Business rights can't disregard sanctity of pilgrimage site: Gujarat government to HC on non-veg ban
Six restaurant owners have challenged the blanket ban imposed by the Gujarat Government two months ago on the sale of non-vegetarian food within a 500-metre periphery of the temple
PM Modi extends birthday wishes to HM Shah, praises his effective security system, anti-drug push
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 22 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended warm birthday greetings to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and praised his efforts in strengthening India's internal security, eliminating Maoism and making efforts to eradicate the drug menace from society. Taking to X, PM Modi said, Warm birthday greetings to Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji. His administrative understanding has ensured India's internal security systems become more effective. Particularly noteworthy are the successes in eliminating the menace of Maoism and in furthering our dream of a society free from drugs, he said. I pray that he is blessed with a long and healthy life in service of the people, the Prime Minister added. HM Shah was born to Gujarati parents in 1964 in Mumbai. He is considered one of the BJP's chief strategists and a close confidant of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His political career has been marked by several key milestones, including the abrogation of Article 370, the enforcement of major internal security reforms, and a focus on cooperative federalism. At the age of 16, Amit Shah joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and started participating in the RSS' student wing, Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP). In 1989, Amit Shah was given his first organisational assignment when he was made the secretary of the BJP Ahmedabad. This marked a significant milestone in his political journey. In 1997, he contested his first election during the Gujarat Assembly polls from the Sarkhej constituency. He served as MLA for Sarkhej and Naranpura for his first term from 1997 to 2017. In 2002, he was made a Minister in the Gujarat Cabinet. In 2014, he was made the National President of BJP. A member of parliament for Gujarat's Gandhinagar, HM Shah has served as the 31st Minister of Home Affairs since 2019, the longest-serving holder of the office in the country's history. He has also been the first Minister of Cooperation since July 2021.
The United Nations designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The objective is to raise awareness about the role of women farmers. Generally, our higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir organize seminars, rallies, and other activities to mark important national and international days. However, to the best of my knowledge, no such celebrations have taken place so far in connection with this initiative. Chancellor of the universities Mr Manoj Sinha, has described campuses as hubs of ideas where every lecture becomes a doorway. Faculty members and students need to spend time in the countryside to experience the challenges and rewards of harvesting in Kashmir. Chairman Mao Zedong famously spoke of his education at the university of green forests. This article is a modest attempt to understand some of the issues concerning women farmers and their evolving identity. Definitional issues Women farmers are individuals engaged in agricultural activities such as crop cultivation, livestock management, horticulture, fisheries, food processing, and other farm-related operations. Their work extends from land preparation to harvesting, storage, processing, and marketing. The state of Maharashtra has taken a commendable step by introducing legislation that recognizes women farmers through an activity-based definition independent of land ownership. The Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, passed by Maharashtra in July 2026, grants women independent recognition as farmers irrespective of whether they own agricultural land. This legislation represents a significant shift from recognizing the owner of agricultural land to recognizing the person who actually cultivates it. Maharashtra has shown the way for other states in the Indian Union to follow. Earlier, the National Policy for Farmers, based on the recommendations of the National Commission on Farmers, had also broadened the definition of a farmer. The commission was chaired by the eminent agricultural scientist Dr. M. S. Swaminathan. The perception that only men can be farmers must therefore be abandoned. In 2025, agriculture employed approximately 110 million women and 127 million men, indicating that the gender gap in agricultural employment had narrowed considerably. There is an urgent need to remove loopholes in policymaking and institutional practices so that women are recognized as farmers in their own right. This would enable them to benefit from various welfare schemes offered by the Union and state governments in keeping with the spirit of the Indian Constitution. Founding mothers of the Indian republic In recent years, several noteworthy works on the Indian Constitution have questioned the use of the term Founding Fathers, a phrase rooted in the American tradition of recognizing a group of eminent men. These writings seek to bring greater visibility to the women who played noticeable roles in framing the Indian Constitution. A new book, Founding Mothers of the Indian Republic: Gender Politics of the Framing of the Constitution, by Achyut Chetan, sheds light on the contributions of Indian women who participated in the constitution-making process. It is heartening to note that Amrit Kaur, a member of the Constituent Assembly, emphasized the concept of constructive citizenship. Her approach sought to move beyond identifying and regulating women primarily as members of particular religious communities and instead recognize them as citizens of the new nation, enjoying equal legal status with men. Similarly, Dakshayani Velayudhan, the only Dalit woman in the Constituent Assembly, envisioned an educational role for the state in transforming a caste-ridden society into an independent and egalitarian Indian republic. Constitutional provisions Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. In the context of gender equality, this principle supports womens claims to equal treatment, dignity, and protection against discrimination. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on specified grounds, including sex, while Articles 15(3) and 15(4) empower the state to make special provisions for women and children and for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes and other constitutionally specified groups. Article 19(1)(g) guarantees citizens the right to practise any profession or carry on any occupation, trade, or business, subject to reasonable restrictions permitted by the Constitution. Article 42 directs the state to make provisions for securing just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief, thereby laying an important foundation for a just and equitable social order. Various state governments and Union Territories have introduced measures intended to strengthen womens participation in national development. The constitutional framework provides important guarantees and protections for women across different sections of society. Women farmers in Indian states The newly enacted Maharashtra legislation broadens the definition of a woman farmer to include women residents engaged in agriculture for at least one agricultural season in a year, irrespective of the nature of their landholding. The proposed Women Farmer Certificate explicitly recognizes categories such as landless cultivators, landless livestock rearers, agricultural labourers, plantation workers, and pastoralists. In principle, this creates a pathway through which women who do not own land can gain access to government welfare schemes and agricultural credit. In Kerala, women farmers play an important role in the agricultural economy and environmental sustainability through grassroots collectives. The Kudumbashree collective farming initiative organizes neighbourhood groups into Joint Liability Groups to cultivate fallow land. Meghalaya offers another interesting example. Approximately 48 per cent of women reportedly own land, a proportion higher than the national average. In some communities, the inheritance of family property by the youngest daughter reflects the states distinctive matrilineal traditions. These examples demonstrate that institutional recognition, collective organization, and property rights can strengthen womens participation in agriculture. The J&K Experience In May 2018, the then Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, announced a zero-stamp-duty policy for properties registered in the names of female family members. The initiative reflected the progressive spirit of the 1944 Naya Kashmir programme. However, the measure was short-lived and was revoked in 2019. It is worth noting that asset ownership in Jammu and Kashmir remains largely dominated by men. In terms of land ownership, only 23 per cent of women in the region reportedly hold property in their names, compared with 73 per cent of men. Despite these constraints, women farmers in Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly demonstrating their capabilities and emerging as a distinct and important category of agricultural entrepreneurs. Zainab Wani, a Kashmir-based freelance journalist, has brought several success stories to public attention under the theme Farm Heroines of Kashmir. She writes about how Kashmiri women such as Shaziya, Gulshana, and Tahira are transforming the Valleys agricultural landscape through determination, innovation, and a willingness to create employment opportunities where few previously existed. Shaziya, who holds LLB and LLM degrees and comes from a village in the Shopian area, oversees a dynamic agro-enterprise that functions more like an integrated ecosystem than a conventional farm. Her model emphasizes sustainability and avoids the use of fertilizers. Her work has been recognized by a zonal body of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Similarly, Gulshana, from Pulwama, has established a dairy farm and demonstrated how dedication and hard work can provide a model for others to emulate. She reportedly supplies more than 150,000 litres of milk annually. She has benefited from the National Livestock Mission, which, among other objectives, seeks to improve feed and breed quality across India. In Kulgam, Tahira, a young woman without land of her own, has demonstrated that even a small shed-sized space can become an important source of income through mushroom cultivation, potentially providing employment throughout the year. These encouraging stories demonstrate the potential of women farmers to transform local economies. The Jammu and Kashmir government must build on this momentum by taking further measures to support and empower them. The Way Forward The Jammu and Kashmir government should consider enacting a Women Farmers Empowerment Act along the lines of Maharashtras initiative. Globally, women continue to face substantial legal and institutional barriers to land ownership and inheritance. In India, women constitute a significant proportion of the agricultural workforce and self-employed agricultural workers, yet their ownership of agricultural land has historically remained disproportionately low. Anil Agarwal, chairman of Vedanta Limited, has argued that economies grow faster when women are empowered. The Jammu and Kashmir government could draw inspiration from Gujarats experience with women-operated Amul milk parlours in villages, adapting the model to local conditions and opportunities. Block Development Officers, working in partnership with Gram Sabhas and other local institutions, could invite women recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization as Women Heroes in Agrifood to share their experiences. Such interactions could inspire local women farmers and help disseminate effective agricultural practices. More than a hundred women around the world have received recognition through initiatives celebrating their pioneering contributions to agrifood systems. Women farmers should also receive childcare support to reduce their unpaid care burden and enable them to devote more time and energy to agricultural work. Through initiatives such as the Namo Drone Didi programme, women can be trained in drone operations, precision agriculture, and smart irrigation. Such skills could help improve productivity, reduce costs, and create new employment opportunities in rural areas. Jammu and Kashmir also faces an administrative challenge: its government machinery has relatively limited staffing in some critical service-delivery roles, while several institutions lack the technical expertise needed to implement complex development programmes effectively. The government must therefore rethink the role of the developmental state, ensuring that effective public services and ease of doing business extend to the village level. The author is a Kashmir-based political scientist.
