Surat - Loktej English

Surat: Fire breaks out again in Millennium Textile Market-2, second incident in two months

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:39:50 +0530

A fire broke out in Millennium Textile Market-2 located in the Bhathena area of Surat on Tuesday (April 14), causing panic. The fire brigade team arrived at the scene and managed to control the fire after hours of hard work.

Fortunately, there were no reports of any casualties. Initial information indicates that the fire suddenly erupted in shop number 645 on the sixth floor. Due to the height of the fire, smoke quickly spread throughout the market, causing chaos among traders and employees who rushed outside to save themselves.

Upon receiving the incident report, the control room dispatched fire engines from various fire stations. About 10 to 15 firefighters arrived at the scene and began efforts to control the fire by spraying water from all sides. The firefighters bravely reached the sixth floor and prevented the fire from spreading to other shops.

It is reported that the large quantity of fabric stored in the shop caused the fire to spread rapidly, leading to fears of significant damage. However, no one was present in the shop at the time of the fire, which averted a major disaster.

It is noteworthy that a fire incident also occurred in this market on February 20, resulting in millions of rupees worth of goods being reduced to ashes. Currently, the fire department is continuing cooling operations and investigating the cause of the fire, with initial suspicions pointing to a short circuit.

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Surat: Students Received Proper Guidance at Career Guidance Festival, Experts Discussed Career Options

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:39:15 +0530

The Career Guidance Festival organized by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Surat provided students with important information and guidance related to careers. The event took place on April 10 and 11, 2026, at Samriddhi, Nanpura, and was attended by a large number of students and parents.

During the program, Jayesh Brahmbhatt, editor of Shikshan Sarvada and career counselor, elaborated on the career options available after 10th and 12th grades (Science and Commerce). He explained that there are extensive opportunities in fields such as engineering, medical, pharmacy, pure science, research, defense, data science, and artificial intelligence after 12th Science. He advised students not to limit themselves to traditional courses but to choose careers based on their interests, abilities, and current market demands.

Emphasizing the importance of choosing the right stream after 10th grade, he stated that students should make decisions not just based on marks but also considering their interests and future goals. For Commerce stream students, he provided information about growing opportunities in areas such as B.Com, BBA, CA, CS, CMA, banking, finance, and management, as well as in startups and entrepreneurship. He also highlighted the increasing demand for new fields like digital marketing and business analytics.

During the program, students asked several questions related to careers, which were addressed by the experts. This session proved to be extremely useful for both students and parents. The program began with a welcome speech by Vijay Mevawala, the then president of the chamber.

Several dignitaries were present, including Mahesh Pamnani, chairman of the SGCCI Education and Skill Development Center, and Mrs. Sneha Jarivala, co-chairperson of the Education and Academic Committee.

Surat: BJP's floral tribute program on Ambedkar Jayanti, Union Minister C.R. Patil present

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:38:54 +0530

On the occasion of the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Surat organized a floral tribute program.

Union Minister of Jal Shakti C.R. Patil was notably present at the event. During the program, while paying homage to Baba Saheb, C.R.

Patil stated that Dr. Ambedkar made an extremely significant contribution to the construction of modern India. The Constitution prepared under his leadership provides fundamental rights to every citizen of the country and ensures their protection.

On this occasion, Purnesh Modi also paid tribute to Baba Saheb, mentioning that his thoughts on the upliftment of the marginalized and women's empowerment are still inspiring today. BJP Surat Metropolitan President Paresh Patel remarked that the citizens will always remember Dr. Ambedkar's contributions to nation-building.

Surat Lok Sabha MP Mukeshbhai Dalal also paid his respects. The event was attended by officials from the BJP Gujarat state organization, leaders from the Surat city organization, MLAs, MPs, and a large number of workers, including candidates for the Surat Municipal Corporation elections.

Inter Club Pickleball Tournament Concludes in Surat, City Gymkhana Crowned Champion

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:38:32 +0530

The first Inter Club Pickleball Tournament was successfully organized by the Surat District Cricket Association on April 11 and 12, 2026, at the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium. Three major clubs from the city—SDCA Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, Surat City Gymkhana, and Surat Tennis Club—participated in the tournament.

The event was led by SDCA President Kanaiyabhai Contractor and Secretary Hiteshbhai Patel, with guidance from Outdoor Sports and Sports Arena Development Committee Convener Urmil Contractor and tournament coordinators Anil Juneja and Ashwin Bhadani. The final match was played between Surat City Gymkhana and Surat Tennis Club, where Surat City Gymkhana showcased an impressive performance to defeat Surat Tennis Club and claim the championship. A large number of members and their families attended the tournament, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere.

