Loktej English Team - Loktej English

Surat: Release of Polyester FDY Yarn Containers Stuck at Port Begins Today

Loktej English Team — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:43:50 +0530

Surat. The release of polyester FDY yarn containers that have been stuck at various ports in Gujarat for a long time has been facilitated starting today.

After the Gujarat High Court lifted the interim stay, the customs department approved the release of the containers. This decision was made during an important meeting between senior officials of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCCI) and the customs department. According to information, the Quality Control Order (QCO) applicable to polyester FDY yarn was revoked through the order number 5134(E) issued by the Government of India.

This decision was challenged by Messrs Orilon Company through Special Civil Application (SCA) number 16973/2025 in the Gujarat High Court. During the hearing of the case, the High Court imposed an interim stay on the government's order on April 6, 2026, which led to the consignments of imported yarn being held at various ports. Later, the Government of India filed Letters Patent Appeal (LPA) number 419 against this order.

After hearing the appeal, the Gujarat High Court lifted the previously imposed interim stay in its oral order, thereby removing the obstacles on polyester FDY yarn and all related by-products. Following the High Court's order, SGCCCI took immediate action in the interest of the textile industry. The chamber's president, Ashokbhai Jirawala, held an online meeting with Gujarat's Principal Chief Commissioner of Customs Pranesh Pathak, Commissioner of Customs Manish Kulhari, and Additional Commissioner Ram Vishnoi through the Clearance Facilitation Committee (CCFC).

It was decided in the meeting that the process of releasing the polyester FDY yarn containers and all its sub-groups that were stuck at various ports in Gujarat would commence immediately. Additionally, the customs department assured that the containers of POY yarn would also be approved and released soon. This decision is considered extremely important for the textile industry, as raw materials worth millions of rupees have been stuck at the ports for a long time, affecting production activities.

The release of the containers will ensure a smooth supply of raw materials to the industry and accelerate the production cycle. SGCCCI president Ashokbhai Jirawala expressed gratitude to senior officials of the customs department for the swift resolution of this issue, stating that this decision will prove to be a significant relief for the textile industry across Gujarat, including Surat.

Publish with Us: Wish to feature your personal or organizational milestones, success stories, or press releases in Loktej English? Contact us, and we will guide you through our publication process.

Feedback & Corrections: We strive for accuracy. If you spot an error, have feedback, or object to the content of this article/press release, please notify us at loktejonline [at] gmail [dot] com. We will review the matter and rectify it at the earliest.

Vadodara: Special cleanliness campaign held in Dankheda village under Swachhata Week

Loktej English Team — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:43:27 +0530

A special cleanliness program was organized in the Dankheda Gram Panchayat of Vaghodia Taluka on Thursday as part of the 'Swachhata Week' campaign being conducted under the guidance of the Gujarat government. Villagers and officials actively participated in the cleanliness drive, pledging to maintain cleanliness.

Extensive cleaning was carried out in public places, roads, and surrounding areas of the village. Additionally, a tree plantation program was held to promote environmental conservation. Cloth bags were distributed to villagers to reduce the use of plastic, and they were encouraged to take responsibility for the environment.

The event was attended by Vaghodia MLA Dharmendrasinh Vaghela, Taluka Panchayat President Mrs. Jayaben Vasava, elected members of the Panchayat, Sarpanch, Taluka Development Officer Arif Sheikh, Chairman and Director of Parul University, teachers, district and taluka level officials and staff, along with a large number of villagers. Attendees were urged to keep the village's water sources clean and actively participate in environmental conservation. The program concluded with the message 'Clean Pond, Healthy Village.'

Surat: SGCCI demands relief for MSME industries, requests waiver of stamp duty on ECLGS 5.0 loans

Loktej English Team — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:43:07 +0530

The ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and global economic uncertainties are beginning to impact industries in Gujarat. To provide relief to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) facing challenges such as rising logistics costs, supply chain disruptions, and working capital shortages, the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has made significant demands to the state government.

The Chamber's President Ashokbhai Jirawala wrote to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel requesting a complete waiver or substantial relief on the stamp duty applicable to mortgage deeds for loans taken under the Government of India's Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS 5.0). The letter mentions that the current circumstances have adversely affected global trade, exports, and supply chains. Thousands of MSME industries in Gujarat, including Surat, are struggling with rising production costs, delayed payments, and market uncertainties.

