The operation, which took place late on Tuesday, resulted in the arrest of five foreigners. The boat and its crew were brought to Porbandar port and handed over to local police for further investigation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed the mission as a “historic success” and a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to making the nation drug-free.

The operation was carried out along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea. The Navy deployed its P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, a warship, and helicopters to apprehend the suspicious dhow carrying almost 3,300 kg of contraband. The seized narcotics included 3,089 kg of Charas, 158 kg of Methamphetamine, and 25 kg of Morphine.

The Navy’s social media handle highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Navy’s mission-deployed assets and the NCB, which led to this significant seizure of drugs.

This operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating the global drug trade. The Arabian Sea is a major transit route for drug trafficking, and such operations are crucial in disrupting the flow of narcotics.

The successful seizure of such a large quantity of drugs is a significant blow to drug traffickers and a victory for law enforcement agencies. It sends a strong message that India is committed to tackling the menace of drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of its maritime borders.

The involvement of multiple agencies, including the Navy, NCB, and ATS, demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in combating transnational crimes. The arrested individuals will face legal proceedings, and further investigations will be conducted to uncover the network behind this massive drug smuggling operation.

This operation is a reminder of the constant vigilance required to safeguard our maritime borders and prevent illegal activities at sea. It also highlights the critical role of the Indian Navy in maintaining maritime security and protecting the nation’s interests.

The seizure of 3,300 kg of narcotics from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea is a significant achievement for India’s law enforcement agencies. The collaborative efforts of the Navy, NCB, and ATS have played a crucial role in this operation, and their continued vigilance will be essential in preventing such illegal activities in the future.

BY – KASHISH JAIN

The Vantara initiative was born from a deeply personal experience for Anant Ambani. He recalls a pivotal moment from his childhood when he and his mother, philanthropist Nita Ambani, encountered a distressed elephant on a sweltering day in Rajasthan. This encounter ignited a lifelong commitment to animal welfare, leading to the establishment of Vantara.

The sanctuary is a haven for a diverse array of species, including large felines like leopards, tigers, lions, and jaguars, as well as herbivores such as deer and reptiles like crocodiles, snakes, and turtles. Each animal is provided with state-of-the-art enclosures and shelters, ensuring their well-being and recovery.

Vantara is not just a sanctuary; it is a symbol of the transformative power of compassion and dedication. The team at Vantara, comprising over 300 professionals, is committed to providing the highest standard of care for the animals. This includes employing Ayurvedic techniques for elephant care, such as hot oil massages and the application of Multani Mitti, a natural clay known for its soothing properties.

Beyond its borders, Vantara extends its reach to international rescue missions, responding to calls from zoo authorities in countries like Mexico and Venezuela. These efforts are conducted in strict adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks, both in India and abroad.

The launch of the rescue and rehabilitation center, spanning 650 acres within the 3,000-acre premises, marks a significant milestone in Vantara’s journey. This facility serves as a sanctuary for animals previously confined in circuses or zoos, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

Vantara is more than just a sanctuary; it is a symbol of hope and compassion. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of empathy and dedication, offering a lifeline to animals in need. Anant Ambani has expressed,“This isn’t a zoo; it’s a ‘Sevalaya’ (service room). I believe that Shri Ganesh resides in elephants, and the form of Ganesh is that of an elephant. So, I serve elephants with the spirit of honoring Ganesha.”

Vantara is a beacon of hope for animals in distress, providing them with a second chance at life. It is a testament to the power of compassion and dedication, offering a lifeline to animals in need. The name “Vantara” itself, a Hindi word, means ‘star of the forest’, symbolizing the sanctuary’s commitment to the rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation of animals in need.

BY – KASHISH JAIN

On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi began his visit by participating in scuba diving off the Arabian Sea coast at Panchkui beach. This unique activity was followed by offering prayers at the site believed to be the submerged ancient city of Dwarka, which holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and history. Dwarka, known for its grandeur and prosperity, continues to captivate imaginations with its rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Modi paid homage to Dwarka, offering peacock feathers as tribute underwater.

Later that day, Modi visited Gujarat’s renowned Lord Krishna temple, Dwarkadish. Situated at the confluence of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea, the majestic Dwarkadhish Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, especially for Vaishnavites and Lord Krishna devotees.It is among the revered Char Dham pilgrimage sites.. The temple’s main deity is Lord Krishna, also known as Dwarkadhish, or King of Dwarka. During his visit, Modi was presented with an idol of Lord Krishna by the temple priests.

The following day, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge. The bridge, spanning approximately 2.32 km, connects the Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka, an island near the Okha port, located about 30 km from Dwarka town, where the famous Dwarkadhish temple is situated. Previously known as the ‘Signature Bridge,’ the structure has been renamed ‘Sudarshan Setu’ or Sudarshan Bridge. The bridge, built at an estimated cost of ₹979 crore, boasts a four-lane road that is 27.20 meters wide, with 2.50-meter wide footpaths on both sides.

The inauguration of Sudarshan Setu marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development, providing a crucial link between the Okha mainland and Beyt Dwarka. The bridge is expected to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother transportation for the residents and visitors of the region.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also offered prayers at the Beyt Dwarka Temple, further emphasizing the cultural and spiritual significance of the region. The temple, located on the island of Beyt Dwarka, is dedicated to Lord Krishna, a revered deity in Hinduism.

Overall, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Gujarat was a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and infrastructural development. His participation in scuba diving, offering prayers at ancient sites, and inaugurating the Sudarshan Setu bridge highlighted the diverse aspects of Gujarat’s identity and its ongoing progress.

BY – KASHISH JAIN

In his address, PM Modi emphasized the welfare of small farmers, highlighting the crucial role played by organizations like Amul in empowering them. He stated, “Our focus is on the welfare of small farmers,” acknowledging the power of organization and cooperation in the dairy sector.

PM Modi also praised the success of India’s dairy sector, noting that it is growing at a rate of 6% compared to the global average of 2%. He highlighted that eight crore people are directly associated with India’s dairy sector, and in the last decade, milk production in India has increased by about 60%. Additionally, per capita milk availability has increased by about 40% in the same period.

The Prime Minister attributed the success of the dairy sector to the “women’s power,” emphasizing the significant role played by women in the sector. He stated that Amul’s success is a testament to the power of women-led development and serves as an inspiration for India’s broader development goals.

As Amul celebrated its 50th anniversary, PM Modi inspected an exhibition showcasing the dairy firm’s achievements. He praised Amul, stating, “Amul jaisa koi nahi (No one is like Amul),” and highlighted its role as a symbol of trust, development, public participation, and farmer empowerment.

PM Modi also set an ambitious target for GCMMF, the owner of the Amul brand, to become the number one dairy company globally, aiming to move from its current eighth position.

Established in 1973 with an annual turnover of ₹20 crore, GCMMF has emerged as the country’s leading FMCG organization over the last 50 years. The Amul brand is set to achieve a turnover of ₹80,000 crore, and GCMMF is expected to achieve a turnover of ₹61,000 crore in the current financial year.

During the event, PM Modi virtually inaugurated several dairy plants, including a UHT milk plant, cheese plant expansions, and new dairy plants in various locations across India. These initiatives are part of the government’s efforts to enhance the economic power of farmers and promote the dairy sector’s growth.

PM Modi’s participation in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Amul highlights the government’s commitment to the welfare of small farmers and the development of the dairy sector. 

BY – KASHISH JAIN