Meeting with Indian Prime Ministers & Other Leaders

Sudhir S. Raval’s deep interest in parliamentary affairs has led him to meaningful one-on-one interactions with some of India’s most influential leaders. Over the years, he has met and engaged with former Prime Ministers such as P. V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Manmohan Singh, Chandrashekhar, V. P. Singh, Deve Gowda, I. K. Gujral, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gaining valuable insights into national leadership and governance.

During his long and distinguished career in journalism, he has also exchanged views with senior political figures including Sonia Gandhi, L. K. Advani, and Sushma Swaraj, along with several central ministers, government officials, and former Chief Ministers of Indian states, including Gujarat. These interactions enriched his understanding of political processes and public administration.

Beyond these high-level engagements, Sudhir has remained deeply committed to field journalism. He was among the first to report from disaster-hit areas during the 2001 Kutch and Ahmedabad earthquake, as well as during droughts and floods, delivering unbiased, accurate, and courageous reporting across Gujarat.

Research & Reference

InvSudhir S. Raval has a strong foundation in investigative journalism, election coverage, and data-driven analysis. His research and fact-finding work is widely respected, and his insights are often regarded as authoritative. A major milestone in his career was his contribution to the Swarnim Gujarat Sansadiya Smrutika-2010, an encyclopaedia of parliamentary history published by the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha, which reflects the depth of his research expertise.

He has conducted extensive surveys on important public issues such as Lok Adalats, social challenges, and natural calamities including water scarcity, earthquakes, and floods. These studies have helped bring critical concerns to light and supported informed public discourse.

Sudhir regularly presents and publishes his research across multiple media platforms. Guided by strong ethical values, he remains dedicated to promoting human welfare, increasing public awareness, and contributing to nation-building through responsible and impactful journalism.

Contribution to the Government of Gujarat

Sudhir S. Raval’s impactful work in journalism led to his appointment in the Information Department of the Government of Gujarat by the then Chief Minister, Narendra Modi. From 2004 to 2010, he served as the Executive Editor of Gujarat magazine, where he played a key role in strengthening the government’s communication through print, electronic, and digital media, along with policy support, documentation, and public outreach initiatives.

Under his leadership, Gujarat magazine witnessed unprecedented growth, transforming from a long-stagnant circulation into a record-breaking publication. His emphasis on team spirit and quality content helped the magazine achieve over one lakh subscriptions in a single day in Surat, setting a new benchmark in Gujarati publishing history.

During this period, Sudhir also launched the ‘Positive Journalism’ movement, promoting constructive and public-oriented news over sensationalism. He conducted workshops, seminars, and training programs across Gujarat, including sessions at SPIPA, guiding government officials and journalists toward ethical, responsible, and citizen-focused communication.

Other Professional Activities

Sudhir S. Raval, along with his team of trained professionals, has been actively involved in publishing surveys, news reports, books, and print media through Noble Media and NAC Communication Network LLP. These organizations have also produced TV serials and documentaries, reaching audiences across both urban and rural Gujarat and contributing to the spread of informative and meaningful content.

His literary contributions include several notable titles such as Love Gujarat, The Warrior, JanYoddha, Swarnim Gujarat Sansadiya Smrutika – 2010, Swarnim Gujarat Ni Swarnim Safar, and Gujarat Na Jalmandiro. Among these, Swarnim Gujarat Ni Swarnim Safar stands out as a detailed and well-researched account of Narendra Modi’s governance model in Gujarat, serving as a valuable resource for scholars and researchers.

Sudhir also made a mark in television through programs like Goshthi on E-TV Gujarati, where he facilitated meaningful conversations with a wide range of guests. His passion for public engagement is further reflected in the VTV–Noble Media election surveys, including the widely acclaimed 2014 Gujarat Lok Sabha survey, which accurately predicted BJP’s historic victory across all constituencies.

Channel Head of VTV News

Sudhir has rendered commendable service as the Channel Head of Gujarat’s esteemed VTV channel. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in elevating grassroots issues to the state government’s attention and was instrumental in disseminating information about the government’s welfare schemes to the public through the platform of VTV.

Channel Head – India News Gujarat

Sudhir S. Raval has served as Channel Head of India News Gujarat, where he introduced diverse and innovative programming with a strong focus on public-interest journalism. Under his leadership, the channel organized high-profile public events in Ahmedabad and Daman, attended by dignitaries including Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Administrator Praful Patel. These events featured panel discussions on socially relevant issues and were broadcast live, setting new standards for public engagement through television.

In recognition of his credibility and experience, Sudhir was appointed as Consulting Editor by the ITV Network, one of India’s leading media conglomerates. He also launched the Gujarati weekly Aarpar, which quickly gained readership for its ethical and people-centric journalism, though it could not continue due to professional differences. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Sudhir has always viewed failures as learning opportunities, moving forward with renewed determination..

Driven by a vision of positive nation-building, Sudhir founded the web portals nobleIndian.com and Jan Man India, both aimed at empowering citizens and promoting constructive dialogue. These platforms were designed to encourage public participation and showcase India’s culture and values, reflecting his enduring commitment to democracy, positivity, and social transformation.

‘Off The Record’ on VTV

SuOff The Record on VTV represents a distinctive journalistic approach redefined by Sudhir S. Raval. While the term traditionally implies confidentiality, Sudhir transformed it into a platform of complete transparency, with candid conversations conducted openly on camera. Through this pioneering show, he interviewed more than 100 influential personalities from diverse fields including politics, administration, industry, literature, technology, healthcare, media, religion, and education, setting a new benchmark in Gujarati electronic media.

