Surat - Loktej English

Initiative to Strengthen Surat-Mumbai Textile Trade, Important Meeting Held at FOSTA

Loktej English Team — Tue, 05 May 2026 19:47:29 +0530

A significant meeting was held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the FOSTA office to provide a new direction to the textile trade in Surat. During this meeting, officials from the Market Silk Merchant Association in Mumbai met with FOSTA representatives to discuss business development.

Present at the meeting were FOSTA General Secretary Dinesh Kataria, Vice President of the Mumbai Association Harshadbhai Shah, Secretary Ashwin Malkan, and committee member Atush Mehta. The main objective of the meeting was to enhance coordination between the textile trade of Surat and Mumbai and to develop a joint strategy for resolving trade-related issues. Important topics discussed included current business conditions, payment security for traders, and establishing better coordination with various government departments.

Special attention was also given to issues related to GST. There was agreement on a proposal to raise the GST limit on garments priced above ₹2499 from 18% to ₹7500, and it was decided to make the necessary presentation to the government regarding this. Additionally, discussions were held on creating a joint network or group with textile organizations from Mumbai and other cities, aimed at controlling fraudulent elements and strengthening payment security for traders.

FOSTA has previously established dialogue with various textile organizations in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. The organization is continuously working to enhance coordination with trade groups across the country for the overall development of the textile industry.

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Surat: Chamber of Commerce inaugurates a seven-day art exhibition at Nehru Centre Art Gallery in Mumbai

Loktej English Team — Tue, 05 May 2026 19:47:10 +0530

Surat. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has launched a seven-day 'Art Exhibition' at the Nehru Centre Art Gallery in Worli, Mumbai, starting today.

This exhibition will remain open for art lovers until May 11, 2026. The exhibition was inaugurated by Ms. Raj Lakshmi Rao, President of the Ladies Wing of the Indian Merchant Chamber, who remarked that art is connected to emotions and reflects the feelings of the soul.

She emphasized the potential for significant outcomes if major chambers in the country collaborate to organize such events. Mr. Neville Mehta, former CEO of Lions International, was present as a special guest at the program.

Mr. Nikhil Madarasi, President of the Chamber, stated that the chamber also recognizes art as an industry. This year, following the Skate College, Vanita Vishram, and the Sanskrit Art Festival in Ahmedabad and Surat, this marks the fifth attempt in this series.

He warmly invited all art lovers to visit the exhibition. On the first day, over 1,200 art lovers attended the exhibition. This seven-day exhibition features unique artworks by renowned artists from Surat and Gujarat, including Bhavna Bachkaniwala, Dinal Patel, Deepika Dhimmar, Dr. Bijal Lashkari, Dr. Himanshu Shah, Dr. Sameer Shah, Falguni Arora, Falguni Desai, Harsha Lakhani, Hemant Madarasi, Jai Gohil, Jignesh Jarivala, Mansi Virani, Molshri Ambastha, Nita Vakharia, Radha, Seema Gupta, Shailesh Tandel, Shefali Gupta, Tejal Modi, Urvashi Parekh, Vijay Patel, Vinay Sukhiya Ji Wala, and Vinita Kumari. Several dignitaries were present at the inauguration, including Swati Sethwala, Chairperson of the Chamber's Art and Culture Committee, Mansi Virani, Honorary Secretary Bijal Jarivala, and former Honorary Secretary Deepak Sethwala.

Surat: Sarvadharm Sanstha Organizes Grand Cow Respect Awareness Rally

Loktej English Team — Tue, 05 May 2026 12:13:04 +0530

A grand awareness rally was organized by Sarvadharm Sanstha under the 'Cow Respect Call Campaign' on Monday evening. The rally commenced from Pigeon Circle in the presence of Cow Saint Kapila Didi and Gopal Saraswati Ji, passing through Duhmbhal Hanuman Temple and concluding at Model Town, Samrat Township, and Akshar Town.

