Surat - Loktej English

Surat: New Executive Committee of Agarwal Samaj Trust Surat Formed, Prakash Todi Becomes President

Loktej English Team — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:12:24 +0530

The election process for the Agarwal Samaj Trust Surat for the term 2026 to 2030 was completed unopposed and by consensus. A three-member test board selected seven executive members as part of the election process.

In the meeting of the new executive committee, officials were selected, with Prakash Todi appointed as president, Sunil Goyal as senior vice president, Vinod Kanodia as secretary, and Vinod Chidawawala as treasurer. The meeting was attended by the current president of the society, Ramprasad Agarwal, secretary Rajkumar Agarwal, treasurer Govardhan Modi, and members of the advisory board including Sanjay Jaganani, Shriram Bidawatka, Sajjan Tulsiyan, Dwarka Prasad Gupta, Vijay Khemani, and Shri Shyam Chaudhary. The new executive committee expressed its commitment to serve the society, strengthen the organization, and promote various social activities in the upcoming term.

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Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshow Held in Surat, B2B Meetings with Over 45 Sri Lankan Tour Operators

Loktej English Team — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:02:05 +0530

Surat. A special tourism roadshow was organized on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Marriott Hotel in Piplod, Surat, as part of the roadshows being conducted by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (STPB) in Gujarat and South Gujarat.

Representatives from travel agencies and the travel industry in South Gujarat, including Surat, participated and discussed tourism and business opportunities through B2B meetings with over 45 Sri Lankan tour operators. After the meeting, representatives from various tourism and business organizations invited by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau expressed their views. On this occasion, a vibrant cultural presentation was given by Sri Lanka's cultural team, which introduced the attendees to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Atul Patel, the honorary treasurer of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI), mentioned in his address that Sri Lanka is not only famous for its beautiful beaches but also presents a wonderful blend of spirituality, history, and culture. He stated that from the UNESCO World Heritage site Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the thrilling wildlife experiences in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka is a center of attraction for all types of tourists. He further noted that for Indians, cricket is not just a sport but an emotion, making visits to the historic cricket stadiums in Colombo and Kandy particularly appealing for cricket lovers.

He appreciated the country's diverse tourism potential while mentioning the official message of Sri Lanka Tourism, 'Sri Lanka – You'll Come Back for More.' At the end of the program, various awards were announced by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau for the travel agents of Surat. Additionally, SGCCI invited Ms. Shirani Herat, Assistant Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and Mr. Fawaz Fareed, Regional Manager of SriLankan Airlines, to participate in the Global Trade and Tourism Expo to be held on July 27 and 28, 2026, at the Sarsana Convention Center in Surat. The event further strengthened the collaboration between the tourism industries of Surat and Sri Lanka and encouraged new directions for tourism and business relations.

Surat: 'Developed Gujarat Industrial Policy 2026' to Provide New Direction to Surat's Textile Industry: Girdhar Gopal Mundra

Loktej English Team — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:05:59 +0530

The Gujarat government's 'Developed Gujarat Industrial Policy 2026' may bring new opportunities for the growth of Surat's textile industry. According to industry expert Girdhar Gopal Mundra, the new industrial policy emphasizes promoting man-made fiber (MMF), technical textiles, garmenting, MSMEs, and exports, which could directly benefit Surat's textile sector.

He mentioned that Surat is the largest center for MMF (Man-Made Fibre) in the country. The government has included MMF and technical textiles as important industries for the future. This is expected to increase investment in the sector and strengthen export opportunities in the coming years.

He stated that Surat's textile industry will no longer be limited to fabric production. The new policy will encourage sectors like garment, made-ups, and technical textiles, leading to increased value addition and the creation of new job opportunities. He noted that about 90 percent of textile units in Surat fall under the MSME category.

The new policy provides a more flexible framework for capital subsidy, interest assistance, and other incentives, which will help small and medium units to install new machinery, make technological improvements, and expand. The policy includes customized incentives for mega and ultra-mega projects, which could attract large domestic and foreign investors to Gujarat. This will increase the potential for significant investments in the textile sector in Surat.

He mentioned that the government's goal of making Gujarat a global manufacturing and export hub could benefit Surat's textile industry. If Surat receives better infrastructure, logistics facilities, and support tailored to industry needs, the sector could advance even more rapidly.

Girdhar Gopal Mundra stated that the new industrial policy is a positive and growth-oriented step for Surat's textile industry. However, he suggested that if the government announces a separate special package considering Surat's specific needs such as processing industries, power looms, modern industrial infrastructure, and logistics, this policy could truly be a game changer for Surat's textile industry.