Amit Shah hails security personnel for restoring peace in J&K
New Delhi, Oct 21:Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Wednesday hailed the security personnel for restoring peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Paying tribute to the police personnel, who were killed in the line of duty, at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said, Significant success has been achieved in curbing terrorism in Kashmir. Addressing the ceremony, he said, We have assembled at the National Police Memorial to pay homage to the brave police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation from independence to the present day. The Home Minister said that nearly eight decades after independence, India stands today in a position of honour and respect in the world. The foundation of this achievement lies in the sacrifices of our brave personnel. No one can even imagine where we would stand today if these personnel had not made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the countrys internal security and protect its borders, he said. Shah said that 2026 was an extremely significant year for the Indian police. On March 31, 2026, the country achieved freedom from Naxalism, which had plagued India for decades. From 1981 to March 2026, the country endured numerous hardships due to Naxalism. During this period, many brave security personnel and innocent civilians lost their lives. More than 3600 security personnel were killed, and nearly 13,700 innocent civilians also lost their lives, he said. The Home Minister said he wanted to convey to the families of the slain personnel that as the country moves forward on the path of development after overcoming this five-decade-old problem, the sacrifices of these 3600 personnel form the foundation of this progress. Addressing the families of the slain security personnel, he said that while their loss could never be compensated, the entire nation of 1.4 billion citizens remains grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of their families. Recalling the history of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said that on October 21, 1959, in the remote and inhospitable Hot Springs region of Ladakh, 10 CRPF personnel were killed while resisting an attack by Chinese troops. A study of the Hot Springs incident makes it clear that when the battle was decided in the high-altitude mountains, the outcome was almost certain. Yet, these immortal heroes remained steadfast in their resolve that not even an inch of the countrys land should fall into foreign hands, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Since then, October 21 has been observed every year as Police Commemoration Day, he said. The Home Minister said that the National Police Memorial, where they were gathered, was inaugurated in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in honour of police personnel who had lost lives in the line of duty. The objective behind establishing the memorial was to inspire future generations of police personnel to remain committed to their responsibilities and be prepared to make the supreme sacrifice while performing their duties, he said. Shah said that the memorial had also become a place of reverence for citizens from across the country. Grateful citizens visit the site to pay tribute to 36,852 police personnel and express the nation's gratitude for their service and sacrifice, he said. The Home Minister said that among all government services, police service was one of the most challenging. Every citizen in the country celebrates festivals such as Raksha Bandhan, Holi, Diwali, and Eid, but police personnel often have no holidays to celebrate these occasions, he said. Shah said that while people celebrate festivals with their families, police personnel remain on duty, safeguarding internal security, managing traffic and ensuring public safety. They devote the prime years of ones life to the nation while staying away from ones family is a great service to the country, he said. The Home Minister said that there were numerous examples across the country of police personnel demonstrating extraordinary patience, restraint, discipline, courage, and dedication, thereby strengthening the nations internal security. He said that police personnel constitute both the first and the last line of defence for internal security. Shah expressed his special gratitude to all personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) deployed along the borders and entrusted with security responsibilities within the country. Staying away from their families, these personnel remain vigilant and strengthen the nations internal security on every occasion, whether during elections, festivals, protests or border security duties. They remain constantly on duty to ensure the smooth functioning of the country. Whether it is safeguarding democracy or ensuring the smooth conduct of democratic processes, it is impossible to imagine these tasks being accomplished without the Central Armed Police Forces, he said. The Home Minister said that India had succeeded in eliminating electoral violence in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, but electoral violence had continued in West Bengal for a long time. He said that during the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections, security personnel achieved a significant success by ensuring that the elections were completed without a single fatality. In doing so, the Central Armed Police Forces had established a new benchmark, Shah said. He said that the entire country now recognises that electoral violence had been brought to an end in the nation. The Home Minister said that over the past few years, the country had faced several challenges, three of which had persisted for decades. He said that peace had now been established in all three major hotspots Kashmir, the North-East, and the areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism. An environment conducive to development has emerged in these regions, and they are now ready to compete with the rest of the country in terms of development, Shah said. Following several agreements and the surrender of arms by thousands of people, the entire North-East has moved forward on the path of peace. He said that police and Central Armed Police Forces personnel had achieved a major breakthrough in completely eliminating the five-decade-old Naxal problem, which had spread across several states. The Home Minister specifically thanked the CRPF and its CoBRA Battalion for their contribution to the elimination of Naxalism and praised the bravery of the Chhattisgarh Police. He said that the country had not yet become completely free of problems and that several challenges remain. Shah said that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had set a target to free the country from the drug menace by December 31, 2029, through a concerted fight against drugs over the remaining part of 2026 and the next three years 2027, 2028 and 2029. He described this as a very important goal for the nation. The Home Minister said that drug abuse and trafficking undermine the future of coming generations, place an unnecessary burden on the economy, and often provide financial support to organisations with anti-national intentions. He called upon police forces across the country to wholeheartedly join the efforts to implement the roadmap for a Nasha Mukt Bharat, formulated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and work towards safeguarding future generations. On this occasion, Shah flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally organised around the message 'Fight against Drugs.' It included around 90 riders from various states and Union Territories (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi), Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, CISF, BSF, SSB, ITBP and NSG), and certain central police organisations (RPF, NDRF and NIA). The rally is part of a nationwide campaign organised around the message 'Fight against Drugs', in which motorcycle riders from all states, Union Territories and Central Forces across the country will reach Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to participate in the Ekta Parade-2026. The Police Commemoration Day ceremony was attended by Members of Parliament Krishna Prasad Tenneti and Rajiv Kumar; Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan; Director of the Intelligence Bureau Mahesh Dixit; Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Shatrujeet Kapoor; the Directors General of other Central Armed Police Forces; and several senior officers.
Ekta Diwas parade in Guj on Oct 31 to mark end of Maoist menace
This year's Ekta Diwas parade in Kevadia, Gujarat, will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 Naxal-affected districts and celebrate the significant achievement of ending armed Naxalism in the country. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the annual event on October 31, which also commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary. The celebrations will include cultural performances, innovative tableaux, and will honour security forces while promoting tourism to the Statue of Unity.
Gujarat Government Increases Travel Allowance for Village Workers Amid Rising Responsibilities
The Gujarat government raises the travel allowance for village workers to support their growing responsibilities in rural areas. Gujarat Government Increases Travel Allowance for Village Workers Amid Rising Responsibilities
Cheered in Chhota Udepur, but Vadodara shuts stage to Muslim who played Lakshmana for 14 years
MSUs new disability centre to bring academic, health support under one roof
DPS to refund or adjust 15k security deposits
Revenge killing during Navratri: 4 held for stabbing man to death
Councillor seeks probe into Yusuf Pathan plot gift
Four plunge off rail overbridge after motorcycle hits parapet, three dead
Highway chemical pilferage racket busted
Robbery suspect escapes from lock-up, caught in 2 hours
Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Declares
GMDC announces a 223.54 crore dividend to the Gujarat government for FY 2025-26, expanding its operations in mining and renewable energy. Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Declares 223.54 Crore Dividend for Fiscal Year 2025-26
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Reliance's Jamnagar refinery, meets Ambani family
US Secretary of State MarcoRubiovisitedReliance Industries' sprawling complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday, where Reliance chairman Mukesh Ambani and his family welcomed the American delegation. During his visit, Rubio toured the world's largest single-site oil...
Gujarat schools bar unauthorised entry, photography and videography under new rules
The Gujarat government has issued new instructions aimed at strengthening security and maintaining discipline on school premises . Under the new directives, outsiders will not be allowed to enter school campuses without prior permission from the school principal.
Gujarats GST revenue rises 29% to 49,858 cr in H1 FY27 despite rate cuts
The State collected 49,858 crore in GST between April and September 2026
Essar Ports gets LoA for 2,276 crore Tuna Tekra terminal in Gujarat
Essar Ports will invest Rs 1,552.57 crore in the Tuna Tekra terminal, which will have an annual cargo-handling capacity of 18.33 million tonnes and four berths at Kandla in Gujarat
Gujarat govt to spend 1,000 cr on rooftop solar subsidy
The decision comes days after Gujarats peak electricity demand touched an all-time high of 29,822 MW on October 16
Indian Shooter Elavenil Valarivan Shines with Two Silver Medals at Asian Games 2026
Elavenil Valarivan wins two silver medals at Asian Games 2026, inspiring young shooters in India and receiving recognition from the Gujarat government. Indian Shooter Elavenil Valarivan Shines with Two Silver Medals at Asian Games 2026
Gujarat gets Rs 8,167 crore in GST in Sep; up 35 pc year-on-year
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 21 (IANS) Gujarats goods and services tax (GST) revenue rose 35 per cent year-on-year to Rs 8,167 crore in September this year, compared with Rs 6,050 crore in the same month last year, even as GST rates were reduced, state government spokesperson Jitu Vaghani said on Wednesday. The growth was more than twice the national GST revenue growth rate of 14.7 per cent during the same period, according to figures shared by Vaghani after the state Cabinet meeting. Gujarat collected Rs 49,858 crore in GST revenue during the first six months of the current financial year, from April to September, marking a 29 per cent increase over the Rs 38,540 crore collected during the corresponding period last year. The state government attributed the increase to the business and industrial environment in Gujarat and greater voluntary compliance by taxpayers. GST was the largest contributor to the state Tax Departments revenue in September. Collections from other taxes included Rs 2,930 crore through value added tax (VAT), Rs 1,102 crore in electricity duty and Rs 24 crore in professional tax. Together, GST, VAT, electricity duty and professional tax generated total revenue of Rs 12,222 crore for the state Tax Department during September, Vaghani said. The figures come amid a reduction in GST rates, which the state government said had not prevented revenue growth. The government cited the business environment and taxpayers cooperation as factors behind the increase. The September collections and the six-month figures indicate year-on-year growth in Gujarats GST receipts, with the state recording a higher growth rate than the national figure for September. The state government said its efforts to support economic activity, alongside voluntary tax compliance, were contributing to Gujarats economic development.
