Two persons were arrested&nbsp;while further search&nbsp;is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state.

The authorities also suspect the involvement of an Afghan national, whose whereabouts are currently being traced.

According to India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the 3,000 kgs&nbsp;drug—valued at $2.7 billion in the international market—was seized from Mundra port. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder.

The officials acted after receiving “specific intelligence” that the drugs were being shipped from Bandar Abbas Port in Iran via two containers, weighing 40 tonnes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heroin-from-afghanistan-worth-usd-27-billion-seized-in-india-414584">Heroin from Afghanistan worth USD 2.7 billion seized in India</a>

“Specific intelligence was developed that a consignment imported by M/s Aashi Trading Company, Vijaywada, declared as semi-processed Talc stones originating shipped from Bandar Abbas Port to Mundra Port is suspected to contain narcotics drugs. Intelligence indicated that these drugs have originated from Afghanistan,” the officers said in a statement.

The DRI official informed&nbsp;that 1999.579 kgs were recovered from the first container and 988.64 kgs&nbsp;from the second container, totalling to 2988.219 kgs of heroin.

The officers found that the drug was heroin after conducting a laboratory test.

“The examination was conducted in presence of experts from Forensics Science Lab (FSL), Gandhinagar. During the examination, suspected narcotics drugs were recovered from both the containers. The FSL conducted tests and confirmed the presence of heroin,” it added.

The officers are conducting searches in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Gandhidham and Mandvi in Gujarat.

<h2>Afghanistan—World’s narco-state</h2>

The latest haul by the Indian authorities brings back the focus on Afghanistan, from where the seized heroin originated.

Afghanistan is the world’s biggest illicit opiate supplier. The poppy crops—the raw ingredient of opium and its derivative heroin— had played a key role in helping the Taliban fund its insurgency against the Western forces, cementing the country’s longtime position as the world’s leading producer of opium.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lack-of-money-may-push-afghan-authorities-to-turn-to-drug-trafficking-putin-413767">Lack of money may push Afghan authorities to turn to drug trafficking: Putin</a>

According to the data shared by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the area covered under poppy cultivation expanded from 8,000 hectares in 2001 to 224,000 hectares in 2020.

The gum harvested from poppies is turned into heroin and then shipped to Central Asia, Europe and the United States— where the demand remains in high.

According to the UNODC, the opium economy in Afghanistan is estimated at $1.2 billion to $2.1 billion annually, accounting for 6 to 11 per cent of the Afghan Gross Domestic Production (GDP).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-women-judges-fear-reprisal-stay-in-hiding-414427">Afghanistan's women judges fear reprisal, stay in hiding &nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

The UN agency estimates Afghanistan's drug kingpins to account for 80 per cent of global opium and heroin supplies.

<h2>Taliban's tryst with opium</h2>

Intoxicants including narcotic drugs are, notably, ‘haraam’ in Islam. Yet, the Taliban which claim to fight in the name of religion has refrained from banning opium.

According to an American official quoted in the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan (SIGAR) report released in May 2021, the militia group derives up to 60 per cent of its annual revenue from the illegal narcotics trade,

An investigation by the BBC found that the Taliban's annual income surged to $400 million from 2011 onwards and is estimated to have peaked at $1.5 billion by 2018-end.

As per UN officials, the Taliban are expected to have earned more than $400 million between 2018 and 2019 from the drug trade, Reuters reported.

However, ever since it took over Afghanistan, the Taliban had been repeatedly stressing that their new government won’t allow the production of narcotics drug.

Speaking at a first press conference on September 12, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promised that the new government would not turn the world's leading producer of opium into a fully-fledged narco-state.

“We are assuring our countrymen and women and the international community, we will not have any narcotics produced," Mujahid told reporters in Kabul.

“From now on, nobody’s going to get involved (in the heroin trade), nobody can be involved in drug smuggling.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Two persons were arrested while further search is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state.

Two persons were arrested while further search is taking place across India, in connection with the seizure of around 3,000 kgs of heroin, originating from Afghanistan, from a port in India's Gujarat state. The authorities also suspect the involvement of an Afghan national, whose whereabouts are currently being traced. According to India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the 3,000 kgs drug—valued at $2.7 billion in the international market—was seized from Mundra port. The contraband was mixed with talc stone powder. The officials acted after receiving “specific intelligence” that the drugs were being shipped from Bandar Abbas Port in Iran via two containers, weighing 40 tonnes. Also read | Heroin from Afghanistan worth USD 2.7 billion seized in India “Specific intelligence was developed that a consignment imported by M/s Aashi Trading Company, Vijaywada, declared as semi-processed Talc stones originating shipped from Bandar Abbas Port to Mundra Port is suspected to contain narcotics drugs. Intelligence indicated that these drugs have originated from Afghanistan,” the officers said in a statement. The DRI official informed that 1999.579 kgs were recovered from the first container and 988.64 kgs from the second container, totalling to 2988.219 kgs of heroin. The officers found that the drug was heroin after conducting a laboratory test. “The examination was conducted in presence of experts from Forensics Science Lab (FSL), Gandhinagar. During the examination, suspected narcotics drugs were recovered from both the containers. The FSL conducted tests and confirmed the presence of heroin,” it added. The officers are conducting searches in Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Gandhidham and Mandvi in Gujarat. Afghanistan—World’s narco-state The latest haul by the Indian authorities brings back the focus on Afghanistan, from where the seized heroin originated. Afghanistan is the world’s biggest illicit opiate supplier. The poppy crops—the raw ingredient of opium and its derivative heroin— had played a key role in helping the Taliban fund its insurgency against the Western forces, cementing the country’s longtime position as the world’s leading producer of opium. Also read | Lack of money may push Afghan authorities to turn to drug trafficking: Putin According to the data shared by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the area covered under poppy cultivation expanded from 8,000 hectares in 2001 to 224,000 hectares in 2020. The gum harvested from poppies is turned into heroin and then shipped to Central Asia, Europe and the United States— where the demand remains in high. According to the UNODC, the opium economy in Afghanistan is estimated at $1.2 billion to $2.1 billion annually, accounting for 6 to 11 per cent of the Afghan Gross Domestic Production (GDP). Also read | Afghanistan's women judges fear reprisal, stay in hiding The UN agency estimates Afghanistan's drug kingpins to account for 80 per cent of global opium and heroin supplies. Taliban's tryst with opium Intoxicants including narcotic drugs are, notably, ‘haraam’ in Islam. Yet, the Taliban which claim to fight in the name of religion has refrained from banning opium. According to an American official quoted in the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan (SIGAR) report released in May 2021, the militia group derives up to 60 per cent of its annual revenue from the illegal narcotics trade, An investigation by the BBC found that the Taliban's annual income surged to $400 million from 2011 onwards and is estimated to have peaked at $1.5 billion by 2018-end. As per UN officials, the Taliban are expected to have earned more than $400 million between 2018 and 2019 from the drug trade, Reuters reported. However, ever since it took over Afghanistan, the Taliban had been repeatedly stressing that their new government won’t allow the production of narcotics drug. Speaking at a first press conference on September 12, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promised that the new government would not turn the world's leading producer of opium into a fully-fledged narco-state. “We are assuring our countrymen and women and the international community, we will not have any narcotics produced," Mujahid told reporters in Kabul. “From now on, nobody’s going to get involved (in the heroin trade), nobody can be involved in drug smuggling.” (With inputs from agencies)

Massive drug haul: Indian authorities reveal how heroin worth $2.7 bn was busted on way from Afghanistan

India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

59-year-old Patel was unanimously elected BJP legislature party leader in Gandhinagar city.