Hundreds of cow devotees, including Parsaram Moondra, Om Prakash Kela, Jasraj Rathi, Ashok Bajaj, Dinesh Daga, Raju Baheti, Arun Changani, Lakshmikant Goyal, L.N. Rathi, Anuj Bajaj, Avinay Jain, Jayanti Rawal, Satyanarayan Chandak, Arun Patodia, Vijay Chomal, Sajan Maharshi, Madan Tiwari, and Satyanarayan Kapuriya, participated enthusiastically. The purpose of the rally was to raise awareness about cow service and protection in society.

During the event, participants urged people to fulfill their duties towards Cow Mata. Cow servant Dinesh Sharma informed that another large rally will be held on May 7 at 9 AM from Millennium Market on Ring Road, which will reach Vanita Vishram. Thousands of cow servants will gather there, and after refreshments, they will collectively submit a memorandum to the collector.

He mentioned that a memorandum with around five lakh signatures will also be submitted. Cow saints have appealed to all religious lovers and cow servants to join in large numbers to support the campaign to declare Cow Mata as the national mother.

Surat: Grand Box Cricket Premier League organized by Mahavir International Veer Drishti, Surat

Loktej English Team — Tue, 05 May 2026 12:12:44 +0530

The grand Box Cricket Premier League was organized by Mahavir International Veer Drishti, Surat at Heminom Turf with a special purpose. The main objective of this cricket league was to encourage differently-abled children and provide support for their education and health.

Six differently-abled teams participated enthusiastically in the cricket matches. On the occasion of World Laughter Day, the event conveyed an inspiring message from the differently-abled children that they are extraordinary and not less than anyone. During the event, the Mahavir International Veer Drishti team announced a therapy center.

Additionally, under the 'Sukoon Ki Chhaav' project, 51 umbrellas were distributed to provide shelter from sun and rain to street vendors, women, and those in need. This initiative was an excellent example of service and social responsibility. The program was inaugurated with the lighting of lamps by Surendra Marothi, Vice President of Mahavir International Apex, Zone Chairperson Nisha Sethia, Director Sandeep Dangi, Chairperson Sangeeta Rathi, Veer Drishti team, BJP in-charge Ritu Rathi, and other distinguished guests.

On this occasion, Advocate Veera Beena Bhagat shared important information related to legal awareness and facilities. A total of 22 teams participated in this cricket league to support differently-abled children, creating an atmosphere of positive energy, enthusiasm, and cooperation through sports. In celebration of World Laughter Day, a special laughter therapy session was conducted by Veera Alka Sankhla, where all attendees were taught useful techniques for living a life filled with laughter and positivity.

During the closing ceremony, cyber crime expert Dr. Snehal Vakilna conducted a brief but important session on cyber crime awareness. Meanwhile, international yoga and garba expert Anish Rangrej conducted a practical session highlighting the importance of yoga and yoga garba in modern lifestyle.

The entire event was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and positivity. On the occasion of World Laughter Day, this program emerged as a wonderful amalgamation of body, mind, and soul management. At the end of the event, the winning teams were honored with trophies and gifts, boosting their morale.

The entire team of Mahavir International Veer Drishti, Surat presented an inspiring example of service, cooperation, and dedication through this event. This event was not just a cricket competition but emerged as a living example of humanity, service, and social responsibility.

Surat: Celebration of BJP's Victory in West Bengal, Victory Trumpet Resounds at Surat Kamalam Office

Loktej English Team — Tue, 05 May 2026 12:11:45 +0530

Surat. The Bharatiya Janata Party organized a grand celebration at the Kamalam office in Surat to mark its impressive performance in West Bengal, Assam, and Puducherry.

There was tremendous enthusiasm among party workers, creating a victorious atmosphere throughout the premises. The event was attended by city president Pareshbhai Patel, MP Mukeshbhai Dalal, and several senior party officials. General Secretary Karshanbhai Gondalia, Durga Prasad Pandey, Viralbhai Gilitwala, and other leaders also participated in the program.

On this occasion, workers celebrated the victory by bursting firecrackers, dancing to the beats of drums, and sharing sweets with each other. Notably, the participation of the Bengali community was also observed, where traditional Jhalmuri and Bengal's famous sweet Rasgulla were distributed, making the celebration even more special. A large number of people, including Bengali community leaders Basu Adhikari, Sadanand Raut, and Milton Day, were present at the event.

