Rajkot - Loktej English

First Meeting of Rajkot District Panchayat Concluded

Loktej English Team — Wed, 27 May 2026 12:31:20 +0530

The first meeting of the newly elected District Panchayat was held today at the District Panchayat office in Rajkot. The meeting was chaired by District Collector Dr. Om Prakash.

As per the main agenda of the meeting, Sanjaybhai Pipaliya was elected as the President of the District Panchayat and Samatbhai Bambha was elected as the Vice President. It is noteworthy that elections for a total of 36 seats in the Rajkot District Panchayat were recently completed. The term for the President and Vice President of the District Panchayat is set for two and a half years.

On this occasion, District Collector Dr. Om Prakash congratulated the newly elected President and Vice President and wished them success in their term. He expressed expectations for accelerating the development works of the Panchayat and prioritizing public interest issues.

Newly elected members, various officials, District Development Officer Anandu Suresh Govind, Deputy DDO Jai Goswami, and other officials were present at the meeting. With the formation of the new Panchayat, there are hopes for new directions in development plans and administrative works in the district.

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Two Women Die in Bus Accident in Rajkot, 20 Others Injured

Loktej English Team — Tue, 26 May 2026 12:34:22 +0530

A private bus carrying devotees to a religious site overturned near Gondal in Rajkot district early Monday morning, resulting in the deaths of a woman and her daughter-in-law, with around 20 others injured, as reported by the police. An official stated that the accident occurred around 4:30 AM near Vorakotda village in Gondal taluka when the bus driver reversed the vehicle to give way to an oncoming truck on a narrow road.

According to the police, the bus, carrying about 60 devotees, had departed from Gondal for a pilgrimage to various religious sites, including Bagdana, on Sunday morning. The incident took place as the devotees were returning on Monday. Rajkot Rural Assistant Superintendent of Police Prakhar Kumar mentioned that the driver lost control of the vehicle while reversing, causing the bus to overturn into a field located below an elevated road.

He explained that the road was narrow and two vehicles could not pass simultaneously. The bus driver misjudged the distance while reversing to give way to the truck, leading to the vehicle overturning in the field. Kumar reported that two women sitting by the window sustained severe head injuries from the bus overturning, resulting in their deaths.

He added that around 20 passengers suffered minor injuries, while others narrowly escaped. The deceased were identified as Shantaben Makwana and her daughter-in-law Manjuben Makwana, both residents of Gondal. The police stated that further investigations are ongoing, and action against the driver will be decided after the inquiry is completed.

Rajkot Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha Completes Online 'Self-Enumeration' Process, Appeals to Citizens to Participate in Census-2027

Loktej English Team — Sun, 24 May 2026 14:36:24 +0530

The online self-enumeration process for Census-2027 has begun across the state. Citizens can now register their census-related information online through a digital platform.

In this context, the Police Commissioner of Rajkot city, Brajesh Kumar Jha, successfully completed his self-enumeration process on the online portal and appealed to people to actively participate in this campaign. Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha stated that the self-enumeration process through the online web portal is very simple, fast, and convenient. He urged citizens to take some time to engage in this important national campaign.

He also cautioned people about cyber security, advising them not to share OTPs if someone asks for them over a phone call in the name of self-enumeration, as this could lead to cyber fraud. He appealed to citizens to exercise caution during the online process. It is noteworthy that under the first phase of the national census, the online process for counting and registering households has been initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India through the portal se.census.gov.in.

The self-enumeration facility will be available until May 31, during which citizens can enter their information via their mobile phones. After completing the online process, citizens will receive an 11-digit unique code, which must be shown to the census officer who will visit their home for verification during the household enumeration starting June 1.

Rajkot: Vajubhai Vala appeals for participation in online self-enumeration for Census-2027

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:20:48 +0530

The online self-enumeration process for Census-2027 has begun across the state, allowing citizens to register their information on a digital platform. Vajubhai Vala, completing his enumeration process on the online portal, described it as simple, fast, and convenient.

The resident of Rajkot and former Governor of Karnataka, Vajubhai Vala, stated that the self-enumeration process through the web portal is very easy, enabling citizens to register their information online in a short time. He appealed to the citizens of Rajkot district to actively participate in this initiative and take time to complete their enumeration process. He mentioned that the digital method can make the census process more transparent, accurate, and faster, while also providing convenience to citizens from their homes.