His name was proposed by Vijay Rupani who had resigned from the CM post on Saturday, surprising many.

The new leader is expected to meet the state governor, Acharya Devvrat, to stake claim to form the government.

Patel won the 2017 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections from Ahmedabad`s Ghatlodia constituency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/western-indian-state-of-gujarats-chief-minister-vijay-rupani-resigns-412357">Western Indian state of Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani resigns</a>

He holds a diploma in civil engineering and is considered close to former CM Anandiben Patel, who won from the seat in 2012 polls.

Earlier, he served as a municipal councillor in Ahmedabad. He has been the chairman of Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) and used to head the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation standing committee.&nbsp;Bhupendra Patel belongs to the influential Patel community.

Watch

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The latest development comes as the elections to the 182-member Gujarat Assembly are due in December 2022.

Rupani, the fourth chief minister to demit office in BJP-ruled states during the coronavirus pandemic, was sworn in as chief minister, his second stint as CM in December 2017.

Rupani, who completed five years in office on August 7 this year, first became the chief minister on August 7, 2016, following the resignation of incumbent Anandiben Patel, and continued in the office after the BJP's victory in the 2017 Assembly elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 59-year-old Patel was unanimously elected BJP legislature party leader in Gandhinagar city. His name was proposed by Vijay Rupani who had resigned from the CM post on Saturday, surprising many. The new leader is expected to meet the state governor, Acharya Devvrat, to stake claim to form the government. Patel won the 2017 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections from Ahmedabad`s Ghatlodia constituency. Also read | Western Indian state of Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani resigns He holds a diploma in civil engineering and is considered close to former CM Anandiben Patel, who won from the seat in 2012 polls. Earlier, he served as a municipal councillor in Ahmedabad. He has been the chairman of Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) and used to head the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation standing committee. Bhupendra Patel belongs to the influential Patel community. Watch The latest development comes as the elections to the 182-member Gujarat Assembly are due in December 2022. Rupani, the fourth chief minister to demit office in BJP-ruled states during the coronavirus pandemic, was sworn in as chief minister, his second stint as CM in December 2017. Rupani, who completed five years in office on August 7 this year, first became the chief minister on August 7, 2016, following the resignation of incumbent Anandiben Patel, and continued in the office after the BJP's victory in the 2017 Assembly elections. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s Gujarat state gets new CM ahead of crucial elections next year

In what could kick off a political turmoil, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani says he has resigned from his post on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Although it is not clear what prompted the development, there is still over a year before the state goes to polls. The elections to the 182-member Assembly of the state are due in December next year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In December 2017, 65-year-old Rupani was sworn in as chief minister. It was his second stint as CM. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India, Australia Holds 2+2 ministerial dialogue in New Delhi

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After submitting his resignation letter to Governor Acharya Devvrat, Rupani told reporters, "I have resigned as chief minister of Gujarat. I was allowed to serve the state for five years. I have contributed to the development of the state. I will further do whatever is asked by my party.” &nbsp;

Rupani said, "In BJP, there has been a tradition that responsibilities of party workers change from time to time. I will be ready to take whatever responsibility that the party will give me in the future." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a common worker like me this opportunity to serve the people of the state as chief minister," Rupani said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rains-delay-flights-in-delhi-snarl-traffic-412323" hreflang="en">Heavy rains delay flights in Delhi, snarl traffic</a>

Rupani along with state BJP in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, Union ministers Purshottam Rupala and Mansukh Mandaviya, and state cabinet colleagues, deputy CM Nitin Patel, Bhupndrasinh Chudasama and Pradeepsinh Jadeja met the governor and submitted their resignations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked about the reason for his resignation, the leader said, "In BJP, it is like a relay race for party workers. One gives the baton to the other.” He denied having any differences with state BJP president C R Paatil. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what could kick off a political turmoil, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani says he has resigned from his post on Saturday. Although it is not clear what prompted the development, there is still over a year before the state goes to polls.

In what could kick off a political turmoil, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani says he has resigned from his post on Saturday. Although it is not clear what prompted the development, there is still over a year before the state goes to polls. The elections to the 182-member Assembly of the state are due in December next year. In December 2017, 65-year-old Rupani was sworn in as chief minister. It was his second stint as CM. Watch | India, Australia Holds 2+2 ministerial dialogue in New Delhi × After submitting his resignation letter to Governor Acharya Devvrat, Rupani told reporters, "I have resigned as chief minister of Gujarat. I was allowed to serve the state for five years. I have contributed to the development of the state. I will further do whatever is asked by my party.” Rupani said, "In BJP, there has been a tradition that responsibilities of party workers change from time to time. I will be ready to take whatever responsibility that the party will give me in the future." "I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a common worker like me this opportunity to serve the people of the state as chief minister," Rupani said. Also Read: Heavy rains delay flights in Delhi, snarl traffic Rupani along with state BJP in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, Union ministers Purshottam Rupala and Mansukh Mandaviya, and state cabinet colleagues, deputy CM Nitin Patel, Bhupndrasinh Chudasama and Pradeepsinh Jadeja met the governor and submitted their resignations. When asked about the reason for his resignation, the leader said, "In BJP, it is like a relay race for party workers. One gives the baton to the other.” He denied having any differences with state BJP president C R Paatil. (With inputs from agencies)

Western Indian state of Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani resigns

Cyclonic storm Tauktae makes landfall in Gujarat; wrecks Mumbai, Karnataka coast

Cyclone Tauktae: Amid pandemic, India's western states brace for storm

At the Patel COVID hospital in Gujarat's Bharuch, at least 18 COVID patients were killed in a fire. The fire broke out in the ICU wing of the hospital due to a short circuit.

India: Fire kills 18 in a COVID Hospital in Gujarat

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Motera's Stadium renamed as Narendra Modi Stadium

Gujarat has started preparations for the COVID-19 vaccination, which would start with around 3.96 lakh healthcare workers, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said on Saturday.

"The Gujarat government has put together a cold chain infrastructure to store and transport the COVID-19 vaccine and made lists of priority beneficiaries. The first priority will be given to healthcare workers," he said while addressing the convocation ceremony at Marwadi University on Saturday.&nbsp;

"Around 3.96 lakh healthcare workers, including 2.71 lakh government doctors, nurses, and lab technicians as well as 1.25 lakh doctors, nurses, lab technicians and employees of private hospitals engaged in the COVID-19 duty will be given the first priority. People who will be vaccinated will be notified in advance through SMS about the date, time, and place," he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-seeks-emergency-approval-for-covid-vaccine-in-india-347819">Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India</a> 
 
He further said permanent refrigeration facility is available across 2,189 Primary Health Centres and Community Health Centres.&nbsp;

"The Union government has provided 150 out of 169 ice-lined refrigerators. The state will also arrange for 30 deep freezers," he said.

Meanwhile, the CM gave gold medals to the toppers during the convocation ceremony.