BJP workers described this victory as a win for the party's policies and public support, pledging to perform even better in the future. The entire event reflected enthusiasm, unity, and a spirit of victory.

Surat: The Entrepreneur Conference 2026 Resonates with the Message of 'Nation Building through Industry

Loktej English Team — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:07:18 +0530

The grand Entrepreneur Conference 2026 organized by Laghu Udyog Bharati (Surat District) was successfully held at the Shri Narendra Panchasara Hall with enthusiasm and dignity. A large number of entrepreneurs, industrialists, and dignitaries from society participated in the event.

The chief guests included Prakashchandra Gupta, Sawar Prasad Budhia, Dashrath Shekhawat, Joint Commissioner of Industry J.B. Dave, and Baldevbhai Prajapat. In his address, All India Organization General Secretary Prakashchandra Gupta mentioned that India was once known as the 'Golden Bird', where every hand found employment through small industries and the country supplied textiles to the world.

He stated that Laghu Udyog Bharati has been a strong voice for the MSME sector for the past 33 years, strengthening the country's economy. He highlighted the upcoming challenges and urged entrepreneurs to focus on creating more employment opportunities. He also emphasized the importance of working with ethics in industries, inspired by the spirit of 'Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah'.

He asserted that empowering the MSME sector is essential for making India a global leader again. Prakashchandra Gupta advised entrepreneurs to utilize technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to elevate their industries to a global level. He also noted that India is making rapid progress in sectors like semiconductors and defense equipment.

Surat President Ramavatar Parik informed that the organization is working towards establishing skill development centers to train and employ migrants and those in need. Gujarat President Ishwarbhai Patel highlighted the organization's activities, while Vajubhai Vaghasiya provided information about the upcoming IRF event scheduled for October. During the event, five entrepreneurs, including Vamapum Syntex, Gauri Putra, Devshri, Olzin, and Yug Fashion, were honored with the 'Outstanding Entrepreneur' award for their exceptional contributions.

As part of the organizational expansion, Hansraj Jain (Marudhar Kesari) was appointed as the divisional vice president, and Rajendra Chaudhary and Vijay Mangukia were entrusted with the responsibilities of divisional ministers. The event was attended by Treasurer Vinod Saraswat, Unit President Ganpat Bhati, Shyam Tavanian, Hariom Swami, along with Ashok Shah, Vijay Chaumal, Babubhai Paliwal, Gopal Parik, Damodar Kadel, Shivji Parik, Sajan Maharshi, Nandkishor Sharma, Kamna Khandelwal, and Chanchal Vachhani. Media in-charge Shishpal Swami and Mahendra Chaudhary shared information about the event, while General Secretary Satish Sawani expressed gratitude.

The event was conducted by Virendra Rajawat. In the end, all guests and entrepreneurs participated in a communal feast, making the conference memorable.

Surat: Seventh Free Cervical Cancer Vaccination Camp Organized at Agarwal Society Health Center

Loktej English Team — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:06:36 +0530

The series of free cervical (uterine) cancer vaccination camps at Agarwal Society Health Center has been ongoing since January 2026. In this context, the seventh free vaccination camp was organized on Sunday, May 3, 2026, with the support of Shyam Bhakt Mitra Mandal.

The camp was inaugurated by Ramprasad Agarwal, President of Agarwal Society Trust, Raj Kumar Agarwal, Secretary, Shyam Khetan, Chairman, Govardhan Modi, Treasurer, and members of the Mandal including Dr. Pramod Piparaliwale, Vinod Gupta, Sanjay Jaganani, Sanjeev Khetan, and Bhupendra Agarwal, who lit a lamp and offered flowers at the portrait of Maharaja Agrasen Ji. During the event, the Chairman of the Health Center, Shravan Agarwal, along with in-charge Vinod Chidawawala and others including Sunil Goyal, Ajay Vidawatka, Pradeep Gadia, Shivratna Jaganani, Rakesh Bajawa, Vimal Jhajharia, Prabhat Jalan, Jagmohan Jalan, Sampat Podar, Pintu Chirania, and Ashok Kedia managed the arrangements.