The winning team was honored with awards during the closing ceremony, which was also attended by several officials from the organization, including Vice President Narendrabhai Patel, Cricket Secretary Dr. Naimesh Desai, Parikshitbhai Contractor, Hemantbhai Zariwala, Advocate Manishbhai Patel, and Mayankbhai Desai.

Surat: Chaos During Nomination Verification: Congress Candidate's Form Rejected, Ruckus at Collectorate

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 07:13:26 +0530

Surat witnessed high-voltage drama at the Collectorate office during the verification of nomination papers for the 120 seats of the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) on Monday. The atmosphere turned tense instead of remaining peaceful, leading to sharp exchanges among political workers.

The most shocking incident occurred in Ward No. 12, where the nomination paper of senior Congress candidate Bhupendra Patel was rejected due to a technical error. It was reported that he failed to mention the name 'Indian National Congress' while filling out the form, resulting in its invalidation.

This oversight has stirred political circles, with comparisons being made to 'another Nilesh Kumbhani.' Meanwhile, the nomination of BJP rebel leader Narendra Chaudhary was also canceled for technical reasons, prompting his supporters to protest. Soon, workers from BJP, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Congress confronted each other, turning the Collectorate premises into a battleground. The situation escalated further when scuffles broke out among the workers.

Angry workers attempted to forcibly drape each other with party sashes and symbols. During this, some workers threw sashes on the ground and trampled them, intensifying the atmosphere. Seeing the situation spiral out of control, police had to intervene to manage the chaos.

Following the incident, security has been heightened in the Collectorate area. This entire episode has created a new stir in Surat's politics. Such a significant oversight in the nomination process and the ensuing ruckus are heating up the electoral atmosphere even more.

Surat: Economic exploitation is a continuous atrocity, no time limit applies to domestic violence cases - Surat Court

Loktej English Team — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 07:11:16 +0530

Surat. A court in Surat clarified in a significant domestic violence case that economic exploitation is a continuous atrocity, and therefore, no time limit applies for filing such cases.

The court rejected a petition filed by the husband, which sought to dismiss the wife's domestic violence application filed five years later on the grounds of time limitation. According to the case, Hina Patel, a resident of Jahangirpura, married Jay Patel from the Palanpur area in 2016. After marriage, she began living in a joint family, where she alleged mental and physical harassment by her husband, mother-in-law, and father-in-law.

The wife claimed that during and after the marriage, she was asked for money, and her husband had control over her bank accounts and transactions. Allegations also included that the husband had a relationship with another woman, which led to disputes between the couple. Additionally, frequent fights occurred due to the husband's addiction to alcohol and other substances, which included physical assault and abuse against the wife.

In 2019, during an incident, she was allegedly thrown out of the house without any provision for her maintenance. The victim filed an application against her husband and in-laws in the Surat Court under the Domestic Violence Act through her lawyer. The husband argued in court that the application was made five years later and should be dismissed on the grounds of time limitation.

Meanwhile, the wife's advocate, Preeti Jignesh Joshi, argued that economic exploitation under the Domestic Violence Act—such as not providing maintenance to the wife—is a continuous offense. Therefore, as long as the victim suffers the consequences, she can apply for justice. After hearing arguments from all parties, F.K.

Chand, the 9th Additional Civil Judge and Judicial Magistrate of Surat, stated in his order that economic exploitation and deprivation of maintenance is a continuous wrongful act. As long as the victim has to bear its effects, the offense continues. The argument of time limitation is not valid in such cases.

The court found that the victim is currently living in her parental home and that no provision for her maintenance has been made by the husband. Considering this as clear economic violence, the court rejected the husband's petition and directed the continuation of the case hearing. (Note: The names of the parties in the case have been changed.)

Surat: Brain Dead Ashokbhai Donda's Organ Donation Gives New Life to 7 People

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:19:57 +0530

Surat. The family of 55-year-old Ashokbhai Nanubhai Donda, a resident of Avkar Residency in Mota Varachha, made a decision to donate his organs after he was declared brain dead by doctors, which has given new life to seven people.

This humanitarian act has set an inspiring example of service and sacrifice in society. According to information, on April 10, 2026, Ashokbhai returned to Surat from Ahmedabad after his wife Rekhaben's treatment. Around 2:30 PM, Ashokbhai suddenly fell ill at home and collapsed unconscious.

He was immediately taken to P.P. Savani Hospital, where a team of doctors declared him brain dead after intensive treatment. During this difficult time, representatives from the Jeevandip Organ Donation Foundation Trust explained the importance of organ donation to the family.

The family showed courage and sensitivity by agreeing to the organ donation. Following this, the necessary procedures were completed, and coordination was established with the SOTO team. Ashokbhai's organs were successfully transplanted in various hospitals.