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India has initiated the online process for the registration of households and enumeration of houses as part of the first phase of the national census. Citizens can register their information through the portal (sc.census.gov.in).

Rajkot: Watson Museum showcases Vallabhipur heritage on International Museum Day, special initiative for the differently-abled

Loktej English Team — Thu, 21 May 2026 12:42:25 +0530

On the occasion of International Museum Day 2026, a special photo exhibition based on ancient artifacts and significant archaeological discoveries from the excavation of Vallabhipur was inaugurated at the Watson Museum in Rajkot. This exhibition aims to showcase India's rich historical and cultural heritage.

The museum's in-charge curator and head of the archaeology department, Dr. Siddh Shah, stated that the exhibition features images of copper coins, ancient seals, conch bangles, and other rare artifacts obtained from the Vallabhipur excavation. These displays provide an opportunity to understand the structure, development, and lifestyle of ancient cities. He mentioned that a special research team has been deployed to provide detailed information to the visitors of the exhibition.

On this occasion, Anvika Kamath, an assistant professor in the Museology department, prepared a special tactile prototype for visually impaired individuals, allowing them to experience the museum's heritage through touch. The 3-D tactile model of the ancient idol of Lord Surya installed in the museum has become a major attraction of this exhibition. Anvika Kamath explained that this model was specifically designed with low-vision and visually impaired individuals in mind, enabling them to understand the artistry and craftsmanship of the idol through touch.

Information in Braille is also provided, along with the facility of QR codes that can be scanned to learn about the history of the related objects through audio-visual means. A visitor named Preranaba expressed that seeing and learning about the preserved heritage in the museum up close is an extremely interesting experience.

She mentioned that she came to the exhibition with her son, who is in the 10th grade, and that every student should visit such museums to better understand the country's history and culture. Dr. Siddh Shah praised the ongoing archaeological excavation work across the country for bringing India's historical heritage to the forefront and expressed gratitude to Dr. Pankaj Sharma from the archaeology department and Dr. Ambika Patel, the dean of the Fine Arts Faculty, for their support in organizing this exhibition.

Rajkot: Advisory to Stay Alert in Severe Heat, Administration on Alert to Prevent Heatstroke

Loktej English Team — Wed, 20 May 2026 12:26:02 +0530

In light of the continuously rising temperatures and intense sunlight in several cities of the state, including Rajkot, the health department has appealed to people to exercise special caution. A special ward has been arranged at Rajkot Civil Hospital to identify and treat patients affected by heat and heatstroke.

Medical Officer Dr. M.S. Roy from Rajkot Civil Hospital reported that there has been a consistent increase in temperature over the past few days. In such conditions, citizens are advised to go outside only when absolutely necessary during the afternoon.

He stated that caution is the most effective measure to prevent heatstroke. Dr. Roy specifically advised children, pregnant women, and the elderly to exercise extra vigilance. He recommended consuming adequate amounts of water, buttermilk, lemonade, and other fluids throughout the day to mitigate the effects of heat and sun.

Additionally, he advised wearing long-sleeved clothing, covering the head and face, and taking measures to protect against sunlight when going out in the afternoon. According to the health department, if anyone experiences dizziness, excessive sweating, a heavy head, or fainting, they should immediately contact the hospital. Rajkot Civil Hospital has initiated a 24-hour emergency service to provide immediate treatment to those in need.

The hospital administration has prepared a special ward with 20 beds for heatstroke patients, where doctors, nursing staff, and a paramedical team are continuously providing services. Adequate arrangements for necessary medications and facilities for the treatment of patients have also been made to ensure that patients and their families do not face any difficulties. The government and health department are continuously appealing to people to stay alert during the severe heat and follow necessary precautions to ensure their health safety.

Rajkot: The Raichura family turned their son's birthday into a service festival, distributing nutrition kits to TB patients

Loktej English Team — Mon, 18 May 2026 20:19:51 +0530

In Rajkot, the Raichura family has set an inspiring example by linking their son's birthday to human service. With the aim of realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'TB-free India', nutrition kits are being distributed to TB patients by the Rajkot District Tuberculosis Center with the support of generous citizens.

