The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday announced cyclone alert for the Gujarat coast and a yellow message as Cyclone Maha is expected to make landfall on the coast between Devbhumi-Dwarka district and Diu on Thursday.

"The Very Severe Cyclonic storm MAHA over east-central and adjoining west-central the Arabian Sea moved eastwards with a speed of 21 kmph during the past six hours. It is very likely to cross Gujarat coast around Diu as a Cyclonic Storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 70-80 Kmph gusting to 90 Kmph around noon of November 7, 2019," the IMD stated in its weather warning bulletin today.

The cyclone Maha is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during the next 12 hours and into a Cyclonic Storm during the subsequent 24 hours.

It is very likely to move west-northwestwards initially and then north-northwestwards, towards West Bengal and adjoining north Odisha and Bangladesh coasts.

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'Maha'&nbsp;alert on Tuesday.

Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly eight tonnes of relief material has been put in place.

About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state.

A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday announced cyclone alert for the Gujarat coast and a yellow message as Cyclone Maha is expected to make landfall on the coast between Devbhumi-Dwarka district and Diu on Thursday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday announced cyclone alert for the Gujarat coast and a yellow message as Cyclone Maha is expected to make landfall on the coast between Devbhumi-Dwarka district and Diu on Thursday. "The Very Severe Cyclonic storm MAHA over east-central and adjoining west-central the Arabian Sea moved eastwards with a speed of 21 kmph during the past six hours. It is very likely to cross Gujarat coast around Diu as a Cyclonic Storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 70-80 Kmph gusting to 90 Kmph around noon of November 7, 2019," the IMD stated in its weather warning bulletin today. The cyclone Maha is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during the next 12 hours and into a Cyclonic Storm during the subsequent 24 hours. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards initially and then north-northwestwards, towards West Bengal and adjoining north Odisha and Bangladesh coasts. The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'Maha' alert on Tuesday. Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly eight tonnes of relief material has been put in place. About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state. A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle.

Severe cyclone Maha to cross Gujarat coast today: IMD

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday. 
 
Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly 8 tonnes of relief material has been put in place. 
 
About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state. 
 
A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneMaha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneMaha</a> 
06 teams each of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF</a> airlifted from Ghaziabad &amp; Bhatinda. 
Total 35 Teams of NDRF Deployed in Gujarat and Diu.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePreparedBeSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePreparedBeSafe</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF4U?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF4U</a><a href="https://twitter.com/satyaprad1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@satyaprad1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHomeAffairs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/SsEIYcqm9x">pic.twitter.com/SsEIYcqm9x</a>
— NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ/status/1191666911068581888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that the Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm 'MAHA' is likely to intensify further till the morning of November 5 and then weaken gradually. 
 
Fishermen were repeatedly advised not to venture into central and northeast Arabian Sea and the Andaman Sea.

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday.

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday. Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly 8 tonnes of relief material has been put in place. About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state. A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle. #CycloneMaha 06 teams each of #NDRF airlifted from Ghaziabad & Bhatinda. Total 35 Teams of NDRF Deployed in Gujarat and Diu.#BePreparedBeSafe#NDRF4U@satyaprad1 @PIBHomeAffairs @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/SsEIYcqm9x — NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) November 5, 2019 × On Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that the Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm 'MAHA' is likely to intensify further till the morning of November 5 and then weaken gradually. Fishermen were repeatedly advised not to venture into central and northeast Arabian Sea and the Andaman Sea.

Indian Air Force deploys around 140 personnel in Gujarat as cyclone Maha approaches

India celebrates National Unity Day; Thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'. Watch video to know more.

India celebrates National Unity Day; thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'

To commemorate 150th birth anniversary of India's iconic freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhi, students in his home state of Gujarat on Tuesday (October 01) painted his portrait with a collection of 150 words that describe him and his principles.

Indian students mark Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary with 150 word artwork

At least 21&nbsp;people have died in Gujarat's northern Banaskantha district on Monday.

According to reports, a bus carrying 40-50 people returning from a temple visit overturned near Trishuliya Ghat in Gujarat's Banaskantha.

Rescue operations have been launched at the spot. The injured passengers are being rushed to the nearest hospital.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his tweet that the local administration is providing help to the injured people.

''Devastating news from Banaskantha. I am extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an accident. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. The local administration is providing all possible help to the injured. May they recover soon,'' PM Modi tweeted.

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Devastating news from Banaskantha. I am extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an accident. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. 
 
The local administration is providing all possible help to the injured. May they recover soon.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1178666831332003840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

At least 21 people have died in Gujarat's northern Banaskantha district on Monday. According to reports, a bus carrying 40-50 people returning from a temple visit overturned near Trishuliya Ghat in Gujarat's Banaskantha.

At least 21 people have died in Gujarat's northern Banaskantha district on Monday. According to reports, a bus carrying 40-50 people returning from a temple visit overturned near Trishuliya Ghat in Gujarat's Banaskantha. Rescue operations have been launched at the spot. The injured passengers are being rushed to the nearest hospital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his tweet that the local administration is providing help to the injured people. ''Devastating news from Banaskantha. I am extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an accident. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. The local administration is providing all possible help to the injured. May they recover soon,'' PM Modi tweeted. Devastating news from Banaskantha. I am extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an accident. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. The local administration is providing all possible help to the injured. May they recover soon. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 30, 2019 ×

At least 21 dead after bus overturns in Gujarat's Banaskantha district

The India Meteorological Department (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-schools-to-remain-shut-as-indian-meteorological-department-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-mumbai-250483">IMD</a>) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab.<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"Heavy to very <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-monsoon-rains-above-average-for-third-straight-week-imd-250421">heavy rainfall</a> very likely at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Saurashtra, Kutch, Konkan and Goa," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha, as per weather forecasting agency.

Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast.

The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency also predicted that heavy rains are also likely to fall over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall very likely at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Saurashtra, Kutch, Konkan and Goa," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is also very likely to occur at isolated places over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Odisha, as per weather forecasting agency. Squally weather is likely to prevail over Gujarat coast. The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat likely to receive heavy rainfall: IMD

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines.

Speaking to media at an event here, Gadkari said that only "one-two states" has raised objections on some provision that provides for heavy fines.

"Only one-two states have objections on just one-two clauses related to fines. There is no objection to other provisions. Most of the states have supported the Act. I have talked to chief ministers. We will get everyone's support and succeed in our mission," he said here.

The minister said the government did not aim at increasing its revenue by the fines but is intended to make people respect the law.

He further said: "The Centre does not get any share in revue collected by the fines and the states have the right to change the rate of penalties."

"I am getting feedback that people now do not cross the white traffic line. There is four to fivefold surge of people lining up to get a fitness certificate. Now they understand that it is their interests," he said.

BJP-ruled Gujarat and Uttarakhand have relaxed traffic rules to lower fines, while Karnataka is in consideration to slash the penalties.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) has the support of almost all states even as Gujarat and Uttarakhand tweaked rules to lower hefty fines. Speaking to media at an event here, Gadkari said that only "one-two states" has raised objections on some provision that provides for heavy fines. "Only one-two states have objections on just one-two clauses related to fines. There is no objection to other provisions. Most of the states have supported the Act. I have talked to chief ministers. We will get everyone's support and succeed in our mission," he said here. The minister said the government did not aim at increasing its revenue by the fines but is intended to make people respect the law. He further said: "The Centre does not get any share in revue collected by the fines and the states have the right to change the rate of penalties." "I am getting feedback that people now do not cross the white traffic line. There is four to fivefold surge of people lining up to get a fitness certificate. Now they understand that it is their interests," he said. BJP-ruled Gujarat and Uttarakhand have relaxed traffic rules to lower fines, while Karnataka is in consideration to slash the penalties.

Most of the states support new motor vehicle rules: Nitin Gadkari

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival on his 69th birth anniversary, the entire Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia in Narmada district of Gujarat was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister, who arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday, is scheduled to visit the dam on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI about the Prime Minister's visit, a priest told ANI that he will also be performing 'pooja' at the Narmada river.

"We all are very excited about his visit. He will first perform aarti and pooja at Narmada river where he will perform all rituals to pay respect to the sacred river. This is for the fourth time I will make him perform pooja," the priest said.

Till late night Monday, several arrangements were being made to welcome Modi at the dam site. The entrance of the dam area is being decorated with flowers and other materials.

While Prime Minister Modi is celebrating his birthday in Gujarat, different events are being organised in parts of the country to mark the day.

In Andhra Pradesh`s Vijayawada, an exhibition to portray Prime Minister Modi's life was organised on Monday.