Gujarat has started preparations for the COVID-19 vaccination, which would start with around 3.96 lakh healthcare workers, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said on Saturday.

Gujarat has started preparations for the COVID-19 vaccination, which would start with around 3.96 lakh healthcare workers, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said on Saturday. "The Gujarat government has put together a cold chain infrastructure to store and transport the COVID-19 vaccine and made lists of priority beneficiaries. The first priority will be given to healthcare workers," he said while addressing the convocation ceremony at Marwadi University on Saturday. "Around 3.96 lakh healthcare workers, including 2.71 lakh government doctors, nurses, and lab technicians as well as 1.25 lakh doctors, nurses, lab technicians and employees of private hospitals engaged in the COVID-19 duty will be given the first priority. People who will be vaccinated will be notified in advance through SMS about the date, time, and place," he added. Also Read | Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India He further said permanent refrigeration facility is available across 2,189 Primary Health Centres and Community Health Centres. "The Union government has provided 150 out of 169 ice-lined refrigerators. The state will also arrange for 30 deep freezers," he said. Meanwhile, the CM gave gold medals to the toppers during the convocation ceremony.

Gujarat has started preparations for COVID-19 vaccination: CM

"Secrets will travel with me to my grave".

That was Congress leader Ahmed Patel's matter-of-fact response a few months ago when asked if he would pen his memoirs to share his experiences as the party insider with a finger on its power buttons.

Patel, who died on Wednesday at a Gurugram hospital where he was admitted with COVID-19, could have been the tell-all leader offering insights and information with his inside view of the workings of the Congress and the political world.

But he would have none of it.

Author and journalist Rasheed Kidwai met the Congress' trusted backroom strategist and troubleshooter at his 23, Mother Teresa Crescent residence after the lockdown and asked him the question on many a mind.

"We had a freewheeling chat about the Congress and politics, and I asked him why don't you pen your memoirs as it will be a treasure trove of information to which he responded, "The secrets will travel with me to my grave'," Kidwai told PTI.

Kidwai who has authored several books, including "24 Akbar Road: A Short History Of The People Behind The Fall And Rise Of The Congress", added that Patel had gone too soon.

Kidwai described Patel -- Rajya Sabha MP, AICC treasurer and Sonia Gandhi's political secretary, as the man for all seasons for the Congress.

He said Patel, both crisis manager and consensus builder, was never one to hold any grudges, citing how he stitched an alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra despite the party making grave allegations against him in the past.

He was also a devout Muslim and interestingly would switch mosques every week for Friday prayers because Congress ticket seekers would queue up outside if he went to one mosque regularly.

Babubhai and AP to friends and Ahmed Bhai to colleagues, Patel remained Sonia Gandhi's most trusted lieutenant for most of her tenure as the longest serving Congress president, standing by her side through sun and shade.

Sonia Gandhi said she has lost an "irreplaceable comrade, a faithful colleague and a friend".

According to political analysts, Patel was privy to innumerable party secrets, anecdotes and internal decision making.

Patel, who kept a low profile, was the quintessential organisation man who had an unflappable temperament and was a very effective crisis manager and troubleshooter, senior party leader Jairam Ramesh said as tributes for the veteran politician and eight-term MP flowed in.

Patel's importance in the Congress dates back to the days of the late Rajiv Gandhi.

When Rajiv Gandhi became prime minister, he did away with the post of principal secretary to the PM which his mother Indira Gandhi had created for PN Haksar and appointed three parliamentary secretaries -- Ahmed Patel, Arun Singh and Oscar Fernandes.

The trio -- a photograph of them taking oath as parliamentary secretaries did the rounds on social media on Wednesday -- was famously referred to as Amar, Akbar, Anthony'.

Just three months ago, in August, Patel had stepped in to quell a rebellion.

His firm rejection of the public stand taken by 23 party leaders against Sonia Gandhi helped the Congress Working Committee snub the demand for replacement of a Gandhi as party chief and repose faith in her presidency after she offered to quit.

"Secrets will travel with me to my grave". That was Congress leader Ahmed Patel's matter-of-fact response a few months ago when asked if he would pen his memoirs to share his experiences as the party insider with a finger on its power buttons.

"Secrets will travel with me to my grave". That was Congress leader Ahmed Patel's matter-of-fact response a few months ago when asked if he would pen his memoirs to share his experiences as the party insider with a finger on its power buttons. Patel, who died on Wednesday at a Gurugram hospital where he was admitted with COVID-19, could have been the tell-all leader offering insights and information with his inside view of the workings of the Congress and the political world. But he would have none of it. Author and journalist Rasheed Kidwai met the Congress' trusted backroom strategist and troubleshooter at his 23, Mother Teresa Crescent residence after the lockdown and asked him the question on many a mind. "We had a freewheeling chat about the Congress and politics, and I asked him why don't you pen your memoirs as it will be a treasure trove of information to which he responded, "The secrets will travel with me to my grave'," Kidwai told PTI. Kidwai who has authored several books, including "24 Akbar Road: A Short History Of The People Behind The Fall And Rise Of The Congress", added that Patel had gone too soon. Kidwai described Patel -- Rajya Sabha MP, AICC treasurer and Sonia Gandhi's political secretary, as the man for all seasons for the Congress. He said Patel, both crisis manager and consensus builder, was never one to hold any grudges, citing how he stitched an alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra despite the party making grave allegations against him in the past. He was also a devout Muslim and interestingly would switch mosques every week for Friday prayers because Congress ticket seekers would queue up outside if he went to one mosque regularly. Babubhai and AP to friends and Ahmed Bhai to colleagues, Patel remained Sonia Gandhi's most trusted lieutenant for most of her tenure as the longest serving Congress president, standing by her side through sun and shade. Sonia Gandhi said she has lost an "irreplaceable comrade, a faithful colleague and a friend". According to political analysts, Patel was privy to innumerable party secrets, anecdotes and internal decision making. Patel, who kept a low profile, was the quintessential organisation man who had an unflappable temperament and was a very effective crisis manager and troubleshooter, senior party leader Jairam Ramesh said as tributes for the veteran politician and eight-term MP flowed in. Patel's importance in the Congress dates back to the days of the late Rajiv Gandhi. When Rajiv Gandhi became prime minister, he did away with the post of principal secretary to the PM which his mother Indira Gandhi had created for PN Haksar and appointed three parliamentary secretaries -- Ahmed Patel, Arun Singh and Oscar Fernandes. The trio -- a photograph of them taking oath as parliamentary secretaries did the rounds on social media on Wednesday -- was famously referred to as Amar, Akbar, Anthony'. Just three months ago, in August, Patel had stepped in to quell a rebellion. His firm rejection of the public stand taken by 23 party leaders against Sonia Gandhi helped the Congress Working Committee snub the demand for replacement of a Gandhi as party chief and repose faith in her presidency after she offered to quit.

Secrets will travel with me to my grave: Ahmed Patel when asked about penning memoir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the country`s first seaplane service in Gujarat and undertook a journey on its inaugural flight from Sardar Sarovar in Kevadia to the Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad.

The 45-minute seaplane service -- launched on the 145th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel -- connects the Statue of Unity at Kevadia with the Sabarmati riverfront 200 km away. The seaplane service was started by SpiceJet aviation company.