Ekta Nagar Prepares for Grand Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2026 Marking End of Armed Naxalism
In a press conference held in New Delhi, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan announced details regarding the upcoming Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2026 and Bharat Parv 2026 celebrations at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. Scheduled for October 31, the annual event commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The celebrations will open with Prime Minister Shri Narendra [] The post Ekta Nagar Prepares for Grand Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2026 Marking End of Armed Naxalism appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Gujarat: GMDC pays govt Rs 223.54 crore dividend for 2025-26
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 21 (IANS) The Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC) on Wednesday paid a dividend of Rs 223.54 crore to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel for the financial year 2025-26 in Gandhinagar. The cheque, representing the state government's share of the corporation's dividend, was handed over by Chief Secretary M K Das in the presence of senior state government officials and GMDC representatives. Established in 1963, GMDC is a state government undertaking engaged in the mining and sale of minerals, including lignite, bauxite, limestone, fluorspar and silica sand. Its operations form part of the state's mineral resource sector, which supplies raw materials for industrial use. The corporation has also secured three coal blocks in Odisha Baitarani West, Burapahar and Kudanali-Lubri as part of its activities linked to Gujarat's long-term energy security. The development adds to GMDC's operations beyond its existing mineral mining business in Gujarat. In addition to its conventional mining activities, the company is active in the renewable energy sector and is exploring opportunities in rare earth elements, copper and other strategic minerals. These areas are among the corporation's stated focus sectors as it looks to expand its activities beyond its established mineral portfolio. The dividend payment comes as the state-owned corporation continues to operate across multiple mineral categories while pursuing opportunities in energy and strategic resources. However, details of GMDC's revenue, profit and the dividend payout ratio for 2025-26 were not provided in the state government's announcement. GMDC Chairman and Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister, Hasmukh Adhia, Managing Director Ajay Bhadu, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjeev Kumar and Additional Principal Secretary Vikrant Pandey were present when the cheque was presented.
Furtilo Raises Seed Funding To Deliver From Local Shops In 500 Small Towns
The zero-commission app that delivers food and all kinds of products from local shops in small towns, formerly BelivMart, grew orders 4x in four months and will expand from 37 to 500+ Tier-3 and Tier-4 towns across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and beyond.
From smart classrooms to robotics labs: Gujarat government schools emerge as a preferred choice
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 21 (IANS) Gujarats government schools are witnessing a significant shift in public perception. Modern educational facilities and improved infrastructure are encouraging parents to choose public education over private institutions. During the 202526 academic year, 4,817 students in Ahmedabad district left private schools and enrolled in government schools. This development reflects growing confidence in the states evolving education system. A prominent example of this transformation is Thaltej Primary School 2 in Ahmedabad, which offers students a range of modern educational facilities, including smart classrooms, digital learning tools, science and mathematics laboratories, robotics facilities, a library and sports infrastructure. Students also receive nutritional support through milk, breakfast and meals. Angel Dubey, a student at Thaltej Primary School 2, said the schools science laboratory has several models that help students understand concepts and learn new things. Another student, Vansh Chauhan, highlighted the quality of teaching and the facilities available at the school, including science, mathematics, future and robotics laboratories. Parents, too, have expressed satisfaction with the facilities. Sundaraben, a parent, said the school has a large playground, sports equipment and musical instruments. She also appreciated the arrangements for providing milk in the morning, followed by breakfast and meals for students. According to Chirag Joshi, Principal of Thaltej Primary School 2, the institution is equipped with Google-featured classrooms, a smart library, mathematics and science laboratories, and a robotics laboratory. He added that smart boards are used for teaching in all classrooms, helping make lessons more interactive and engaging. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, initiatives such as the Mission Schools of Excellence are prioritising quality education, modern infrastructure and technology-enabled learning in government schools. These efforts aim to support students academic, physical and mental development. Dr L. D. Desai, Administrative Officer in the Education Department, Ahmedabad, said parents are obtaining leaving certificates from reputed private schools in Ahmedabad city and enrolling their children in municipal government schools. He stated that, over the past 11 years, more than 60,000 children have left prominent private schools to join Ahmedabad Municipal Corporations government schools. The growing enrolment highlights the changing image of government education in Gujarat, say officials. With investments in infrastructure, digital learning, laboratories, sports and student nutrition, Ahmedabads government schools are strengthening parental trust and creating better opportunities for children. According to officials, the transformation demonstrates how sustained policy initiatives and improved educational facilities can help government institutions compete with private schools while laying a strong foundation for students brighter futures.
Essar Ports bags 2,276-crore Tuna Tekra terminal project in Gujarat
New terminal at Kandla to handle 18.33 million tonnes of cargo annually.
Essar Ports bags 2,276-crore Tuna Tekra terminal project in Gujarat
New terminal at Kandla to handle 18.33 million tonnes of cargo annually.
Ranji Trophy: Delhi has to be content with first-innings lead
Host gets three points from a high-scoring draw; Gujarat emerges unscathed after being forced to follow-on; Shokeen claims maiden First-Class five-wicket haul
Luhnu Cricket Ground: Tanay Thyagarajan finished with 11 wickets, after hitting an unbeaten half-century as Hyderabad thrashed Andhra by 267 runs in an Elite Group B Ranji Trophy match in Mulapadu on Wednesday. Thyagarajan, who had taken five wickets in Andhra's first innings, returned to claim six more as Andhra, set 398 to win, were dismissed for 130. He was named Player of the Match for the second game running, after having won the award against Tripura last week. In Thiruvananthapuram, veteran off-spinner Jalaj Saxena's five-wicket haul helped Kerala beat Odisha by an innings and 36 runs in Elite Group C game. Following on, Odisha resumed on 102/4, and Kerala needed just 23.3 overs on the fourth morning to bowl them out for 143. Mumbai completed their second successive bonus-point win, beating Himachal Pradesh by an innings and 97 runs in Elite Group D at the Luhnu Cricket Ground in Bilaspur, with pacer Mohit Avasthi taking 5-44. Trailing by 388 on the first innings and made to follow on, Himachal resumed on 144/3 and dragged the contest into the second session of the final day. Vaibhav Kalta (63) and Pukhraj Mann (50) offered stout resistance, but Mumbai's experienced attack eventually bowled the hosts out for 291. In New Chandigarh, Aayush Pandey's gritty 111 could not prevent Chhattisgarh from slipping to a seven-wicket defeat to Punjab. Forced to follow on, Chhattisgarh resumed on 123/3 and, on the back of Pandey's century and some handy lower-order runs, posted 335. That left Punjab a target of just 86, which they reached in 16.5 overs, with captain Uday Saharan unbeaten on 40. In the Plate Group, Meghalaya edged Manipur by three runs in a nail-biting finish in Shillong. Chasing 276, Manipur were bowled out for 272 despite half-centuries from Karnajit Yumnam and Rex Rajkumar. Kevin Christopher (3-31), Abhishek Kumar (3-64) and Aryan Bora (2-59) shared the wickets for Meghalaya. In Pune, Shikhar Mohan's 127 led a determined rearguard as Jharkhand batted out on the final day to draw with Maharashtra, who took the first-innings lead and three points. Resuming on 130/1 and still 228 runs behind, Jharkhand finished on 344/8. Utkarsh Singh (58 off 139 balls), Aditya Singh (50 off 159 balls) and Virat Singh (41 off 135 balls) all played long, patient knocks to deny the hosts a shot at victory. Off-spinner Hrithik Shokeen picked up 5-143 as hosts Delhi settled for three points after securing a 169-run first-innings lead over Gujarat in a drawn Elite Group C contest at the Palam 'B' ground. Having won the toss and declared at 648/6, Delhi bowled Gujarat out for 479 after the visitors resumed on 363/5. Following on, Gujarat were 15/1 when the two sides agreed to call it a draw. In Jaipur, an unbeaten century from Mohammad Saif helped Railways save their game against Rajasthan. Railways resumed on 305/6 in their first innings but were bowled out for 338, conceding a lead of 159, with Kukna Ajay Singh taking four wickets. Asked to bat again, they reached 176/2 by stumps as Saif (103 not out) and Eshaan Goyal (59 not out) shared an unbroken 157-run stand for the third wicket. Spinner Parth Bhut claimed eight wickets in the match and was named Player of the Match as Saurashtra took three points from their drawn Elite Group B clash against Karnataka thanks to taking first-innings lead. Resuming on 99/2, Karnataka declared their second innings at 243/7 in 64.1 overs. KL Shrijith made 52 off 76 balls with five fours, KV Aneesh also reached a half-century, and Karun Nair (37) and Manvanth Kumar (31) added useful runs. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Set 237 to win, Saurashtra comfortably batted out the remaining overs to finish on 137/2 in 42 overs. Chirag Jani anchored the effort with an unbeaten 63 off 117 balls, hitting seven fours and two sixes, while Hetvik Kotak made 25 and Jay Gohil was not out on 22. Manvanth and Shreyas Gopal took a wicket apiece for Karnataka. Bhut returned 3-80 from 25.1 overs, including two maidens, while Sammar Gajjar picked up two wickets and Chetan Sakariya and Ankur Panwar had one scalp each, as Karnataka had to settle for one point. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Digital Desk | London, Oct 21 (IANS) British leader and Padma Shri awardee, Bob Blackman, has reiterated his call for India's inclusion in the Five Eyes (FVEY) intelligence alliance citing the growing threats from Pakistani terror networks and Khalistani extremism. Speaking exclusively to IANS, the United Kingdom Conservative Party leader and Member of Parliament (MP) spoke about the current security challenges being faced by both India and UK. India is threatened by Pakistan in particular, where the terrorism is almost promoted into India. So we must share intelligence. Obviously, we are part of the Five Eyes network, which shares intelligence across the world. We should include India in that process. I've always said that India becomes an important part of the free world, obviously it is the biggest democracy in the world, enabling us to share intelligence on potential terrorist attacks. We know that our intelligence services, thanks to our friends in Israel and the United States, thwart terrorist atrocities in this country. We've got to do more to help attacks that take place in India, said Blackman. The Five Eyes intelligence sharing grouping includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Calling for India's inclusion, Blackman highlighted two elements to the entire security scenario. One is obviously the threat from Pakistan, their promotion of terrorist atrocities. I'm not saying every Pakistani is a terrorist, but what we are saying is that terrorism from Pakistan keeps happening. The military rule that takes place in Pakistan doesn't seem to stop this, and that's very important. Equally, we've got the Khalistani movement, which is a direct threat both to India and increasingly over here. So we've got to make sure that that intelligence is shared. That's not going to be seen by the public. Anything we can do to prevent these sort of activities from going on has got to be positive, he stated. The UK MP also hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, crediting him for first transforming Gujarat and then India. Narendra Modi has obviously not only been Chief Minister of Gujarat and turned Gujarat from almost a desert into a powerhouse of the Indian economy. Since he's been Prime Minister in India, he's done the same thing for India. And most importantly, I think about his incredible enthusiasm and energy, and has brought the poor people, the poor sections of society, into economic capability in India. That's remarkable... the electrification of villages, enabling industry to thrive and grow, promoting India. Calling PM Modi as a symbol of modern India who has enabled India to reach further on the world stage, Blackman stated that PM Modi has all the contacts and also the capability of the G20 and G7 to enable further growth of India-UK friendship. There's more to do. You know, India should have a permanent place on the Security Council of the United Nations, if we're to continue with the United Nations. Equally, obviously, India needs to have more say what's going on, in terms of capability across the world, and has, because of its geographical position, and its economic power, the opportunity, I think, to be a buttress to China and the growth of China, and the serious threat that China poses to the whole of Asia, and in particular, to the sea lanes of the world, the British parliamentarian said. That's part and parcel, I think, of what India needs to do now. I always worry about the security position of China, literally surrounding India, with its links in Sri Lanka and in East Africa, that potentially there's a, with Pakistan, so that there's literally a ring around India, that that needs to be broken, he added. Blackman also lauded the people-to-people contacts between India and the United Kingdom while praising the contribution of the Indian community in Britain's growth. Indian diaspora in this country have made a huge impact in terms of the economy and our public services. Generally speaking, it's fair to say they are the least likely to commit crime. They're also the most important element of the foundation of our economy. But they're often very quiet and one of the biggest problems is getting the community to come forward to participate in political discourse, standing for election so that we can actually get people from the community as representatives. We've done a lot of work in my constituency and in London Borough of Harrow to bring people forward and we have true representation in the Conservative Party across the various different communities now, which is very positive. But we need to do that countrywide. The British MP also batted strongly for Hindu temples to get funding from the government to manage their security. I think one of the key elements here is that the government gives funding, and bear in mind the government only has money that gets from the taxpayer, that gives funding for places of worship protection. There's no funding for Hindu temples or Jain temples. Why? I mean, that question is constantly asked and they are at risk as well as any other religious place of worship. So we want to make sure that there's a fair share for those temples to make sure that they are protected and people can go about their law-abiding business and worship as they wish, but also have the community functions. /as
Odisha to showcase chemical, petrochemical investment potential at India Chem 2026
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 21 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is scheduled to leave for Mumbai on Wednesday to attend India Chem 2026, India's flagship biennial event for the chemicals and petrochemicals industry, which begins on Thursday. According to an official statement, CM Majhi will participate in the inaugural session and the CEO Roundtable, which will be chaired by Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers J.P. Nadda, during his two-day visit to Mumbai. It noted that Chief Minister's visit will focus on attracting fresh investments and strengthening Odisha's position as an emerging industrial destination in the chemical and petrochemical sectors. The State's participation will highlight its industrial strengths, investment-ready infrastructure, progressive policies and growing ecosystem for chemical and petrochemical manufacturing. The programme will provide an important platform for Odisha to engage directly with industry leaders, present new investment opportunities and explore partnerships for the next phase of industrial growth, the state government said in the statement. During the visit, Chief Minister Majhi is scheduled to hold one-to-one meetings with leading representatives of the chemical and petrochemical industries, with discussions planned with more than 20 major companies. These interactions will focus on potential investments, industrial expansion, downstream manufacturing and opportunities to establish new industrial ventures in Odisha. A key highlight of the state's participation will be a presentation on coal gasification project, an emerging area of industrial opportunity for Odisha. The state is also likely to announce the establishment of a dedicated, large-scale chemical industrial park as part of its efforts to strengthen the industrial ecosystem, promote value addition, and attract investments across the chemical, petrochemical, plastics, and packaging segments. Odisha will participate alongside Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, reflecting the growing importance of states in shaping India's chemical and petrochemical manufacturing landscape. The event will provide Odisha with an opportunity to demonstrate its capabilities and strengthen engagement with domestic and international industry stakeholders. While states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, and others have established themselves as major chemical and petrochemical hubs over several decades, Odisha is positioning itself as a leading investment destination in the chemical and petrochemical sector, leveraging its rich resource base, industrial infrastructure, and supportive policy framework. The state's established strengths in mining and metallurgy provide a strong foundation for expanding into downstream chemical and petrochemical industries, promoting value addition, and attracting investments in higher-value manufacturing. Speaking about state's participation at India Chem 2026, Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of Industries department, said, Odisha has a strong industrial foundation, and we are now focused on expanding our presence in high-potential sectors such as chemicals and petrochemicals. Our participation at India Chem 2026 will provide an opportunity to engage directly with leading companies, present the state's investment opportunities and explore partnerships for future growth. With our industrial infrastructure, progressive policies and resource advantages, we are working to build a competitive ecosystem for chemical and petrochemical industries. The proposed dedicated large chemical industrial park and our focus on coal gasification will further strengthen this effort and open up new avenues for investment, value addition and employment generation, he added.
Essar Ports Bags Rs 2,276 Crore Cargo Terminal Project At Gujarats Kandla Port
Gujarat CM meets Western Naval Command chief, discusses security of states coastline
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 21 (IANS) The security of Gujarats strategically important coastline and the Indian Navys activities to protect it were discussed when Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, met Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar on Wednesday. During the courtesy visit, Vatsayan briefed the Chief Minister on various measures undertaken by the Navy to safeguard Gujarats coastline, which is strategically significant because of its location along the Arabian Sea. Vatsayan assumed charge as the 35th Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command in May this year. Before taking up the appointment, he served as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff at Naval Headquarters. He joined the Indian Navy in 1988 and has served aboard several prominent warships during his career. The Western Naval Command plays a key role in safeguarding Indias western coastline, protecting the countrys maritime borders and securing vital trade and energy routes. Its area of strategic interest encompasses the Arabian Sea and the western Indian Ocean, as well as important maritime passages such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Suez Canal, the Mozambique Channel and the Cape of Good Hope. These routes are significant for international shipping and energy supplies, making maritime security an important part of the Navys responsibilities. The meeting focused on the Navys activities concerning Gujarats coastline. Vatsayan also presented a memento to Patel during the visit.