"Here we are showing a life sketch of PM Modi's life. All schemes of his government, which were delivered for the upliftment of poor and needy people of this country are being shown in the exhibition," an organiser said.&nbsp;

"Every unit of BJP will display this kind of exhibition in every Mandal of this country. BJP leaders will indulge in several welfare services like providing free medical and health checkup camp, going to hospitals, distributing fruits to patients, awareness on plastic ban, Swacch Bharat etc. The Prime Minister has dedicated his life to the nation," he added.&nbsp;

People in Prime Minister Modi's parliamentary constituency, Varanasi also performed a special pooja for his long life.

The BJP is celebrating Prime Minister Modi's birthday as 'Seva Saptah' starting September 14 to September 20. The party has announced that several social initiatives will be undertaken by the party leaders across the nation during this week-long period.&nbsp;

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival on his 69th birth anniversary, the entire Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia in Narmada district of Gujarat was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival on his 69th birth anniversary, the entire Sardar Sarovar Dam at Kevadia in Narmada district of Gujarat was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night. The Prime Minister, who arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday, is scheduled to visit the dam on Tuesday morning. Speaking to ANI about the Prime Minister's visit, a priest told ANI that he will also be performing 'pooja' at the Narmada river. "We all are very excited about his visit. He will first perform aarti and pooja at Narmada river where he will perform all rituals to pay respect to the sacred river. This is for the fourth time I will make him perform pooja," the priest said. Till late night Monday, several arrangements were being made to welcome Modi at the dam site. The entrance of the dam area is being decorated with flowers and other materials. While Prime Minister Modi is celebrating his birthday in Gujarat, different events are being organised in parts of the country to mark the day. In Andhra Pradesh`s Vijayawada, an exhibition to portray Prime Minister Modi's life was organised on Monday. "Here we are showing a life sketch of PM Modi's life. All schemes of his government, which were delivered for the upliftment of poor and needy people of this country are being shown in the exhibition," an organiser said. "Every unit of BJP will display this kind of exhibition in every Mandal of this country. BJP leaders will indulge in several welfare services like providing free medical and health checkup camp, going to hospitals, distributing fruits to patients, awareness on plastic ban, Swacch Bharat etc. The Prime Minister has dedicated his life to the nation," he added. People in Prime Minister Modi's parliamentary constituency, Varanasi also performed a special pooja for his long life. The BJP is celebrating Prime Minister Modi's birthday as 'Seva Saptah' starting September 14 to September 20. The party has announced that several social initiatives will be undertaken by the party leaders across the nation during this week-long period.

Gujarat: Sardar Sarovar Dam illuminates with bright colours ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-sardar-sarovar-dam-illuminates-with-bright-colours-ahead-of-prime-minister-modis-visit-250086">Sardar Sarovar Dam</a> to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres.

"The dream that Sardar Patel had dreamed of is being fulfilled decades later and that too in front of the grand statue of Sardar Saheb. We have seen the Sardar Sarovar dam full for the first time."

"There was a time when reaching the target of 122 meters was a big deal.&nbsp;But today, within 5 years, it is amazing and unforgettable to see that Sardar Sarovar is filled till 138 meters," he said while addressing people at Sardar Sarovar Dam site.

Watch: How Modi rejuvenates the Indian diaspora worldwide

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"Today is also Vishwakarma jii day. In the resolve to move towards creating a new India, creativity like Lord Vishwakarma and will power to achieve big goals are very important," The Prime Minister said.

Modi, who was in Gujarat on his 69th birthday also offered prayers to the Narmada at the dam site.

He also visited the Control Room of the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

"On one side is the Sardar Sarovar dam, there is electricity-generating equipment. On the other side, there are very beautiful arrangements related to eco-tourism like Ekta Nursery, Butterfly Garden.&nbsp;Amidst all this, a grand statue of Sardar Patel is seen blessing us. Today is the day to express gratitude to all the people who have contributed to this dam," he said.

The dam was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night ahead of his arrival. The Prime Minister said that he will achieve every goal of new India with the inspiration of Sardar Patel.

"Today both the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the world's tallest statue of Sardar Saheb symbolize that willpower.&nbsp;I believe that with his inspiration we will prove every resolve associated with the new India, we will achieve every goal. Today's occasion is also very emotional," he said.

Modi said that the dam is significant for Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for Sardar Sarovar Dam to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for Sardar Sarovar Dam to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres. "The dream that Sardar Patel had dreamed of is being fulfilled decades later and that too in front of the grand statue of Sardar Saheb. We have seen the Sardar Sarovar dam full for the first time." "There was a time when reaching the target of 122 meters was a big deal. But today, within 5 years, it is amazing and unforgettable to see that Sardar Sarovar is filled till 138 meters," he said while addressing people at Sardar Sarovar Dam site. Watch: How Modi rejuvenates the Indian diaspora worldwide × "Today is also Vishwakarma jii day. In the resolve to move towards creating a new India, creativity like Lord Vishwakarma and will power to achieve big goals are very important," The Prime Minister said. Modi, who was in Gujarat on his 69th birthday also offered prayers to the Narmada at the dam site. He also visited the Control Room of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. "On one side is the Sardar Sarovar dam, there is electricity-generating equipment. On the other side, there are very beautiful arrangements related to eco-tourism like Ekta Nursery, Butterfly Garden. Amidst all this, a grand statue of Sardar Patel is seen blessing us. Today is the day to express gratitude to all the people who have contributed to this dam," he said. The dam was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night ahead of his arrival. The Prime Minister said that he will achieve every goal of new India with the inspiration of Sardar Patel. "Today both the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the world's tallest statue of Sardar Saheb symbolize that willpower. I believe that with his inspiration we will prove every resolve associated with the new India, we will achieve every goal. Today's occasion is also very emotional," he said. Modi said that the dam is significant for Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra

Amazing, unforgettable to see water touching 138 metres in Sardar Sarovar Dam: PM Modi

Vladivostok is a place where you would least expect Gujarati diamond workers to work in good numbers. It is a city located in the far east of Russia and gone through a tremendous transformation.&nbsp;

It was the last city to fall for the Bolsheviks when the Russian revolution broke out and Czarist Russia came to an end.&nbsp;

Today, it is a free port and home to a healthy global diaspora.&nbsp;

With a lot of Chinese and Koreans, Indians too can be spotted. Indian diaspora is small but effective. Indians are involved in tea and diamond industry. Then there are Indian students as well. Though Gujarati diamond workers remain the tip of the Indian diaspora. Changes in global diamond industry have led to expansion.&nbsp;

Indians have benefitted immensely. Now, Russia, Botswana and South Africa want their rough diamonds to be polished and trimmed in their own country. They want value addition to a raw product to remain within the national territory. This has created an impetus for the Gujarati and Rajasthani diamond merchants to diversify and become global.&nbsp;

Today, Indian diamond merchants have opened shops in Russia and Africa. With this expansion, skilled Gujarati worker has also found new avenues.

Vladivostok boasts of a small but highly skilled Gujarati worker from Surat in the city. They are very well taken care of the lot.&nbsp;

Most of them are vegetarians. The firms which host them ensure that they do not miss Gujarat much. Last time, when Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vinay Rupani was in Vladivostok, he ended up eating at one of the diamond merchants' canteen because it was all Gujarati and to top it all Jain food. So, Gujarati’s can find their khakhras in Vladivostok.&nbsp;

Many firms are also bringing local Maharaj’s to prepare food for their workers. Russia is the biggest producer of raw diamond in the world and has opened a world of opportunity for Indian traders. Indian diamond merchants are also happy as they get regular and consistent supply of raw material.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Rajesh Kothari, a diamond merchant said,” Diamond industry is not being relocated from Surat. It is being expanded.” Vladivostok is itched in South Asian memory as a place where 100 years back, Japanese humiliated a Czarist Russia.&nbsp;

Today it is a cosmopolitan city which has become a gateway to Russia’s far East. In this case, it is supported by the Russian government as it wants to improve its development in contrast to European Russia.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum and will hold one to one meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Indian diaspora has its eye set on the meeting apart from the biggies of the energy sector but the bottom line is that the success of diaspora does not lie in big deals. It lies in big steps like common people like skilled diamond workers of Gujarat who leave everything behind to seek better pay and dividends. It is this spirit which defines Indian entrepreneurship and Gujarat personifies best of it.&nbsp;

Vladivostok is a place where you would least expect Gujarati diamond workers to work in good numbers. It is a city located in the far east of Russia and gone through a tremendous transformation.

