became a rage. It went on to become the first Gujarati film to cross the Rs. 100 crores mark. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Yash Soni spoke about this aspect. When asked if he believes that Chaniya Toli was affected by the Laalo wave, Yash Soni confessed, Yes, absolutely. Laalo came as a surprise at everyone. It was running in just one show in a few theatres when Chaniya Toli released. After 2 or 2 weeks, it began picking up and ultimately collected Rs. 104 crores. He added, Now, Laalo was a small film. The makers and actors were talented but they were not established names. Such films used to often face an uphill challenge in attracting the audience. But when Laalo became a historic blockbuster, it made me happy as a film with no established actors or makers did such business. And look at the way it was performing. My own family couldnt get tickets to watch Laalo! Of course, it was a bit of a downer that Chaniya Toli got affected. But at the same time, it was a matter of pride that a Gujarati film collected Rs. 100 crores for the first time. It has set a benchmark that we all have to now chase. So, I took it as a motivating factor. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Yash Soni on SHATTERING his sweet, lovable hero image with Maaran: Feedback is amazing; film khatam hote hi audience mein sannaata hota hai; reveals why it clashed with Spider-Man: Brand New Day: We wanted to use the National Award momentum

Bollywood Hungama 15 Aug 2026 1:41 pm

Blood donation camps dont qualify for GST exemption, Gujarat AAR rules

Gujarat's AAR ruled blood donation camps are not charitable for GST exemption. Yoga camps, however, were deemed charitable activities and exempt from GST. Several welfare and training programs under government schemes also received GST exemption. These included self-defense training and mental health initiatives for women. The ruling clarifies GST applicability for various NGO activities in Gujarat.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 1:28 pm

Power & Instrumentation (Gujarat) consolidated net profit rises 10.31% in the June 2026 quarter

Sales rise 18.40% to Rs 48.90 crore

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 11:17 am

Mipco Seamless Rings (Gujarat) reports standalone net profit of Rs 0.06 crore in the June 2026 quarter

Sales reported at Rs 1.31 crore

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 10:57 am

Gujarat Apollo Industries consolidated net profit declines 29.57% in the June 2026 quarter

Sales decline 9.93% to Rs 9.98 crore

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 10:40 am

Gujarat Natural Resources consolidated net profit rises 488.08% in the June 2026 quarter

Sales rise 70.75% to Rs 5.72 crore

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 10:31 am

Gujarat Kidney & Super Speciality consolidated net profit rises 7.02% in the June 2026 quarter

Sales rise 124.71% to Rs 34.29 crore

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 10:25 am

J&K youth must ensure mistakes of past are never repeated: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 14:The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today attended the solemn observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The event was marked by collective remembrance and a reaffirmation of national unity. In his address on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor paid heartfelt tribute to all those citizens who endured unimaginable suffering during the partition of 1947 and whose sacrifices continue to inspire generations. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the wound of partition continues to exist as a pain in the collective consciousness of every Indian. Decades after the partition, their sacrifice reminds us that the wound remains unhealed, lingering as a generational pain in Indias collective soul. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, we are not merely recalling the past but we are giving voice to those millions whose voices were taken away from them. I wish to reiterate with firm resolve that we will not allow their pain to be buried in the dust of history. Remembering them is fulfilling our duty towards humanity. We will preserve their memories. Remembering them with complete truthfulness, honesty, and utmost sensitivity is the most sacred tribute. I believe that their stories are an indelible chapter of our national consciousness, and their sacrifice will forever remain alive in the soul of Mother India, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the people of UT of Jammu and Kashmir to treat this day as an occasion of introspection and national resolve. He called upon the youth, farmers, workers, and women to rise with courage and determination, to turn the pace of time towards progress and harmony. The Lieutenant Governor praised the resilience of people who rebuilt their lives with courage and enriched the countrys social fabric and cultural heritage with historic traditions and values. Todays occasion is an opportunity to acknowledge the pain of the past and strengthen our unwavering commitment to peace, harmony and national unity. This day reminds us that only the lessons of history can make the future secure and humane, the Lieutenant Governor said. He noted that the partition divided families and displaced communities from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Chhamb. He paid tribute to those who faced decades-long discrimination within the UT due to Article 370. The Lieutenant Governor said that Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ended their suffering and granted them equal rights like any other citizen of the country. The Lieutenant Governor also paid tribute the countless families who sacrificed during the tribal invasion months after partition. Within a few months of partition, enemies of the nation carried out terror attack under the cover of tribal invasions. Indian army and people fought bravely. The struggle and sacrifice of countless families are an integral part of the collective memory of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, I humbly pay tribute to the patience, hard work, and unbroken patriotism of all those families, he said. Addressing the youth, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that partition is not merely history but a living memory of millions of families. He urged them to learn from the experiences of the past, to reject enmity and communal bitterness, and to build bridges of trust. He called upon them to construct a developed India that is inclusive and empowered. The youth of Jammu Kashmir must ensure that the mistakes of the past are never repeated in the future. Where walls were once raised, you must build bridges of trust and construct a Viksit Bharat that is inclusive, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor reminded the gathering that Indias strength lies in its diversity. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Gujarat to Goa, from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh, India is a confluence of languages, cultures, traditions, and beliefs, he said. Through partition, enemies of the nation tried to destroy this spirit of unity in diversity, but India has continuously moved forward with pride and confidence. We must take a pledge to acquaint future generations with the pain of partition, to strengthen peace and harmony, and to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated. Building a self-reliant Jammu Kashmir is a shared duty and national unity remains the bedrock of our strength, security and collective progress, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor visited the photo exhibition on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. A Two- minute silence was observed in memory of those who lost their lives during the Partition of India.

