Loktej English Team - Loktej English

Surat: Massive fire in high-rise building in Vesu, over 60 people rescued using hydraulic platform

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:41:26 +0530

A massive fire broke out late at night in a high-rise residential building located in the upscale Vesu area of Surat, causing panic. The fire occurred in the C-tower of Jainam The Grand Ultima, where smoke and flames were seen rising suddenly from the ninth and tenth floors.

Most families were asleep in their flats at the time of the incident. According to reports, thick smoke filled the stairs and lobby within minutes after the fire broke out in this 13-story building located near the famous Agarwal School. Residents on the upper floors were unable to descend, and many families called for help from their balconies.

The incident created an atmosphere of terror in the entire area. Upon receiving the information, several teams from the fire department arrived at the scene. Considering the seriousness of the situation, a state-of-the-art 90-meter hydraulic platform vehicle was also deployed.

Firefighters conducted a risky rescue operation, safely bringing over 60 people, including children, women, and the elderly, out of the building. The fire team reached the height of the building with the help of the hydraulic platform and directly sprayed water on the fire, eventually bringing it under control after a long struggle. The timely rescue operation averted a major disaster.

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Elections Announced for 24 Rajya Sabha Seats: Voting on June 18

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:41:01 +0530

The Election Commission of India has announced the election schedule for 24 Rajya Sabha seats across 10 states, including Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Karnataka, as the terms of the current members are set to expire in the next two months. According to the notification issued by the Commission, the voting process will take place on June 18 from 9 AM to 4 PM.

As per the electoral schedule, the official notification will be released on June 1, after which nomination papers can be submitted until June 8. The last date for withdrawal of candidatures is June 11. These seats are under discussion due to the expiration of terms of senior leaders such as Digvijaya Singh, H.D. Deve Gowda, and Mallikarjun Kharge.

Additionally, by-elections for two extra seats in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu will also be held on the same day. The Election Commission has clarified that special observers will be appointed to ensure that the voting is completely transparent and fair.

During the elections, the use of a specific 'integrated violet color' pen, as designated by the Commission, will be mandatory to prevent any discrepancies in preference marking. The counting of votes will begin immediately after voting to ensure the selection of new members for the upper house.

Demand for a new point system in IPL, qualification calculations may change

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:40:30 +0530

Mumbai, May 22. The playoff race in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is always exciting, but discussions about the point system arise from time to time.

This time, former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has suggested a change that has sparked a new debate among cricket fans. He believes that teams achieving big wins in the tournament should receive additional points, making the competition even more interesting. Currently, what is the rule in IPL?

The IPL started in 2008, and since then, there has been no major change in the point system. According to the current rule, the winning team in any match receives two points, while the losing team receives no points. If a match is abandoned due to rain or other reasons, both teams receive one point each.

Interestingly, regardless of how large the victory margin is, the points remain the same. Whether a team wins by one run on the last ball or by 100 runs, they receive only two points. The advantage of a large victory margin is only reflected in the net run rate.

Aakash Chopra has suggested that a bonus point system should be considered in the IPL. He shared his opinion on the social media platform X, stating that he wishes the IPL would adopt the option of bonus points for big wins. In fact, Aakash Chopra believes that this would motivate teams not just to win but to achieve impressive victories, and viewers would also get to see more aggressive and competitive cricket.

This rule is already in place in the South African T20 league SA 20, where if a team wins the match while chasing the target within 16 overs, they receive an additional point. The team batting first receives a bonus point if they restrict the opposing team to more than 20 percent below their score. The purpose of this rule is to encourage big and impressive wins.

If such a rule is implemented in the IPL in the future, the calculations in the points table could change completely. Sometimes, a team with fewer match wins could rise up the table with the help of bonus points. This would keep the playoff race open until the final stages, increasing the importance of every match.