Modi also inaugurated a Water Aerodrome on the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. It is a part of a series of Water Aerodromes planned to bring the last-mile connectivity in the country.

Earlier, during his address on Sardar Patel`s birth anniversary, Modi said: "Today, seaplane service from the Sardar Sarovar to Sabarmati riverfront is also going to be launched. To see the Statue of Unity, the countrymen will now also have the option of seaplane service. All these efforts are going to give a big boost to tourism in this area."

The seaplanes with their ability to land and take-off from water surface help connect geographies or regions that otherwise are a challenge owing to tough topography and help bring the remotest parts of India into the mainstream aviation network without the high cost incurred on building airports and runways.

These smaller fixed-wing airplanes can land on lakes, and dams, and even gravel and grass, thus offering easy access to numerous tourist spots.

The service will be provided incentives and benefits under the central government`s `Udaan` scheme, which is getting implemented as per a tripartite agreement between the Gujarat government, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and the Airports Authority of India. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the country`s first seaplane service in Gujarat and undertook a journey on its inaugural flight from Sardar Sarovar in Kevadia to the Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the country`s first seaplane service in Gujarat and undertook a journey on its inaugural flight from Sardar Sarovar in Kevadia to the Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad. The 45-minute seaplane service -- launched on the 145th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel -- connects the Statue of Unity at Kevadia with the Sabarmati riverfront 200 km away. The seaplane service was started by SpiceJet aviation company. Modi also inaugurated a Water Aerodrome on the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. It is a part of a series of Water Aerodromes planned to bring the last-mile connectivity in the country. Earlier, during his address on Sardar Patel`s birth anniversary, Modi said: "Today, seaplane service from the Sardar Sarovar to Sabarmati riverfront is also going to be launched. To see the Statue of Unity, the countrymen will now also have the option of seaplane service. All these efforts are going to give a big boost to tourism in this area." The seaplanes with their ability to land and take-off from water surface help connect geographies or regions that otherwise are a challenge owing to tough topography and help bring the remotest parts of India into the mainstream aviation network without the high cost incurred on building airports and runways. These smaller fixed-wing airplanes can land on lakes, and dams, and even gravel and grass, thus offering easy access to numerous tourist spots. The service will be provided incentives and benefits under the central government`s `Udaan` scheme, which is getting implemented as per a tripartite agreement between the Gujarat government, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and the Airports Authority of India.

Modi inaugurates seaplane service, boards first flight to Sabarmati

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence. Keshubhai Patel passed away a few days ago. The PM gave a floral tribute to the departed leader and spent some time with Patel's kin and consoled the family.

"Modiji recalled his long association with Keshubhai and asked us about his last moments, a family member told reporters after the PM left Patel's residence.

Modi had on Thursday paid rich tributes to Patel, saying he had mentored many BJP workers, including him.

Modi had remembered Patel through a series and tweets and shared some old photographs with the former Gujarat CM.

"Our beloved and respected Keshubhai has passed away. I am deeply pained and saddened. He was an outstanding leader who cared for every section of society. 
"His life was devoted towards the progress of Gujarat and the empowerment of every Gujarati," Modi tweeted on Thursday.

After meeting Patel's kin in Gandhinagar, the Prime Minister visited the grieving kin of Gujarati cinema superstar Naresh Kanodia and his music composer-brother Mahesh Kanodia, both of whom died recently, at their residence in the state capital.

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Naresh Kanodia (77) died on October 27 at a hospital while undergoing treatment for coronavirus, just two days after his elder brother Mahesh (83) died due to age-related ailments.

Both brothers were associated with the BJP. While Naresh Kanodia was a former MLA, Mahesh Kanodia had served as a BJP MP.

Modi paid floral tributes to the famous duo and spent some time with their family members, including Naresh Kanodias son Hitu Kanodia, a sitting BJP MLA.

"Modiji fondly remembered my father and uncle. He told us that both the brothers loved each other immensely and now they have became immortal."

"He also regretted not coming earlier to meet them," Hitu Kanodia told reporters.

This is Modi's first visit to his home state after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

Later in the day, PM Modi inaugurated 'Ekta Mall' a special store constructed near the Statue of Unity. In Ekta Mall, tourists can buy handloom and handicraft products from different states under one roof. PM Modi spent considerable amount of time at stall selling traditional items from Jammu and Kashmir and the north-east region.

The mall, developed on the theme of Unity in Handicraft &amp; Handloom Diversity, is spread across 35,000 square feet near the 182-metre tall Statue of Unity at Kevadiya in Gujarat's Narmada district. The imposing monument, dedicated to Sardar Patel, has emerged as a popular tourist site in Gujarat. Modi, accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, later visited different emporia in the Mall.

The Mall, a two-storey air-conditioned store, houses 20 different emporia representing the handloom and handicraft traditions of various states, said a government release. The Mall houses emporia of Garvi Gurjari, Purbashree, Kairali, Mrugnayani, Pumpuhar, Gangotri and Kaveri, among others.

(With agency inputs)

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence.

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Gujarat for his 2-day visit on Friday. Soon after his arrival in Ahmedabad, the PM directly went to former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel's residence. Keshubhai Patel passed away a few days ago. The PM gave a floral tribute to the departed leader and spent some time with Patel's kin and consoled the family. "Modiji recalled his long association with Keshubhai and asked us about his last moments, a family member told reporters after the PM left Patel's residence. Modi had on Thursday paid rich tributes to Patel, saying he had mentored many BJP workers, including him. Modi had remembered Patel through a series and tweets and shared some old photographs with the former Gujarat CM. "Our beloved and respected Keshubhai has passed away. I am deeply pained and saddened. He was an outstanding leader who cared for every section of society. "His life was devoted towards the progress of Gujarat and the empowerment of every Gujarati," Modi tweeted on Thursday. After meeting Patel's kin in Gandhinagar, the Prime Minister visited the grieving kin of Gujarati cinema superstar Naresh Kanodia and his music composer-brother Mahesh Kanodia, both of whom died recently, at their residence in the state capital. Also Read | India stood with France four times in last two days Naresh Kanodia (77) died on October 27 at a hospital while undergoing treatment for coronavirus, just two days after his elder brother Mahesh (83) died due to age-related ailments. Both brothers were associated with the BJP. While Naresh Kanodia was a former MLA, Mahesh Kanodia had served as a BJP MP. Modi paid floral tributes to the famous duo and spent some time with their family members, including Naresh Kanodias son Hitu Kanodia, a sitting BJP MLA. "Modiji fondly remembered my father and uncle. He told us that both the brothers loved each other immensely and now they have became immortal." "He also regretted not coming earlier to meet them," Hitu Kanodia told reporters. This is Modi's first visit to his home state after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Later in the day, PM Modi inaugurated 'Ekta Mall' a special store constructed near the Statue of Unity. In Ekta Mall, tourists can buy handloom and handicraft products from different states under one roof. PM Modi spent considerable amount of time at stall selling traditional items from Jammu and Kashmir and the north-east region. The mall, developed on the theme of Unity in Handicraft & Handloom Diversity, is spread across 35,000 square feet near the 182-metre tall Statue of Unity at Kevadiya in Gujarat's Narmada district. The imposing monument, dedicated to Sardar Patel, has emerged as a popular tourist site in Gujarat. Modi, accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, later visited different emporia in the Mall. The Mall, a two-storey air-conditioned store, houses 20 different emporia representing the handloom and handicraft traditions of various states, said a government release. The Mall houses emporia of Garvi Gurjari, Purbashree, Kairali, Mrugnayani, Pumpuhar, Gangotri and Kaveri, among others. (With agency inputs)

PM Modi pays tribute to Keshubhai Patel, spends time with departed leader's family in Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed&nbsp;grief on Thursday after former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel passed&nbsp;away.