Rubio tours Jamnagar as US courts Reliance
Jamnagar, Gujarat: Almost the entire Ambani family led by billionaire tycoon Mukesh Ambani welcomed the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Jamnagar on Wednesday, as he began a tour of the world's largest single-site refinery.Rubio arrived in Jamnagar a day after calling India a crude-refining superpower and urging more processing of Venezuelan crude there.The day also included a visit to Reliance's Vantara animal-rescue centre and giga factories being developed by the conglomerate.— USAmbIndia (@USAmbIndia) The visit puts a private industrial empire at the centre of US-India energy diplomacy, analysts said.Officials have described the Ambani-hosted programme as a private visit. It comes as US diesel prices surge ahead of the mid-term elections.No details of the visit were released by either side.Rubio was welcomed by Ambani, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries Ltd, his wife Nita and children Isha and Anant, people familar with the visit said.Akash Ambani, Mukesh Ambani's eldest son and managing director of Jio Platforms, was overseeing the opening of the telecom giant's initial public offering (IPO).Reliance's Jamnagar complex can process 1.4 million barrels of crude a day and is the world's largest and most complex single-site refinery. Its fuel exports make it a hub for global supply.Rubio told Reliance-owned Network 18 that Washington wants to work more closely with Reliance on refining energy from the Western Hemisphere, calling that helpful to both countries.Reliance is already a key player in Washington's oil diplomacy. It is the biggest buyer of Venezuelan crude after the US itself, at a time when Washington is urging India to buy more, the people said.Reliance's proposed Texas refinery adds a reciprocal dimension to its energy ties with the US.US President Donald Trump recently announced that Reliance is partnering to build a new 168,000 barrels-a-day refinery project in Brownsville, Texas.While Washington is seeking to encourage more processing of Western Hemisphere crude at Jamnagar, the Indian conglomerate is also positioning itself to handle US oil closer to its source.The plant is designed to process US-produced light shale crude and would be the first major new US refinery in about five decades if completed.Besides the refinery, Rubio also visited Vantara.Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation-run Vantara is a rescue, rehabilitation and conservation programme spread over 3,000 acres in Jamnagar. It sits within the green belt of the refinery complex and was conceived by Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani.The centre houses more than 2,000 animals across 43 species and employs about 2,100 care-givers and conservationists. It says it has rescued more than 200 elephants and thousands of other animals, reptiles and birds.The other stop on Rubio's visit was the Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex - Reliance's integrated clean-energy manufacturing hub at Jamnagar, covering solar, storage, fuel cells, electrolysers and power electronics. It is being built on a 5,000-acre site at an expected cost of Rs 75,000 crore (about USD 10 billion).The US Secretary of State arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday, where External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted him for wide-ranging talks on bilateral cooperation.Ahead of the meeting, Rubio described India as a crude oil refining superpower and advocated for processing more Venezuelan crude in India.He also urged India to scale up energy trade with the US and increase purchases of American technologies and defence systems.For Washington, Jamnagar offers a way to turn Western Hemisphere crude into diesel at scale, a pressing concern before the midterms, analysts said.For Reliance, the visit is validation, and a chance to show the US it is an investor as well as a buyer, they said.For New Delhi, it comes as both governments try to settle their differences. Rubio said only a small number of items remain unresolved on a trade deal.
Gujarat CM links law and order to state's growth, pays tribute to police martyrs
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 21 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Wednesday paid tribute to police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, saying their dedication to maintaining law and order had contributed to the state's development and its emergence as a growth engine of the country. Patel was speaking at a 'Police Commemoration Day' programme held at the Shahibaug Martyrs' Memorial in Ahmedabad on October 21. The day is observed across the country every year to honour police personnel who have sacrificed their lives while protecting citizens and maintaining security. During the ceremony, the names of police personnel from Gujarat who had died in the line of duty were read out, followed by a salute by the police force. The police band played a solemn dirge in their memory. The Chief Minister said a secure environment was essential for the state's development and progress, and acknowledged the role of police personnel in maintaining peace, public safety and law and order across Gujarat. He also expressed gratitude to those who had made the supreme sacrifice while performing their duties. Congratulating the police force on the peaceful conclusion of the recent Navratri festival in Gujarat, Chief Minister Patel praised its commitment to duty. The dedication of police officers and personnel, along with the maintenance of an effective law and order system, had helped Gujarat strengthen its position as a growth engine for the country, he said. Referring to initiatives taken during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister, Patel added: The Prime Minister had taken several steps to recognise the contribution of the police force. He cited the establishment of the National Police Memorial and the inauguration of the Police Museum in Delhi as initiatives that honour the sacrifices of police personnel and familiarise younger generations with their role and importance. The programme was attended by Member of Parliament Dinesh Makwana and MLAs Hasmukh Patel, Kaushik Jain, Amul Bhatt, Dineshsinh Kushwaha and Kanchanben Radadiya. Retired senior police officers and other officials also paid floral tributes at the memorial and bowed in respect to the personnel who had died in the line of duty. Among the senior officials present were Director General of Police (DGP) G S Malik, Director General of Prisons K L N Rao, Director General of Police (Training) Nirja Gotru, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot and Additional Director General of Police Khurshid Ahmed, along with other senior officers and police personnel.
Lawrence Bishnoi, now linked to the assassination bid on Tiger Shroff, became of particular interest to Mumbai Police in 2024 after his gang members fired shots outside the residence of actor Salman Khan, who has been a target for long.
Drishyam The Conclusion continues to score at the box office despite facing competition from new releases. Today, October 21, it is set to cross the Rs. 350 crores mark, a remarkable achievement for a thriller. Interestingly, the talented actor has delivered five major successes in the post-pandemic era, and all of them have either been remakes or belonged to established franchises. His first hit in the post-pandemic era was Drishyam 2 (2022). It opened at Rs. 15.38 crores, surprising the trade and industry, especially since the first part wasn't a huge theatrical success. However, Drishyam (2015) had attained cult status after a large number of viewers discovered it on television and digital platforms. This helped the sequel take a flying start. Drishyam 2 went on to collect a massive Rs. 240.54 crores in its lifetime. This was followed by Shaitaan (2024), a remake of the Gujarati supernatural thriller Vash (2023). Its gripping trailer had done the trick, helping the film open on a strong note. It ultimately collected Rs. 149.49 crores. A year later, Raid 2 (2025) benefited from the popularity of the first part and its catchy trailer. It was released on May 1, a major holiday in Maharashtra and Gujarat, and opened at Rs. 19.71 crores, exceeding expectations. The film eventually collected Rs. 178.08 crores. Earlier this year, Ajay Devgn's Dhamaal 4 (2026) also opened on an encouraging note. Although it didn't receive favourable reviews from critics, the aam junta accepted the film. As a result, it managed to collect Rs. 163.80 crores. And now, Drishyam The Conclusion has taken Ajay Devgn's box-office success to another level. The film has not only surpassed the lifetime collections of Drishyam 2 but has also emerged as his highest-grossing film ever. Meanwhile, several of his other films failed to make a mark at the ticket window. These include Runway 34 (2022), Maidaan (2024), Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha (2024) and Son Of Sardaar 2 (2025), all of which flopped. He also delivered three average performers Bholaa (2023), Singham Again (2024) and De De Pyaar De 2 (2025). Interestingly, even these three films belonged to the remake or franchise category. The way forward Ajay Devgn's next release is also part of a franchise, arguably his most popular one Golmaal 5. Scheduled to release on January 8, 2027, the Rohit Shetty directorial is expected to be the first major box-office hit of the new year. However, his subsequent film, Ranger (tentative title), is an original project and has generated considerable buzz, thanks to its action genre, jungle setting and the presence of Sanjay Dutt and Tamannaah Bhatia. It could finally break the pattern and become Ajay Devgn's first original, standalone hit in the post-pandemic era. His other upcoming original films, Chauhaan and the supernatural thriller directed by Rohit Jugraj, also look promising and could help change this trend. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Drishyam The Conclusions viral Madira peeke so gaye? actor Ajeet Singh Pallawat was originally supposed to play Draupadi; reveals why makers changed it to Chanakya
Mumbai Police have arrested one more accused in the firing case involving Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff in Mumbai's Juhu area. The accused, identified as Ankit, was arrested in Gujarat's Baroda over his alleged involvement in the conspiracy. The accused was produced before a court in Haryana's Gohana, and Mumbai Police obtained his transit remand to take him to Mumbai for further investigation. The arrest was carried out jointly by Gohana Police and Mumbai Police.
Give Justice To My Family: Gujarat Man's Final Video Before Jumping Off 1,700-Foot Cliff
A 13-minute video recorded shortly before his death has brought attention to the marital dispute involving Vishwrajsinh Gohil, a postal employee from Gujarat, who alleged that he and his family were being harassed over a domestic violence case filed by his
Gujarats Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi Meets with Honda in Japan, Promises 4,000 New Jobs
Gujarats Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi discusses Hondas expansion in Japan, potentially creating 4,000 jobs by 2028. Gujarats Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi Meets with Honda in Japan, Promises 4,000 New Jobs
Japan Investors Invited to Gujarat Harsh Sanghavi Holds 20 Meetings - Sandesh
Gujarat woos Japanese investors in Tokyo ahead of Vibrant Gujarat summit-2027
The discussions focused on potential investments, technology partnerships and industrial expansion in Gujarat
Gujarat asks factories to curb power usage as demand surges
Gujarat state has requested factories to limit their electricity consumption during peak evening hours from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The call comes amid rising power demand driven by increased industrial activity and insufficient coal supplies. Several states are seeking short-term coal power through tenders to address the shortages. India's coal inventories at power plants have decreased significantly, resulting in widened gaps between supply and demand.
Marco Rubio in Jamnagar: All about Reliances oil refinery in Gujarat
The Jamnagar refinery stopover comes at a time when the world is witnessing widespread uncertainty over oil prices owing to the West Asia conflict.
When India celebrates Navratri, Karachi dances too: How Pakistan's garba nights echo Gujarat's beats
Karachis Gujarati-speaking communities continue to celebrate garba during Navratri, weddings and social gatherings, preserving cultural traditions across the India-Pakistan border. From traditional folk songs to Bollywood favourites, the dance brings people together across generations and communities. A new garba night planned for October 25 aims to encourage participation across religious backgrounds and create a shared space for celebration.