His heart was transplanted at U.N. Mehta Hospital in Ahmedabad, the lungs at KD Hospital, while the liver and both kidneys were transplanted at IKDRC Hospital. Additionally, his eyes were donated to Lokdrishti Eye Bank.

Thus, a total of seven patients received new life. To ensure timely transportation of the organs to various hospitals, the Gujarat police created three green corridors, facilitating fast and safe transport from Surat to Ahmedabad. The Airport Authority and medical teams also played a significant role in this entire process.

This was the 32nd successful organ donation completed through the joint efforts of Jeevandip Organ Donation Foundation Trust and P.P. Savani Hospital. The decision made by Ashokbhai Donda and his family not only illuminated seven lives but also conveyed the message to society that 'organ donation is the greatest donation.'

Surat: Unique water station inaugurated by Collector Saurabh Parghi

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:18:51 +0530

A unique water station was inaugurated at the Mahavir Textile Market in the textile hub on Ring Road, established by the Saket organization in collaboration with the 'Chai Par Charcha Charitable Trust' and Qmax. The inauguration was formally conducted by Surat Collector Saurabh Parghi by cutting the ribbon.

This is the fourth unique water station established by the Saket organization. The organization's goal is to set up a total of 108 water stations across the city to provide relief to people during the summer season. During the inauguration ceremony, Collector Saurabh Parghi praised this initiative, stating that such service activities are extremely useful and inspiring for the public during the intense heat.

He also appreciated the social contributions of Saket's head, Sawar Prasad Budhia. On this occasion, Ramavatar Parik, a representative of Saket, mentioned that the meaning of 'Saket' is 'service is the goal,' and the organization is continuously active in social work with this spirit. He noted that the organization has also organized a grand tricolor rally in the textile market area.

Additionally, under the 'Ladli Behna Yojana,' 390 daughters have been provided with beauty products so far. The organization is also playing an active role in social service through various initiatives such as 'Namami Tapi,' 'Bhagwan Ka Samman,' 'Nation First,' and 'Swadeshi Pratham.' The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Lalit Anchaliya, president of Mahavir Textile Market, Kamal Jain, Mahendra Golecha, Ashok Jain, and Sagar Mal Tibrewal, Manoj, Ashish from Qmax, as well as Vinod Saraswat, Pankaj Sharma, Gangadhar Duddhi from the Rajasthan Youth Association. The program was conducted by Dinesh Kataria, and a large number of traders, social workers, and citizens were present.

Surat: From Negativity to Positivity: Gita Course Creates Spiritual Change in Surat

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:17:10 +0530

A three-day Shri Mad Bhagavad Gita course held in the city marked a new beginning of positive change in the lives of thousands. Organized by the Social Army Group on April 9, 10, and 11 at the Sampada Festivity venue, the grand event saw participation from over 4,000 people.

A spiritual atmosphere enveloped the city, as if the devotion to Lord Krishna had settled in every heart. The main speaker, Parsabhai Pandhi, presented the wisdom of the Gita in simple and impactful words. He explained that the difficulties, fate, and circumstances encountered in life are not punishments but opportunities for self-realization and growth.

His thoughts dispelled the negative emotions in the minds of the attendees and directed them towards positive thinking. The event created such an atmosphere of devotion that the attendees were completely moved during the bhajan-kirtan. The sweet performances by renowned Gujarati singer Urvashiben Raddia and singer Rishabh Agravat filled the environment with devotion.

Additionally, the Krishna-based dance presented by Amiben Patel and her team provided the audience with a spiritual experience, as if the divine play of Krishna came alive on stage. Many dignitaries from the community attended the event, appreciating this initiative as a positive effort for society. The purpose of this Gita course was clear—amidst today's materialistic era, where wealth is considered the measure of success, the message conveyed through the Gita was that true success lies in knowledge, values, and positive thoughts.

The event was characterized by its selfless spirit. A small cow shelter was arranged for cow service at the venue, along with continuous worship and Vedic chanting by learned Brahmins, which made the entire atmosphere divine and pure. On the second day of the three-day event, the lively dance and on the final day, the sounds of drums and traditional instruments created a festive atmosphere.

During this time, thousands not only listened to the teachings of the Gita but also resolved to adopt them in their lives. This event emerged not just as a program but as an inspiring initiative towards positive change in society.

Surat: Bank of Baroda and Reliance Jio launch ‘bobWorld Lite’ for feature phone users

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:16:50 +0530

Surat. Bank of Baroda and Reliance Jio have launched the ‘bobWorld Lite’ mobile banking app as a significant initiative to promote digital inclusion.

