Surat, March 9 – The 196th regular weekly problem-solving meeting of the Surat Mercantile Association (SMA) was held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Maheshwari Bhavan, City Light. The meeting, led by SMA head Narendra Sabu and the core committee, witnessed the presence of 160 traders and members. During the session, 12 applications regarding business concerns were reviewed, with one issue being resolved immediately through discussions, while the remaining cases were forwarded to the panel and legal team for further resolution.
As per reports, the meeting highlighted the current economic slowdown affecting Surat’s textile market, marking one of the worst downturns in the past 25 years. The declining sales, particularly in the saree segment, have raised concerns among small traders. The discussion emphasized how the practice of larger traders setting up counters in North Indian markets and selling directly through salesmen has adversely impacted smaller textile traders. This system allows large businesses to stock only approved goods, with unsold items being returned after three months, making it increasingly difficult for small-scale traders with turnovers below ₹5 crore to sustain their businesses.
Members stressed the urgent need to reform this trading method to prevent further losses for small traders in Surat's saree market. The meeting concluded with a discussion on potential solutions and ended with a traditional breakfast.
In a special event commemorating International Women’s Day, 13 distinguished women from various fields were honored for their contributions to society. The honorees, aged between 30 and 85 years, were recognized for their achievements in industries such as business, politics, medicine, administration, education, and law enforcement. These women shared their journeys and success stories, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, family support, and hard work in achieving their goals.
Among the honored women were Vimla Devi Sabu, Sharda Devi Luthra, Shalini Agarwal, Dr. Jagriti Desai, Bina Toshniwal, Rashmi Dadhich, Shreya Baveja, Ritu Rathi, Priya Somani, Hiral Panwala, Neha Sabu, Police Inspector Sheetal Shah, and Sub-Inspector Parulben Mehar.
The event, attended by key members of the association, underscored the role of women in shaping the city’s social and economic landscape, reinforcing the importance of empowerment and recognition for their contributions.