A large number of women attended the camp to receive the vaccine for cervical cancer prevention. The organizers stated that this campaign will continue to raise awareness in the community and ensure the health of women.

Surat: Inauguration of 'Samprati Chaas Bhakti Kendra' on Neerav Shah's Birthday

Loktej English Team — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:06:13 +0530

On the occasion of former Deputy Mayor and Samprati Foundation Chairman Neerav Shah's birthday, the 'Samprati Chaas Bhakti Kendra' was inaugurated in the city. This service initiative, launched with the message 'Chaas Karave Haash', was inaugurated by Mukesh Dalal, the Member of Parliament for the Surat Lok Sabha constituency.

The event took place near Jainacharya Chandroday Ashoksoori Chowk, close to Dhanmora Complex in Adajan Patiya, and was attended by a large number of dignitaries and citizens. This initiative has been started by the Samprati Foundation in collaboration with KP Group, Surat, with the aim of providing relief to people during the hot season. Starting today, for about a month, approximately 2,500 to 3,000 people will be provided with free cold spiced buttermilk daily from 12 PM to 3 PM at this service center.

Additionally, coolers, seating arrangements, and other necessary facilities have also been made available for the convenience of citizens. Between 10 to 15 volunteers will provide services daily for the entire program. Neerav Shah mentioned that the organization has been active in various social service activities for several years and will continue to organize such public welfare programs in the future.

He stated that larger scale service activities will be conducted in collaboration with KP Group in the future. Representatives from KP Group, including Affan Farookbhai Patel, Deputy Commissioner of Police Jhala, newly elected Corporator Vaishaliben Shah, and several prominent social and business figures from the city were present on this occasion. The 'Chaas Bhakti Kendra', launched amidst the intense heat, is being regarded as a commendable effort for relief and service to the common citizens.

Surat: In-depth discussion on business recession at the 216th weekly meeting of SMA

Loktej English Team — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:05:42 +0530

The 216th regular weekly problem-solving meeting of the Surat Mercantile Association (SMA) was held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Maheshwari Bhavan, City Light, Surat. The meeting took place from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM in the presence of SMA head Narendra Sabu, the Panch Panel, and core committee members.

A total of 145 traders participated, and five applications received for problem resolution were heard. One application was resolved on the spot through mutual dialogue, while the remaining cases were referred to the Panch Panel and the legal team for further processing. At the beginning of the meeting, various issues related to trade were discussed.

Traders described the start of the new financial year 2026-27 as extremely weak. Due to global unrest and war-like conditions, there has been a negative impact on trade from rising crude oil prices, currency exchange rates, and inflation. In April, trade was only possible at 40 to 50 percent capacity, and there are low expectations for improvement in the near future.

Given the current situation, a decline of 25 to 30 percent in trade throughout the financial year has been anticipated. Bharat Bhai Hariyani and Vikrant, CEO of the India Trade Festival 2026 (India Mandapam, New Delhi), were invited as chief guests for the seminar session. They urged Surat's textile traders to participate in this national exhibition, highlighting that products from across the country would be showcased and approximately 1.2 million domestic and foreign visitors would attend.

They called on Surat's traders to take advantage of this opportunity. The meeting concluded with a delicious snack. Many prominent members of the SMA family were present, including Rajesh Bansal, Surendra Bhansali, Ajay Ajmera, Champalal Bothra, Suresh Malpani, Vineet Kabra, Anil Daswani, Manoj Agarwal, Ramkishore Bajaj, Arvind Jain, Mukesh Agarwal, Keval Bhai Asija, Sanjay Agarwal, Gaurav Bhasin, Jitendra Surana, Sandeep Agarwal, Rajeev Umar, Ram Ratan Vohr, and Surendra Agarwal, along with a large number of traders.

Narendra Sabu, head of the Surat Mercantile Association, advised traders not to lose hope in his presidential address. He emphasized that every opportunity in business should be approached thoughtfully and critically to achieve success. He also mentioned that the products and goods produced by Surat's traders need to gain equal recognition and exposure across the country.