Vladivostok is a place where you would least expect Gujarati diamond workers to work in good numbers. It is a city located in the far east of Russia and gone through a tremendous transformation. It was the last city to fall for the Bolsheviks when the Russian revolution broke out and Czarist Russia came to an end. Today, it is a free port and home to a healthy global diaspora. With a lot of Chinese and Koreans, Indians too can be spotted. Indian diaspora is small but effective. Indians are involved in tea and diamond industry. Then there are Indian students as well. Though Gujarati diamond workers remain the tip of the Indian diaspora. Changes in global diamond industry have led to expansion. Indians have benefitted immensely. Now, Russia, Botswana and South Africa want their rough diamonds to be polished and trimmed in their own country. They want value addition to a raw product to remain within the national territory. This has created an impetus for the Gujarati and Rajasthani diamond merchants to diversify and become global. Today, Indian diamond merchants have opened shops in Russia and Africa. With this expansion, skilled Gujarati worker has also found new avenues. Vladivostok boasts of a small but highly skilled Gujarati worker from Surat in the city. They are very well taken care of the lot. Most of them are vegetarians. The firms which host them ensure that they do not miss Gujarat much. Last time, when Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vinay Rupani was in Vladivostok, he ended up eating at one of the diamond merchants' canteen because it was all Gujarati and to top it all Jain food. So, Gujarati’s can find their khakhras in Vladivostok. Many firms are also bringing local Maharaj’s to prepare food for their workers. Russia is the biggest producer of raw diamond in the world and has opened a world of opportunity for Indian traders. Indian diamond merchants are also happy as they get regular and consistent supply of raw material. Speaking to WION, Rajesh Kothari, a diamond merchant said,” Diamond industry is not being relocated from Surat. It is being expanded.” Vladivostok is itched in South Asian memory as a place where 100 years back, Japanese humiliated a Czarist Russia. Today it is a cosmopolitan city which has become a gateway to Russia’s far East. In this case, it is supported by the Russian government as it wants to improve its development in contrast to European Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum and will hold one to one meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Indian diaspora has its eye set on the meeting apart from the biggies of the energy sector but the bottom line is that the success of diaspora does not lie in big deals. It lies in big steps like common people like skilled diamond workers of Gujarat who leave everything behind to seek better pay and dividends. It is this spirit which defines Indian entrepreneurship and Gujarat personifies best of it.

Little Gujarat in Russia's Vladivostok

Mundra port has been put on high alert after Pakistan trained commandos entered the Gulf of Kutch and Kutch area through Harami Nala creek area. The coast guard alert said the commandos were trained in "underwater attacks".

Mundra port has been put on high alert after Pakistan trained commandos entered the Gulf of Kutch and Kutch area through Harami Nala creek area. The coast guard alert said the commandos were trained in "underwater attacks". The coast guard had received the input that has been shared with private companies to take safety measures. "It is therefore directed to take utmost measures of security and prevent any untoward situation in Gujarat state," Adani said in a statement. All ships at the Mundra port have been asked to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to marine control station and port operation centre immediately. The development came days after Islamabad deployed medium-range artillery and mobilised its army along the LoC. Pakistan earlier had been using small weapons when it comes to ceasefire violations. India has used Bofors to deal with increased Pakistani efforts to destabilise the LoC. It is understood that Islamabad has deployed its Special Service Group (SSG), an elite commando force and Border Action Team (BAT) at the LoC. On the night July 31 and August 1, Indian forces thwarted BAT attempt to infiltrate across the LoC at Karen sector. The development comes days after Imran Khan resorted to the nuclear threat. On Monday, in an address to the nation on Kashmir, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had given a "nuclear threat". He said: "India should remember that if the situation turns out worse and moves towards a war they should remember that both countries have nuclear weapons and one should remember that repercussions will be around the world, not just India and Pakistan." Increased activity of terror groups has also been seen. Associates of Masood Azhar, the chief of United Nation listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, have been noticed overlooking the training of terror groups, eager to cross over LoC. Increased movement of terrorist has been reported in Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot and Kotli in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK).

Ports in Gujarat on high alert as intel says Pakistan commandos trained in underwater combats enter Kutch

After 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019'&nbsp;list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot."

"Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

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Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/TIME?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TIME</a> 100 greatest places 2019 list. 
 
And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. 
 
Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!<a href="https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc">https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc</a> <a href="https://t.co/7xmjWCz9xo">pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1166551420180545536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary.

Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list.&nbsp;

Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot." "Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2019 × PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity' on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary. Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list. Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

Statue of Unity finds spot on TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places'; PM Modi elated

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said.

The report was released on Friday by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar.

CWMI 2.0 ranks various states for the reference year 2017-18 as against the base year 2016-17.

"Gujarat (continues) to hold on to its rank one in the reference year (2017-18), followed by Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu," the release said.

It said that among northeastern and Himalayan states, Himachal Pradesh has been adjudged first in 2017-18 followed by Uttarakhand, Tripura and Assam.

The release said that Union Territories have first time submitted their data and Puducherry has been declared as the top ranker.

"In terms of incremental change in index (over 2016-17 level), Haryana holds number one position among general states and Uttarakhand amongst northeastern and Himalayan states," it said.

"On an average, 80 per cent of the states assessed on the Index over the last three years have improved their water management scores, with an average improvement of +5.2 points," the release said.

It said that scientific management of water is increasingly recognised as being vital to India's growth and ecosystem sustainability.

Niti Aayog first launched and conceptualised the Composite Water Management Index in 2018 as a tool to instil a sense of cooperative and competitive federalism among the states. It was a first-ever attempt at creating a pan-India set of metrics that measured different dimensions of water management and use across the lifecycle of water.

"The report was widely acknowledged and provided actionable guidance to states on where they were doing well absolutely and relatively and what they needed to focus on to secure their water future," the release said.

The CWMI, it said, was an important tool to assess and improve the performance of states and Union Territories in the efficient management of water resources.

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said.

Gujarat ranks as top state in 2017-18 in the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI 2.0) report released on Friday with 80 per cent of states assessed on the Index over the last three years showing improved water management scores, an official release said. The report was released on Friday by Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar. CWMI 2.0 ranks various states for the reference year 2017-18 as against the base year 2016-17. "Gujarat (continues) to hold on to its rank one in the reference year (2017-18), followed by Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu," the release said. It said that among northeastern and Himalayan states, Himachal Pradesh has been adjudged first in 2017-18 followed by Uttarakhand, Tripura and Assam. The release said that Union Territories have first time submitted their data and Puducherry has been declared as the top ranker. "In terms of incremental change in index (over 2016-17 level), Haryana holds number one position among general states and Uttarakhand amongst northeastern and Himalayan states," it said. "On an average, 80 per cent of the states assessed on the Index over the last three years have improved their water management scores, with an average improvement of +5.2 points," the release said. It said that scientific management of water is increasingly recognised as being vital to India's growth and ecosystem sustainability. Niti Aayog first launched and conceptualised the Composite Water Management Index in 2018 as a tool to instil a sense of cooperative and competitive federalism among the states. It was a first-ever attempt at creating a pan-India set of metrics that measured different dimensions of water management and use across the lifecycle of water. "The report was widely acknowledged and provided actionable guidance to states on where they were doing well absolutely and relatively and what they needed to focus on to secure their water future," the release said. The CWMI, it said, was an important tool to assess and improve the performance of states and Union Territories in the efficient management of water resources.

Gujarat ranked first in composite water management index

PM Modi continues turban tradition for his Independence Day address

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year.

The southern states of Kerala and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-dead-14-missing-in-flood-hit-karnataka-since-august-1-242332">Karnataka</a>, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines.

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-reaches-91-with-59-missing-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-kerala-242809">95 people were killed</a> and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people.

About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede.

In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams.

Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state.

Video:&nbsp;Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India

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Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said.

In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official.

"We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said.

In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said.

In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains. The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year. The southern states of Kerala and Karnataka, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines. At least 95 people were killed and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people. About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede. In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams. Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state. Video: Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said. In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official. "We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said. In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said. In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Death toll rises to 270 due to floods in India, over one million displaced

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday said that isolated places over Saurashtra, Kutch, ghat areas of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mahe and Coastal and South Interior <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-heavy-rainfall-alert-for-goa-coastal-karnataka-odisha-241288">Karnataka are likely to receive very heavy rainfall </a>on Sunday.

The department also stated that Uttarakhand, Gujarat region, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands will also witness heavy downpour throughout the day.

'Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand. Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 km, are likely to prevail over the southwest, central and northeast Arabian Sea and along and off,' the organisation added.

The organisation has adviced fishermen not to venture in these areas for the next few days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday said that isolated places over Saurashtra, Kutch, ghat areas of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mahe and Coastal and South Interior Karnataka are likely to receive very heavy rainfall on Sunday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday said that isolated places over Saurashtra, Kutch, ghat areas of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mahe and Coastal and South Interior Karnataka are likely to receive very heavy rainfall on Sunday. The department also stated that Uttarakhand, Gujarat region, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands will also witness heavy downpour throughout the day. 'Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand. Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 km, are likely to prevail over the southwest, central and northeast Arabian Sea and along and off,' the organisation added. The organisation has adviced fishermen not to venture in these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rainfall alert issued for Gujarat, Tamil Nadu

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

"South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said.

The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies.