At this time, the ECLGS 5.0 scheme could play a crucial role in providing additional financial support and working capital to industries. However, obtaining loans under this scheme requires mortgaging assets, which incurs heavy stamp duty on mortgage documents. The Chamber believes that this additional financial burden is becoming a new challenge for small and medium enterprises instead of providing relief.

SGCCI has urged the state government that if stamp duty is waived for loans taken under ECLGS 5.0, it would make it easier for MSME units to obtain loans, strengthen the cash position of industries, and ensure smooth production activities even amid global economic challenges. Additionally, it would further enhance Gujarat's image as an 'industry-friendly state.' A copy of this demand has also been sent to the state's Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi, Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department Dr. Jayanti Ravi (IAS), and Additional Chief Secretary of the Finance Department T.

Natarajan (IAS), requesting a prompt positive decision on the matter. Chamber President Ashokbhai Jirawala expressed hope that under the Chief Minister's positive outlook, the state government would soon make a decision that would provide relief to millions of families associated with the textile, diamond, and other MSME sectors, helping the industry overcome the current economic challenges.

Rajkot: Commitment to greenery under 'One Tree in the Name of Mother 3.0' campaign in Rajkot district

Loktej English Team — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:42:48 +0530

On the occasion of the completion of 12 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's good governance, the 'One Tree in the Name of Mother 3.0' campaign has been launched in Rajkot district to promote environmental conservation. Under this campaign, large-scale tree plantation programs are being organized in all talukas of the district.

Villagers are also being encouraged to plant more trees by distributing saplings. On June 10, 70 saplings were planted at the Ramapir Mandir and crematorium complex in Khamba village of the Lodhika round. The event was attended by the Sarpanch, Deputy Sarpanch, Khamba BJP Taluka officials, General Secretary of Mankhavad BJP, Panchayat members, and a large number of villagers.

Additionally, tree plantation was carried out by the staff of Social Forestry Kotda Sangani at the Vimal Research Center. A tree plantation program was also organized at the Kerleshwar Mahadev Mandir complex in the Jetpur round under the 'One Tree in the Name of Mother 3.0' campaign. Twelve saplings were planted at Boriya Primary School by the Social Forestry Range Jamakandorna, while around 1200 saplings were distributed to the public.

Forest department officials provided information to attendees about the importance of trees, environmental conservation, and plant care. Officials stated that the aim of the campaign is to raise awareness about the environment among people and ensure public participation for maximum tree plantation this year. Through these programs held in rural areas, a message of nature conservation is also being conveyed.

Surat: SGCCI Holds 'Exhibitor Growth Summit' Ahead of Global Fabric Expo 2026

Loktej English Team — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:42:25 +0530

Surat, June 11, 2026: The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) organized the 'Exhibitor Growth Summit' in anticipation of the upcoming Global Fabric Expo 2026. The summit aimed to guide entrepreneurs and exhibitors participating in the expo on business expansion, product presentation, and maximizing commercial benefits in the global market.

The event commenced with a digital tilak and digital lamp lighting in line with the Digital India theme. On this occasion, SGCCI President Ashokbhai Jirawala stated that the textile industry in Surat must not remain limited to the domestic market but strengthen its identity on a global level. He expressed confidence that South Gujarat would achieve a production capacity of 10 crore meters of fabric in the next five years.

He emphasized that industries should focus not only on increasing production but also on value addition, processing, and digitization. SGCCI's All Exhibition Chairman Manishbhai Kapadia mentioned that the purpose of this summit is to help exhibitors understand how to effectively present their products to attract potential customers. He also shared plans to send industry delegations to international exhibitions, including in Paris, in the coming years, providing entrepreneurs from South Gujarat with new opportunities in the global market.

Global Fabric Expo Chairman Dr. Hareshbhai Patel informed that approximately 200 stalls have been booked for the expo, which will be held over an area of 4,000 square meters. Major agencies from across the country have been included, which will bring top buyers along. Roadshows have been organized in various cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Kerala, with a target of over 35,000 buyers and visitors attending the expo.

During the event, experts provided guidance on various topics related to stall management, customer communication, export potential, and business follow-up. Export-import expert Amitbhai Mulani highlighted the potential of Indian textiles in the global market and emphasized the importance of identifying buyers and effective communication. Dhavalbhai Cheta stressed the importance of pre-exhibition preparations, attractive stall design, and digital networking, while Chiragbhai Jethani discussed strategies for quick follow-up with potential customers and developing long-term business relationships after the exhibition.