Surat: Preparations for the Pran Pratishtha of Radha-Krishna Mandir at Agarwal Pragati Trust, Grand Kalash Yatra Held

Loktej English Team — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:05:11 +0530

A grand Kalash Yatra was organized on Sunday for the Pran Pratishtha of the idol of Lord Shri Radha-Krishna at the newly constructed temple of Agarwal Pragati Trust in Surat. The yatra, attended by devotees, started from Kiran Farm House and reached Agar-Exotica located in Dumus.

The Trust's president, Natwarlal Tatanwala, mentioned that the temple was built considering the need for a temple during marital and social events at the Agar-Exotica building. He stated that the temple will become a center for spiritual and religious activities for the community. The Trust's secretary, Brijmohan Agarwal, noted that the temple was constructed with the spirit of social welfare for everyone.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the idol of Lord Shri Radha-Krishna will be conducted with rituals on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. A Bhajan Sandhya will also be organized at 7 PM on this occasion. The Kalash Yatra was attended by the Trust's treasurer Surendra Agarwal, along with Vasant Agarwal, Nandkishore Tola, Ashok Singhal, Shyam Sundar Sihotia, Nitesh Agarwal, Ratanlal Daruka, Pukhraj Agarwal, Vishwanath Pacheria, Jeevanram Singhal, Sunil Tatanwala, Ashok Agarwal, and members of the temple construction committee, as well as officials and members of the women's and youth units.

Surat: South Gujarat Solar Association demands immediate government intervention on challenges in the solar energy sector

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:47:05 +0530

The South Gujarat Solar Association has demanded immediate intervention from the central and state governments regarding the serious challenges faced by the commercial and industrial (C&I) solar sector. The association states that impractical policies, limited availability of domestic solar cells, grid-related issues, and additional charges imposed by distribution companies (DISCOMs) are major obstacles to the progress of the solar energy sector.

According to the association, the current circumstances are not only affecting billions of rupees in private investments but could also hinder the country's renewable energy goals and the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. Solar project developers and industrial consumers have warned that if solutions are not found in a timely manner, the process of transitioning industries to green energy will be severely impacted. The association noted that certain policy decisions have led to a sudden increase in the cost of solar projects by 25 to 30 percent, while due to grid management deficiencies, 60 to 70 percent of the solar energy produced at many locations is not being utilized.

This is causing significant financial losses for project operators and investors. Key issues raised by the solar industry include: 1. Supply chain issues related to DCR and ALCMM are causing significant increases in project costs due to mandatory domestic content (DCR) rules despite a lack of domestic production of high-efficiency solar cells.

2. Policy ambiguity and the threat of market monopolies; the association states that rules related to DCR and ALMM could provide unfair advantages to certain manufacturers amid limited domestic production capacity, affecting competition. 3.

Grid constraints and energy cuts; complaints have been made about GETCO and DISCOMs cutting solar energy production by 60 to 70 percent during peak hours, impacting the economic viability of projects. 4. Unannounced shutdowns on weekends; sudden grid shutdowns and technical disruptions on Saturdays and Sundays are affecting production.

The association has demanded the implementation of prior notice and compensation arrangements. 5. Additional charges on digital meter readings; despite online monitoring systems being available in solar plants, the industry has objected to charges of around ₹5,000 per meter under the guise of meter readings.

6. Complex and unclear billing systems; delays in issuing bills, errors in banking calculations, and unclear billing formats are increasing dissatisfaction among investors and consumers. 7.

Lack of adequate consultation with stakeholders; the association stated that there should be extensive discussions with developers, industry representatives, and consumers before making policy decisions. 8. The need for long-term policy stability; a demand has been made to maintain policy stability for at least five years, considering long-term investments in solar projects.

The South Gujarat Solar Association has requested the central and state governments to engage in dialogue with industry representatives, taking into account the practical challenges of the solar energy sector, and to implement necessary policy reforms. The association believes that timely action will not only restore investor confidence but also strengthen the country's clean energy and sustainable development goals.

Surat: Gujarat Industrial Policy-2026 is a significant step towards 'Developed India 2047': Janak Pachchigar

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:46:03 +0530

Surat. Industrial advisor and lawyer Janak Pachchigar welcomed the Gujarat government's announced Industrial Policy-2026, stating that this policy is an important initiative towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of 'Developed India 2047'.

