President Droupadi Murmu attended and addressed the first convocation of AIIMS Rajkot held in Gujarat on Monday. She mentioned that several AIIMS institutions have been established across the country, playing a significant role in providing world-class tertiary healthcare services at affordable costs.

These institutions contribute to promoting quality medical education, research, and innovation, as well as to the formulation of public health initiatives and national health policies. She commended AIIMS's commitment to advancing healthcare services through innovation and better patient care. President Murmu noted that AIIMS Rajkot is a new institution and has a long journey ahead in the fields of medical education, research, and service.

She urged the policymakers of the institution to include solutions to the specific health challenges of the region along with the core objectives of AIIMS. She emphasized that good governance is crucial for the healthy development of any organization, and initial steps to ensure transparency and governance have long-term impacts. She stated that the medical profession is not just a profession but a commitment to serve humanity.

This field requires not only scientific knowledge but also sensitivity, patience, and humility. She remarked that a doctor's white coat symbolizes the trust that society places in them during times of illness and uncertainty, and maintaining this trust is the responsibility of doctors. President Murmu highlighted the unprecedented pace of technological advancement in the medical field.

Artificial intelligence, robotics, precision medicine, and digital health services are rapidly transforming the medical world. She advised graduate students to be prepared to embrace these changes, stating that the use of new technologies can enhance their knowledge and skills and lead to more effective treatment of diseases. However, she also clarified that the place of human compassion in medicine can never be replaced.

She mentioned that becoming a good doctor is a significant achievement, but becoming a doctor imbued with human values such as honesty, compassion, and a spirit of service is an even greater achievement. Such skilled and socially aware doctors can bring about widespread change in society. She called on students to play an active role in nation-building and to use their positions positively.

President Murmu stated that good health of citizens is extremely important in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047. The central government has taken several steps to ensure access to quality healthcare services, which are yielding positive results. She noted that when all stakeholders move forward together, these efforts will gain further momentum.

In this context, the role of national importance institutions like AIIMS becomes even more crucial, as they set new standards in medical research and innovation, guiding the country's healthcare sector. She expressed confidence that AIIMS Rajkot will set new standards while contributing significantly to achieving the national goal of equitable and accessible healthcare services.

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The SOG has taken significant action in the Industrial Nagar police station area of Jetpur, Rajkot, following the discovery of illegal storage of LPG cylinders. During a raid at Khetaliya Textile Mill, 93 LPG cylinders were seized, and the warehouse of the associated Mahadev Gas Agency was sealed.

The police have detained two suspects and registered a case against them. Based on reliable information, SOG's PSI G.J. Zala conducted the raid at Khetaliya Textile.

During the investigation, 69 filled and 24 empty cylinders were recovered. Preliminary investigations revealed that these cylinders were being used for sari printing, which is against regulations. Further investigation revealed that all LPG cylinders were supplied by Mahadev Gas Agency.

Based on this information, the SOG sealed the agency's warehouse as well. The police have filed a case against the owner of Khetaliya Textile and the operator of Mahadev Gas Agency for illegal hoarding, violation of fire safety regulations, exceeding storage capacity, and violations of gas cylinder regulations.

During the action, the police seized a total of 2.67 lakh rupees worth of goods, including filled and empty cylinders as well as mobile phones. Action has been taken against the suspects under various sections of the Essential Commodities Act, Explosives Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

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In the Danapur area of Patna, Bihar, robbers disguised as customs officials looted 15 kilograms of gold in broad daylight, creating a sensation. The heist, valued at approximately ₹22 crore, has raised serious questions about security arrangements.

According to reports, the gold belonged to Sunilbhai Kishorbhai Fitchadiya, owner of the 'KV and Sons' firm located at Prahlad Plot Street No. 6 in Rajkot, and was being sent to Bihar through his employees. Mahesh Mamatora and Prince Rampariya arrived in Danapur with three bags filled with 15 kilograms of gold jewelry via the Saharsa Express train from Ahmedabad.

On Saturday afternoon, as both employees were leaving the railway station in an auto-rickshaw towards Bakarganj, they were surrounded by seven miscreants. Shortly after, other robbers arrived on a car and two motorcycles. The car had a police sticker, and the robbers were dressed in white shirts and khaki pants, making them appear like real officials.

The robbers identified themselves as customs officials and seized all three bags. They then left Prince Rampariya at the scene while taking Mahesh Mamatora away in the car to a distance before fleeing. Upon receiving information about the incident, the Khagoul police arrived at the scene and began an investigation.

The police recovered a stolen car, a motorcycle, and an empty bag used in the robbery. It is reported that the robbers removed and discarded the GPS device from the bag, indicating that the heist was well-planned. Upon learning of the incident, businessman Sunilbhai Fitchadiya and his brother Jigneshbhai rushed to Danapur.