On Police commemoration day, Amit Shah sets December 2029 deadline to make India drug-free
New Delhi, Oct 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday called upon police forces across the country to intensify efforts against drug abuse and trafficking, setting December 31, 2029, as the target to free India from the drug menace. Addressing a Police Commemoration Day ceremony at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi, Shah urged police forces to work towards implementing the roadmap for a Nasha Mukt Bharat prepared under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah also flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally carrying the message Fight Against Drugs as part of the campaign against substance abuse. The rally features around 90 riders from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, along with personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces and other central police organisations. The riders will proceed to Ekta Nagar in Gujarat to participate in the Ekta Parade-2026. Shah said drug abuse and trafficking threatened the future of younger generations, placed an unnecessary burden on the economy and could provide financial support to organisations with anti-national intentions. He called for coordinated efforts over the remainder of 2026 and the next three years to achieve the drug-free India target. At the ceremony, the Home Minister paid tribute to police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty, saying their sacrifices had laid the foundation for Indias security and progress. He described 2026 as a significant year for the Indian police, stating that the country had achieved freedom from Naxalism on March 31, 2026. According to Shah, more than 3,600 security personnel and nearly 13,700 civilians lost their lives during the decades-long Naxal conflict. He said the sacrifices of security personnel had contributed to the countrys progress and expressed gratitude to the families of those killed in the line of duty. Recalling the origins of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said October 21 marked the anniversary of the 1959 incident in the Hot Springs region of Ladakh, where 10 CRPF personnel laid down their lives while resisting an attack by Chinese troops. The National Police Memorial, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, honours police personnel who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation. Shah said citizens visit the memorial to pay tribute to 36,852 police personnel. He described police service as one of the most challenging government services, noting that personnel often remain on duty during festivals and other occasions to maintain public safety and internal security. Shah also praised the Central Armed Police Forces for their role in securing borders, managing elections and maintaining public order. He said the forces had helped ensure that the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections were conducted without a single fatality. The Home Minister further said that Kashmir, the North-East and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism, which had faced prolonged internal security challenges, were witnessing peace and moving towards development. He credited security forces with curbing terrorism in Kashmir, advancing peace in the North-East and tackling Naxalism. Police Commemoration Day is observed annually on October 21 to honour police personnel who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
Rubio reaches Jamnagar, to visit Reliance's refinery
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Reliance Industries Ltd's Jamnagar oil refinery complex in Gujarat, a day after calling India a crude oil refining 'superpower' and advocating for increased processing of Venezuelan crude.
Rubio meets Adani, Tata Sons chiefs ahead of Reliance Jamnagar visit
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran in Mumbai on Wednesday morning before heading to Jamnagar in Gujarat to visit Reliance Industries' giant oil-refining complex, the world's largest single-site refinery, along with Vantara and giga factories being developed by the conglomerate. Rubio, who arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon, first met Adani, followed by a meeting with Chandrasekaran, sources said. Neither side released details of the meetings. Adani heads one of India's largest conglomerates, with interests spanning ports, airports, energy, logistics and infrastructure. The group has also been expanding its renewable-energy and manufacturing businesses, sectors that are central to India's ambitions to strengthen domestic supply chains and attract global investment. Chandrasekaran, who leads Tata Sons, the Tata Group's holding company, oversees a sprawling business empire with interests in automobiles, .
Deendayal Port Authority has issued a Letter of Award to Essar Ports Ltd. for developing a Multi-Purpose Cargo Terminal. This terminal will be located at Tuna Tekra port in Gujarat and is part of a Public-Private Partnership initiative. The project will operate on a Build-Operate-Transfer basis for a 30-year concession period. Essar Ports emerged as the highest bidder, offering a royalty to DPA.
US State Secy Marco Rubio arrives in Jamnagar to visit Reliance refinery
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Gujarat's Jamnagar city on Wednesday to visit the oil refinery complex owned by Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Ltd, a day after he described India as a crude oil refining superpower. Rubio is on a three-day visit to India to advance bilateral ties in energy, trade and investment, defence and critical technologies, besides exchanging views on the West Asia crisis. During his visit, Rubio is scheduled to tour the Jamnagar refinery complex, which assumes significance in the context of his remarks on India's oil refining capabilities and his call for processing more Venezuelan crude in the country. According to the RIL website, its Jamnagar refinery is the largest and most complex single-site refinery in the world with 1.4 million barrels per day (MMBPD) crude processing capacity and a complexity index of 21.1 - the highest in the world. It states that he refinery has processed over 216 different grades of crude oil produced in
Gujarat Cabinet Meeting in Gandhinagar: Power, Water and PM Modis Visit Under Focus
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel will chair a cabinet meeting in Gandhinagar to review the power crisis, rainfall deficit, farmers needs, PM Modis visit and Diwali preparations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio landed in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday to visit Reliance Industries' oil refinery, with discussions expected to focus on the company's capacity to process more Venezuelan crude and opportunities for wider energy cooperation between India and the United States. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai before departing for Gujarat, Rubio said Reliance's extensive refining capabilities, including its ability to process heavy crude oil from Venezuela, would be among the subjects discussed during his meeting with the company. He also indicated that the visit would explore opportunities for further cooperation and highlighted Reliance's existing investments in the United States. I think for us, it's more an opportunity to see their operations and have a broader discussion about their presence globally at a time in which energy is featuring prominently in many of the geopolitical decisions that are being made. This is a very large and prominent energy company. The...
Delhi Plans 52-Km Yamuna Riverfront Inspired By Gujarat, Seeks Sabarmati Corporations Help
Gujarat NEET UG 2026 Stray Vacancy Round Result - Round 4 Allotment, PDF and Reporting Details
Admission Committee for Professional Undergraduate Medical Educational Courses (ACPUGMEC), Gujarat, is conducting the fourth online stray vacancy round of NEET UG 2026 counselling for MBBS and BDS admissions. The round's allotment results were officially published on 21 October 2026 at 9 AM. Candidates can access rank-wise and institute-wise allotment PDFs, last-rank information and admission-reporting instructions through the official website, medadmgujarat.org.
GPSC Assistant Engineer Civil Interview Schedule 2026 - Dates
Gujarat Public Service Commission has released the Detailed Interview Programme (Phase-1) for Assistant Engineer (Civil), Class-2, New Municipal Corporations (Advt 121/2025-26). Interviews run from 26 to 30 October 2026 with a 9:30 AM reporting time for 75 candidates.
Powar will make an excellent selector: Former India coach Greg Chappell
Powar was head coach of the India womens team apart from coaching Mumbai and Gujarat in domestic cricket
Mumbai: Police recover gold and diamond jewellery stolen from Kandivli residence
Police trace accused to Bihar and Gujarat, recover cash and jewellery after complainant reports additional losses
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will pay homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at the National Police Memorial in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi on Wednesday. The Union Home Minister will also address the assembly. The programme will conclude with him laying a wreath at the altar dedicated to the martyrs of Hot Springs, according to the official statement. The Home Minister will also flag off a motorcycle rally of about 90 police riders from States/UTs (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi); Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, CISF, BSF, SSB, ITBP and NSG) and some Central Police Organisations (RPF, NDRF and NIA). According to the statement, this initiative is part of a nationwide Fight Against Drugs rally, in which police riders from all States, Union Territories, and Central Forces will converge at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to participate in the Ekta Parade on October 31. On the lines of previous years, Police Commemoration Day will be observed across the country to pay homage to police martyrs. The main function will be organised at National Police Memorial, New Delhi, where a joint parade of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Delhi Police would be held. As part of the remembrances, CAPFs/CPOs will organise various commemorative events at NPM from October 22 to 30, which will include visits of family members of martyrs, Police Band Display, motorcycle rallies, Run for Martyrs, blood donation camps, essay/painting competitions for children and display of video films showcasing sacrifice, valour and services of police personnel, said the statement. On this day in 1959, 10 valiant policemen laid down their lives in an ambush laid by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh. Since then, October 21 is observed as Police Commemoration Day every year. In recognition of the sacrifices made by police personnel and their paramount role in preserving national security and integrity, the Prime Minister dedicated the National Police Memorial (NPM), Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, to the nation on Police Commemoration Day 2018.
Marco Rubio meets S Jaishankar in Mumbai, pays tribute to 26/11 victims
Mumbai, Oct 20: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Mumbai as part of his two-day visit to India, with bilateral ties, trade and energy cooperation expected to figure prominently in discussions, national media reported. Rubio also paid tribute to the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks at the memorial inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who accompanied him, said the visit honoured the courage of Indian security forces. The United States and India remain resolute in confronting terrorism in all its forms, Gor said in a post on X. Marco Rubio, who also visited the iconic Gateway of India with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, called for more high-level exchanges between the two countries, describing India as a strong strategic partner with close commercial and defence ties. He said India had made substantial progress in diversifying its energy sources and described its efforts to broaden its energy portfolio as a smart thing to do. Rubio said Washington was willing to supply some of India's energy needs and that the two sides had discussed Venezuela and other potential sources. His visit comes as New Delhi and Washington work towards a trade agreement amid differences over tariffs and India's purchases of Russian oil. Rubio is also scheduled to visit Reliance Industries' refinery complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday.