Expressing his anguish over the demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled his 45 year-long association with the leader and said his death is an irreparable loss for him.

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हम सभी के प्रिय, श्रद्धेय केशुभाई पटेल जी के निधन से मैं दुखी हूं, स्तब्ध हूं। <a href="https://t.co/kWCDdWmyOR">https://t.co/kWCDdWmyOR</a>
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"I am sad and numb after hearing the news of Keshubhai Patel`s demise. He was like a father figure to me. It is an irreparable loss for me. He had given six decades to public life. He was a patriot and always used to think in the national interest," he said in an emotional video message.

"I had a long discussion with him during a recently virtual meeting of Somnath Trust. I spoke to him over the phone to know about his health condition. I have known him for 45 years. Today every BJP worker like me is sad. I express my condolences to his family. I am in touch with them," he added.

Calling the former Gujarat Chief Minister a great personality, the Prime Minister said that he was known for kind behaviour and a firm will power to take the decision.

"Her work was for the development of Gujarat and empowerment of Gujaratis. He understood the pain of farmers and the poor. As an MLA, MP, minister and Chief Minister, Keshubhai gave priority to the interest of farmers," he said.

The Prime Minister said that Keshubhai Patel strengthened Jan Sangh and BJP in every region of Gujarat. "During the emergency, he struggled for democracy. He taught a lot to many ordinary workers like me. He guided them. Even after taking over as the Prime Minister, I was in touch with him," he said.

Keshubhai Patel passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. As per Dr. Akshay Kiledar, representative of the Sterling Hospital in Ahmedabad, he had earlier been admitted to the hospital in an unconscious state.

"We tried to revive him but couldn`t after he was brought to the hospital in an unconscious state, following sudden cardiac arrest. He was declared dead at 11:55 am. He didn`t die due to COVID-19," Dr Kiledar said.

Patel had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 but had later tested negative. Dr. Kiledar confirmed that the coronavirus infection was not the cause of his death.

Keshubhai Savdasbhai Patel served as the Chief Minister of the state for a few months in 1995 and then from March 1998 to October of 2001. He was a six-time member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly and was a part of the Bharatiya Janata Party till 2012.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on Thursday after former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel passed away. Expressing his anguish over the demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled his 45 year-long association with the leader and said his death is an irreparable loss for him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on Thursday after former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel passed away. Expressing his anguish over the demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled his 45 year-long association with the leader and said his death is an irreparable loss for him. हम सभी के प्रिय, श्रद्धेय केशुभाई पटेल जी के निधन से मैं दुखी हूं, स्तब्ध हूं। https://t.co/kWCDdWmyOR — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 29, 2020 × "I am sad and numb after hearing the news of Keshubhai Patel`s demise. He was like a father figure to me. It is an irreparable loss for me. He had given six decades to public life. He was a patriot and always used to think in the national interest," he said in an emotional video message. "I had a long discussion with him during a recently virtual meeting of Somnath Trust. I spoke to him over the phone to know about his health condition. I have known him for 45 years. Today every BJP worker like me is sad. I express my condolences to his family. I am in touch with them," he added. Calling the former Gujarat Chief Minister a great personality, the Prime Minister said that he was known for kind behaviour and a firm will power to take the decision. "Her work was for the development of Gujarat and empowerment of Gujaratis. He understood the pain of farmers and the poor. As an MLA, MP, minister and Chief Minister, Keshubhai gave priority to the interest of farmers," he said. The Prime Minister said that Keshubhai Patel strengthened Jan Sangh and BJP in every region of Gujarat. "During the emergency, he struggled for democracy. He taught a lot to many ordinary workers like me. He guided them. Even after taking over as the Prime Minister, I was in touch with him," he said. Keshubhai Patel passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. As per Dr. Akshay Kiledar, representative of the Sterling Hospital in Ahmedabad, he had earlier been admitted to the hospital in an unconscious state. "We tried to revive him but couldn`t after he was brought to the hospital in an unconscious state, following sudden cardiac arrest. He was declared dead at 11:55 am. He didn`t die due to COVID-19," Dr Kiledar said. Patel had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 but had later tested negative. Dr. Kiledar confirmed that the coronavirus infection was not the cause of his death. Keshubhai Savdasbhai Patel served as the Chief Minister of the state for a few months in 1995 and then from March 1998 to October of 2001. He was a six-time member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly and was a part of the Bharatiya Janata Party till 2012.

PM Modi expresses grief after former Gujarat CM Keshubhai Patel passes away

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The government said it will not allow any type of garba event in the state during Navratri, starting from October 17, and also released a set of guidelines for the festive season, which usually sees large gatherings, a fertile ground for COVID-19 spread.&nbsp;

For the upcoming festivals, the BJP government released standard operating procedures (SOPs) which stress on COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by citizens to curb the infection.

No big, medium or small scale garba event will be allowed in the state during the nine-day festival, the government said.

Garba is a popular folk dance of Gujarat and is performed with passion and fervour during the Navratri festival.

The government, however, will allow collective prayers to Goddess Durga where number of people should not be more than 200, it said in a release.

The time limit of prayers will beof one hour, but nobody can perform garba at such gatherings, it said. 
Prior permission of government authorities has been made mandatory for organisation of community prayer programmes during Navratri.

At prayer gatherings, COVID-19-related norms such as social distancing, covering of face with masks and use of sanitisers will be mandatory, the release said.

The government said citizens above 65, children below 10 years, pregnant women and people with comorbidities should avoid participating in any public programme during the festivals.

Navratri is one of the most popular festivals of Gujarat and is called the longest dance festival of the world. Revellers dance to the tune of traditional music and songs for nine nights.

The government said event such as burning of effigies of Ravana, Ramlila yatras, rallies, melas (congregations), exhibitions would not be allowed during the festive season (from Navratri to Diwali).

It advised people to celebrate festivals like Dussehra, Durga puja, Diwali, Gujarati New Year, Bhai dooj and Sharad Poornima at their homes with their families.

In the SOPs, the government said up to 100 people can attend functions such as marriage and the same number will be allowed at funerals.

During any event, the organisers will have to do floor marking with minimum distance of 6 feet, it said. 
Thermal scanners are compulsory at Navratri community prayers and other events, the release said.