Greater Kashmir 15 Aug 2026 6:10 am

A republic renewed by its citizens

Indias 80th Independence Day, to be celebrated on 15 August 2026, is not merely another anniversary on the national calendar. It is a historic milestone in the continuing journey of a civilisation that transformed the achievement of political freedom into the audacious project of building a constitutional democracy based on liberty, equality, justice and fraternity. Seventy-nine years after India broke the chains of colonial rule, the meaning of independence must be examined not only through the sacrifices of the freedom movement but also through the responsibilities that freedom places upon every citizen. Independence was never intended to be simply the transfer of power from one set of rulers to another. The freedom struggle represented a much larger aspiration: that the people of India should become masters of their own destiny. The Constitution subsequently gave institutional expression to that aspiration. It transformed the promise of freedom into fundamental rights, democratic institutions, an independent judiciary, universal adult franchise, federalism and the rule of law. The 80th Independence Day therefore offers an opportunity to ask a fundamental question: What does freedom mean to an Indian citizen in 2026? The answer cannot be confined to the waving of the Tricolour, patriotic songs or ceremonial speeches. Independence is meaningful only when citizens are free to speak, think, worship, associate, question authority, pursue knowledge, seek justice and participate equally in the democratic process. Political freedom acquires substance only when accompanied by social dignity, economic opportunity, constitutional protection and equality before law. Freedom is both a right and a responsibility The generation that fought for independence understood the price of freedom. Many went to prison, sacrificed careers, endured repression and, in numerous cases, gave their lives. They did not know what India would look like in 2026. But they had faith that succeeding generations would protect and enlarge the freedom they had secured. That responsibility now belongs to us. Citizenship in a democracy cannot be reduced to voting once every few years. A democratic citizen must remain alert to the functioning of institutions, demand accountability from those in power, respect constitutional limitations and defend the rights of otherseven when those rights are exercised by people with whom one disagrees. The true test of democracy is not whether we defend the freedom of those who agree with us. It is whether we are prepared to defend the freedom of those whose opinions, beliefs or politics may be different from our own. This is where the Constitution becomes the moral compass of the Republic. The Preambles commitment to justice, liberty, equality and fraternity is not ornamental language. It represents the foundational contract between the State and its citizens. The Republic becomes stronger when these principles become part of everyday civic conduct. Indias greatest achievement: constitutional democracy The extraordinary achievement of independent India lies in the fact that a deeply diverse society chose democracy. India brought together hundreds of communities, languages, cultures, faiths and traditions within a single constitutional framework. It adopted universal adult suffrage at the very beginning of the Republic, at a time when many newly independent nations were still struggling to establish democratic institutions. The Indian experiment has survived because democracy in India was never merely an institutional arrangement. It became a public habit, a political aspiration and, increasingly, a constitutional culture. Yet democracy can never be taken for granted. Every generation has to renew it. Institutions require vigilance. Fundamental rights require citizens who understand and defend them. The independence of constitutional institutions requires public commitment. The rule of law requires both rulers and citizens to accept that no individual or institution is above the Constitution. The 80th Independence Day should therefore become a national reminder that Indias future will be determined not only by governments but by the quality of its citizenship. And this is where Gen Z enters the national story Indias Gen Z is not merely the youngest generation of voters and professionals. It is increasingly the generation that will shape Indias intellectual, technological, economic and democratic future. This generation has grown up in a digital India. It communicates through smartphones, consumes information at extraordinary speed, creates content, challenges conventional hierarchies and is often impatient with traditional political language. That impatience should not necessarily be viewed as a weakness. It can be a democratic strength. Young Indians are asking difficult questions about employment, education, inequality, corruption, climate change, gender justice, institutional accountability, privacy, technology and the future of democracy. They want transparency and they want results. But Gen Z also faces a new challenge that the freedom fighters could never have imagined: the battle for truth in the digital age. Social media has democratised information, but it has also democratised misinformation. A fabricated story can travel faster than a verified fact. A manipulated image can acquire the appearance of truth. Algorithms can create echo chambers in which citizens hear only opinions that reinforce their existing beliefs. For Gen Z, therefore, digital citizenship is an essential component of constitutional citizenship. Freedom of expression must be accompanied by responsibility in the use of expression. The right to communicate must be matched by the duty to verify. Political disagreement should not become personal hatred. Criticism of government should not be confused with hostility towards the nation. A young citizen who checks facts before forwarding a message is performing an act of democratic responsibility. A young citizen who refuses to participate in online hatred is strengthening national unity. A young citizen who asks uncomfortable questions of authority is contributing to democracy. From patriotic emotion to constitutional patriotism Patriotism must not be measured only by the intensity of slogans. The deeper form of patriotism is respect for the constitutional values that hold India together. India does not belong to one religion, language, caste, region or political ideology. Its extraordinary identity lies precisely in its plurality. The idea of India is therefore not simply geographical. It is constitutional. It is the idea that a citizen in Kashmir and a citizen in Kanyakumari, a citizen in Nagaland and one in Gujarat, a Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain or person of another faith, the rich and the poor, the majority and the minorityall possess equal constitutional dignity. Fraternity is therefore as important as liberty. Without fraternity, liberty can become individualistic and equality can become merely formal. Fraternity reminds us that democracy is ultimately about living together with dignity. The 80th Independence Day should consequently inspire us to move beyond majoritarian and minoritarian identities and rediscover the larger identity of constitutional citizenship. The first generation won freedom. The Constitution gave freedom a framework. Our generation must protect it. And Gen Z must carry it forward. Author is a Constitutional expert & a public intellectual