Tiger Shroff firing case: Four more people, including two women, arrested
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) The investigation into the firing incident involving Bollywood actor Tiger Shroffs car has taken a new turn, with Delhi Polices Special Cell arresting four people allegedly linked to the supply of weapons and efforts to help the shooters escape. Delhi Polices Special Cell, NDR unit, arrested four accused on October 20. They have been identified as Kunal, 21, and Sumit, 19, both residents of Sonipat district in Haryana, along with Radha, 23, from Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh, and Babita, 23, from Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh. The investigation is examining the alleged movement of a pistol and ammunition from Amritsar to Mumbai, the role of intermediaries in delivering the weapon and the reported attempts to help the shooters leave the city after the incident. According to the police, investigators are examining the alleged roles of the four in transporting the weapon. Kunal had recently been released from jail on bail. He allegedly met Anil Pandit through a friend. The two subsequently began communicating through an encrypted messaging application, according to Delhi Police. Police allege that, on Pandits instructions, Kunal brought a pistol and 20 cartridges from Amritsar. Sumit reportedly accompanied him during the journey. According to the police account, Kunal met Radha around two months before the incident. He allegedly told her about his activities and subsequently persuaded her to carry the weapon to Mumbai. On October 15, Kunal reportedly took Radha and Babita to New Delhi railway station. The pistol was allegedly placed inside Radhas bag. On October 17, Radha and Babita reportedly arrived in Dadar and checked into a hotel. At around 11 am that day, a minor boy allegedly collected the bag from Radha near the hotel. Police are investigating who received the bag afterwards and how the weapon was allegedly used in the firing. The firing incident took place on the evening of October 18. According to Delhi Police, Anil Pandit subsequently told Kunal that the shooters were stranded in Mumbai and allegedly asked him to arrange their escape. On the same day, Radha and Babita reportedly left Dadar for Delhi aboard the Haridwar Express. The women were apprehended at New Delhi railway station on October 20, while Kunal and Sumit were detained in Sonipat. Following the firing incident, the accused reportedly fled to Surat in Gujarat, from where they boarded a Jaipur-bound train. Their alleged plan was to travel to New Delhi by bus before escaping to Nepal. Three accused were arrested by Mumbai Police in Kota, Rajasthan, in connection with the case. Further investigation is underway.
Suspect Arrested in Gujarat for Stealing Power Cables
A 22-year-old man has been arrested in Valsad, Gujarat, for stealing 2.2 km of power cables worth over 91,000. Suspect Arrested in Gujarat for Stealing Power Cables
VMC proposes 20.84cr outlay for 23 litter-picker machines
2-year-olds head stuck in metal cauldron, rescued
Found alone at rly station, boy adopted by Italian couple
Man shares provocative post, FIR filed
Jail initiative keeps children of inmates on path to education
Mother-son duo mowed down by train in Bodeli
Important Government Job Application Deadlines Approaching on October 20, 2026
October 20, 2026, is a pivotal date for job seekers aiming for government positions. This deadline marks the end of the application process for numerous recruitment drives, including 710 apprenticeships at SAIL Bhilai, 135 posts with the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, and various roles at NIT Agartala, IGNOU, and the Gujarat High Court. Candidates are urged to review official notifications carefully and ensure they meet eligibility criteria before applying. With limited time left, it's essential to act quickly and prepare all necessary documents to secure a chance at these opportunities.
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel performs Ravana Dahan in Ahmedabad
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Gujarat CM leads Ravana Dahan ceremony in Ahmedabad
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 20 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday set ablaze giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna during Vijayadashami celebrations in Ahmedabad, marking the traditional observance of the victory of good over evil. Patel pressed a button on a remote control to ignite the effigies at an event organised by the Shanti Seva Charitable Trust as part of the Vijayadashami Mahotsav 2026. The ceremony drew a large gathering of people and was attended by state and local elected representatives, religious leaders and other officials. The celebrations began with a traditional dayro, a Gujarati folk music and storytelling programme presented by the team of noted folk artist Sairam Dave. The cultural performance was followed by the Ravana Dahan ceremony, in which the three effigies were set ablaze. Minister of State for Urban Development, Darshana Vaghela, and Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot were among those present at the event. Members of Parliament Hasmukh Patel and Dinesh Makwana also attended, along with local legislators, saints, spiritual leaders, political representatives and office-bearers of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). Sandeep Barot, head of the Shanti Seva Charitable Trust, was also present at the celebrations. Ravana Dahan is a traditional feature of Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, which marks the culmination of the Navratri festivities. The burning of Ravana's effigy symbolises the triumph of righteousness over evil and is associated with the Hindu epic Ramayana, in which Lord Rama defeats Ravana, the king of Lanka. Meghnad and Kumbhakarna, Ravana's brother and son respectively, are also represented in the ritual. Vijayadashami is observed across India through religious ceremonies, cultural programmes and community gatherings, with regional traditions varying from place to place. In many parts of the country, the burning of effigies forms a central part of the celebrations. The Ahmedabad event combined the customary ritual with a Gujarati folk performance, bringing together cultural and religious elements for the annual festival.
Marco Rubio to discuss Venezuelan oil opportunities with Reliance Industries
Speaking to reporters after arriving in Mumbai, Rubio said the US had previously held discussions with Reliance about opportunities in Venezuela. He further stated that he would examine the hurdles to expanding cooperation during his upcoming visit to the company's Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat
Gujarat Athlete Tejal Damor Wins Bronze At Asian Para Games, Sets Personal Best In 200m
Tejal Damor, a visually impaired sprinter from Gujarat, won bronze in the women's 200m T12 event at the Asian Para Games 2026 in Japan's Aichi-Nagoya, recording a personal best on her debut at the continental competition.
'Makes all the sense in the world to talk to them': Rubio on visit to Reliance's Jamnagar refinery
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting India from October 20 to 22 to discuss energy cooperation. He will visit Reliance Industries' Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat, highlighting its refining capabilities. Rubio stated that energy is directly linked to national security during a media interaction in Mumbai. He expressed concerns about energy disruptions affecting global supply and economic stability.
Ranji Trophy: Bengal Defend 208 to Sink Services
Bengal secured a 60-run victory over Services in a Ranji Trophy Group C match, powered by Pradipta Pramanik's four-wicket haul. Elsewhere, Delhi established a significant lead against Gujarat, while Maharashtra built a massive first-innings advantage over Jharkhand with centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ankit Bawne, and Digvijay Patil.
Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Hingrajia leads Gujarats sturdy reply after Badonis double propels Delhi
The visitor reaches 363 for five at stumps on day three, thanks to the southpaws unbeaten ton; the host bowlers, with 285 runs still in the bag, have a task at hand
First tackle gangsters in Gujarat jail, drugs from Pak: Mann to Shah
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 20 (IANS) A new angle has emerged in the firing at Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff's car, with preliminary interrogation of the arrested accused reportedly revealing that the actor was not their original target and that they had initially planned to attack another prominent Bollywood personality. Mumbai Police sources said the accused had travelled to Mumbai with the intention of targeting another celebrity. However, after finding it difficult to reach their intended target, they allegedly shifted their focus to Tiger Shroff. Investigators have reportedly found that the accused learned about the actor's security arrangements through Instagram reels uploaded by his fans. The videos allegedly indicated that the 36-year-old actor did not usually have police security accompanying him, prompting the attackers to consider him an easier target, sources added. During preliminary questioning, the accused, according to sources, disclosed that they wanted to kill the actor to spread fear in the Bollywood industry. According to sources, the attackers also conducted reconnaissance by monitoring Tiger Shroff's movements through his Instagram account and posts and videos shared by his fans. The firing took place on a busy Sunday evening and was captured on video. The actor, son of veteran Bollywood star Jackie Shroff, escaped relatively unhurt. However, his driver and a bystander sustained injuries in the incident. According to Mumbai Police, five to six rounds were fired at the actor's car. A motorcycle allegedly used by the shooters was subsequently recovered in an abandoned condition in Andheri. Following the attack, the accused reportedly fled to Gujarat's Surat, from where they boarded a Jaipur-bound train. Their alleged plan was to travel to New Delhi by bus before escaping to Nepal. However, Mumbai Police arrested the three accused in Rajasthan's Kota in connection with the case. Two of the arrested accused have been identified as Ritik, alias Roshan, from Begusarai in Bihar, and Rehan from Sonipat in Haryana. Police have registered a case under charges of attempted murder and relevant provisions of the Arms Act. Investigators are also examining the alleged links between the accused and members of organised criminal networks. Police said Rehan was in contact with Anil Pandit, an alleged associate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which claimed responsibility for the attack in an unverified social media post. Meanwhile, a purported audio clip allegedly featuring Pandit, a 32-year-old US-based gangster from Panipat, has circulated widely on media platforms. In the recording, he allegedly claims that Tiger Shroff was targeted for ignoring warnings against working with Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. However, the authenticity of the audio clip has not been independently verified. Police are continuing to interrogate the arrested accused to establish the motive, identify the original intended target and ascertain the wider conspiracy behind the attack.
Six Arrested In Faridabad Cyber Fraud
Faridabad police have arrested six individuals in connection with a cyber-fraud case where Rs 50 lakh was swindled using a company CMD's photograph on WhatsApp. The police managed to freeze Rs 29 lakh of the defrauded amount. The accused, from Mumbai and Gujarat, were produced in court and sent to judicial custody.
Industries in Gujarat start curtailing power use despite States 79.5 GW installed capacity
Gujarat recorded an all-time high peak electricity demand of 29,822 MW on October 16, up 36.6 per cent% from 21,822 MW a year earlier
GTU Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2026
Gujarat Technological University (GTU) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Junior Research Fellow. Applications by email will be accepted till 26 October 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit sast.gtu.ac.in.