Considering the seriousness of the case, the police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and are reviewing nearby CCTV footage. Initial investigations revealed that the robbers had been following the employees from the railway station.

Meanwhile, the biggest question arising is why such a large quantity of gold was being sent by train and how the robbers obtained precise information about it. The police believe that this robbery is part of a well-orchestrated conspiracy and that the culprits will be arrested soon, leading to the resolution of the case.

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In light of the upcoming local self-government elections in 2026, the Rajkot City Police Commissionerate has issued strict directives to maintain law and order. Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha has ordered all arms license holders in areas where the model code of conduct is in effect to surrender their weapons to the respective police stations.

This order pertains to the general elections for 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats, and 260 taluka panchayats, as well as by-elections for 13 vacant seats in 11 municipal corporations. The police have instructed all relevant police stations to ensure the collection of weapons from license holders in their areas and to provide this information to the commissionerate. The police commissionerate has also imposed a complete ban on the public display and use of licensed weapons until the election process is completed.

This order applies to all license holders, regardless of whether their license was issued by Rajkot or another authority. Additionally, a temporary halt has been placed on the buying and selling of weapons. However, weapons surrendered to the respective police stations will be returned without any additional orders after the election process concludes on April 30, 2026.

Some categories are exempt from this order, including government and semi-government institutions, banks, corporations, gunmen of recognized security agencies, personnel engaged in the security of ATMs and currency chests, and state, national, or international level shooters. However, individual license holders will not benefit from this exemption. Security guards will be required to carry a certificate issued by the bank manager, detailing their identity and appointment.

The relevant bank management must inform the police station about such employees, which will be verified by the police. Additionally, officials and employees of the central and state governments who are legally permitted to carry weapons and are on election duty will be exempt from this order.

Individuals with special permissions will also be granted exemptions. The police administration has made it clear that strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the order.

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In Rajkot district, a grand celebration of the 'Vande Mataram@150 Years' campaign was held, featuring patriotic programs. The campaign marked the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram,' which has been a source of inspiration for revolutionaries in the Indian freedom struggle.

Collective singing and cultural activities were organized across the state, fostering national spirit and unity among citizens. The second phase of the campaign will see various events from March 23 to March 31, 2026. This campaign was enthusiastically celebrated in Rajkot city and district with public participation, including youth, students, government officials, and common citizens.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated development works worth ₹751 crores during a public convenience program held at Rajkot International Airport, where 'Vande Mataram' was collectively sung under the chairmanship of Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjirapu. Additionally, during a theatrical program at Hemu Gadhvi Hall, attendees sang the national anthem together, creating a patriotic atmosphere. Furthermore, under the guidance of District Youth Development Officer Hitesh Dihora, a group singing and march was organized at K.S.N.

Kansagra Women's College to strengthen the spirit of national pride among youth. During this event, students raised slogans of patriotism and collectively sang 'Vande Mataram,' creating an enthusiastic atmosphere.

The campaign also included patriotism-based cultural programs, essay, speech, and painting competitions in schools and colleges across the state. Government institutions, voluntary organizations, youth, and common citizens participated in large numbers, expressing their gratitude towards the motherland.

A meeting of the District Water and Sanitation Committee was held at the Collector's office in Rajkot, chaired by District Collector Dr. Om Prakash, where significant decisions were made to strengthen rural water supply systems. The committee granted in-principle approval for various works worth 38.97 lakh rupees under the 'Kaya Kalp' program to enhance drinking water supply infrastructure in 17 villages across 11 talukas in the district.

The approved works will include drilling new boreholes, installing pumping machinery, and strengthening the pumping systems on existing boreholes and wells in the respective villages. Additionally, officials were instructed to ensure that there is no shortage of drinking water in any village during the summer season, while reviewing the progress of plans approved in the previous meeting.

The meeting also included a detailed review of the plans and activities operated by WASMO. Discussions covered water tax collection by village panchayats, training for pump operators, water testing at the rural level, the 'Jal Arpan Utsav', and the progress of approved works, with necessary directives provided.

Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the demolition of old water tanks that have become dilapidated and hazardous in various villages. The Collector directed the formation of a joint committee comprising executive engineers from the District Panchayat, Irrigation Department, R&B, PIU, Water Supply and Sewerage Board, and WASMO to assess these tanks and determine the process for further action. This committee will establish the original value of the tanks and ensure compliance with panchayat regulations for subsequent actions.

The meeting was attended by various departmental officials, including Vivek Gohil, Executive Engineer (Irrigation) of the District Panchayat, Ankit Gohil, Executive Engineer of the Water Supply and Sewerage Board, and Deepak Bariya, Executive Engineer of WASMO.