According to him, the policy has been prepared keeping in mind the actual industrial needs of the state, national priorities, and global economic trends. Pachchigar mentioned that 11 dedicated sector-specific committees have been formed for the effective implementation of the policy, which will provide guidance and policy support according to the needs of various industrial sectors. He stated that the mainstay of Gujarat's industrial economy is micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), and particularly, Surat's textile industry is in a position to benefit the most from this policy.

Under the policy, MSME units will be provided with capital subsidy, interest subsidy, and electricity subsidy, along with various incentives related to quality certification, ZED certification, ERP and ICT support, technology acquisition, patent registration, energy and water conservation, and market development. He noted that the policy includes special provisions for raising capital through the SME exchange, relief in power connection fees, rental assistance, and participation in national and international exhibitions. Highlighting social inclusion as an important feature of the policy, Pachchigar mentioned that special assistance schemes have been included to encourage Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and differently-abled entrepreneurs.

Eligible MSME units under the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar scheme and the Bhagwan Birsa Munda scheme will receive additional incentives in the form of margin money assistance. He mentioned the mention of taluka-based incentives in the policy, stating that micro units in category 'A' (developing) talukas will receive project assistance of up to 35% on eligible permanent capital investment (eFCI), 7% interest subsidy, and electricity assistance of 2 rupees per unit for five years. Meanwhile, micro units in category 'B' (developed) talukas will benefit from 25% project assistance, 7% interest subsidy, and electricity assistance of 1 rupee per unit.

According to Pachchigar, the objective of the policy is not limited to the establishment of new units but also aims to promote technological upgradation, energy efficiency, export capacity enhancement, and competitive production. He expressed confidence that this policy will give new momentum to investment, employment, and industrial development in Surat and South Gujarat. He also mentioned that a separate incentive framework has been proposed for large and mega industries, ensuring balanced and long-term industrial development in the state.

Multi-Agency Emergency Mock Drill Held at Surat Airport, Comprehensive Review of Disaster Management Preparedness

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:01:35 +0530

Surat. A successful multi-agency partial emergency mock exercise was conducted at Surat Airport to assess disaster management and emergency response preparations.

The exercise was carried out based on a predetermined emergency scenario in the airside area (apron). A total of 119 officials and staff participated in the mock drill, including personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Airports Authority of India (AAI), municipal fire service, local police, civil defense, various airlines, and medical services. The main objective of the exercise was to test the readiness, coordination, communication systems, and response capabilities of various agencies during any potential emergency situation.

Additionally, the effectiveness of the airport emergency plan and the coordination mechanism among various stakeholders were reviewed. According to airport administration, this exercise was organized to effectively face any emergency situation in the future, taking into account experiences from incidents like the plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad last year. It assessed the preparedness of available resources, manpower, rescue mechanisms, and coordination among agencies.

During the exercise, all relevant agencies demonstrated prompt and coordinated action in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs). A detailed evaluation of communication systems, availability of emergency resources, rescue and relief processes, and coordination among various departments was also conducted.

After the successful completion of the mock drill, officials from the Surat airport administration and CISF stated that such regular exercises play a crucial role in strengthening response capabilities during emergencies, as well as ensuring the safety of passengers, aircraft operations, and the airport premises. They mentioned that mock exercises will continue to be organized periodically to further strengthen such preparations in the future.

Surat: Shri Shakti Dham Seva Samiti concludes Shri Madbhagwat Katha Gyan Yagya with Havan and Mahaprasad

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:30:30 +0530

The Shri Shakti Dham Seva Samiti formally concluded the seven-day Shri Madbhagwat Katha Gyan Yagya at Panchvati Hall, Maharaja Agrasen Palace, City Light, on the auspicious occasion of Purushottam month, marking the silver jubilee year of Shri Rani Sati Dadi Mandir. On the final day of the Katha, after the recitation of Mukti Skandh, Sudama Charitra, the farewell of Shri Shukdevji, and the rest of Bhagwat, a Havan and Mahaprasad were organized.

The families of the Yajman and all members of the Samiti offered oblations, wishing for happiness, peace, and prosperity in Surat and across the world. The organizing committee expressed gratitude to all devotees and supporters who contributed to the Katha. The Katha speaker, Radheshyam Shastri, emotionally described various episodes of Lord Krishna, mentioning that Lord Krishna had 16,108 queens, each with separate palaces and attendants, yet all the queens served the Lord.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and remembering God while cooking, and highlighted the necessity of love, cooperation, and humor between husband and wife. Maharajshri stated that cows should be donated to deserving Brahmins who can serve them, and that arranging fodder for cow shelters is also a virtuous act. He warned that using funds from ashrams, cow shelters, and temples for personal purposes leads to sorrow and poverty in life.