SGCCI Vice President Ravirajbhai Desai, Honorary Secretary Pareshbhai Lathia, Honorary Treasurer Atulbhai Patel, officials from the Global Fabric Expo organizing committee, and a large number of entrepreneurs and exhibitors were present at the summit. Representatives from various sponsoring organizations were also honored during the event.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks. According to the organizers, this summit will prove to be an important initiative in preparing Surat's textile entrepreneurs for global competition.

Surat: SGCCI demands inclusion of Vyara, Valod, and Mangrol in higher category under new industrial policy

Loktej English Team — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 12:22:38 +0530

Surat, June 10, 2026: The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has demanded greater incentives for the backward and tribal areas of South Gujarat under the proposed new industrial policy of the Gujarat government. In this regard, the chamber submitted a representation to Gujarat's Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi, urging the inclusion of Vyara and Valod in Tapi district and Mangrol taluka in Surat district in 'Category-1' or at least 'Category-2'.

The chamber's president Ashok Jirawala and officials stated that the current industrial classification of these talukas does not align with their actual development needs and future industrial potential. The chamber believes that reclassification to a higher category would enable these areas to receive more economic incentives and government support. The representation noted that Vyara taluka in Tapi district is currently classified as Category-3, while Valod is in Category-2.

Similarly, Mangrol taluka in Surat district is also classified as Category-3. The chamber has demanded that Vyara and Valod be included in Category-1 and Mangrol in at least Category-2 or Category-1. According to the chamber, all three areas are connected to National Highway-6 and National Highway-48, and being close to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the Bardoli area makes them suitable locations for industrial expansion.

Due to rising land prices and scarcity in developed areas of Surat and its surroundings, there is a need for alternative areas for new industries. The representation also mentioned that land is relatively available at lower prices in these talukas, the population density is low, and there is a sufficient local tribal and rural workforce. Therefore, if the government provides additional subsidies and incentives in the new industrial policy, significant investments can be attracted here.

SGCCI expressed confidence that many entrepreneurs and investors from South Gujarat are interested in establishing new industries in these areas. The chamber believes that this move will create new employment opportunities for local youth, reduce migration to cities, and accelerate the economic development of tribal and backward areas. The chamber hopes that the state government will prioritize the perspective of regionally balanced development while preparing the new industrial policy and pave the way for the development of areas like Vyara, Valod, and Mangrol as new industrial centers in South Gujarat.

International Level Crossing Awareness Day Observed in Vadodara Division

Loktej English Team — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 12:21:24 +0530

The Vadodara division of Western Railway celebrated International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) – 2026 on June 9, 2026. On this occasion, the safety department organized various awareness programs across the division to enhance public awareness about safety at railway level crossings and to prevent accidents caused by negligence.

Under the guidance of Divisional Railway Manager Raju Bhadke, the safety department, with the help of civil defense volunteers and local staff, conducted extensive public outreach and awareness campaigns at various level crossings in the division. During the campaign, road users, pedestrians, and vehicle drivers were encouraged to follow railway safety rules and adopt safe behaviors. As part of the program, a safety awareness street play was organized at Level Crossing No.

1 Special in the Pratapnagar section, which involved approximately 20 civil defense volunteers. The presentation effectively demonstrated the consequences of dangerous behaviors such as crossing the railway line unauthorized, crossing during the closure of the gate, and ignoring warning signals. Additionally, railway staff and civil defense volunteers at various level crossings established direct communication with the public and distributed safety-related pamphlets and handbills.

People were provided detailed information on maintaining vigilance near railway tracks and following necessary safety rules while crossing. According to a press release issued by Western Railway's Public Relations Officer Anubhav Saxena, awareness banners and promotional materials were also displayed at prominent locations. During the campaign, important messages related to precautions to be taken before crossing level crossings, instructions to be followed by gatekeepers and railway staff, etc., were conveyed to citizens.

Senior Safety Officer Sharad Gautam and Safety Officer Naveen Yadav of Vadodara division stated that the campaign received enthusiastic support from the public, and the railway successfully conveyed the message of safety and security to a large number of people. Citizens were encouraged to adopt safe behaviors through awareness activities, direct communication, and effective mediums like street plays. This event of International Level Crossing Awareness Day-2026 is a strong example of Vadodara division's commitment to public safety.