Rajkot, March 27. Rajkot district in Gujarat is making significant strides toward the national goal of a tuberculosis-free India. On the occasion of World TB Day, the district administration launched an intensive hundred-day TB elimination campaign focusing on public participation and coordinated health systems to eradicate the disease. A major milestone was achieved as three hundred fifty-five out of five hundred ninety-five Gram Panchayats were declared TB-free for the year 2025. During a Sarpanch Samvad program held in Paddhari, District Collector Dr. Om Prakash, District Development Officer Anandu Suresh Govind, and Superintendent of Police Vijaysinh Gurjar honored the village heads with gold, silver, and bronze medals along with certificates for their contributions.

As per agency report, special awareness initiatives were conducted under the guidance of District Tuberculosis Officer Dr. Ghanshyam Mehta, targeting schools and colleges. These efforts included sixty-four rallies involving over five thousand students and health education sessions for nearly thirty-nine thousand students across two hundred forty-two schools. The health department also organized five hundred twenty-nine screening camps where more than one lakh nineteen thousand individuals were examined. Out of these, seven hundred thirty-six suspected cases were identified, leading to the confirmation of five TB patients who were immediately placed under medical treatment.

Community involvement has played a vital role in this mission, with two hundred thirteen new Nikshay Mitras joining the cause to distribute nutrition kits to two hundred seventy-two patients. Furthermore, over twelve thousand people participated in various public engagement programs to demonstrate their commitment to the elimination of the disease. This local initiative aligns with the nationwide campaign launched by Union Health Minister Dr. J.P. Nadda, implementing a specialized hundred-day plan in Rajkot.

The campaign specifically targets high-risk groups, including individuals over sixty years of age, patients suffering from diabetes, cancer, or AIDS, brick kiln workers, and those with a low body mass index. In one hundred forty-two selected villages, X-ray screenings will be conducted for all residents above fourteen years of age. The district is utilizing advanced TRUNAAT and CBNAAT machines to ensure accurate diagnosis and is providing free treatment to all affected individuals. The administration continues to urge citizens to join the mission as Nikshay Mitras by adopting patients and providing nutritional support to achieve the collective goal of a TB-free society through unified efforts.

Rajkot - Gujarat Cabinet Minister Kunvarjibhai Bavaliya visited and reviewed the progress of various ongoing development works in the Jasdan and Gondal talukas of Rajkot. During his visit, he inspected several projects and issued necessary guidelines to the officials.

The minister conducted a surprise inspection at the construction site of the Jasapar-Kanpar bridge in Kanpar village of Jasdan taluka, which is being built at an estimated cost of approximately Rs 1 crore, as per agency report. Assessing the quality and progress of the ongoing work, he instructed the relevant authorities to ensure that the project is completed on time while maintaining high quality standards.

Following this, he visited Mota Dadva village in Gondal taluka to inspect a protection wall being constructed to prevent flood-related damages. The minister provided essential guidance to the officials present at the site. Subsequently, he formally laid the foundation stone for a new Anganwadi building in the same village, which is slated to be constructed at a cost of Rs 12 lakh.

The event witnessed the presence of Sarpanch Bhupatbhai Vala, Chief Worker Nayanaben Mehta, Anganwadi workers, and local residents. Addressing the gathering, the minister emphasized that the state government remains committed to the comprehensive development of rural areas and is making continuous efforts to strengthen basic infrastructure and facilities.

Rajkot: Amidst family opposition and mental harassment, the Sakhi One Stop Center emerged as a strong support system for a 19-year-old student determined to continue her education. With the assistance of the center and social workers, the student was successfully able to appear for her college examination in a secure environment.

The student is currently pursuing her second year of a Bachelor of Arts degree. As per agency report, counseling sessions revealed that her parents and elder sister were exerting continuous mental pressure on her regarding her studies. It was reported that the elder sister had cast doubts on the student's character, attempted to prevent her from attending college, and subjected her to physical assault and threats to her life.

Fearing that she would be stopped from taking her exams, the student submitted an application to the women's police station. Following this, she was provided shelter at the Sakhi One Stop Center situated in Rajkot. Counselors at the center, Yasmin Ben and Kalpana Ben, conducted counseling sessions to provide the student with necessary mental support during this difficult time.

With the cooperation of Rupalben Shah, a member of the Saibaba Charitable Trust, the student was safely transported to the examination center. After the exam concluded, she was brought back to the Sakhi One Stop Center. The student expressed her gratitude to the center and the social workers, stating that their support was the sole reason she could continue her studies and sit for her college examination.