Beyond television, Sudhir applied the same principles of leadership, transparency, and team spirit during his tenure in government-related media initiatives. His ability to motivate teams and engage the public resulted in unprecedented participation, most notably when the government magazine Gujarat received over one lakh subscriptions in a single day in Surat. This remarkable achievement earned public praise from the then Chief Minister of Gujarat.

BeEntrusted with significant responsibility, Sudhir justified this confidence through tireless dedication, courage, patriotism, and positive journalism. Under his influence, the magazine’s circulation grew to historic levels, laying a strong foundation that continues today, making it the most widely circulated magazine in Gujarat.

Social Service

Sudhir S. Raval has been deeply involved in social service through initiatives that promote compassion, empowerment, and community welfare. Through Noble Trust, he envisions spreading nobility across society by supporting the underprivileged, including the illiterate, disabled, and marginalized, while also empowering youth and women to strengthen national spirit and social responsibility.

He also continues the inspiring legacy of his late daughter through Ekta n Angels, an organization founded to support the poor and differently abled. Established by Ekta Raval and now led by Neeti Raval with Sudhir’s support, the organization remains committed to uplifting lives and carrying forward Ekta’s vision of empathy and service.

In addition, Sudhir has served as the General Secretary and Trustee of Vishwa Gujarati Samaj, a global, non-political organization representing Gujarati communities in over 100 countries. Through this platform, he has contributed to strengthening cultural bonds and social initiatives among Gujaratis worldwide.

Eloquent & Apt

Sudhir S. Raval is known for his eloquence and active engagement in seminars, conferences, and public discussions centered on nation-building. He regularly participates in debates and dialogues on journalism, justice, philanthropy, ethics, and social responsibility, striving to uphold and reform the values of democracy through his work and thought leadership.

Guided by a strong humanitarian vision, Sudhir believes journalism should serve society rather than profit alone. His clear thinking, disciplined time management, and organized approach allow him to work with focus and efficiency. By carefully planning and prioritizing his responsibilities, he ensures that every effort he makes contributes meaningfully to the development of a more ethical and aware society.

Bonding with family

Sudhir embodies the perfect blend of philanthropic ideology, a trait inherited from his mother, the late Smt. Sharadaben, and a commitment to honesty and truth, instilled by his father, the late Shri Shantilal Mohanlal Raval. Born on May 26, 1959, in Morbi, Rajkot district of Gujarat, married to Neeti, daughter of Smt. Jashumatiben and Shri Pravinchandra Pathak, in July 1986. Neeti has completed her Masters in field of Arts. Their daughter Abhi has completed her Ph.D in Media and Communication and married to Daksh Trivedi. Although their late daughter Ekta is no longer physically present, her spirit continues to inspire Sudhir’s humanitarian efforts. Their son Manav exemplifies the adage ‘like father, like son,’ being active, observant, and affectionate has completed his education from Ahmedabad University specialising in field of marketing.

Sudhir, a science graduate, initially worked in Vijaya Bank as clerk during 1982 to 1986 and ventured into business early in his career. However, his profound love for his country led him to leave these positions and dedicate himself to reformist causes. In his leisure time, Sudhir enjoys music and playing chess, which are his ways of relishing quality time.

‘OFF THE RECORD with SUDHIR RAVAL’ in V-TV

Unofficial, informal, in confidence, not intended to be known publicly, not meant to be recorded. These are some of the most common meanings of the term ‘Off-the-Record’ and it is widely respected by journalists, as a serious breach of code of ethics to divulge the identity of their source or to betray the trust of that source, by using the information inappropriately. In short, what transpires between the source and the journalist, is supposed to be ‘in camera’…

But for Sudhir, the definition is On-the-Record. Because, he had the privilege of having a têtê-à-têtê with more than seventy personalities, which were ‘on camera’ and were aired on VTV. These personalities are from diverse fields like, politics, bureaucracy, industry, literature, technology, community service, healthcare, economics, films, media, religion, education and so on. This certainly is a first of it’s kind milestone amongst Gujarati electronic media !

Honour

While Sudhir has been honoured by various institutions on different occasions, he was particularly recognized for his distinguished contributions to the field of journalism at a national level. In 2017, the Sarva Brahmin Mahasabha honoured him with the title of ‘National Brahmin Shiromani’ at the Constitution Club in New Delhi.

Similarly, in 2008, Sudhir was honoured with the ‘Pride of Gujarat’ award by the prestigious Gujarati magazine Feelings, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of journalism.

Dream and Desire

After three decades of journalism, Sudhir has formulated a roadmap for the next five years. Following an assessment of his studies, experiences, and observations, he has planned to author ten books. Work on the outlines of these proposed books has already commenced. The proposed titles of these books are:

• WHY DON’T WE DO IT ?
• ELECTORAL REFORMS – A WAY TO METAMORPHOSIS
• IN THE NAME OF RELIGION
• DEVIATING DEMOCRACY
• THE BIG FIGHT
• SECULARISM V/S NATIONALISM
• AT THE COST OF NATION
• NEHRU : WHY STILL THE MOST DEMOCRATIC LEADER ?
• INDIA ON BED OF ARROWS
• YOUR ESCAPE IS AT YOUR COST
• THE NATION AND WE, THE PEOPLE

Goal

His positive mindset and simple yet optimistic approach have brought him fame and respect. Living by the mantra ‘Work is Worship,’ Sudhir integrates this philosophy into all aspects of his life, both personal and professional. He is driven by a desire to offer invaluable services to the nation through media and various social activities, aiming for spiritual upliftment as his ultimate goal.