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The pomp and grandeur Associated with Navratri in Gujarat will be largely missing this year as the state government on Friday banned organisation of any 'garba' event during the upcoming festival due to the coronavirus pandemic. The government said it will not allow any type of garba event in the state during Navratri, starting from October 17, and also released a set of guidelines for the festive season, which usually sees large gatherings, a fertile ground for COVID-19 spread. For the upcoming festivals, the BJP government released standard operating procedures (SOPs) which stress on COVID-19-appropriate behaviour by citizens to curb the infection. No big, medium or small scale garba event will be allowed in the state during the nine-day festival, the government said. Garba is a popular folk dance of Gujarat and is performed with passion and fervour during the Navratri festival. The government, however, will allow collective prayers to Goddess Durga where number of people should not be more than 200, it said in a release. The time limit of prayers will beof one hour, but nobody can perform garba at such gatherings, it said. Prior permission of government authorities has been made mandatory for organisation of community prayer programmes during Navratri. At prayer gatherings, COVID-19-related norms such as social distancing, covering of face with masks and use of sanitisers will be mandatory, the release said. The government said citizens above 65, children below 10 years, pregnant women and people with comorbidities should avoid participating in any public programme during the festivals. Navratri is one of the most popular festivals of Gujarat and is called the longest dance festival of the world. Revellers dance to the tune of traditional music and songs for nine nights. The government said event such as burning of effigies of Ravana, Ramlila yatras, rallies, melas (congregations), exhibitions would not be allowed during the festive season (from Navratri to Diwali). It advised people to celebrate festivals like Dussehra, Durga puja, Diwali, Gujarati New Year, Bhai dooj and Sharad Poornima at their homes with their families. In the SOPs, the government said up to 100 people can attend functions such as marriage and the same number will be allowed at funerals. During any event, the organisers will have to do floor marking with minimum distance of 6 feet, it said. Thermal scanners are compulsory at Navratri community prayers and other events, the release said.

No garba in Gujarat this Navratri due to coronavirus

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls.

The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/astronaut-shares-picture-of-hurricane-hanna-from-space-leaving-netizens-in-awe-316415" hreflang="en">Astronaut shares picture of Hurricane Hanna from space leaving netizens in awe</a>

10th Standard&nbsp;students Radhika Lakhani and Vaidehi Vekariya stumbled upon the asteroid in the midst of a school project. They then named the asteroid HLC2514.

Project by Space India and NASA

Both the students are based in Gujarat’s city of Surat, on the eastern coast of India. They were working on a project by Space India and NASA. As part of this, students had access to telescopic images from the University of Hawaii when they then analysed.

Space India’s astronomer told CNN that the girls were able to identify the body using a software which analysed images captured by NASA’s PAN Star telescope.

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Indian schoolgirls discover asteroid moving towards Earth <a href="https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF">https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF</a> <a href="https://t.co/EdVvdcYx8k">pic.twitter.com/EdVvdcYx8k</a>
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The project began in June 2020. After the analysis was over, the details were sent out to NASA. Vekariya, 15, told CNN that on July 23 they had received an email from NASA which confirmed that they had spotted an asteroid heading for earth.

On the lookout

The girls were able to identify the object by being on the lookout for moving objects in the images.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/giant-swarm-of-flying-ants-spotted-from-space-over-britain-314245" hreflang="en">Giant swarm of flying ants spotted from space over Britain</a>

Currently, the asteroid is circling Mars, and does not remain a threat to Earth. However, in over a million years, it will move closer to Earth. Even though it may not cause any harm to our planet, it still remains a potential hazard. The estimated distance between the asteroid and Earth a million years from now will still be more than 10 times the distance between Earth and the Moon.

Asteroids are small rocky objects that usually orbit the sun, but may change their course over time.

The student Vekariya told CNN that “this was a dream”, but suggested that they couldn’t celebrate because of the pandemic.

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls. The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet.

An asteroid which is slowly moving towards Earth was recently discovered by two Indian schoolgirls. The asteroid in question is shifting its orbit, which will eventually cause it to potentially cross paths with our planet. Also read: Astronaut shares picture of Hurricane Hanna from space leaving netizens in awe 10th Standard students Radhika Lakhani and Vaidehi Vekariya stumbled upon the asteroid in the midst of a school project. They then named the asteroid HLC2514. Project by Space India and NASA Both the students are based in Gujarat’s city of Surat, on the eastern coast of India. They were working on a project by Space India and NASA. As part of this, students had access to telescopic images from the University of Hawaii when they then analysed. Space India’s astronomer told CNN that the girls were able to identify the body using a software which analysed images captured by NASA’s PAN Star telescope. Indian schoolgirls discover asteroid moving towards Earth https://t.co/EYrEosDVEF pic.twitter.com/EdVvdcYx8k — CTV News (@CTVNews) July 28, 2020 × The project began in June 2020. After the analysis was over, the details were sent out to NASA. Vekariya, 15, told CNN that on July 23 they had received an email from NASA which confirmed that they had spotted an asteroid heading for earth. On the lookout The girls were able to identify the object by being on the lookout for moving objects in the images. Also read: Giant swarm of flying ants spotted from space over Britain Currently, the asteroid is circling Mars, and does not remain a threat to Earth. However, in over a million years, it will move closer to Earth. Even though it may not cause any harm to our planet, it still remains a potential hazard. The estimated distance between the asteroid and Earth a million years from now will still be more than 10 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Asteroids are small rocky objects that usually orbit the sun, but may change their course over time. The student Vekariya told CNN that “this was a dream”, but suggested that they couldn’t celebrate because of the pandemic.

Students from Gujarat in India spot an asteroid heading towards Earth

Gujarat`s COVID-19 tally rose to 47,476 on Saturday after it reported a record single-day spike of 960 cases, while the death toll jumped to 2,127 with 19 more deaths, health officials said.

Gujarat`s COVID-19 tally rose to 47,476 on Saturday after it reported a record single-day spike of 960 cases, while the death toll jumped to 2,127 with 19 more deaths, health officials said. As many as 1,061 patients were discharged in the state on Saturday, taking the total number of recoveries to 34,005. Gujarat has witnessed nearly 15,000 coronavirus positive cases within eighteen days of July, almost every day with a new record. With an average of almost 824 cases daily, the state has registered 14,833 positive cases in eighteen days of the month. Surat, the new COVID hotspot has also been witnessing each day with a higher count than the previous day. Registering nearly 28 per cent of Saturday`s positive cases, Surat recorded 268 cases, while, Ahmedabad saw 201 cases coming up. Ahmedabad was followed by Vadodara 78, Rajkot 57, Junagadh 40, Bhavnagar 36, Gandhinagar 28, Mehsana 24, Banaskantha 21, Valsad 19, Navsari 17, Kheda, Patan and Surendranagar with 15 each, Bharuch 13, Sabarkantha 12, Gir-Somnath 11, Amreli, Dahod, Kutch and Jamnagar with 10 each, Panchmahals 8, Anand, Botad and Mahisagar with 7 each, Chhota Udepur and Narmada with 6 each, Aravali and Morbi with 4 each, Tapi 2 and Dang with one positive case. After Friday`s 17 casualties, Gujarat saw 19 casualties reported on Saturday, where ten patients died in Surat, four in Ahmedabad, two in Kutch and one patient each died in Banaskantha, Navsari and Rajkot due to COVID-19. The total number of Corona deaths in Ahmedabad have reached 1,547. 253 have died in Surat, 57 in Vadodara, 37 in Gandhinagar, 24 in Aravalli, 20 in Patan, 17 deaths in Rajkot, 16 deaths each in Panchmahals, Banaskantha and Bhavnagar, 14 deaths each in Mahesana and Kheda, 13 deaths in Anand and 11 have died in Bharuch.