The Sakhi One Stop Center clarified that their objective was not limited to facilitating the examination but also involved providing continuous support and counseling to secure her future. The center also intends to establish a dialogue with the family at an appropriate time to reach a resolution. Working towards women's safety and rights, the center emphasized that providing every possible assistance to women in such circumstances remains their priority, ensuring they can fulfill their rights and dreams without fear.

Rajkot : The District Grievance Coordination Committee meeting was held in Rajkot on Saturday under the chairmanship of District Collector Om Prakash. The meeting involved a detailed discussion on various pending issues, during which instructions were issued to the concerned departments for their quick and time-bound resolution. Additionally, the progress of ongoing development works across the district was reviewed.

During the meeting, Member of Parliament Rambhai Mokariya raised the issue regarding the construction of a bridge on Haripar Khari Road, to which it was informed that a new proposal for the bridge has been prepared. As per agency report, MLA Rameshbhai Tilala sought information about the Primary Health Center (PHC) being constructed in Shapar Veraval. Officials informed that the construction of the main building has been completed, and instructions have been given to make it operational shortly. Furthermore, directives were issued to maintain cleanliness in the Wednesday market of Shapar Veraval and to take punitive action if necessary.

Regarding Shastri Maidan, officials stated that the work of removing encroachment from inside the ground has been completed. Security personnel will be deployed at all three entrance gates of the ground, and strict action, including the seizure of vehicles, will be taken against those found damaging the gates or dumping garbage in the ground. MLA Darshitaben Shah also raised the issue regarding the ownership of a plot in Ward 11 and providing space for a Grain ATM.

Collector Dr. Om Prakash instructed that all pending matters be disposed of on a priority basis. The meeting was attended by several officials including District Panchayat President Pravinaben Rangani, District Development Officer Anandu Suresh Govind, Rajkot Rural Police Chief Vijaysinh Gurjar, Assistant Collector Mahak Jain, Deputy Police Commissioner Rakesh Desai, and Resident Additional Collector N.K. Muchhar.

Rajkot: A tragic road accident in the Jetpur city of Rajkot claimed the lives of three individuals and left one person critically injured on Sunday. The incident occurred when a car collided with a railway bridge and split into two parts. The victims were four friends returning from the Bhavnath Mela, which is organized in Junagadh on the occasion of Mahashivratri and attracts a large number of devotees.

According to preliminary police investigations, the driver lost control of the vehicle while crossing the bridge. As per agency report, the car was moving at a high speed when it crashed into the structure of the Jetalsar Junction Railway Bridge. The impact of the collision was so severe that the vehicle broke into two pieces which fell in different directions on the road.

Two of the occupants, identified as twenty-one-year-old Muskan Bagda from Raidi village and twenty-year-old Arun Vala from Navagadh, died on the spot. Jaideep Chauhan, who had sustained severe injuries, was rushed to the hospital for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries. The fourth youth, Amit Parmar, is critically injured and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Junagadh.

Upon receiving information about the crash, local residents and passersby alerted the authorities, prompting a police team to reach the site. A crane was utilized to remove the damaged vehicle from the scene. The accident caused a temporary disruption in traffic on the bridge, leading to congestion in the area, which was later normalized. All four victims were initially taken to the Jetpur Government Hospital. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for postmortem, and legal procedures are being completed. The police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, noting that heavy traffic in the area due to Mahashivratri might have been a contributing factor.

Rajkot : A review meeting of the District Level Implementation Committee of the Water and Sanitation Management Organization was held under the chairmanship of Collector Dr. Om Prakash. District Development Officer Anandu Suresh Govind was also present during the session. The Collector reviewed various proposals and works presented by the District Water and Sanitation Committee and instructed officials to complete the necessary tender processes promptly. He emphasized that no work should be delayed due to a lack of grants.

Collector Dr. Om Prakash specifically directed officials to ensure periodic quality testing of drinking water being distributed through sumps in villages. As per agency report, the meeting involved detailed discussions on works undertaken through the rejuvenation program of the Gujarat Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Other topics included rural internal water supply schemes funded by various government grants, their approvals, preparation of estimates, and the selection of two villages in each district for the Jal Arpan Diwas. The committee also discussed entries related to the Jal Seva Assessment on the e-Gram Swaraj portal.

During the meeting, the Collector granted theoretical approval for development works worth a total of 17,99,831 rupees under water supply schemes in various talukas of Rajkot district. These approved projects include the installation of pumping machinery on existing wells, establishing electricity connections, pipeline work, and providing power connections for new water links. The meeting was attended by several officials including Meenakshi Kacha and K.M. Janvadia from the District Rural Development Agency, District Health Officer Dr. K.P. Singh, Piyush Ponkia from RUDA, Watershed Project Director Rajnikant Shishangia, and representatives from the Executive Engineer department.