This app is specifically designed for feature phone users and will be available on the JioPhone Prima 4G device. It is the country's first comprehensive mobile banking platform that will provide full digital banking services to feature phone users. This initiative aligns with the government's and the Reserve Bank of India's vision for digital inclusion, connecting millions to simple and secure banking services.

Unlike traditional apps that work only on smartphones, ‘bobWorld Lite’ is designed with low bandwidth, keypad navigation, and an easy interface, making it accessible even in rural and semi-urban areas. The app offers features such as UPI-based scan and pay, fund transfer, bill payment, mobile recharge, and profile management, with more features to be added in the future. JioPhone Prima 4G users can access it directly from the home screen, while existing users can download it from the Jio store.

The MD and CEO of Bank of Baroda, Dr. Debadatta Chand, stated that this initiative is an important step in extending digital banking beyond smartphones to reach the common people. Meanwhile, Dr.

Sunil Dutt, Chairman of Reliance Jio, mentioned that this partnership will provide affordable and easy banking services to millions of feature phone users across the country. With Jio's extensive digital reach and Bank of Baroda's strong network, this initiative will accelerate the expansion of digital banking in the country and strengthen financial inclusion.

Surat: New leadership, new resolutions: ‘Swarnamangalam’ conference heralds women empowerment

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:16:24 +0530

The two-day national conference ‘Swarnamangalam’ of the All India Maheshwari Women’s Organization successfully concluded in Surat with the resonance of the national anthem and new resolutions. This grand event delivered a strong message of women empowerment and organizational unity.

In the closing session, the chief speaker Arvind Sabu presented a powerful spiritual discourse on the topic ‘What is the ultimate merit?’. His thoughts infused new energy and clarity of thought among the attendees. On this occasion, Mrs. Manju Bangad announced the newly elected office bearers from 27 provinces of the country. Meanwhile, former national president Mrs. Bimla Sabu announced the names of the main national office bearers, appointing Mrs. Jyoti Rathi as the national president and Mrs. Kiran Laddha as the national secretary. The cultural program of the event was successfully supported by Rekha Porwal, Neeru Sabu, and Vandana Bhandari.

The success of this national conference was commendably guided and managed by Gujarat provincial president Mrs. Manjushree Kabra, provincial secretary Mrs. Kanta Modani, and Surat district president Mrs. Beena Toshniwal. Additionally, the contributions of the Maheshwari Women’s Mandal, Muskaan Women’s Mandal, Women’s Mandal West, and all committees from Gujarat province and Surat district were honored on stage. At the conclusion of the program, Surat district secretary Mrs. Pratibha Molasaria expressed gratitude to everyone. She specifically thanked the Surat district Maheshwari Sabha, the youth organization, the youth club, and various supporting institutions associated with the event, stating that the collective efforts made this national conference historic.

The entire program was effectively and beautifully conducted by Shweta Kaju. The tireless efforts of the district's active and dedicated women workers gave this event a historic character.

ABN Emerges as a Strong Platform for Emerging Entrepreneurs in Surat

Loktej English Team — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:14:28 +0530

Surat. The Agarwal Business Network (ABN) is rapidly emerging as a strong platform for emerging entrepreneurs in the city.

The efforts of its founders Nikhil Garg, Raunak Modi, Ankur Changoivala, Parimal Rajgaria, and Saket Bajaj are considered significant in developing this organization, which promotes business opportunities, networking, and collaboration, into a banyan tree. On Sunday, April 12, a meeting was held to honor distinguished doctors from various fields in recognition of World Health Day. During this event, experts also shared important health-related information.

Dr. Nitin Agarwal highlighted kidney and urinary problems, while Dr. Saurabh Agarwal provided insights on digestive health.

Ayurveda expert Dr. Palak Bansal discussed the benefits of Panchakarma. Dental expert Dr.

Surbhi Dark emphasized the importance of oral hygiene and regular check-ups, while pediatric dentist Dr. Shvetal Agarwal offered guidance on children's dental care. An interactive question-and-answer session was also held during the program.

Active members of ABN were honored on this occasion. Kokiji, the president of the Agarwal community, and patron Sanjay Jaganani shared their inspiring thoughts to encourage the attendees. In just one and a half years, ABN has expanded its network, empowering women entrepreneurs and providing new business opportunities.

A new executive committee was also formed during the event, with Parimal Rajgaria elected as president, Dravit Banka as secretary, Bimal Agarwal as treasurer, Mahendra Singhal as vice president, and Sonika Bajari as lead visitor host. The chairperson of the women's unit of the Agarwal community trust, Rekha Jalan, also actively participated in the event. This gathering proved to be a successful example of networking, health awareness, and organizational strength.