"To provide assistance in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rescue-and-relief-work-beefs-up-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-india-241982"> prevailing flood situation</a> in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said.

He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens".

The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states.

The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat.

"From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said.

The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people.

Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday. "South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said. The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies. "To provide assistance in the prevailing flood situation in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said. He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens". The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states. The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat. "From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said. The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people. Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

Air Force rescues 156 people from flood-affected areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours. Gujarat has been witnessing incessant rainfall during this season which led to flood-like situation in several districts.

"We are getting heavy rains in Rajkot, Jamnagar and other places. Next 24 hours Saurashtra and Kutch will receive have rainfall. 11 people have died in the last 24 hours," Rupani said following a meeting with senior officials of the state over flood situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rescue-and-relief-work-beefs-up-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-india-241982">Rescue operation to evacuate people</a> to a safer place is underway. So far around 6,000 people have been shifted. Collectors of the district and other senior state officials are on alert.

Meanwhile, Around 17 dams including Ukai Dam and Sardar Sarovar dam are overflowing.&nbsp;

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday. India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours.

At least 11 people have lost their lives in Gujarat in last 24 hour as incessant rains wreak havoc in the state, said Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday. India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extremely heavy falls at isolated places are very likely over Gujarat state during the next 24 hours. Gujarat has been witnessing incessant rainfall during this season which led to flood-like situation in several districts. "We are getting heavy rains in Rajkot, Jamnagar and other places. Next 24 hours Saurashtra and Kutch will receive have rainfall. 11 people have died in the last 24 hours," Rupani said following a meeting with senior officials of the state over flood situation. Rescue operation to evacuate people to a safer place is underway. So far around 6,000 people have been shifted. Collectors of the district and other senior state officials are on alert. Meanwhile, Around 17 dams including Ukai Dam and Sardar Sarovar dam are overflowing.

Around 11 people killed in last 24 hours due to heavy rain in Gujarat

Eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and two Indian Air Force helicopters were deployed on Sunday to carry out rescue operations after water burst into cities as rivers swelled owing to days of incessant rains across the state.

"Eight teams of NDRF are deployed across the state to carry out rescue operations," said an official.

The public relations officer and spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence for Gujarat also informed on Twitter that two IAF medium-lift helicopters took off from here for rescue operations.

According to officials, the NDRF teams rescued over 1,000 people on Saturday along with some crocodiles, dogs and other animals.

The water level has increased in Ambika, Purna and Cauveri rivers causing it to burst into cities and creating a flood-like situation across the state.

Several crocodiles have also wandered into cities due to overflowing rivers.

Local police and NGOs are also carrying out rescue operations in the state.

"We have rescued several crocodiles from different areas with the help of local police and NDRF. There is water-logging and rains. We have given the rescued crocodiles to the forest department," said Neha Patel, an NGO member engaged in rescue operations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and two Indian Air Force helicopters were deployed on Sunday to carry out rescue operations after water burst into cities as rivers swelled owing to days of incessant rains across the state.

Eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and two Indian Air Force helicopters were deployed on Sunday to carry out rescue operations after water burst into cities as rivers swelled owing to days of incessant rains across the state. "Eight teams of NDRF are deployed across the state to carry out rescue operations," said an official. The public relations officer and spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence for Gujarat also informed on Twitter that two IAF medium-lift helicopters took off from here for rescue operations. According to officials, the NDRF teams rescued over 1,000 people on Saturday along with some crocodiles, dogs and other animals. The water level has increased in Ambika, Purna and Cauveri rivers causing it to burst into cities and creating a flood-like situation across the state. Several crocodiles have also wandered into cities due to overflowing rivers. Local police and NGOs are also carrying out rescue operations in the state. "We have rescued several crocodiles from different areas with the help of local police and NDRF. There is water-logging and rains. We have given the rescued crocodiles to the forest department," said Neha Patel, an NGO member engaged in rescue operations.

Gujarat: 8 NDRF teams, 2 IAF helicopters carrying out rescue operations in flood-affected areas

Water-logging followed by incessant downpour has thrown the life of residents out of gear in Anand district, Khambat situated in Gujarat.

Due to heavy downpour, Anand district recorded 15 mm of rainfall within 10 hours on Saturday.

Several parts of the districts including Jahangirpur, Rabariwad, Sagar Society, Mochiwad and Baba Bajisha were inundated with water followed by massive rains.

Various market areas in the region were also deluged in water and locals had to wade through knee-deep water.

The district collector arrived at the waterlogged areas and directed the locals to vacate the affected areas.

Rains were so relentless that children in few areas had to struggle to wade through shoulder-deep water.

Meanwhile, Gujarat's Vadodara was massively hit by waterlogging and flood in several parts across the city, following a heavy downpour since last few days.

In a sigh of relief, District Magistrate Shalini Agarwal on Friday said that the floodwater which had entered Vadodara city is receding.

"Water level in Vishwamitri River is going down since today morning and the water is also receding from the cities. We have opened bridges for vehicular traffic. Electricity, water supply is being restored while health and cleanliness campaigns are being taken up," Agarwal told ANI.

Several people lost their lives after incessant rains in the region swelled the water level in the river causing it to burst into cities.

"There were four deaths due to wall collapse and two due to rainfall. National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) teams are deployed for evacuation," Agarwal added.

District Magistrate also mentioned that several crocodiles, which had ventured into the cities due to flood, were rescued.

"Four were rescued today and two were rescued yesterday," she said.

Rescue and evacuation operations were undertaken on a large scale in the cities, in which several incidents of bravery came to light.One sub-inspector Govind Chawla risked his life to rescue a 1.5-year-old girl from the flood in Devipura area here on Thursday.

"The commissioner had ordered to evacuate people from low lying areas. We were in the area to rescue around 50 people who were stuck in floods. There I saw an infant. It was difficult as she could not hold me, so I carried her out of the water on my head using a plastic tub." Chawla said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Water-logging followed by incessant downpour has thrown the life of residents out of gear in Anand district, Khambat situated in Gujarat. Due to heavy downpour, Anand district recorded 15 mm of rainfall within 10 hours on Saturday.

Water-logging followed by incessant downpour has thrown the life of residents out of gear in Anand district, Khambat situated in Gujarat. Due to heavy downpour, Anand district recorded 15 mm of rainfall within 10 hours on Saturday. Several parts of the districts including Jahangirpur, Rabariwad, Sagar Society, Mochiwad and Baba Bajisha were inundated with water followed by massive rains. Various market areas in the region were also deluged in water and locals had to wade through knee-deep water. The district collector arrived at the waterlogged areas and directed the locals to vacate the affected areas. Rains were so relentless that children in few areas had to struggle to wade through shoulder-deep water. Meanwhile, Gujarat's Vadodara was massively hit by waterlogging and flood in several parts across the city, following a heavy downpour since last few days. In a sigh of relief, District Magistrate Shalini Agarwal on Friday said that the floodwater which had entered Vadodara city is receding. "Water level in Vishwamitri River is going down since today morning and the water is also receding from the cities. We have opened bridges for vehicular traffic. Electricity, water supply is being restored while health and cleanliness campaigns are being taken up," Agarwal told ANI. Several people lost their lives after incessant rains in the region swelled the water level in the river causing it to burst into cities. "There were four deaths due to wall collapse and two due to rainfall. National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) teams are deployed for evacuation," Agarwal added. District Magistrate also mentioned that several crocodiles, which had ventured into the cities due to flood, were rescued. "Four were rescued today and two were rescued yesterday," she said. Rescue and evacuation operations were undertaken on a large scale in the cities, in which several incidents of bravery came to light.One sub-inspector Govind Chawla risked his life to rescue a 1.5-year-old girl from the flood in Devipura area here on Thursday. "The commissioner had ordered to evacuate people from low lying areas. We were in the area to rescue around 50 people who were stuck in floods. There I saw an infant. It was difficult as she could not hold me, so I carried her out of the water on my head using a plastic tub." Chawla said.

Gujarat: Heavy downpour leads to massive water logging in Anand district

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jds-alliance-going-strong-despite-efforts-to-destabilise-kumaraswamy-235169&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiYn5j2ta_jAhWJaCsKHbwZB-QQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ZkjNUdt89h4W1Ee09jN6I">Congress</a> president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-feels-like-coming-home-says-rahul-gandhi-on-his-first-visit-to-amethi-after-lok-sabha-elections-234731">Rahul Gandhi</a> in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel.

Rahul arrived at the Court to appear in connection with the case.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader had informed through a tweet that he would be appearing in another <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-defamation-case-rahul-gandhi-pleads-not-guilty-232947&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYstyztq_jAhXTfCsKHT5KDXAQFjACegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_ph_LmpPiyLaitcOhnMtC">case filed against him by his "political opponents in the RSS and BJP</a>."