He advised that one should always offer service or donations when receiving Prasad from the temple. He shed light on the character of Balram and the divine character of Lord Krishna, stating that the Lord's character should not be viewed from the perspective of ordinary human life. He mentioned that remembering the Bhagwat mantra 'Shri Krishnaaya Vasudevaaya Haraye Paramaatmane, Pranatah Kleshanashaya Govindaya Namo Namah' alleviates life's troubles.

While narrating the character of Shishupal, he noted that those who criticize God, saints, and Brahmins do not find welfare, and even listening to their criticism is inappropriate as it brings sin. The glory of Lord Krishna was described in the context of the Rajasuya Yagya. Discussing Sudama's character, Radheshyam Shastri mentioned that Sudama never asked anyone for anything, and his wife Sushila always wished that nothing would hinder her husband's devotion.

He stated that without the support of a wife, a person's complete development is not possible. He advised that one should never go empty-handed to a guru, friend, or daughter’s home. While recounting Sudama's visit to Dwarka, he explained that Lord Krishna accepted Sudama's love and alleviated his poverty by eating the rice he brought.

He remarked that wealth breeds arrogance, which is why God gives his devotees just enough to keep them on the path of devotion. He noted that while the world shows off when it gives, God gives discreetly. The importance of pilgrimage was highlighted, stating that every person has debts to gods, sages, and ancestors.

The debt to gods is fulfilled through Havan, the debt to sages through study of scriptures, and the debt to ancestors through progeny. The Katha concluded with the farewell of Shri Shukdevji and the worship of Thakurji. Devotees participated in the Havan with devotion and concluded the event by receiving Mahaprasad.

Surat: The designation of the textile sector as a 'thrust sector' will provide new strength to the weaving industry: Mayur Golwala

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:17:17 +0530

Surat. Mayur Golwala, Secretary of Sachin Industrial Cooperative Society and a prominent weaver, welcomed the state government's announced 'Developed Gujarat Industrial Policy-2026' and stated that the inclusion of the textile industry as a 'thrust sector' in the new policy will be extremely beneficial for Surat's weaving industry.

He mentioned that the decision to increase capital subsidy to 35 percent, interest subsidy to 7 percent, and electricity subsidy to 2 rupees per unit is an encouraging step for the industry. This will particularly help small and medium-sized textile enterprises enhance their competitive capacity. Golwala noted that the new industrial policy emphasizes integrated textile value chains, modern industrial infrastructure, and export-oriented production capacity.

As a result, significant growth in Gujarat's textile exports, especially from Surat, can be expected in the coming years. He informed that industries will benefit from various assistance schemes for technology upgradation, modern machinery, automation, and expansion of production capacity.

This will increase the efficiency of industries, reduce production costs, and strengthen competitiveness in the global market. Golwala expressed confidence that the effective implementation of the new policy will make Surat's textile industry more modern, competitive, and export-oriented, thereby giving new momentum to the state's industrial development.

Surat to Promote Technical Textiles and High Value-Added Products: Kamal Vijay Tulsiyan

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:16:54 +0530

Kamal Vijay Tulsiyan, president of the Pandesara Industrial Association, welcomed the Gujarat government's new Industrial Policy-2026, highlighting its significance for the industrial development of Surat and South Gujarat. He noted that the state government has included both traditional industries and future-oriented, high value-added sectors as 'thrust sectors', which will provide new momentum to Surat's industrial landscape.

He mentioned that the new policy emphasizes value addition and technical textiles specifically for the textile industry. In addition to traditional textile production, the policy will promote technical textiles, ready-made garments, high value-added textile products, and modern textile manufacturing. Tulsiyan stated that the increase in capital subsidy from 25 percent to 35 percent and interest subsidy from 5 percent to 7 percent will be extremely beneficial for industries.

Furthermore, the decision to raise the electricity subsidy from 1 rupee per unit to 2 rupees per unit is an industry-friendly step that will reduce production costs and enhance competitiveness. He emphasized that the inclusion of Surat's multi-billion rupee textile industry as a thrust sector in the new policy is of special significance. Various support schemes will be made available for technology upgradation, modern machinery, automation, and enhancing export capacity.