Greater Kashmir 15 Aug 2026 6:05 am

Gujarat CM urges greater women

The News Mill

The News Mill 15 Aug 2026 5:37 am

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel urges unity to build developed Gujarat

The News Mill

The News Mill 15 Aug 2026 4:27 am

Gujarat Chief Minister Visits Exhibition Honoring 75 Freedom Fighters

Amreli, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited an exhibition in Amreli district showcasing the stories of approximately 75 freedom fighters. The exhibition highlights events from the freedom movement, including the Arzi Hukumat and the struggle against Portuguese rule. Organized by Deepak High School at ... Read more Gujarat Chief Minister Visits Exhibition Honoring 75 Freedom Fighters

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 2:09 am

Gujarat Reports 27 Deaths Due to Chandipura Virus Amid Rising Cases

Gandhinagar, August 15: The ongoing surveillance period in Gujarat, which began on June 30, has confirmed 41 laboratory cases of the Chandipura virus, resulting in 27 fatalities. This information was released by the state health department on Friday. As of 5 PM on August 14, the state recorded 257 suspected cases of the Chandipura virus. ... Read more Gujarat Reports 27 Deaths Due to Chandipura Virus Amid Rising Cases

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 12:35 am

Water in Ukai nearing operational threshold level

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 12:32 am

Ragging-suicide: Two accused medicos deny wrongdoing

Seek Probe Into Dr Pandyas Death From All Angles

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 12:31 am

Saputara fest draws crowds as rains cast their spell

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 12:30 am

Mastermind of 5cr virtual diamond heist caught after a year

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 12:29 am