"I am in Ahmedabad today, to appear in another case filed against me by my political opponents in the RSS/BJP.&nbsp;

I thank them for providing me with these platforms and opportunities to take my ideological battle against them to the public.&nbsp;

Satyameva Jayate," he said in the tweet.

Last year in August, two separate criminal defamation cases were filed against Rahul and party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala for their remark that Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank (ADCB) had exchanged Rs 745.58 crore in just five days during demonetisation.

"Within a mere five days of the implementation of the demonetisation drive, old denominations worth Rs 3,118 crore were deposited in 11 district corporative banks that had links to the BJP leaders.&nbsp;

The most noteworthy of them was Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank, whose directors include BJP president Amit Shah," Surjewala had said.

He had further said that the bank, which is chaired by Ajay Patel, a close associate of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, received Rs 745.58 crore from November 10 to November 14.&nbsp;

Before appearing in connection with the criminal defamation suit, Rahul also visited Swathi restaurant in Ahmedabad where he was seen interacting with people and clicking selfies with them.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel.

The Metropolitan Court here on Friday granted bail to Congress president Rahul Gandhi in connection with a criminal defamation suit filed against him by Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel. Rahul arrived at the Court to appear in connection with the case. Earlier in the day, Congress leader had informed through a tweet that he would be appearing in another case filed against him by his "political opponents in the RSS and BJP." "I am in Ahmedabad today, to appear in another case filed against me by my political opponents in the RSS/BJP. I thank them for providing me with these platforms and opportunities to take my ideological battle against them to the public. Satyameva Jayate," he said in the tweet. Last year in August, two separate criminal defamation cases were filed against Rahul and party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala for their remark that Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank (ADCB) had exchanged Rs 745.58 crore in just five days during demonetisation. "Within a mere five days of the implementation of the demonetisation drive, old denominations worth Rs 3,118 crore were deposited in 11 district corporative banks that had links to the BJP leaders. The most noteworthy of them was Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank, whose directors include BJP president Amit Shah," Surjewala had said. He had further said that the bank, which is chaired by Ajay Patel, a close associate of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, received Rs 745.58 crore from November 10 to November 14. Before appearing in connection with the criminal defamation suit, Rahul also visited Swathi restaurant in Ahmedabad where he was seen interacting with people and clicking selfies with them.

Ahmedabad Court grants bail to Rahul Gandhi in criminal defamation case

The voting for by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats in Gujarat's Gandhinagar is underway.

The two seats fell vacant after Smriti Irani and Home Minister Amit Shah were elected to the Lok Sabha from Amethi and Gandhinagar respectively.

BJP has fielded External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and OBC leader Jugal&nbsp;Thakur and the Congress former MLA Chandrika Chudasama and party leader from Valsad, Gaurav Pandya, as party candidates for Rajya Sabha by-elections.

Earlier on Thursday, Congress had shifted its MLAs to a resort in Palanpur area in Banaskatha district of the state in a bid to avoid horse trading.

As many as 69 Congress MLAs from the state have been shifted to Balaram resort which is 150 kilometres away from Ahmedabad.

The voting for by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats in Gujarat's Gandhinagar is underway. The two seats fell vacant after Smriti Irani and Home Minister Amit Shah were elected to the Lok Sabha from Amethi and Gandhinagar respectively.

The voting for by-elections for two Rajya Sabha seats in Gujarat's Gandhinagar is underway. The two seats fell vacant after Smriti Irani and Home Minister Amit Shah were elected to the Lok Sabha from Amethi and Gandhinagar respectively. BJP has fielded External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and OBC leader Jugal Thakur and the Congress former MLA Chandrika Chudasama and party leader from Valsad, Gaurav Pandya, as party candidates for Rajya Sabha by-elections. Earlier on Thursday, Congress had shifted its MLAs to a resort in Palanpur area in Banaskatha district of the state in a bid to avoid horse trading. As many as 69 Congress MLAs from the state have been shifted to Balaram resort which is 150 kilometres away from Ahmedabad.

Voting underway for two Rajya Sabha seats in Gujarat

OBC leader Alpesh Thakor and his close aide Dhavalsinh Zala on Friday resigned as Congress MLAs after cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections on Friday.

After casting their votes in the Rajya Sabha bypolls, Thakor, an MLA from Radhanpur constituency in north Gujarat, told reporters that he took the decision to resign as an MLA after being "insulted" and "deceived" by the party. "We were always deceived after joining the Congress party. We had told the senior party leaders that honest leaders are oppressed.&nbsp;

I had decided to join the party putting our faith in Rahul Gandhi but unfortunately, he could not do anything. We were insulted again and again," he said. Alpesh said that he cast his vote for the "honest national leadership" and as per his inner voice. He said: "I have cast my vote for the honest national leadership that wants to take the country to new heights. I cast my vote as per my inner voice. I got nothing other than mental stress by being in the Congress party. I am free from that burden."

He alleged that he was a victim of propaganda within the Congress and could not do anything for his community. "I have entered politics to serve the people of my community. I could not do anything for them in the last two years," he said.&nbsp;

Thakor's colleague Zala, an MLA from Bayad, said: "From the day I became an MLA, senior leaders in the party were harassing me. I had informed the party office in writing in this regard as well. Party activists were not being heard.&nbsp;

Party leaders were not hearing the grassroots workers. I have resigned as an MLA."Ashwin Kotwal, observer for the Congress in Rajya Sabha polls, said that both the leaders cross-voted in the elections. The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday declined to hear a petition moved by the Congress seeking a direction to Assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi to take a prompt decision on disqualification of Thakor. 
 
In the run-up to Lok Sabha elections, Thakor had resigned as the Congress Committee secretary in-charge of Bihar and other posts he held in the party. Earlier, Thakor, despite tendering his resignation from all posts of the party, did not quit the membership of the Assembly. There were speculations that he might join the ruling BJP. 
 
Thakor, however, had refuted the speculations, saying that there was no such plan in the offing.&nbsp;

OBC leader Alpesh Thakor and his close aide Dhavalsinh Zala on Friday resigned as Congress MLAs after cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections on Friday. After casting their votes in the Rajya Sabha bypolls, Thakor, an MLA from Radhanpur constituency in north Gujarat, told reporters that he took the decision to resign as an MLA after being "insulted" and "deceived" by the party.

OBC leader Alpesh Thakor and his close aide Dhavalsinh Zala on Friday resigned as Congress MLAs after cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections on Friday. After casting their votes in the Rajya Sabha bypolls, Thakor, an MLA from Radhanpur constituency in north Gujarat, told reporters that he took the decision to resign as an MLA after being "insulted" and "deceived" by the party. "We were always deceived after joining the Congress party. We had told the senior party leaders that honest leaders are oppressed. I had decided to join the party putting our faith in Rahul Gandhi but unfortunately, he could not do anything. We were insulted again and again," he said. Alpesh said that he cast his vote for the "honest national leadership" and as per his inner voice. He said: "I have cast my vote for the honest national leadership that wants to take the country to new heights. I cast my vote as per my inner voice. I got nothing other than mental stress by being in the Congress party. I am free from that burden." He alleged that he was a victim of propaganda within the Congress and could not do anything for his community. "I have entered politics to serve the people of my community. I could not do anything for them in the last two years," he said. Thakor's colleague Zala, an MLA from Bayad, said: "From the day I became an MLA, senior leaders in the party were harassing me. I had informed the party office in writing in this regard as well. Party activists were not being heard. Party leaders were not hearing the grassroots workers. I have resigned as an MLA."Ashwin Kotwal, observer for the Congress in Rajya Sabha polls, said that both the leaders cross-voted in the elections. The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday declined to hear a petition moved by the Congress seeking a direction to Assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi to take a prompt decision on disqualification of Thakor. In the run-up to Lok Sabha elections, Thakor had resigned as the Congress Committee secretary in-charge of Bihar and other posts he held in the party. Earlier, Thakor, despite tendering his resignation from all posts of the party, did not quit the membership of the Assembly. There were speculations that he might join the ruling BJP. Thakor, however, had refuted the speculations, saying that there was no such plan in the offing.

Alpesh Thakor, Dhavalsinh Zala resign as Congress MLAs after voting in Gujarat Rajya Sabha bypolls

To curb the menace of rash driving on roads, Gujarat police has equipped its traffic unit with high-tech laser guns for detection of overspeeding by vehicles in the city.&nbsp;

The riders will be fined Rs 400 for exceeding the speed limit of 40 km/hr. The gun uses laser technology to detect the speed of a vehicle plying on road.

It has the capability to record the speed of three vehicles simultaneously in a second, even if the vehicles are a kilometre away.

Speaking to ANI, ACP (Traffic) Amita Vanani said, "We have formed a team who will be monitoring over speeding by using laser-equipped speed guns.

These high technology speed guns will capture the vehicle number, speed and the picture of the drivers.