The railway's objective is not only limited to rail operations but also to ensure the safety and security of every citizen's life. A safe railway and a safe society can only be built through public participation and awareness.

Rajkot: Meeting of Land and Patient Welfare Committees Concludes in Jasdan-Vinchhiya, Review of Development and Health Services

Loktej English Team — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 12:21:01 +0530

A joint meeting of the Land Committee and Patient Welfare Committee of Jasdan-Vinchhiya taluka in Rajkot was held at the Taluka Seva Sadan under the chairmanship of Cabinet Minister Kunvarjibhai Bawaliya. The meeting discussed various issues related to land management, development works, and health services in detail and provided necessary guidelines.

The Land Committee meeting reviewed applications related to land received at the village level, use of government land, land allocation required for development projects, obstacles in public interest works, and topics related to the overall development of the taluka. On this occasion, Minister Kunvarjibhai Bawaliya stated that the state government is giving top priority to public welfare and development. The government is committed to completing development works in rural areas in a transparent and timely manner so that the common citizens can benefit maximally from government schemes.

He instructed officials to work with public interest at the center and ensure timely and effective resolution of citizens' problems. Regarding health services, the minister mentioned that the government is continuously striving to provide better medical facilities. All necessary steps will be taken to ensure that every patient visiting government hospitals and health centers receives respectful, accessible, and quality treatment.

The meeting reviewed the operations of Santhali Sub-District Hospital, Jasdan Government Hospital, Vinchhiya Government Hospital, and various health centers operated under the Patient Welfare Committee. During this time, there was a detailed discussion on the facilities provided to patients, availability of medicines, cleanliness arrangements, and effective implementation of health services. At the end of the meeting, officials from various departments presented their progress reports.

Minister Bawaliya provided necessary guidance to expedite development works and resolve pending issues promptly. The meeting was attended by Jasdan's District Officer Rahul Khambhara, Mamlatdar Mehul Baliya, Jasdan Taluka Development Officer Hitesh Waghela, Vinchhiya Taluka Development Officer B.

J. Dave, along with officials from various departments, public representatives, and committee members.

Surat: Special Event by FOSTA on Completion of 12 Years of Prime Minister Modi

Loktej English Team — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 12:20:20 +0530

Surat. On the occasion of the successful completion of 12 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure, the Federation of Surat Textile Traders Association (FOSTA) organized a special event at the Millennium Market complex.

Traders and industry representatives highlighted the development works and various welfare schemes undertaken in the country under the Prime Minister's leadership. A special 12-meter long fabric showcased the achievements in development, good governance, the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, growth of the textile industry, women's empowerment, export growth, technological innovation, and various public welfare schemes over the past 12 years. Notably, this fabric was made from recycled plastic, conveying a message of environmental protection and sustainability.

The traders and officials present appreciated India's growing global reputation and development journey under the Prime Minister's leadership. Additionally, information was shared about various steps taken by the central government for the textile industry. Important topics such as PM Mitra Park, the technical textile mission, export promotion schemes, and job creation in the textile sector were explained through special presentations.

The members present also expressed their commitment to contribute to the realization of a developed and self-reliant India. The event was attended by FOSTA officials, representatives from various textile markets, and a large number of traders. In the end, all attendees pledged to continue contributing to nation-building while wishing for the health, success, and longevity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Surat: A significant meeting of Laghu Udyog Bharati was held regarding the preparations for IIF Udyam 2026

Loktej English Team — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:34:13 +0530

Laghu Udyog Bharati, Surat organized an important meeting at Shri Marudhar Kesari Regent Textile Market to discuss the preparations for the successful organization of IIF Udyam 2026. The meeting received special guidance from Vajubhai Vagasia, former All India President of Laghu Udyog Bharati and a senior industrialist.

Various topics including the organization of the IIF Udyam 2026 exhibition, publicity, stall booking, participation of entrepreneurs, and organizational expansion were discussed in detail. A decision was also made to appoint a dedicated employee for Laghu Udyog Bharati, Surat to make the organization more effective and empowered. To encourage women entrepreneurship, a special team of women entrepreneurs was announced to be formed in Surat.

This team will receive support from women presidents and successful entrepreneurs from other cities. Additionally, special facilities, extra benefits, and accommodation arrangements will be provided to women entrepreneurs participating in the exhibition. A decision was made to conduct road shows, hoardings, and banner campaigns in various major cities for extensive publicity of IIF Udyam 2026.