Drishyam 3’ makes a spectacular debut: Mohanlal's film earns 8.29 crores on the first day

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:39:30 +0530

Hyderabad, May 22. Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's highly anticipated film ‘Drishyam 3’ has made a tremendous entry into theaters on its release day.

Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the film is receiving immense love from the audience. According to initial figures, the film has already collected approximately 8.29 crores net in India on its first day. Due to heavy advance bookings and the excitement of fans, the film easily crossed the 5 crore mark within a few hours.

Mohanlal reprises his iconic role as ‘Georgekutty’, which the audience loves. Alongside him, artists like Meena, Ansiba Hassan, and Siddique play significant roles. The story is based on the events following ‘Drishyam 2’, where Georgekutty faces his last and biggest challenge to protect his family from legal troubles.

It is believed that this is the final film of this famous trilogy. Despite the impressive opening, ‘Drishyam 3’ could not surpass the opening record of Ajay Devgn's Hindi film ‘Drishyam 2’, which stands at 15.38 crores.

However, the film has successfully surpassed the initial figures of Ajay Devgn's first ‘Drishyam’ (5.85 crores). Given the film's momentum and audience feedback, trade experts expect it to set a new record at the box office in the coming days.

America to Provide Unlimited Oil to India: A Major Statement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 19:38:10 +0530

Washington, May 22. Just before his visit to India, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made an important statement regarding energy security.

He clarified that America is fully prepared to supply unlimited energy (oil) to India as per its needs. Rubio stated that the U.S. is currently at its historic production and export levels and wants to be a major part of India's energy portfolio. Marco Rubio will be on an official visit to India from May 23 to 26, during which he will visit Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi.

Speaking to reporters in Miami, he described India as a great ally and strategic partner of the U.S. He expressed enthusiasm for elevating trade relations between the two countries and assured cooperation in reducing global energy pressures. The main highlight of this visit will be the meeting of the foreign ministers of the Quad countries on May 26, which will be chaired by Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.

Rubio emphasized the significance of this conference, stating that the Quad member countries are excellent partners and will discuss deep institutional cooperation between the two democracies through this platform. This visit will further strengthen diplomatic and defense cooperation between the two countries.

Surat: 'Prarambh 2026' program organized, awareness campaign launched on new Income Tax Act-2025

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:24:04 +0530

Surat. Under the direction of the Surat Chief Income Tax Commissionerate, the office of the Principal Income Tax Commissioner-1 organized a nationwide awareness campaign 'Prarambh 2026' on the new Income Tax Act-2025 on Thursday at Dwarka Hall, Maharaja Agrasen Palace, City Light.

The main objective of the program was to spread awareness about the provisions of the new Income Tax Act-2025, its implementation, and the simplifications made for taxpayers, as well as to establish dialogue with various stakeholders. Dr. N. C.

Swain, Chief Income Tax Commissioner of Surat, was present as the chief guest. On this occasion, Priy Ranjan Ghosh, Principal Income Tax Director (Investigation), along with several senior officials of the Income Tax Department, were also present. Representatives from various sectors including trade, industry, textiles, and professional organizations participated in the program.

Notable attendees included Jagdish Khunt, President of the Surat Diamond Association, Rahul Agarwal from ICAI Branch Surat, Jitendra Bhai Vakhariya from South Gujarat Textile Processors Association, and FOSTA head Kailas Hakim. Additionally, other dignitaries such as J. P.

Agarwal, Pramod Chaudhary, Bharat Andhad, Rohan Desai, and Farukh Patel were also present. In his address, Chief Income Tax Commissioner Dr. N. C.

Swain mentioned that the new Income Tax Act-2025 has been notified considering the changing global digital environment and technological revolution. He explained that previously, understanding the various provisions of the Income Tax Act-1961 required studying multiple sections, whereas now the provisions related to income from salary, business income, capital gains, and other sources have been systematically integrated and simplified. He stated that the aim of the new act is to enable taxpayers to easily understand the rules and comply with them without expert assistance.