The challan is issued with complete evidence."She added that this step was taken to curb traffic violations that were peaking in the past few days.&nbsp;

To curb the menace of rash driving on roads, Gujarat police has equipped its traffic unit with high-tech laser guns for detection of overspeeding by vehicles in the city.

To curb the menace of rash driving on roads, Gujarat police has equipped its traffic unit with high-tech laser guns for detection of overspeeding by vehicles in the city. The riders will be fined Rs 400 for exceeding the speed limit of 40 km/hr. The gun uses laser technology to detect the speed of a vehicle plying on road. It has the capability to record the speed of three vehicles simultaneously in a second, even if the vehicles are a kilometre away. Speaking to ANI, ACP (Traffic) Amita Vanani said, "We have formed a team who will be monitoring over speeding by using laser-equipped speed guns. These high technology speed guns will capture the vehicle number, speed and the picture of the drivers. The challan is issued with complete evidence."She added that this step was taken to curb traffic violations that were peaking in the past few days.

Gujarat: In a first, laser guns used to detect overspeeding in Vadodara

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Monday constituted a high-powered committee of chief ministers for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers` income.

The nine-member committee, headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-chief-minister-devendra-fadnavis-to-discuss-state-cabinet-expansion-with-uddhav-thackeray-227250">Devendra Fadnavis</a>, will suggest policy measures, attract investments and raise growth in food processing.

Chief Ministers of Karnataka, Haryana, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Union Agriculture, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and NITI Aayog member Ramesh Chand will be the members of the committee.&nbsp;

The committee will discuss the measures for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers' income. Modalities for adoption and time-bound implementation of agriculture sector reforms will be suggested by the committee. The committee will submit its report in two months.&nbsp;

The panel will examine various provisions of the Essential Commodity Act (ECA), to attract private investments in agricultural marketing and infrastructure.

It will also suggest a mechanism for linking of market reforms with e-NAM, GRAM and other relevant Centrally Sponsored Schemes.&nbsp;

The committee will further suggest policy measures to boost agricultural export, raise growth in food processing and attract investments in modern market infrastructure, value chains and logistics, besides making other key suggestions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday constituted a high-powered committee of chief ministers for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers` income.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday constituted a high-powered committee of chief ministers for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers` income. The nine-member committee, headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, will suggest policy measures, attract investments and raise growth in food processing. Chief Ministers of Karnataka, Haryana, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Union Agriculture, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and NITI Aayog member Ramesh Chand will be the members of the committee. The committee will discuss the measures for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers' income. Modalities for adoption and time-bound implementation of agriculture sector reforms will be suggested by the committee. The committee will submit its report in two months. The panel will examine various provisions of the Essential Commodity Act (ECA), to attract private investments in agricultural marketing and infrastructure. It will also suggest a mechanism for linking of market reforms with e-NAM, GRAM and other relevant Centrally Sponsored Schemes. The committee will further suggest policy measures to boost agricultural export, raise growth in food processing and attract investments in modern market infrastructure, value chains and logistics, besides making other key suggestions.

Government sets up high-powered committee of chief ministers to 'transform Indian agriculture'

Cyclone Vayu has weakened and crossed Gujarat's Kutch district on Tuesday morning, causing rainfall at some places in the state, a MeT official said.

Rains are likely to continue till Wednesday in Kutch, Saurashtra and north Gujarat regions because of its impact, she said.

"Cyclone Vayu converted into a low-pressure area when it crossed over Kutch in the morning. This will cause rainfall in the region," said Manorama Mohanty, scientist at the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) Ahmedabad centre.

"Warning for ports has been lowered, but the advisory for fishermen will continue till Wednesday morning. The low-pressure system is going to further weaken," she said.

The low-pressure system will cause strong winds over northeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Saurashtra and Kutch regions with a speed of 30-40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph till Tuesday evening, the IMD said in a release. Weather will remain rough over northeast Arabian Sea and along and off the Gujarat coast, it said.

Several parts of Saurashtra, Kutch and north Gujarat regions received rainfall in the last 24 hours, the state's emergency response centre said in a release.

In the last 24 hours, Talala and Veraval talukas in Gir-Somnath district received 33 mm and 25 mm rainfall, respectively, while Borsad taluka in Anand district got 29 mm rain, as per official data.

Some parts of Dahod, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Sabarkantha districts also received showers during this period.

Ahmedabad is also expected to receive moderate to light rainfall till Thursday, the IMD said.

The cyclone was earlier predicted to make landfall in Gujarat on June 13.&nbsp;

However, it later began to move away from the state, sparing the coastline of any possible damage.

The IMD last Friday said the cyclone was likely to "recurve" and return to the coast in Kutch district as a weakened system.

Cyclone Vayu has weakened and crossed Gujarat's Kutch district on Tuesday morning, causing rainfall at some places in the state, a MeT official said. Rains are likely to continue till Wednesday in Kutch, Saurashtra and north Gujarat regions because of its impact, she said.

Cyclone Vayu has weakened and crossed Gujarat's Kutch district on Tuesday morning, causing rainfall at some places in the state, a MeT official said. Rains are likely to continue till Wednesday in Kutch, Saurashtra and north Gujarat regions because of its impact, she said. "Cyclone Vayu converted into a low-pressure area when it crossed over Kutch in the morning. This will cause rainfall in the region," said Manorama Mohanty, scientist at the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) Ahmedabad centre. "Warning for ports has been lowered, but the advisory for fishermen will continue till Wednesday morning. The low-pressure system is going to further weaken," she said. The low-pressure system will cause strong winds over northeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Saurashtra and Kutch regions with a speed of 30-40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph till Tuesday evening, the IMD said in a release. Weather will remain rough over northeast Arabian Sea and along and off the Gujarat coast, it said. Several parts of Saurashtra, Kutch and north Gujarat regions received rainfall in the last 24 hours, the state's emergency response centre said in a release. In the last 24 hours, Talala and Veraval talukas in Gir-Somnath district received 33 mm and 25 mm rainfall, respectively, while Borsad taluka in Anand district got 29 mm rain, as per official data. Some parts of Dahod, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Sabarkantha districts also received showers during this period. Ahmedabad is also expected to receive moderate to light rainfall till Thursday, the IMD said. The cyclone was earlier predicted to make landfall in Gujarat on June 13. However, it later began to move away from the state, sparing the coastline of any possible damage. The IMD last Friday said the cyclone was likely to "recurve" and return to the coast in Kutch district as a weakened system.

Cyclone Vayu weakens, crosses Kutch coast in Gujarat

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-lies-centred-over-northeast-arabian-sea-india-meteorological-department-227822">Cyclone Vayu</a> has weakened and is likely to cross the Gujarat coast by Monday midnight as a "depression", the weatherman said.

However, the Kutch district administration is on alert as the cyclone can cause heavy rainfall in the region.

Five teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities are prepared to carry out relief and rescue operations whenever required, an official said.

The cyclone over the northeast Arabian Sea has recurved and moved northeastward with a speed of about 13 kmph in the last six hours and weakened into a "deep depression", the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its latest bulletin.

On Monday morning, the cyclone was centred about 260 km west-southwest of Naliya, 240 km west-southwest of Dwarka and 340 km west-southwest of Bhuj in Gujarat, it said.

"The system is very likely to weaken into a depression during the next six hours. It is very likely to move northeastwards and cross north Gujarat coast by midnight of June 17 as a depression," the IMD said.

The sea will remain "rough to very rough" along and off the state coast on Monday, the MeT department said.

It advised fishermen not to venture into the sea during the next 24 hours.

Kutch Collector Remya Mohan said five teams of the NDRF were stationed in the district to help in rescue and relief work.

She said the salt-pan workers were also advised to avoid venturing into the sea waters.

The cyclone was earlier predicted to make landfall in Gujarat on June 13. However, it later began to move away from the state, sparing the coastline of any possible damage.

The IMD last Friday said the cyclone was likely to "recurve" and return to the coast in Kutch district as a weakened system.&nbsp;

Cyclone Vayu has weakened and is likely to cross the Gujarat coast by Monday midnight as a "depression", the weatherman said. However, the Kutch district administration is on alert as the cyclone can cause heavy rainfall in the region.