Exhibitions can serve as an effective medium for this, allowing traders to showcase their products on a larger scale. Sabu also suggested that traders should stay in contact with experienced individuals who can provide proper guidance when investing in the stock market, enabling them to gain more benefits and reduce risks.

Victory of 'Sahakar Panel' in Surat Chamber of Commerce Managing Committee Elections, All 44 Candidates Win

Loktej English Team — Sun, 03 May 2026 17:36:18 +0530

Surat. The 'Sahakar Panel' achieved a landslide victory in the elections for the life category members of the Managing Committee of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industries (SGCCCI), securing all 44 seats.

The elections for the vacant 44 positions in the life category were held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with a total of 48 candidates in the fray. According to election officer Vijay Mevawala, the voting process took place at the Exhibition Center in Sarsana, Surat, where only life category members had the right to vote. A total of 2072 voters participated in the election.

Each voter was required to cast 44 votes, and any votes cast below or above this number were declared invalid. After voting, a total of 2072 ballot papers were examined, of which 214 votes were found invalid, while 1858 votes were declared valid.

The counting of valid votes then commenced, resulting in all 44 candidates of the 'Sahakar Panel' being declared victorious. With this result, the 'Sahakar Panel' has established complete dominance in the chamber's managing committee, which will clearly influence policy decisions and industrial activities in the upcoming term.

Surat: Strategy meeting of traders regarding 'Gau Samman Abhiyan', preparations for the grand rally on May 7 intensify

Loktej English Team — Sun, 03 May 2026 17:35:31 +0530

A significant meeting of traders and social workers was held at the Fosta Board Room in Millennium Market to ensure the success of the proposed 'Gau Samman Abhiyan' in the city. Attendees discussed the details of the grand rally scheduled for May 7.

It was decided that on May 7, at 9 AM, cow service workers from various areas of the city—Amroli, Varachha, Katargram, Ring Road, Parvat Patiya, Un, Nandeshwar Gaushala, Madhav Gaushala, and various religious institutions—would gather in different groups in front of Millennium Market. Following this, at 9:30 AM, the rally would depart from there and reach Vanita Vishram, where groups coming from Bhatar, Vesu, Pandesara, Citylight, and Adajan would also join. Subsequently, all participants would unite in large numbers to march to the Collector's office and submit a memorandum to the President and Prime Minister.

During the meeting, Sadhvi Kapila Didi provided detailed information about the campaign and gave necessary directions to the attendees. She called for involving as many people as possible to spread the campaign to every household. Additionally, a comprehensive signature campaign is being conducted in the city under the 'Gau Samman Abhiyan'.

The organizers aim to collect around five lakh signatures from Surat to raise awareness about cow protection and respect in society. The traders showed solidarity during the meeting, pledging to ensure the success of the rally and maximum participation.

Detailed discussions were also held regarding publicity and arrangements. In the end, all attendees collectively reaffirmed their commitment to making the event on May 7 grand and successful.

Surat: Commitment to Nation Building through Industry, Grand Entrepreneur Conference on May 3

Loktej English Team — Sun, 03 May 2026 17:34:18 +0530

Preparations are in full swing for the grand entrepreneur conference organized on the occasion of the foundation day of Laghu Udyog Bharati in Surat. A significant meeting was held on Saturday at the Santraj Group office, attended by former All India President Vaju Bhai Vagasiya.

Gujarat State President Ishwar Patel informed that the conference on Sunday will be graced by the presence of National Organization General Secretary Prakash Chandra. The conference will take place from 6 PM to 8 PM at Panchasara Bhavan, with around 500 entrepreneurs expected to participate. The main theme of the program is 'How Industry Can Empower National Interest,' which will feature special addresses by experts.

There will also be a detailed discussion on the importance of ethical values in industrial operations. The conference will be attended by several dignitaries, including Minister Jai Ram Gamait, MLA Sangeeta Patil, Sanjay Bhai Sarawagi, Hansraj Jain, and Sawar Prasad Budhia. During the meeting, many workers, including Vijay Mangukia, Satish Sawani, Virendra Rajawat, Pankaj Sharma, Shish Pal, Mahendra Chaudhary, Hariom Swami, and Radheshyam Sharma, discussed ways to make the event successful.