The Raichura family has been actively contributing to this campaign. Jitbhai Raichura and Mansi Ben Raichura decided to support six TB patients instead of unnecessary spending for their seven-month-old son Veer’s birthday last month. Continuing this sensitive initiative, on May 16, Kajal Ben, Aarti Ben, Jitbhai, and Mansi Ben Raichura provided nutritious food kits to a total of 13 TB patients.

It is noteworthy that the Raichura family has been providing nutrition kits to needy TB patients for the fourth consecutive month. This spirit of service from the family is not only helping improve the health of the patients but also sending an inspiring message of humanity and social responsibility in the community.

Rajkot: One of the two brothers from Rajkot drowned during a religious bath on the first day of the extra month, one was rescued

Loktej English Team — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:36:23 +0530

A tragic incident occurred on the first day of the holy extra month in Devbhoomi Dwarka. Two brothers from the same family in Rajkot suddenly began to drown in deep water while bathing at the world-famous Gomti Ghat on Sunday morning.

Local swimmers managed to rescue one brother in time, while the other young man went missing, swept away by the river's strong current. With the beginning of the extra month, a surge of religious faith flooded Dwarka. Thousands of devotees had been arriving at Gomti Ghat for a holy bath since morning.

Among the crowd, the two brothers who had come from Rajkot for darshan were also present with their family at the ghat. Due to the inability to gauge the depth and strong current while bathing, both young men began to drown. Nearby devotees raised an alarm for help, prompting local swimmers and boatmen present at the ghat to spring into action.

They jumped into the river and managed to rescue one young man, who was immediately admitted to a nearby government hospital, where he is receiving treatment. However, the other 21-year-old young man was swept away by the river's strong internal current and disappeared from sight within moments. Upon receiving the news of the incident, local administration, police, and disaster management teams arrived at the scene and launched a comprehensive search operation at Gomti Ghat.

Boats and modern equipment were used for hours in the search operation, but by late evening, there was no trace of the young man. According to family members, they had come to Dwarka specifically for darshan of Lord Dwarkadhish and for a Gomti bath on the occasion of the extra month, but this religious journey turned into a tragic incident. The rescue team continues to search for the missing young man.

International Nurses Day celebrated with enthusiasm at Rajkot Civil Hospital

Loktej English Team — Sat, 16 May 2026 15:22:28 +0530

The local unit of the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) celebrated 'International Nurses Day' on May 12 at PDU Civil Hospital with great enthusiasm and dignity. During the event, retired nursing staff who have provided remarkable services in the nursing field for years were honored.

Various cultural programs were organized to appreciate the contributions of the nursing community. The TNAI Rajkot unit organized a series of public service and creative activities not just for one day, but throughout 'Nurses Week'. During this time, various competitions, including a blood donation camp, were held.

Winning participants were awarded shields and certificates by the guests. While addressing the program, Dr. Monali Makadia stated that nurses are a living example of service, discipline, and dedication. She mentioned that a nurse has the remarkable ability to instill hope in a despairing patient.

Particularly in government hospitals, their sensitive behavior towards economically and mentally weak patients is inspiring for society. She further stated that the voice, patience, sensitivity, and determination of nurses, who act as a strong link between doctors and patients, earn them special respect in society. On this occasion, several dignitaries were present, including Dr. Bharti Patel, Dean of PDU Medical College, Dr. Monali Makadia, Medical Superintendent of Gujarat Nursing Council, Dr. Pragya Dabi, Nursing Superintendent Prakash Prajapati, Hitesh Bhatt, President of Gujarat State TNAI, Iqbal Kadiwala, Secretary, Jatin Adera, President of TNAI Rajkot, Neerav Dudharej, Jitendra Meh, and retired nursing officers Hiten Jhankharia and Rajesh Kagda.

At the end of the program, the nursing staff presented colorful cultural performances. All members expressed their joy through Raas-Garba. The officials of TNAI Rajkot unit played a significant role in making the event successful.

Rajkot: Disabled widow woman receives pension rights through the initiative of the Women's Assistance Center

Loktej English Team — Thu, 14 May 2026 12:37:24 +0530

The Women's Assistance Centers (PBSC) established by the state government in women's police stations are becoming a means of relief for needy and victimized women. An inspiring incident from Rajkot has once again proven the utility of these centers.

With the help of counselors at the Women's Assistance Center located in the women's police station, a disabled widow woman was finally able to obtain her widow pension rights. Providing information in this regard, counselors Shilpaben Parmar and Dakshaben Chandaliya stated that the victimized woman's marriage took place about 23 years ago, and she has an 18-year-old son. Her husband passed away nearly six years ago, leaving her completely helpless.