Cyclone Vayu has weakened and is likely to cross the Gujarat coast by Monday midnight as a "depression", the weatherman said. However, the Kutch district administration is on alert as the cyclone can cause heavy rainfall in the region. Five teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities are prepared to carry out relief and rescue operations whenever required, an official said. The cyclone over the northeast Arabian Sea has recurved and moved northeastward with a speed of about 13 kmph in the last six hours and weakened into a "deep depression", the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its latest bulletin. On Monday morning, the cyclone was centred about 260 km west-southwest of Naliya, 240 km west-southwest of Dwarka and 340 km west-southwest of Bhuj in Gujarat, it said. "The system is very likely to weaken into a depression during the next six hours. It is very likely to move northeastwards and cross north Gujarat coast by midnight of June 17 as a depression," the IMD said. The sea will remain "rough to very rough" along and off the state coast on Monday, the MeT department said. It advised fishermen not to venture into the sea during the next 24 hours. Kutch Collector Remya Mohan said five teams of the NDRF were stationed in the district to help in rescue and relief work. She said the salt-pan workers were also advised to avoid venturing into the sea waters. The cyclone was earlier predicted to make landfall in Gujarat on June 13. However, it later began to move away from the state, sparing the coastline of any possible damage. The IMD last Friday said the cyclone was likely to "recurve" and return to the coast in Kutch district as a weakened system.

Cyclone Vayu weakens, to cross Gujarat coast by night

Cyclone Vayu is likely to recurve, move towards Gujarat and hit Kutch as a cyclonic storm or deep depression, news agency PTI reported on Friday quoting officials.

A top Union Ministry of Earth Sciences official Friday said cyclone Vayu is likely to recurve and hit Kutch on June 17-18.

"Vayu is likely to recurve on June 16 and hit Kutch on June 17-18," M Rajeevan, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, told PTI.

The intensity of the very severe cyclonic storm is also likely to reduce, Rajeevan said, adding that it may hit the coast as a cyclonic storm or a deep depression.

He said the Gujarat government has been alerted about the possible re-curvature of the cyclonic storm.

Speaking on the IMD's latest weather report, Ahmedabad Meteorological Centre Additional Director Manorama Mohanty, however, said it was too early to predict if the cyclone will recurve and hit Kutch or Saurashtra.

"The report says it may recurve in the next 48 hours. But it is also possible it may weaken by then and dissipate in the sea itself. Thus, it is too early to predict that it will come back and hit the Kutch coast," she said.

Gujarat Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-no-more-a-threat-evacuees-can-return-gujarat-chief-minister-227058">Vijay Rupani on Friday</a> said cyclonic storm Vayu no longer posed any threat to the state as it had moved away westward.

"Gujarat is now completely safe. There exists no threat from cyclone Vayu now as the storm has veered towards the west in the Arabian Sea," Rupani said.

"Around 2.75 lakh people who were evacuated from the coastal areas are free to return to their homes," the chief minister told reporters.

The latest weather report by the Meteorological Centre had predicted the cyclone to move "slowly away from the coast" and currently located in the Arabian Sea, around 150 km from Porbandar.

'Vayu' was expected to make landfall between Dwarka and Veraval in Gujarat on Thursday afternoon.

Meanwhile, fishermen in Gujarat claimed to have incurred significant losses and damage to their boats in the wake of gusty winds generated in the region due to Cyclone Vayu, news agency ANI reported.

The fishermen also claimed that they did not have enough space for parking their boats, due to which severe damage was caused.

The fishermen have appealed to the government to take steps for ensuring sufficient places for boats to be parked.&nbsp;

They have also asked for compensation for the losses incurred.

The weather department on Friday stated that the monsoon in Maharashtra will be delayed as a result of the very severe cyclonic storm Vayu.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Cyclone Vayu is likely to recurve, move towards Gujarat and hit Kutch as a cyclonic storm or deep depression, news agency PTI reported on Friday quoting officials.

Cyclone Vayu is likely to recurve, move towards Gujarat and hit Kutch as a cyclonic storm or deep depression, news agency PTI reported on Friday quoting officials. A top Union Ministry of Earth Sciences official Friday said cyclone Vayu is likely to recurve and hit Kutch on June 17-18. "Vayu is likely to recurve on June 16 and hit Kutch on June 17-18," M Rajeevan, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, told PTI. The intensity of the very severe cyclonic storm is also likely to reduce, Rajeevan said, adding that it may hit the coast as a cyclonic storm or a deep depression. He said the Gujarat government has been alerted about the possible re-curvature of the cyclonic storm. Speaking on the IMD's latest weather report, Ahmedabad Meteorological Centre Additional Director Manorama Mohanty, however, said it was too early to predict if the cyclone will recurve and hit Kutch or Saurashtra. "The report says it may recurve in the next 48 hours. But it is also possible it may weaken by then and dissipate in the sea itself. Thus, it is too early to predict that it will come back and hit the Kutch coast," she said. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Friday said cyclonic storm Vayu no longer posed any threat to the state as it had moved away westward. "Gujarat is now completely safe. There exists no threat from cyclone Vayu now as the storm has veered towards the west in the Arabian Sea," Rupani said. "Around 2.75 lakh people who were evacuated from the coastal areas are free to return to their homes," the chief minister told reporters. The latest weather report by the Meteorological Centre had predicted the cyclone to move "slowly away from the coast" and currently located in the Arabian Sea, around 150 km from Porbandar. 'Vayu' was expected to make landfall between Dwarka and Veraval in Gujarat on Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, fishermen in Gujarat claimed to have incurred significant losses and damage to their boats in the wake of gusty winds generated in the region due to Cyclone Vayu, news agency ANI reported. The fishermen also claimed that they did not have enough space for parking their boats, due to which severe damage was caused. The fishermen have appealed to the government to take steps for ensuring sufficient places for boats to be parked. They have also asked for compensation for the losses incurred. The weather department on Friday stated that the monsoon in Maharashtra will be delayed as a result of the very severe cyclonic storm Vayu. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Vayu may recurve, hit Gujarat's Kutch: Officials

Sparing Gujarat after changing course, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-rajnath-reviews-preparations-of-indian-coast-guard-navy-226862">Cyclone Vayu</a> Thursday began moving away from the state coast towards Oman, even as the danger of heavy winds and rain in coastal areas continued, officials said.

Though the "eye of the storm" is away from land, the cyclone's outer periphery would leave its impact on the coast, officials said.

State authorities have already evacuated three lakh people from low-lying areas near the coast to safer places.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said, "According to IMD bulletin, Cyclone Vayu, which was going to hit Gujarat, has moved towards Oman. But the administration will continue to be on high alert for the next 24 hours."

Schools in coastal districts of Saurashtra and Kutch will remain closed Friday as a precaution, the chief minister said.

Rupani, who reviewed the situation late Thursday evening, said the cyclone "no longer poses any danger" but the administration in the coastal region will remain on alert.

"The IMD said the cyclone no longer poses any danger as it (has) moved towards Oman without making a landfall in the coastal belt," Rupani told reporters in Gandhinagar.

"The cyclone is very likely to move north-northwestwards for some time and then northwestwards skirting the Saurashtra coast affecting Gir Somnath, Diu, Junagarh, Porbandar and Devbhoomi Dwarka with wind speed 90- 100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph during next 12 hours," the IMD said in a release issued late Thursday evening.

"Though Vayu started skirting from the mainland, the danger is still there in the form of heavy rains or blowing of strong winds. We are not declaring as of now that there is no danger. All our measures will remain in place till tomorrow morning. We are not taking any chances," said Gujarat Chief Secretary, J N Singh.

A dozen talukas in the coastal belt received more than one inch of rain since Thursday morning due to the cyclone, an official release by the Gujarat government said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Rupani and took stock of the situation in his home state, after reaching Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan for the SCO Summit, the release said.

Modi held a telephonic talk with Rupani on cyclone preparations immediately after reaching Bishkek and assured all assistance and support from Central Government to mitigate the effects of Cyclone Vayu, it said.

Though the direction of the cyclone has changed, the cyclone is still dangerous and will leave its impact on the coast despite the fact that the "eye of the storm" is not expected to hit land, state Additional Chief Secretary Pankaj Kumar said.

"A cyclone is not about the eye of the storm. This storm is spread across 900 km. The risk is still there and severe winds and huge waves can cause damage in areas along the coastline. The impact of the storm is important, not the landfall. The state government will continue to remain alert for the next 48 hours," he said.

No casualty has been reported so far due to Vayu, Kumar said.

"People have been advised to stay away from the coast. The situation is still critical. All the ports have been asked to hoist the storm warning signal number 9. Many areas near the coast are now receiving rain. The cyclone may bring very heavy to extremely heavy rain in some areas," he said.

A 150-year-old Bhuteshwar Mahadev temple collapsed in Porbandar Thursday as waves and heavy rains lashed the coastal area.

A Coast Guard official said they have been monitoring the cyclone and took pre-emptive actions to ensure that there were no fishermen or boats out in the sea.

Besides taking help of the armed forces and the Coast Guard, the state government has deployed 33 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) (each having 90 to 100 personnel) and nine teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in 10 coastal districts of the state, he said.

In addition, 11 columns of the army (each having nearly 70 personnel), two companies of the Border Security Force, 14 companies of the State Reserve Police and 300 commandos are deployed at different locations in the Kutch and Saurashtra areas.