The program organizer, U. B. Mishra, noted that the new Income Tax Act-2025 has simplified and made complex provisions more practical.

This is expected to ease the process of preparing income tax returns for taxpayers and reduce unnecessary legal disputes due to the simplification of provisions. The Income Tax Department described this campaign as an important initiative towards transparency, awareness, and better engagement with taxpayers.

Surat: CISF personnel set an example of honesty at Surat Airport, return a woman's bag filled with cash and jewelry

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:23:38 +0530

CISF personnel at Surat Airport demonstrated vigilance, honesty, and prompt action by safely returning a woman's handbag filled with cash and jewelry, setting an example of duty. On the evening of May 21, 2026, around 7:20 PM, a handbag was found abandoned in the city side parking area of Surat Airport.

The on-duty CISF personnel immediately followed security protocols, took possession of the bag, and initiated the investigation process. During the investigation and verification, the bag was identified as belonging to Kavita Agarwal, who had traveled from Kolkata to Surat on IndiGo flight 6E-6399. The woman passenger was seated in seat number 3C on the flight.

Verification revealed that the bag contained approximately 2.5 lakh rupees in cash along with valuable jewelry. Subsequently, the CISF team established contact with the concerned passenger and, after completing all necessary identification and formalities, safely handed over the bag to her.

Upon receiving her valuable belongings back safely, the woman passenger expressed gratitude for the honesty, promptness, and professional conduct of the CISF personnel. The passenger also praised the excellent work of the CISF team through a video message.

Surat: FOSTA's New Initiative: Launch of 'Small Effort - Big Change' Campaign

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:22:38 +0530

Surat. FOSTA has launched an important public awareness campaign focused on energy conservation, traffic control, and environmental protection.

Under this initiative named 'Small Effort - Big Change', textile traders in Surat have been urged to adopt collective vehicle usage. FOSTA President Kailas Hakim stated that the textile trade in Surat has always been at the forefront of national interest, social welfare, and nation-building efforts. He mentioned that this campaign was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message on saving petrol, energy conservation, and public participation.

He emphasized that currently, the country is facing various global challenges and circumstances. At such times, it is the duty of every citizen and trader to contribute positively to resource conservation and national progress. FOSTA has specifically appealed to those traders who travel daily from the same building, market, society, or nearby areas to the Ring Road and Saroli Market.

They have been encouraged to adopt 'alternate vehicle arrangements' and 'collective vehicle usage'. The organization suggested that traders coming in four-wheelers coordinate with nearby traders or through WhatsApp groups to arrange for 4 to 6 people to travel together to the market. According to FOSTA, this small initiative will save petrol and diesel, reduce traffic and parking issues, and promote environmental protection.

Additionally, it will strengthen communication, cooperation, and social connections among traders. The organization stated that Union Minister of Water Power C.R. Patil and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have always promoted public participation and energy conservation.

If the Surat textile market takes this pledge in that spirit, it can become an inspiring example for the entire country. FOSTA has appealed to all traders to actively participate in this campaign with the spirit of 'Nation First' and to cooperate in energy saving and traffic control.

Surat: Marwadi Yuva Manch Surat Branch and Muskaan Branch donated 5 wheelchairs to Udhna Railway Station

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:21:43 +0530

Marwadi Yuva Manch Surat Branch and Muskaan Branch continued their series of service activities by donating 5 wheelchairs at Udhna Railway Station on Thursday. The aim of this initiative is to provide assistance to passengers and needy individuals who face difficulties in mobility, ensuring better facilities and support within the station premises.

The president of the Surat branch, Abhishek Khetan, and the president of the Muskaan branch, Niti Bajaj, stated that the main objective of the organization is human service. They mentioned that the Manch always plays a leading role in activities related to public welfare and service. Members from the Surat branch, including Rahul Bajaj, Sushant Bajaj, Akshat Khetan, Mayank Jindal, and Deepak Dalmia, were present at the event.