Gujarat records highest single-day spike of 960 COVID-19 cases

A 21-year-old man from Maharashtra has been apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Gujarat's Rann of Kutch while he was trying to sneak into Pakistan on foot, officials said on Friday.

Police said that as per the preliminary probe, the man, identified as Zeeshan Siddique, was on his way to meet a woman in Pakistan whom he had befriended on a social media platform.

"Siddique was held by the BSF on Thursday night and later handed over to the local police. He is from Osmanabad town in Maharashtra," Kutch-East Superintendent of Police, Parikshita Rathod, said.

"Police had issued an alert after a motorcycle with Maharashtra registration number was found abandoned near Dholavira village in the Rann of Kutch on Thursday evening. The BSF later nabbed the man when he was found walking towards the border in a bid to enter Pakistan," Rathod added.

According to police sources, Siddique is an engineering student and may have reached Gujarat from Osmanabad on his motorcycle.

After his motorcycle got stuck in the sand, he started walking towards Pakistan in a bid to meet his social media friend living in that country, they said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A 21-year-old man from Maharashtra has been apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Gujarat's Rann of Kutch while he was trying to sneak into Pakistan on foot, officials said on Friday.

A 21-year-old man from Maharashtra has been apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Gujarat's Rann of Kutch while he was trying to sneak into Pakistan on foot, officials said on Friday. Police said that as per the preliminary probe, the man, identified as Zeeshan Siddique, was on his way to meet a woman in Pakistan whom he had befriended on a social media platform. "Siddique was held by the BSF on Thursday night and later handed over to the local police. He is from Osmanabad town in Maharashtra," Kutch-East Superintendent of Police, Parikshita Rathod, said. "Police had issued an alert after a motorcycle with Maharashtra registration number was found abandoned near Dholavira village in the Rann of Kutch on Thursday evening. The BSF later nabbed the man when he was found walking towards the border in a bid to enter Pakistan," Rathod added. According to police sources, Siddique is an engineering student and may have reached Gujarat from Osmanabad on his motorcycle. After his motorcycle got stuck in the sand, he started walking towards Pakistan in a bid to meet his social media friend living in that country, they said.

Maharashtra man held in Gujarat for bid to sneak into Pakistan on foot

A 4.5&nbsp;magnitude earthquake struck near Gujarat's Rajkot at 7:40 AM, Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the government's nodal agency for monitoring seismic activity in the country.

The epicentre was 16 km Southeast of Rajkot, according to the National Center for Seismology.

The quake hit at a depth of more than 10 kilometres, the agency said

A 4.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Gujarat's Rajkot at 7:40 AM, Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the government's nodal agency for monitoring seismic activity in the country.

A 4.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Gujarat's Rajkot at 7:40 AM, Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the government's nodal agency for monitoring seismic activity in the country. The epicentre was 16 km Southeast of Rajkot, according to the National Center for Seismology. The quake hit at a depth of more than 10 kilometres, the agency said

4.5 magnitude earthquake strikes near Rajkot in Gujarat: Centre for seismology

A jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat has come up with masks studded with diamonds that cost between Rs 1.5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh.

Jewellery shop in Gujarat's Surat sells diamond-studded face masks

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.

Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds.

As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found.

For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha.

Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat. Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds. As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found. For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha. Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram. (With inputs from PTI)

Rajya Sabha elections 2020: BJP bags three seats, Congress one in Gujarat

The population of Asiatic Lions in Gujarat has witnessed a massive jump in the last five years, from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020. The growth rate is a jump of almost 29%.

India: Asiatic lion population in Gujarat rises to 674 in five years

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak.

Only three chariots, each to be pulled by 30 persons, will be taken out in the presence of temple trustees and priests as part of the 143rd edition of the yatra on June 23, coinciding with "Ashadhi Beej", said temple trustee Mahendra Jha.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-cases-nearly-2-lakh-icmr-conducts-more-than-1-lakh-tests-302270">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: India's cases nearly 2 lakh; ICMR conducts more than 1 lakh tests</a>

"This will be the first time in 143 years that only three chariots will take part. Due to coronavirus pandemic, there will be no trucks carrying devotees, akhadas, singing troupes, tableaux. It will be a simple affair and we want people to catch it live on television this time," he told PTI.

Traditionally, the procession, led by chariots of Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra, starts early morning from the 400-year-old temple and returns by late evening, the route full of people running into several hundred thousand, decorated elephants, some 100 trucks with tableaux, singers, akhadas etc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-crosses-1000-mark-in-terms-of-new-coronavirus-cases-in-one-day-302201">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day</a>

The procession comes back to the Lord Jagannath Temple after covering a distance of 18 kilometres in 12 hours.

"We will try to return to the temple as early as possible. All guidelines in place like social distancing etc will be followed strictly," Jha added.

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak.

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak. Only three chariots, each to be pulled by 30 persons, will be taken out in the presence of temple trustees and priests as part of the 143rd edition of the yatra on June 23, coinciding with "Ashadhi Beej", said temple trustee Mahendra Jha. Also read: COVID 19: India's cases nearly 2 lakh; ICMR conducts more than 1 lakh tests "This will be the first time in 143 years that only three chariots will take part. Due to coronavirus pandemic, there will be no trucks carrying devotees, akhadas, singing troupes, tableaux. It will be a simple affair and we want people to catch it live on television this time," he told PTI. Traditionally, the procession, led by chariots of Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra, starts early morning from the 400-year-old temple and returns by late evening, the route full of people running into several hundred thousand, decorated elephants, some 100 trucks with tableaux, singers, akhadas etc. Also read: Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day The procession comes back to the Lord Jagannath Temple after covering a distance of 18 kilometres in 12 hours. "We will try to return to the temple as early as possible. All guidelines in place like social distancing etc will be followed strictly," Jha added.

Gujarat Rath Yatra to be simple affair due to coronavirus outbreak

The Karnataka government on Thursday pitched for down scaling air travel from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, saying a large number of people arriving from these states have tested positive for COVID-19 and it would be difficult to manage quarantine if more arrived.

"The government has requested the Civil Aviation Ministry to reduce the number of flights from these states in view of high prevalence of coronavirus cases there", Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister J C Madhuswamy said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/blog-flying-in-the-new-normal-days-301114">Also read|&nbsp;Blog: Flying in the new normal days</a>

Earlier, speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting, the minister said the government has decided to "suspend" air traffic from these states. "People are coming from other states to Karnataka. We have decided to suspend air traffic from five states, as cases here (Karnataka) may further increase," he said.

In the statement released later, he clarified that the government has not sought a ban on flights emanating from these five states. "Karnataka has appealed to the Civil Aviation Ministry to take steps to lessen the air traffic to the state, with the sacred intention that there may not be adequate quarantine facilities, if there is huge turn out at a short span of time, he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-may-get-extended-for-15-days-goa-cm-after-meeting-amit-shah-301733">Also read|&nbsp;Lockdown may get extended for 15 days: Goa CM after meeting Amit Shah</a>

Domestic air travel resumed in the country only on Monday after nearly two months of COVID-19 induced lockdown with Karnataka stipulating seven days institutional quarantine for passengers coming from seven states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, which have high prevalence of cases. During the media interaction, Madhuswamy also said the existing restrictions on entry of people by road from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat into Karnataka would continue until further orders.