The state government on Wednesday announced that operations at all the ports and airports situated near the coastline were halted for the time being.

The railways has cancelled 86 trains and short terminated 37 others due to cyclone Vayu, officials said.

Western Railway said the cancellations were made as a precaution even though the cyclone changed its course and is unlikely to make landfall in Gujarat. However, it will cause heavy rain in several coastal districts of the state.

Since all the airports in Kutch and Saurashtra have been asked to shut their operations completely, flights to these destinations from the Ahmedabad airport stand cancelled.&nbsp;

Sparing Gujarat after changing course, Cyclone Vayu Thursday began moving away from the state coast towards Oman, even as the danger of heavy winds and rain in coastal areas continued, officials said.

Sparing Gujarat after changing course, Cyclone Vayu Thursday began moving away from the state coast towards Oman, even as the danger of heavy winds and rain in coastal areas continued, officials said. Though the "eye of the storm" is away from land, the cyclone's outer periphery would leave its impact on the coast, officials said. State authorities have already evacuated three lakh people from low-lying areas near the coast to safer places. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said, "According to IMD bulletin, Cyclone Vayu, which was going to hit Gujarat, has moved towards Oman. But the administration will continue to be on high alert for the next 24 hours." Schools in coastal districts of Saurashtra and Kutch will remain closed Friday as a precaution, the chief minister said. Rupani, who reviewed the situation late Thursday evening, said the cyclone "no longer poses any danger" but the administration in the coastal region will remain on alert. "The IMD said the cyclone no longer poses any danger as it (has) moved towards Oman without making a landfall in the coastal belt," Rupani told reporters in Gandhinagar. "The cyclone is very likely to move north-northwestwards for some time and then northwestwards skirting the Saurashtra coast affecting Gir Somnath, Diu, Junagarh, Porbandar and Devbhoomi Dwarka with wind speed 90- 100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph during next 12 hours," the IMD said in a release issued late Thursday evening. "Though Vayu started skirting from the mainland, the danger is still there in the form of heavy rains or blowing of strong winds. We are not declaring as of now that there is no danger. All our measures will remain in place till tomorrow morning. We are not taking any chances," said Gujarat Chief Secretary, J N Singh. A dozen talukas in the coastal belt received more than one inch of rain since Thursday morning due to the cyclone, an official release by the Gujarat government said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Rupani and took stock of the situation in his home state, after reaching Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan for the SCO Summit, the release said. Modi held a telephonic talk with Rupani on cyclone preparations immediately after reaching Bishkek and assured all assistance and support from Central Government to mitigate the effects of Cyclone Vayu, it said. Though the direction of the cyclone has changed, the cyclone is still dangerous and will leave its impact on the coast despite the fact that the "eye of the storm" is not expected to hit land, state Additional Chief Secretary Pankaj Kumar said. "A cyclone is not about the eye of the storm. This storm is spread across 900 km. The risk is still there and severe winds and huge waves can cause damage in areas along the coastline. The impact of the storm is important, not the landfall. The state government will continue to remain alert for the next 48 hours," he said. No casualty has been reported so far due to Vayu, Kumar said. "People have been advised to stay away from the coast. The situation is still critical. All the ports have been asked to hoist the storm warning signal number 9. Many areas near the coast are now receiving rain. The cyclone may bring very heavy to extremely heavy rain in some areas," he said. A 150-year-old Bhuteshwar Mahadev temple collapsed in Porbandar Thursday as waves and heavy rains lashed the coastal area. A Coast Guard official said they have been monitoring the cyclone and took pre-emptive actions to ensure that there were no fishermen or boats out in the sea. Besides taking help of the armed forces and the Coast Guard, the state government has deployed 33 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) (each having 90 to 100 personnel) and nine teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in 10 coastal districts of the state, he said. In addition, 11 columns of the army (each having nearly 70 personnel), two companies of the Border Security Force, 14 companies of the State Reserve Police and 300 commandos are deployed at different locations in the Kutch and Saurashtra areas. The state government on Wednesday announced that operations at all the ports and airports situated near the coastline were halted for the time being. The railways has cancelled 86 trains and short terminated 37 others due to cyclone Vayu, officials said. Western Railway said the cancellations were made as a precaution even though the cyclone changed its course and is unlikely to make landfall in Gujarat. However, it will cause heavy rain in several coastal districts of the state. Since all the airports in Kutch and Saurashtra have been asked to shut their operations completely, flights to these destinations from the Ahmedabad airport stand cancelled.

Cyclone Vayu spares Gujarat, Chief Minister Rupani says 'administration will be on high alert for next 24 hours'

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/flight-operations-in-gujarat-suspended-as-cyclone-vayu-approaches-226676">Cyclone Vayu</a> won't be hitting Gujarat, instead&nbsp;it will pass nearby from Veraval, Porbandar and Dwarka.

"Cyclone Vayu's effect will be seen on the coastal regions as there will be heavy wind speed and heavy rain as well," Manorama Mohanty, scientist at India Meteorological Department, said.

Ahead of the cyclone due to high tide in the Arabian Sea, all beaches in Kokan region were shut down. Gujarat had taken elaborate measures with food packets prepared for regions which may have been affected, now the threat has passed.

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Earlier, the cyclone was moving straight towards the Gujarat coast, but is has now slightly moved away, the (IMD) said.

"But going by its extension, there is no relief from the high alert sounded for the Gujarat coast. The cyclonic storm is going to hit Porbandar in Gujarat and other parts till Kutch area," an IMD official said.

The IMD will issue further updates about the cyclone in the afternoon.

"The threat of a surge in wind, dust storm and rainfall stays very much. The centre of the storm -&nbsp;known as the eye -&nbsp;has slightly moved away from the Gujarat coast, but its diameter is well over 900 km," the official added.

More than 2.75 lakh people were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-reviews-cyclone-vayu-preparations-226256">evacuated in Gujarat</a> ahead of the cyclone.&nbsp;While heading towards Gujarat earlier, the cyclonic storm had brought some good spell of rain to Mumbai and neighbouring Raigad, Thane and Palghar districts of Maharashtra.

Strong winds hit several areas as the entrance of Somnath Temple in Gir Somnath district was damaged. Strong winds were also seen in &nbsp;Veraval as the sea turned rough.

&nbsp;"The sea condition is very likely to very rough to high along and off Maharashtra coast and northern parts of east and central Arabian Sea," the IMD said.

Gujarat had posted several teams of NDRF troops including Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard to mitigate any damage from Cyclone Vayu. The state's disaster management team was also put on standby with police patrolling throughout the night on Wednesday.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that Cyclone Vayu won't be hitting Gujarat, instead it will pass nearby from Veraval, Porbandar and Dwarka.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said today that Cyclone Vayu won't be hitting Gujarat, instead it will pass nearby from Veraval, Porbandar and Dwarka. "Cyclone Vayu's effect will be seen on the coastal regions as there will be heavy wind speed and heavy rain as well," Manorama Mohanty, scientist at India Meteorological Department, said. Ahead of the cyclone due to high tide in the Arabian Sea, all beaches in Kokan region were shut down. Gujarat had taken elaborate measures with food packets prepared for regions which may have been affected, now the threat has passed. Earlier, the cyclone was moving straight towards the Gujarat coast, but is has now slightly moved away, the (IMD) said. "But going by its extension, there is no relief from the high alert sounded for the Gujarat coast. The cyclonic storm is going to hit Porbandar in Gujarat and other parts till Kutch area," an IMD official said. The IMD will issue further updates about the cyclone in the afternoon. "The threat of a surge in wind, dust storm and rainfall stays very much. The centre of the storm - known as the eye - has slightly moved away from the Gujarat coast, but its diameter is well over 900 km," the official added. More than 2.75 lakh people were evacuated in Gujarat ahead of the cyclone. While heading towards Gujarat earlier, the cyclonic storm had brought some good spell of rain to Mumbai and neighbouring Raigad, Thane and Palghar districts of Maharashtra. Strong winds hit several areas as the entrance of Somnath Temple in Gir Somnath district was damaged. Strong winds were also seen in Veraval as the sea turned rough. "The sea condition is very likely to very rough to high along and off Maharashtra coast and northern parts of east and central Arabian Sea," the IMD said. Gujarat had posted several teams of NDRF troops including Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard to mitigate any damage from Cyclone Vayu. The state's disaster management team was also put on standby with police patrolling throughout the night on Wednesday.

Cyclone Vayu not to hit Gujarat, will pass nearby from Veraval, Porbandar & Dwarka: IMD

Cyclone Vayu is raging its way towards Gujarat's coastline and is expected to make landfall by today here. Its impact, however, is being felt in several other states with coastal areas of Maharashtra especially affected due to rain and high-speed winds.

Powerful Cyclone 'Vayu' approaches India; PM Modi closely monitoring situation

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