During this time, she developed a serious illness that caused blood clots in her eyes, gradually affecting her vision and hearing. Doctors deemed this illness incurable. The family circumstances were also challenging for the woman, as members of her in-laws' family were elderly and unable to care for her due to health issues.

Consequently, two years ago, she was sent to live with her maternal family. To avail financial assistance and government schemes, the woman needed several important documents, including her husband's death certificate. Her maternal family repeatedly requested these documents from her in-laws, but they were postponed for various reasons each time.

Finally, frustrated, the victimized woman contacted the Women's Assistance Center at the Rajkot women's police station. Considering the seriousness of the case, the counselors at the Women's Assistance Center took immediate action. They called the in-laws to the center and held separate and joint meetings with both parties.

The counselors attempted to explain the legal provisions and humanitarian sentiments to the in-laws. After continuous persuasion, the in-laws realized their mistake and agreed to provide the woman with all necessary documents, including her Aadhaar card, ration card, and death certificate. With the documents received, the woman will now be able to benefit from the widow pension scheme and other government assistance programs.

After the positive resolution of the case, counselor Shilpaben stated that the main objective of the Women's Assistance Center is to secure the rights of disabled, abandoned, and victimized women and provide them with protection. She emphasized that through proper communication and understanding, family disputes can be resolved, and justice can be delivered to the victims.

Rajkot: Teachers Visit Rajkot Regional Information Office Under Principal Training Class

Loktej English Team — Tue, 12 May 2026 22:32:14 +0530

A team of seven teachers from Saraswati Shishu Mandir conducted an educational visit to the Regional Information Office in Rajkot as part of the 'Principal Education Training Class'. During the visit, the teachers were informed about the functioning of the Information Department and its role in promoting welfare schemes.

Assistant Information Director Radhikaben Vyas provided detailed information about the various functions of the Information Department. She explained that the Information Department plays a crucial role in disseminating government welfare schemes to the general public. The teachers toured different departments of the office, where they received practical information on news writing, public relations, videography, and photography.

Officials also familiarized the teachers with the editorial and administrative processes of the office and provided guidance on effective working methods. At the end of the visit, the teachers appreciated the work of the Information Department, stating that the information gained would also be useful in the education sector. Present at the event were Assistant Information Director Priyankaben Parmar, Kanabhai Pithiya, Kishanbhai Molia, Rajeshbhai Dave, Rajeshbhai Makadiya, Bhartiben Undhar, Ritaben Bhatt, and Janviben Mehta, among other teachers.

Sensational Incident in Bedla Village Near Rajkot, Murder of Friend Over Alcohol Dispute

Loktej English Team — Tue, 12 May 2026 12:12:06 +0530

A shocking incident has emerged in Bedla village near Rajkot, where a young man murdered his friend with a knife over a dispute related to alcohol and later buried the body in a crematorium with the help of his wife. The case came to light after villagers informed the police, leading the Airport police to detain the accused couple and initiate an investigation.

According to reports, the Airport police team was on patrol last night when they received information from villagers that a person had been murdered and his body buried in the village crematorium. Upon receiving the information, PI K.P. Taretia arrived at the scene with his team. An Executive Magistrate and FSL officials were also called immediately.

Upon finding recent signs of soil being dug in the crematorium, excavation was carried out, resulting in the recovery of the body of 25-year-old Sanjay Hakabhai Vaghela, a resident of Derdi village in Amreli district. The entire operation was video recorded. The body was later sent for post-mortem to Rajkot Civil Hospital.

The police investigation revealed that the deceased Sanjay had been living with 30-year-old Jagdish Kalubhai Kabira from Bedla village for the past six and a half years. Both worked as cattle herders and played the dhol. During police questioning, Jagdish confessed to the murder.

Preliminary investigations indicated that a dispute over alcohol occurred between the two on May 6. The argument escalated to the point where Jagdish, in a fit of rage, attacked Sanjay with a knife, resulting in his death.

After the murder, the accused, with the help of his wife Hina, wrapped the body in a sack and transported it on a motorcycle to the crematorium, where they buried the body. The police have detained the accused Jagdish and his wife Hina and have initiated further legal action.