Additionally, members from the Muskaan branch, including Anju Jain and Neha Luhaurka, also attended. Attendees praised this service initiative, calling it an inspiring effort for society. The officials of the Manch stated that similar service projects will continue to be organized in the future.

Vadodara: NPS awareness program to be held on May 26 by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority and SLBC Gujarat

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:21:25 +0530

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) and SLBC Gujarat are organizing a National Pension System (NPS) awareness program aimed at economically empowering farmers, small traders, and self-employed citizens. This program will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Marriott Hotel in Vadodara.

The main objective of the program is to raise awareness among citizens about financial security, regular income, and the importance of long-term investment through the National Pension System. Experts will provide detailed guidance on the need for financial planning and pension security, considering the current economic conditions, rising inflation, uncertain income sources, and changing social environments. Special emphasis will be placed on informing farmers and small traders about the importance of regular savings and pension plans amidst income, weather, and market uncertainties.

During the program, PFRDA officials will share important information regarding the benefits of investing in NPS, the advantages of starting investments at a young age, tax savings, disciplined investment processes, and pensions received after retirement. Additionally, there will be discussions on how to start investing with a small amount to build a strong pension fund over time. The organizers have appealed for a large turnout from farmer organizations, business groups, self-employed individuals, and youth.

Rajkot: Vajubhai Vala appeals for participation in online self-enumeration for Census-2027

Loktej English Team — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:20:48 +0530

The online self-enumeration process for Census-2027 has begun across the state, allowing citizens to register their information on a digital platform. Vajubhai Vala, completing his enumeration process on the online portal, described it as simple, fast, and convenient.

The resident of Rajkot and former Governor of Karnataka, Vajubhai Vala, stated that the self-enumeration process through the web portal is very easy, enabling citizens to register their information online in a short time. He appealed to the citizens of Rajkot district to actively participate in this initiative and take time to complete their enumeration process. He mentioned that the digital method can make the census process more transparent, accurate, and faster, while also providing convenience to citizens from their homes.

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India has initiated the online process for the registration of households and enumeration of houses as part of the first phase of the national census. Citizens can register their information through the portal (sc.census.gov.in).

A Major Decision on Border Security as the Government Changes, Shubhendu Adhikari Initiates Transfer of 27 Kilometers of Land to BSF

Loktej English Team — Thu, 21 May 2026 19:38:57 +0530

Kolkata, May 21. The BJP government in West Bengal has decided to transfer 27 kilometers of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) to strengthen border security.

Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari announced this during a press conference held at Nabanna on Wednesday, indicating a tough stance against illegal infiltrators. The Chief Minister stated that the state cabinet has approved the proposal for land transfer to the BSF, and the initial phase of providing the 27 kilometers of land will be completed within the next two weeks. He mentioned that the Secretary of Land and Revenue and the Chief Secretary have been tasked with completing the process within 45 days.

Shubhendu Adhikari noted that the India-Bangladesh border is approximately four thousand kilometers long, of which 2200 kilometers lies in West Bengal. He claimed that only 1600 kilometers of the area has been fenced so far, while around 600 kilometers remains unsecured. He alleged that the previous government did not provide the necessary land to the BSF due to political reasons and appeasement policies.

The Chief Minister pointed out that there has been an increase in law and order issues, women's safety, forced conversions, and other criminal activities in border areas, with a significant number of illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators involved. He stated that the state government will now hold regular coordination meetings with the BSF on border security issues. During the press conference, the Chief Minister also mentioned that individuals not covered under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will be considered illegal infiltrators.

Such individuals will be arrested by the state police and handed over to the BSF, after which the process of deportation will begin. He informed that the central government had sent guidelines to the state last year, which are now being implemented.

The Chief Minister emphasized that this is just the beginning for border security, and further cooperation will be provided to the BSF as needed. During the press conference, BSF officials welcomed the Chief Minister with a memento and a bouquet.