Additionally, textile waste recycling units will also be prioritized, which is an important step towards making the industry more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Tulsiyan expressed confidence that the Gujarat Industrial Policy-2026 will further empower Surat's textile industry for global competition and pave the way for significant increases in investment, employment, and exports. He thanked Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister and Industry Minister Harsh Sanghvi for this visionary and industry-oriented policy.

Surat: SGCCI Welcomes Gujarat's New Industrial Policy, New Momentum for Industry and Investment

Loktej English Team — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:15:59 +0530

The South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has welcomed the new industrial policy announced by the Gujarat government. The reforms aimed at industries, declared by the state government under the leadership of President Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi, have been described as visionary and transformative for the industrial sector.

SGCCI President Ashok Jirawala stated that the new policy is set to provide a new direction for trade, industry, infrastructure, and the startup ecosystem. He expressed special gratitude on behalf of the industrial sector of South Gujarat to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi for making significant decisions that will usher the state into a new era of global investment and industrial development. He mentioned that reducing the classification of talukas from three categories to two—'A' (developing) and 'B' (developed)—will simplify administrative processes and promote balanced industrial investment in backward and developing areas.

Additionally, aligning the definition of MSMEs with the revised definition by the central government will help the state's small and medium enterprises become competitive at the national level. Ashok Jirawala highlighted that the biggest feature of the policy is the provision of capital, interest, and electricity subsidies for all categories, from MSMEs to large, mega, and ultra-mega projects. The provision to provide eligible capital subsidy to micro industries within one year will help alleviate working capital issues for small entrepreneurs.

He welcomed the prioritization of future-oriented sectors such as green energy, semiconductors, and e-mobility in the policy, stating that it will lay a strong foundation for establishing Gujarat as a global manufacturing hub. Appreciating the provisions made in the policy to promote startups and innovation, he noted that monthly assistance, additional incentives for women entrepreneurs, and seed funding will attract youth towards entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the subsidies provided for industrial parks and research and development (R&D) activities will prove beneficial in building world-class industrial infrastructure in the state.

He mentioned that environmental protection has also been given special importance in the policy. The announcement of attractive subsidies to promote wastewater recycling, zero liquid discharge (ZLD) plants, and clean production technologies indicates that the state government is committed to maintaining environmental balance alongside industrial development. The chamber president expressed confidence that the new industrial policy will attract large-scale investment in Gujarat, create new employment opportunities, and initiate a new chapter in the state's industrial development.

The key features of the policy include the classification of talukas now being limited to only two categories—'A' (developing) and 'B' (developed). The definition of MSMEs will align with the revised definition by the central government. All categories of industries will benefit from capital, interest, and electricity subsidies.

Eligible capital subsidies will be made available to micro units within one year. Green energy, semiconductors, and e-mobility have been declared priority sectors. Startups will receive monthly assistance and seed funding facilities.

Special financial assistance will be available for industrial parks and R&D projects. Special subsidies will be provided to promote wastewater recycling, ZLD plants, and clean production technologies. Discounted electricity rates have been provisioned for environmental infrastructure.

Surat: Dominance of 'Mera Shyam Sabka Shyam' Group in Shyam Mandir Executive Elections, All 12 Candidates Victorious

Loktej English Team — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:23:56 +0530

Elections for 12 positions in the executive committee of Shri Shyam Mandir, Suratdham were held on Sunday at Agarwal Vidya Vihar School in Vesu. The 'Mera Shyam Sabka Shyam' group achieved a remarkable performance, winning all 12 of its candidates and achieving 100% success.

Election officials Sawarprasad Budhia, Girish Mittal, and Bajranglal Gadodia reported that the voting process took place peacefully from 10 AM to 5 PM. Afterward, the counting of votes was conducted and results were announced. A total of 940 votes were cast for nine trustee member positions, including 61 proxy votes.

Out of these, 912 votes were found valid. Meanwhile, for three lifetime member positions, a total of 1,293 members voted, including 40 proxy votes. In this category, 1,281 votes were declared valid.

The victorious candidates for the trustee member positions included Sanjay Sarawagi, Anil Rungta, Rajkishore Shah (Pappu), Ramesh Agarwal (Vinayak), Ashok Chokdika, Vinay Beriwala, Shivprasad Poddar, Yogesh Jhakhaliya, and Shekhar Gaurisaria. Amit Sudraniya, Shankarlal Mor, and Sitesh Bansal were declared victorious for the lifetime member positions.

After the announcement of results, there was an atmosphere of joy among the victorious candidates and their supporters. Members of the temple family congratulated all the elected officials and expressed hope for their successful contribution to the development and service activities of the organization.