US Secretary of State Rubio lands in Mumbai for 3-day visit; trade deal, energy in focus
Mumbai/New Delhi, Oct 20: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio kick-started a three-day visit to India on Tuesday to advance bilateral ties in energy, trade and investment, defence and critical technologies, and exchange views on the West Asia crisis. Rubio's second India visit this year comes amid persistent friction in bilateral ties. During his earlier trip in May, he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, besides attending a Quad foreign ministers' meeting. The visit of the US Secretary of State, who is accompanied by a large business delegation, is likely to focus largely on boosting India-US economic engagement. In their meeting in Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon, Jaishankar and Rubio are expected to deliberate on ways to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Welcome to Mumbai, US Secretary of State, on your second visit to India! Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on social media shortly after the top American diplomat landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in India's financial capital. Rubio was received by Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra's Minister of Culture, Electronics, IT and AI, at the airport. The visit provides an opportunity to further advance cooperation across the various pillars of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, Jaiswal said. In addition to his meeting with Jaishankar, Rubio's engagements in Mumbai included laying a wreath at the Taj memorial to honour the victims of the 26/11 terror attack, which claimed the lives of over 160 people, including six US nationals. The top American diplomat will also attend a reception to mark the 250th anniversary of the US' independence. Discussions are expected to cover key areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade and investment, defence, critical and emerging technologies, and other areas of mutual interest, Jaiswal said last week. The two sides are also likely to delve into the proposed bilateral trade deal as well as the situation in West Asia. The visit will provide an opportunity to sustain the high-level engagement between the two countries and advance our shared priorities, Jaiswal had said. Rubio will travel to Jamnagar in Gujarat on Wednesday. Ahead of his visit, Rubio said in Uzbekistan that the US is very close to finalising the trade deal with India. He also suggested that the US waiver on tariffs for buying Russian oil was linked to the decision. Last week, US President Donald Trump suspended certain sanctions against Russia and five of the biggest buyers of Russian oil, including India. We're trying to finalise the trade deal with India right now. We're very close to doing that. So that's one of the things we take into consideration when the President makes a decision about national security waivers and things of that nature, Rubio said. India and the US have been engaged in talks since early 2025 on the proposed trade pact to address tariff friction, eliminate non-tariff barriers, and boost bilateral market access. India is seeking better tariffs than its competitors for its goods in the US market. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar said a few days back that the trade talks between the two sides are nearing a landing point. The India-US relations witnessed a major downturn after Washington imposed punitive tariffs on India last year and President Trump made assertions regarding his role in de-escalating the India-Pakistan military clashes of May 2025 that drew sharp reaction from Indian officials. Washington's new immigration policy and its decision to increase the H1B visa fee also contributed to the slide in India-US ties. The ties came under fresh strain after the US decided to restrict a key green-card processing programme for major global and Indian IT firms, including Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro.
Financial advisor Prem Soni claims Gujarat could generate Rs 500 crore in jalebi-fafda sales on Dussehra, with Ahmedabad contributing Rs 200 crore. He highlighted how corporate employees, gyms, grocery stores, boutiques and jewellers set up temporary stalls to benefit from festive demand. Soni attributed Gujarats business culture to an entrepreneurial mindset, urging people to overcome ego and pursue opportunities rather than complain about investment distribution.
Gujarat govt gifts part of disputed Vadodara plot to Yusuf Pathan
The proposal comes nearly four months after the Lok Sabha MP, as part of a rebel TMC group, broke away from the Mamata Banerjee-led fold and merged with the NCPI to join the BJP-led NDA
Digital Desk | Vadodara, Oct 20 (IANS) The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has proposed allotting a disputed 978 square-metre (sq mtr) plot next to former cricketer and MP Yusuf Pathans family home, with 500 square metres to be gifted to him and the remaining area offered at a 45 per cent concession. The proposal, submitted by the municipal commissioner, is scheduled to come up before the standing committee of the BJP-ruled civic body on October 23 for final approval. If cleared, it would provide a route to resolve a dispute over the municipal land that has continued for more than a decade. Under the proposal, the remaining 478 square metres would be allotted at 55 per cent of the rate determined by the Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) Valuation Committee. The allotment would be subject to specific terms and conditions under a 2024 resolution of the state government's Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. Pathan has been seeking to purchase the land in the Tandalja locality since 2012. The VMC had initially agreed to his request, but the state government rejected the proposed sale in 2014. The dispute resurfaced in 2024, when the civic body issued Pathan a notice asking him to remove an alleged encroachment and vacate the municipal land. By then, Pathan had been elected to the Lok Sabha from Baharampur in West Bengal on a Trinamool Congress (TMC) ticket. Pathan challenged the notice in the Gujarat High Court, arguing that the matter dated back more than a decade and that the civic body should have issued a show-cause notice before directing him to remove the alleged encroachment. He also contended that the land belonged to the municipal corporation, rather than the state government. The High Court upheld the state government's rejection of his original allotment request. Pathan subsequently challenged the order before a Division Bench, but withdrew the appeal in August after his lawyer informed the court that he was pursuing the matter under the state government's policy. The latest proposal follows an earlier attempt by the VMC to prepare the plot for public auction. In July, the civic body's standing committee approved a valuation of Rs 2.10 lakh per square metre, putting the estimated value of the entire 978-square-metre parcel at around Rs 20.5 crore. The proposal was later withdrawn after the VMC's general board raised questions about the alleged encroachment and the disposal of the land before the dispute had been resolved. The Gujarat government's resolution approving the proposed allotment was issued on August 13 and reached the VMC on August 29. Pathan withdrew his appeal two days later. The civic body's land estate department has since initiated the process of securing the necessary approvals for the allotment. The proposal comes after Pathan's departure from the Trinamool Congress in June this year. He was among 20 MPs who broke away from the party led by Mamata Banerjee and joined the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), aligning with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Parliament. The standing committee's decision on October 23 will determine whether the proposed allotment can proceed to the next stage of the civic body's approval process.
Vishwaraj Gohil, an employee of the Gujarat postal department, tragically took his own life at the Harishchandragad cliff. Prior to this devastating event, he shared a video revealing his anguish over ongoing marital issues and familial allegations against him. Reports of domestic violence had previously engaged police and the courts. His motorcycle and phone were found nearby, leading authorities to initiate a thorough search and investigation into the matter.
Marco Rubio's visit provides opportunity to further advance India-US cooperation: MEA
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 20 (IANS) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday extended a warm welcome to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as he arrived in Mumbai for his second visit to India, noting that his coming provides an opportunity to further advance cooperation across various pillars of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. For his visit to Mumbai, Rubio is accompanied by his wife, Jeanette Rubio and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor. In a post on X, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, Welcome to Mumbai, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, on your second visit to India! He was received by Shri Ashish Shelar, Minister of Culture, Electronics, IT and AI, Government of Maharashtra at the airport. The visit provides an opportunity to further advance cooperation across the various pillars of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Gor stated that he looked forward to a productive visit and advancing India-US ties. Great to be back in Mumbai, this time with my friend US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Looking forward to a productive visit and to advancing U.S.-India ties, Gor posted on X. Later in the day, Rubio will hold talks with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, with discussions expected to cover key areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investment, defence, critical emerging technologies, and other areas of mutual interest. Addressing a bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi last week, the MEA spokesperson said that Rubio and EAM Jaishankar will also discuss regional and global developments. In so far as the visit of the Secretary of State is concerned, this forthcoming visit will provide an opportunity for both sides to review India-US relations and discuss ways to further strengthen the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership that we have with the United States. Discussions are expected to cover key areas of our bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investment, defence, critical emerging technologies, and other areas of mutual interest. The two sides will also exchange views on regional and global developments. The visit will provide an opportunity to sustain the high-level engagement between the two countries and advance our shared priorities, Jaiswal said. After concluding his engagements in Mumbai, Rubio will travel to Gujarat's Jamnagar for talks that will include enhanced energy cooperation, the US State Department said.
Gujarat CM performs traditional 'Shastra Puja', stresses duty and righteous action
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 20 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed the traditional Shastra Puja at his official residence in Gandhinagar on Tuesday on the occasion of Vijayadashami, emphasising the importance of duty, dedication and preserving human values while discharging responsibilities. CM Patel worshipped weapons used by security personnel deployed for his protection in accordance with traditional Vedic rituals. The ceremony, associated with Vijayadashamis symbolism of the victory of good over evil, also highlighted the cultural significance of protecting both shastra (weapons) and shastra (scriptures). Addressing the security personnel present, the Chief Minister spoke about the importance of duty, dedication and Karmayoga, or the path of selfless action. He stressed that those responsible for protection and security must continuously fulfil their duties while upholding compassion, empathy and righteous conduct. The CM also underlined the importance of preserving human values in the performance of official responsibilities and striving for spiritual growth through good deeds. The Chief Minister extended Vijayadashami greetings to the security personnel who participated in the ceremony. Superintendent of Police (SP) Tejas Patel, who oversees the Chief Ministers security arrangements, welcomed him on the occasion. Deputy Superintendents of Police, police inspectors, police sub-inspectors, commandos, drivers, and other personnel deployed for the Chief Ministers security were present and took part in the ritual. The ceremony continued a tradition initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. The Shastra Puja has since been observed at the Chief Ministers residence on Vijayadashami, combining the festivals cultural significance with a recognition of the responsibilities of security personnel. Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is traditionally associated with the victory of good over evil. The worship of weapons on the occasion reflects the longstanding cultural practice of honouring the instruments used to protect people and uphold justice.