"...because large number of people who have come from these states have tested positive and it will be difficult to manage quarantine if more people come. Until some people who are currently in quarantine go home after their quarantine period ends, we have decided to stop (arrivals) by imposing restriction," the Minister added. Karnataka had on May 18 barred entry of people from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which have COVID-19 cases in five figures.

The government is likely to decide on allowing trains from these states once the services resume on June 1. However, responding to a question, Madhuswamy said there will be restriction on entry of people by road, air and train from Maharashtra for some time as the recent spike in positive cases in Karnataka was due to returnees from the Western state.

Pointing out that the load of cases has increased, particularity among those coming from Maharashtra, he said asymptomatic cases have gone up and it has become inevitable to test all those in quarantine. He said those already in quarantine were also unhappy over passengers arriving fresh being accommodated along with them.

"So the plan is that after the current set of people are relieved, we will allow the next set of people from these states, until then we will have restrictions," he said.

The Karnataka government on Thursday pitched for down scaling air travel from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, saying a large number of people arriving from these states have tested positive for COVID-19 and it would be difficult to manage quarantine if more arrived.

The Karnataka government on Thursday pitched for down scaling air travel from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, saying a large number of people arriving from these states have tested positive for COVID-19 and it would be difficult to manage quarantine if more arrived. "The government has requested the Civil Aviation Ministry to reduce the number of flights from these states in view of high prevalence of coronavirus cases there", Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister J C Madhuswamy said in a statement. Also read| Blog: Flying in the new normal days Earlier, speaking to reporters after a cabinet meeting, the minister said the government has decided to "suspend" air traffic from these states. "People are coming from other states to Karnataka. We have decided to suspend air traffic from five states, as cases here (Karnataka) may further increase," he said. In the statement released later, he clarified that the government has not sought a ban on flights emanating from these five states. "Karnataka has appealed to the Civil Aviation Ministry to take steps to lessen the air traffic to the state, with the sacred intention that there may not be adequate quarantine facilities, if there is huge turn out at a short span of time, he said. Also read| Lockdown may get extended for 15 days: Goa CM after meeting Amit Shah Domestic air travel resumed in the country only on Monday after nearly two months of COVID-19 induced lockdown with Karnataka stipulating seven days institutional quarantine for passengers coming from seven states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, which have high prevalence of cases. During the media interaction, Madhuswamy also said the existing restrictions on entry of people by road from Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat into Karnataka would continue until further orders. "...because large number of people who have come from these states have tested positive and it will be difficult to manage quarantine if more people come. Until some people who are currently in quarantine go home after their quarantine period ends, we have decided to stop (arrivals) by imposing restriction," the Minister added. Karnataka had on May 18 barred entry of people from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which have COVID-19 cases in five figures. The government is likely to decide on allowing trains from these states once the services resume on June 1. However, responding to a question, Madhuswamy said there will be restriction on entry of people by road, air and train from Maharashtra for some time as the recent spike in positive cases in Karnataka was due to returnees from the Western state. Pointing out that the load of cases has increased, particularity among those coming from Maharashtra, he said asymptomatic cases have gone up and it has become inevitable to test all those in quarantine. He said those already in quarantine were also unhappy over passengers arriving fresh being accommodated along with them. "So the plan is that after the current set of people are relieved, we will allow the next set of people from these states, until then we will have restrictions," he said.

Karnataka urges government to reduce flights from 5 states with high COVID-19 cases

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them&nbsp;to their hometown.

More than 500 workers hurled stones at the police trying to enforce the lockdown rules. The clash, that took place in Surat on Saturday, comes after a similar protest was staged in Ahmedabad on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-maharashtra-crosses-18000-mark-1362-new-cases-reported-297283">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Maharashtra crosses 18,000 mark; 1,362 new cases reported</a>

Protesters took to the streets in the city of Surat on Saturday, a day after residents in Ahmedabad clashed with paramilitary forces.

More than 500 workers employed in industries in the Hazira belt, staged a protest demanding that the authorities send them back to their hometowns. The protestors are mainly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Police had to use teargas to disperse the crowd.&nbsp;Nearly 60 migrant workers were arrested on the charges of&nbsp;unlawful assembly and rioting. The police is working on identifying the rest of the people who were involved in organising the protest.

“We told them that a large number of workers have [already] been sent to their home states by the government, and similar arrangements would be made for them too,” Inspector H.R. Brahmbhatt, based at Ichhapore police station, told a media organisation.

However, the protestors allegedly did not listen to the police and pelted stones at the police.

This is not the first time Gujarat has seen protests from migrant workers during this lockdown. Earlier in the week, almost 1,000 migrant workers staged a protest in the village of Vareli.

The violence comes as the number of reported coronavirus cases in India climbed to 59,662, with 1,981 deaths.

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them to their hometown.

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them to their hometown. More than 500 workers hurled stones at the police trying to enforce the lockdown rules. The clash, that took place in Surat on Saturday, comes after a similar protest was staged in Ahmedabad on Friday. Also read: COVID-19: Maharashtra crosses 18,000 mark; 1,362 new cases reported Protesters took to the streets in the city of Surat on Saturday, a day after residents in Ahmedabad clashed with paramilitary forces. More than 500 workers employed in industries in the Hazira belt, staged a protest demanding that the authorities send them back to their hometowns. The protestors are mainly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Police had to use teargas to disperse the crowd. Nearly 60 migrant workers were arrested on the charges of unlawful assembly and rioting. The police is working on identifying the rest of the people who were involved in organising the protest. “We told them that a large number of workers have [already] been sent to their home states by the government, and similar arrangements would be made for them too,” Inspector H.R. Brahmbhatt, based at Ichhapore police station, told a media organisation. However, the protestors allegedly did not listen to the police and pelted stones at the police. This is not the first time Gujarat has seen protests from migrant workers during this lockdown. Earlier in the week, almost 1,000 migrant workers staged a protest in the village of Vareli. The violence comes as the number of reported coronavirus cases in India climbed to 59,662, with 1,981 deaths.

Migrant workers protest against lockdown in Gujarat; 60 arrested

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Leena Patil said: "The barricading of the containment area was being done by the civic authorities and the police. Some locals protested and pelted stones at them."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-not-man-made-or-genetically-modified-us-intelligence-community-295906">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community</a>

In a measure to control the situation, the authorities resorted to the use of tear gas. "We used tear gas as a measure to control the situation. At the moment, the situation is under control," added Patil.

A total of 313 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in Gujarat on Thursday, taking the total number of cases to 4,395 in the State, said the Health Department.

According to the daily health bulletin issued by the State, the total number of cases includes 613 cured/discharged and 214 deaths.

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus.

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus. Superintendent of Police (SP) Leena Patil said: "The barricading of the containment area was being done by the civic authorities and the police. Some locals protested and pelted stones at them." Also read | Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community In a measure to control the situation, the authorities resorted to the use of tear gas. "We used tear gas as a measure to control the situation. At the moment, the situation is under control," added Patil. A total of 313 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in Gujarat on Thursday, taking the total number of cases to 4,395 in the State, said the Health Department. According to the daily health bulletin issued by the State, the total number of cases includes 613 cured/discharged and 214 deaths.

Locals clash with police during containment zone sealing in Gujarat

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