PM Modi-themed kites dominate Gujarat markets ahead of International Kite Festival

IANS | December 30, 2025 7:08 PM

Gandhinagar, Dec 30 (IANS) The International Kite Festival is an annual kite festival held in Gujarat to celebrate Uttarayan – the days marking the transition of winter to summer. The tradition of flying kites during Makar Sakranti has existed in the state for decades, and people start preparing kites months in advance.

‘Mini Khel Mahakumbh’ to be held in Surat from January 9 to 12

IANS | December 30, 2025 4:41 PM

Gandhinagar, Dec 30 (IANS) At a time when children are increasingly glued to mobile phones and digital gadgets, Gandhinagar-based Children’s Research University has taken a commendable initiative to bring Gujarat’s young talent back to the playground and nurture their abilities through a scientific approach. The university will organise the State-level ‘Under-11 Athletics Meet Season 4.0’ in Surat from January 9 to 12, 2026.

Gujarat to become 1st state to set up AI research organisation through PPP, CM gives nod

IANS | December 30, 2025 3:32 PM

Gandhinagar, Dec 30 (IANS) In a move to strengthen India’s artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, Gujarat will operationalise the Indian AI Research Organisation (IAIRO) from January 1, 2026, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has granted in-principle approval for the initiative, making Gujarat the first state in the country to establish such an institution through a PPP framework.

IANS Year Ender 2025: Maharashtra sees political consolidation, growth push amid fiscal pressure

Sanjay Jog | December 30, 2025 3:26 PM

Mumbai, Dec 30 (IANS) For Maharashtra, 2025 unfolded as a year of political consolidation -- steady on governance, ambitious on economic growth, but strained socially and fiscally. The state navigated the year under the dominance of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, a weakened Opposition, sustained infrastructure momentum, and recurring concerns around agrarian distress, public safety and fiscal discipline.