Furthermore, it was announced that members of Laghu Udyog Bharati would receive special concessions on stall booking at the exhibition. The meeting noted that websites and mobile apps for Android and iOS platforms have been developed by Laghu Udyog Bharati. These will include online payment facilities, allowing entrepreneurs to easily avail registration, stall booking, and other services.

A large number of entrepreneurs and officials were present at the meeting, including Division Vice President Hansraj Jain, Rakesh Rangwani, Pankaj Sharma, Manohar Vaishnav, Vinod Saraswat, Chanchal Vachhani, Ganpat Bhati, Mohabbat Parmar, Devaraj Patel, Mehul Jadhav, and Shakti Singh Tanwar. Media in-charge Mahendra Patel stated that extensive preparations have begun to make IIF Udyam 2026 a grand and successful event, and encouraging support from entrepreneurs is being received. Ramavatar Parik, President of Laghu Udyog Bharati, Surat expressed gratitude to all entrepreneurs and officials present at the meeting and called for active participation for the success of the event.

Surat: New team takes charge at SGCCI, Ashok Jirawala becomes president

Loktej English Team — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 20:01:21 +0530

Surat. The newly elected officials of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) for the year 2026-27 have formally taken charge.

During the handover ceremony held after the 86th grand inauguration, the officials of the year 2025-26 handed over the responsibilities of the organization to the new team. In the event, the president of 2025-26, Mr. Nikhil Madarasi, welcomed the newly elected president Ashok Jirawala by presenting him with a bouquet. Following this, President Ashok Jirawala welcomed Ravi Raj Desai, elected as the vice president for 2026-27, and wished him well for his new responsibilities.

During the handover ceremony, Vijay Mevawala transferred the responsibilities of the past president to Nikhil Madarasi. Meanwhile, Bijal Jariwala handed over the honorary minister's responsibilities to Paresh Lathia. CA Mitesh Modi transferred the duties of honorary treasurer to Atul Patel.

In the same vein, Kiran Thummar handed over the responsibilities of all exhibition chairman to Manish Kapadia. There was also a leadership change in the women's wing, where Mrs. Mayuri Mevawala transferred the responsibilities of ladies' wing chairperson to Mrs. Alpa Madarasi.

Former and current officials of the chamber, representatives from the industry, and distinguished members from various fields were present at the event. The program reiterated the commitment to elevate the industries, trade, and entrepreneurship of South Gujarat to new heights under the leadership of the new team.

Surat: NRI's thumb severed while feeding a horse carrots, doctors saved it after four hours of microsurgery

Loktej English Team — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 20:00:52 +0530

In a shocking incident in Mangrol village of Surat district, an NRI was seriously injured while feeding a horse carrots. The horse bit off a part of his right thumb along with the carrot.

The injured person was immediately admitted to a hospital in Surat, where doctors successfully reattached the thumb after a complex microsurgery that lasted about four hours. According to reports, Salimbhai, originally from Mangrol and currently residing in the United Kingdom (UK), has a special fondness for horses. He has four horses at his farmhouse and visits India from time to time for their care and training.

Recently, he had purchased a new horse at a cost of approximately 1.2 million rupees and had arrived in Mangrol from the UK a few days ago to oversee its care. It is reported that two days ago, in the afternoon, Salimbhai was feeding the horse carrots at his farmhouse when the horse suddenly bit off a part of his right thumb along with the carrot. The incident caused panic at the scene, and family members immediately took him to Surat for treatment.

After the incident, the severed part of the thumb remained in the horse's mouth. Family members and farm staff managed to retrieve it after about an hour of effort. The severed part of the thumb was immediately preserved in ice and taken to the hospital with the patient, which kept the possibility of reattachment alive.

A team of specialist surgeons at a private hospital in the Adajan area of Surat immediately began the operation. During the approximately four-hour microsurgery, blood vessels, nerves, and tissues were carefully reconnected to reestablish the thumb. According to hospital sources, the surgery was successful, and the patient's condition is currently stable.

Doctors stated that the timely arrival at the hospital with the properly preserved severed part significantly increased the chances of a successful operation. Family members mentioned that despite this accident, Salimbhai's love for horses has not diminished. He has expressed a desire to take care of his horses himself once he fully recovers.

This incident exemplifies the necessity of exercising caution even with trained and domesticated animals. Additionally, timely medical assistance and proper preservation of severed limbs can save limbs even in serious accidents.